Steeped in history and home to a rich cultural heritage, Thailand offers travellers a chance to experience the countrys traditions amidst modern cities and scenic rural landscapes. A great way to get to learn about the countrys culture is by witnessing one of the many local festivals that take place each year. One such popular annual event is the Loi Krathong Festival which is celebrated all around Thailand.
Loi Krathong which is also known as the 'festival of light' is one of the countrys most popular festivals and is held on the night of the year in which the 12th full moon is visible. Usually taking place during November, this event sees people paying homage to Mae Nam, believed to be the goddess of waterways. The word Loi means to float, while the word Krathong translates to a kind of vessel that floats on water. Thus, during the festival one can see a large number of krathongs traditionally made out of such materials as banana leaves or tree bark or spider lily plants, floating along waterways containing a range of objects that include flowers, candles, incense sticks, food, betel nuts and coins.
During Loi Krathong, thousands of people light candles or incense sticks that they then place on the krathong along with other objects, make a wish and let it float along the waterway where the current takes it along downstream. It is believed that the longer the candle one has lit stays alight the more chance one has to having their wishes come true. For this reason, the festival is also popular with couples as they wish for long lasting relationships.
Those planning to witness Loi Krathong can visit various destinations in Thailand, each with different styles of celebration. The Chao Phraya River in Bangkok is a popular site to witness this enchanting spectacle, while one can take in a lights and sound show in Sukhothai during this period. Visitors heading to Chiang Mai at this time can also observe the Yi Peng festival which features thousands of candle lit hot air balloons constructed from rice paper, being released into the night sky.
Travellers looking to explore Thailand away from the busy capital can stay in
Chiang Rai resorts. Those in search of luxurious
Golden Triangle hotels can stay at the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand, set amidst the picturesque countryside and within easy reach of Myanmar and Laos as well.
