Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai

The Festival of Light

By far the most romantic of Thailand’s celebrations, Loy Krathong takes place on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month. The Thai word 'Loy' means 'to float in Thai, while 'Krathong' is a small raft, about a hand span in diameter, made from a section of banana tree trunk – although today specially made bread 'flowers' or even Styrofoam are used. Thais decorate their Krathongs with elaborately-folded banana leaves, flowers, candles, and incense sticks. Some people also add hair or fingernail clippings.

Between the months of August and October the tides in Thailand’s waterways are at their highest and with the moon at its brightest, the stage is set for an idyllic conclusion to the rainy season. The general idea being to persuade the local serpent-ruler, Phaya Nak, to halt the monsoon rain, dispel the floods and return the rivers to their tranquil ways.

The act of floating Krathongs on rivers, canals or any other body of water symbolises letting go of grudges, problems and anger so that one can start life afresh – a cleansing tradition of sorts. The idea being that all people should prepare suitable offerings to present to the river spirits in order to obtain pardon and the absolution of their sins. In doing so the Thais are also welcoming the spirit of good fun or 'sanook' – something they know a lot about.

Loy Krathong in Northern Thailand – Chiang Mai

Although celebrated nationwide, Loy Kratong is a particular crowd puller in Chiang Mai Province, where locals and tourists come out in droves to capture the mystique of the evening. Situated in the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city steeped in history and tradition from 700-year old temples, to cascading waterfalls and eclectic markets – even the hardest of hearts would struggle not to warm to the place.

The most celebrated aspect of Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai is the making of Krathongs, in various shapes and sizes. Their ceremonious parading through the streets of the northern capital followed by releasing of Krathongs onto the Ping River and other waterways is a true spectacle. Visitors can also admire beautifully dressed women performing traditional Lanna songs and dance routines as well as raft races on the first day followed on by boat races.

Book Things to Do Worldwide!

We offer over 5,500 sightseeing tours and activities in over 400 destinations

Things To Do in Thailand

These Thailand must-see tours, dinner cruises and elephant jungle trek's will get you into all the right places, without breaking the bank!All Thailand Tours »

Chiangmai Hotel Recommendation and List
Chiangrai Hotel Recommendation and List
Bangkok Hotel Recommendation and List
Phuket Hotel Recommendation and List
Central and North of Thailand Hotel Recommendation and List

Chiangmai, Chiang rai, Mae Hong Son, Pai , Nan, Sukhothai - Thailand:
Taxi, Tour services and Trip Advisor
Contact Person: Patrick 081 617 2116 (oversea call +66 81 617 2116)เพ็ญนภา +66 81 498 0613
E-mail: neomart@gmail.com

World Travel

10/08/2011