Gary Poster, with essential assists from Galyn Norwood, Phiroon Phihakendr, Jose Quijada, Pavandeep Kalra. The rain god Vassakan has a passion for fire, and the missiles are intended to persuade him to unleash the rainy season.
Enthusiasts compete to keep their projectiles aloft the longest.
Losers are given a mud bath. Though accidents kill a few people each year, nothing can dampen the carnival atmosphere at the accompanying musical processions across the region. A species of horned highland ox was recently discovered living close to the Vietnamese border, while a giant trout-like fish was found in the Mekong. Tigers, rhinos and bears roam the hills, and parrots, parakeets and bee-eaters crowd the sky. Tailor-made trips are the best way to view the animals.