Thai Lantern Festival in Bangkok (Loy Krathong in Bangkok)

icon-locationBangkok, Thailand
"The Lantern Festival is one of the most beautiful festivals in Bangkok and is the second biggest festival of Thai people after the traditional New Year. On the night of the festival, people gather around the lakes, rivers, canals, and rivers. drop beautiful lotus-shaped rafts, decorated with candles, incense and flowers into the water to show gratitude to nature and pray for a year full of luck."

In Thai, "krathong" means raft, small boat. In the past, krathongs were made from natural materials – usually a segment from the trunk of a banana tree, crafted into a lotus shape using folded banana leaves, and these can still be sold around locations. main festival spot. Recently, Thai people have become more creative in their craft and design krathongs from coconut shells, flowers, even toast, potato slices. During the festival period, many shops and market stalls will display ready-made krathongs or parts for you to assemble and decorate as you wish.

Regarding the origin of Hoa Dang festival, there are many different stories and Thai people celebrate it for many reasons. When the main rice harvest season is over, it's time to thank the Water God for her abundant water supply for a year as well as apologize for polluting the water.

Some people believe that this is the time to let go of all anger and hatred. Cutting a fingernail or a lock of hair is seen as a way for you to shake off the dark sides of yourself, to start over. If your candle stays lit until your Krathong disappears from sight, it means a lucky year.

Traditionally, Thais release their krathongs into small rivers and canals known as klongs. Today, ponds are also used to release krathongs. Many places hold a series of cultural activities, such as Ram Wong dance performances, krathong making contests and beauty contests.

Every year, the Loy Krathong festival falls on the night of the 12th lunar day (usually in November), this is the end of the rainy season when the full moon lights up the sky. The sight of thousands of lotus flower rafts and shimmering candles that sparkle to the horizon is a truly magical sight, and there are plenty of places in Bangkok where you can join in the festivities.

The main Loy Krathong festival in Bangkok has been held at Asiatique since 2013. Before that, it was usually held along the banks of Wat Saket in the Old Town. For those around Khao San Road, head to the nearby Phra Athit Pier.

Many hotels in Bangkok also hold Loy Krathong events right in their pool areas. You can experience Loy Krathong, or even the traditional Ram Wong dance, without leaving the hotel premises.

Hotels located along the Chao Phraya River are particularly popular and often have Loy Krathong events combined with special dinners and fireworks.

Riverside location:

Asiatique (Riverside)
Wat Saket (Riverside / Old Town)
Phra Athit Pier (Riverside / Old Town)
Maharaj Lifestyle Mall (Riverside / Old Town)


Famous lakes for floating krathongs:

Lumpini Park (Silom)
Benjasiri Park (Sukhumvit)


Riverfront hotels with Loy Krathong events:

Anantara Riverside Bangkok
Mandarin Oriental Bangkok
Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel
Shangri La Hotel Bangkok

Nearby attractions

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