Thailand Lantern Festival
(Bangkok to Chiang Mai)

Fly into Thailand's throbbing capital of Bangkok and get warmly welcomed by your local guide at the airport. A private transfer afterwards will whisk you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of today is yours to relax and recover from jet lag.

Your Day in Detail

Today, spot Bangkok's essential sights via different forms of public transport on a full-day guided tour.

Your guide will accompany you on a BTS Skytrain or MRT Subway ride to a pier along the Chao Phraya River, followed by a shared water bus transfer with the locals to your next stop. Disembark and walk to the highlight of today's tour - Grand Palace, a sprawling royal complex that boasts a dazzling array of buildings, including the highly revered Wat Phra Kaew.

After sampling Thai dishes at a local restaurant, step into the nearby Wat Pho to worship the giant gilded reclining Buddha and drop coins in votive bowls - if you like. To cap off the day, jump aboard a tuk-tuk to a colorful and fragrant flower market for a true insight into local life. Finally, return to your hotel by BTS Skytrain or MRT Subway.

Your Day in Detail

Enjoy some leisure time this morning before exploring two unusual yet authentic Thai markets on the outskirts of Bangkok. Spreading over a 100-meter length, a bustling country market called Mae Klong has sprouted up along the railway tracks. Be sure to capture the unique sight of vendors quickly packing up their stalls and pulling them back as the slow-moving train rolls through the market.

While at Amphawa Floating Market, a longtail boat ride, passing wooden boats laden with tropical fruits and other delights, will take you to see what a floating market originally was like decades ago. As you like, stop by the food vendors, practice your haggling skills, and sample local treats. After your visit, transfer back to Bangkok for the night.

Your Day in Detail

After a leisurely morning, take a private transfer to the airport for a brief flight to Sukhothai, where Loy Krathong - the festival of light - originated from the period of the Sukhothai Kingdom (1238 -1438).

Upon landing, you will be collected from the airport and transferred directly to your hotel. This evening, head out with your guide to join the exciting celebration, featuring traditional exhibitions of dance, play, and martial arts.

Your Day in Detail

Start by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sukhothai Historical Park. Inside the walls are ancient city ruins of royal palaces, Buddhist temples, and other important structures, revealing the nation's glorious past. An insightful visit to the adjacent Ramkhamhaeng National Museum will deepen your understanding.

Have you seen a river illuminated by the glow of lights? There is no better way to celebrate the festival than by releasing your handmade Krathong, a Thai floating lantern decorated with candles, incense sticks, and flowers, onto the water. Thai people believe that such a spiritual act will drift worries away and bring happiness in the coming year.

Wrap up this exciting day with the fantastic Light and Sound Show telling the story of Loi Krathong and Sukhothai's history, as well as fireworks, and dance by Wat Mahathat.

Your Day in Detail

Depart Sukhothai for Chiang Mai (about a 5.5-hour drive), visiting Wat Phra That Lampang Luang en route. Dating back to the 13th century, this ancient Buddhist temple stands as a magnificent testament to Lanna architecture. From the towering chedi to the intricate murals and carvings, every detail exudes a sense of awe and charm.

Once reaching Chiang Mai, the historical seat of the Lanna Kingdom from the 13th to 18th centuries, settle into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of today at leisure.

Begin your day at the riverfront Warorot Market, where vendors offer a variety of local treats and regional specialties. Then take a traditional Samlor (three-wheel rickshaw) through the iconic Thapae Gate into Chiang Mai's Old City, followed by visits to two of its most revered temples: Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.

After a short rest, prepare to experience the enchantment of the Yi Peng Festival at the CAD Cultural Center Lanna, located just outside the city. The evening features cultural performances such as the sword dance, a Lanna Thai buffet dinner, and peaceful monk chanting and rituals. As night falls, thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, carrying hopes and wishes while symbolically letting go of misfortune.

Depending on your interests, other ways to celebrate Yi Peng include:

Yi Peng Lanna Festival by Gassan
A refined celebration at a luxury golf resort, known for its elegant atmosphere and well-managed crowd flow.

Yee Peng Lanna International at Lanna Dhutanka
A spiritual experience held at a quiet temple, where you can join in monk-led chanting and meditation.

Public Event in Doi Saket
A lively village celebration featuring handmade lanterns, local performances, and an authentic community vibe.

Loy Krathong in Chiang Mai Town
A romantic riverside tradition where candle-lit krathongs are floated along the Ping River. Beautiful, though often busy in central areas.

For a more personal experience, we can also arrange a private Yi Peng celebration exclusively for your group - a peaceful and meaningful way to enjoy the festival in a setting tailored to your pace and preferences.

Just share the option that appeals to you, and we'll be glad to take care of the arrangements.

Today is on your own to explore the city wrapped in the festive atmosphere. There are some free, public events available in different parts of Chiang Mai, including Traditional Lanna Archway Display, Magical Lanna Lantern Decorations, and Lighting Blissful Lanna Candles. As Yi Peng Festival usually coincides with Loy Krathong Festival in Chiang Mai, you may also like to attend the festivities related to Krathong, such as Hand-made Banana Leaves -fresh flowers Krathong Contest, Traditional Floating Krathong Ceremony and Large Krathong Parades.

Your Day in Detail

Travel out of the city into the countryside to care for Asian elephants - Thailand's national animal - on a join-in excursion at an elephant sanctuary. After a quick safety briefing, change into traditional mahout attire, feed these gentle giants by hand, and walk them to a clean water pond.

This afternoon goes with a winding drive to a magical temple of tunnels, Wat Umong. Follow your guide to discover Buddha heads, relics, and altars along the labyrinthine paths and receive blessings from a monk at the temple's Viharm. Continue up to the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which provides fantastic panoramic views over Chiang Mai. Be sure to admire the gleaming golden spire and listen to the chanting of the monks in the evening.

After a final peaceful morning to reflect on your Thailand Lantern Festival experience, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, whether you are returning home or continuing your journey through Southeast Asia. May the beauty and light of this unforgettable Thai cultural journey stay with you long after you leave Thailand.