Hundreds of Lanterns Float Above Bagan's Ancient Temples as Thousands Mark Thadingyut in Myanmar

Hundreds of glowing lanterns floated into the night sky above the ancient pagodas of Bagan in Myanmar. Thousands of people gathered there to celebrate the Thadingyut festival.

Families released paper lanterns over the centuries-old temples. Devotees travelled from across the country to Bagan to pray, make offerings and take part in the three-day celebrations, held from 25 to 27 October.

Bagan hosted an official Sky Lantern Festival for the first time. The festival was organised by the military authorities' tourism department. Around 1,000 lanterns were released each evening above the UNESCO World Heritage site to attract visitors.

Thadingyut, also known as the Festival of Lights, marks the end of Buddhist Lent. That period of religious observance lasts three months during the rainy season.

The festival commemorates the Buddha's return from the celestial realm, where tradition says he had taught his mother. The occasion is traditionally celebrated by lighting candles and lanterns.

Thadingyut is also an occasion for family reunions. Elders are honoured during the festival.