The Nāga Fireballs of the Mekong
An enduring Thai legend surrounding the mysterious Nāga fireballs (Bang Fai Phaya Nak) that rise from the Mekong River each year during the full moon of the 11th lunar month (October). According to tradition, the serpent king Phaya Nāga who dwells beneath the Mekong releases these glowing red orbs — ranging from tiny sparks to basketball-sized spheres — to honor the Buddha's return from heaven. Thousands gather annually in Nong Khai province to witness the phenomenon. Local lore tells that the Nāga also created Nong Han lake (the 'Sea of the Nāga') near Sakon Nakhon, where his serpentine body