The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) says locations in Bangkok, Samut Songkram, Ratchaburi, Ayutthaya and Tak in addition to the traditional venues of Chiang Mai and Sukhothai are the best places for visitors to celebrate this exciting cultural extravaganza. Although these are the key venues, other Thai cities and seaside resorts stage their own versions of Loy Krathong.
The two main activities associated with Loy Krathong are the launch of model boats and the release of sky-lanterns into the night sky. The banana-wood boats are called krathongs and are decked out in candles, flowers and joss-sticks before their launch into the nearest waterway.
Sky-lanterns are powered by hot air from burning fuel in much the same way a hot-air balloon is. Fireworks are tacked to their tails and present a surreal sight as they drift upwards into the night sky.
Local authorities invariably lay on firework displays, colourful parades and beauty pageants to mark this auspicious occasion. Tickets to destinations in Thailand are hard to come by at festival times. You can ensure you have a seat or sleeping berth by booking in advance with 12GO ASIA.
Thai tourist bureau names key Loy Krathong Festival venues
News in Asia
Thailand’s tourist bureau has released a list of recommended places for tourists to celebrate next week’s Loy Krathong Festival. The main night of the annual festival coincides with the full-moon on the 12th lunar month which is on 25 November this year.