The most magical event in Thailand
Two nights a year, Chiang Mai releases thousands of paper lanterns simultaneously into the sky — an aerial spectacle that has become one of the most viral images in the world. This excursion offers you a guaranteed place at the official ceremony (not the wild version in front of the gates of the old city — this one is the ritual, Buddhist, organized version, in a sacred site).
The 4 categories explained
| Category | Price/person | Place | Dinner | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 4,600 THB | Floor mat, overview | Classic Khantoke | 2 lanterns + 1 Krathong |
| VIP | 5,900 THB | Chair, intermediate section | Classic Khantoke | +leg space |
| Premium | 6,400 THB | Front area | Improved Khantoke | Direct view on release |
| Elite | 17,000 THB | Exclusive area | Premium dinner + champagne | Professional photographer, gifts |
Our advice
- Reserve 4-6 months in advance — the festival sells its tickets in waves, Standard goes first.
- Book the hotel at the same time — Chiang Mai is saturated on November 15-16.
- Camera — starry sky + thousands of golden lanterns = iconic photos. Useful tripod (positioned for 1-2 seconds).
- Long dress — Buddhist site, covered shoulders/knees required.
- No drones — total ban on the site.
Why this excursion rather than going alone
The "official" version organized in a sacred site (with monks, dinner, synchronization) is only accessible by advance ticket. The "wild" versions in the old town no longer allow the launching of lanterns since 2014 (fire regulations). Only the ticketed excursion guarantees the synchronized show — that's what makes the magic.
Our tip: if you're hesitating between Standard and VIP, take VIP — the difference (+1,300 THB) for a 7-hour chair + better view is more than justified. Premium is worth it for a “honeymoon” trip. Elite is a luxury reserved for very special occasions.
Detailed programme
15h30
Arrival at the festival site
Private van drops you off at the entrance. Reception, registration, presentation of lanterns and Loy Krathong, placement according to your category (Standard / VIP / Premium / Elite).
16h30
Festival and shows
Traditional Lanna dance shows, Northern music, parade in period costumes, workshops (lantern making, calligraphy). Craft market.
18h00
Traditional Lanna dinner
Khantoke (traditional round platter) — khao soi, sai oua, nam prik ong, sticky rice, northern curries, Thai desserts. Drinks included.
19h00
Buddhist chants
Ceremony with monks from the North — Pali chants, blessing, ritual instructions for launching the lanterns (intention, breathing, prayer).
20h00
Synchronized launch of lanterns
The climactic moment. At the monks' signal, thousands of lanterns rise simultaneously into the night sky. Unforgettable show (30-45 min wave launch).
21h00
Loy Krathong on the water
Place your little raft (flowers, candle, incense) on the site’s pool — a symbol of purification and wishes for the year.
21h30
Return to Chiang Mai
Private van takes you back to your hotel. Arrival around 10 p.m. (dense traffic possible).
Included / Not included
Included
- Private return transport from Chiang Mai hotel
- Travel insurance
- English-speaking guide on site
- Traditional Lanna meal (full dinner)
- Drinks (water, tea, juice)
- 2 sky lanterns (khom loi) per person
- 1 Loy Krathong (water raft) per person
- Entrance ticket to the festival site
- Place according to category (Standard / VIP / Premium / Elite)
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Traditional outfits (optional rental on site)
- Temple donations (optional)
- Tips
- Accommodation in Chiang Mai (to be booked separately — busy in November)