On the 1st waxing moon of the 5th lunar moon, Surin province turns vibrant and lively when the Cambodian descendants climb up the sacred hill to mark their traditional New Year Eve. 

All routine will stop for a while. Every job and task will be temporarily held, for such weeklong sacred ceremony. Pilgrims make their way up the hills "Phnom Svay" in the Phnom Sawai Forest Park, to pay homage to nine sacred items and places situated on the hilltop. Definitely, they will ring all 1,080 bells that line the long staircase. 

Situated 22 km from Surin town among beautiful scenery, Phnom Svay comprises three hills situated next to each other. 

The 720-feet-high Phnom Boros, literary means "Male Hill", houses a Buddha statue and 1,080 bells from temple countrywide. The hill has a viewpoint offering scenery of Surin's countryside. 

The 700-feet-high Phnom Sray, or "Female Hill", is where Wat Phnom Silaram is situated on. Pilgrims believe that those who make rock piles, their wishes for love and job will be fulfilled. The last hill Phnom Krol, or "Stall Hill", houses a Buddha Footprint. 

The weeklong pilgrimage is held to mark the lunar New Year Eve, according to local Surin people. After the launching of the colorful parade in traditional attires, pilgrims make their ways up hills, hit the bells all the way long, to make wishes for prosperity in the year to come. Then, it will be the family reunion. 

If you have a chance, this is a special moment to get a glimpse of the real Surin. 

How to get there: Surin is 268 miles northeast of Bangkok via highway 24. Phnom Sawai Forest Park is 22 km from Surin town. For more information, call Surin City Hall at 044-521-358.