Experience the local culture and the spectacular moments of the Thai lantern festivals.
Highlights Travel is an official partner of the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival. Based in Asia, we have already helped over 10,000 customers worldwide plan their trip to the Thai lantern festival.
This tour allows you to experience the celebrations of Thailand's two fascinating lantern festivals – Loy Krathong in Sukhothai and Yi Peng in Chiang Mai.
In 2026, the Loy Kratong Festival and the Yi Peng Festival will be celebrated from November 24th to 25th.
Gold tickets and hotel bookings sell out quickly. Secure your spots on the tour now!
“Most people only visit Chiang Mai, but we combine it with Sukhothai for a more intense cultural experience. You begin with the historical stillness – only candles, reflections in the water of ancient temples and fewer crowds. Then you are immediately immersed in the breathtaking light show at CAD.”
Travel Highlights
Travel Moments
The detailed itinerary
Arrival in Bangkok
Welcome to Thailand – the land of smiles, the land of joy! Airport transfer to the hotel is not included.
Explore the city's top attraction
Your day begins with a visit to the magnificent Wat Pho, home to the sacred reclining Buddha. A sacred ceremony takes place there daily, and locals visit the temple to offer their prayers.
Next, hop in a tuk-tuk and head to the imposing Grand Palace. Take a break and have lunch at a local restaurant before taking a water taxi to the legendary Wat Arun, one of Bangkok's most famous landmarks.
Take a longboat ride on Thonburi's old klongs (canals) to get a glimpse of local life. Complete your day with a visit to the vibrant Chinatown.
Fly to Sukhothai
Today you can sleep in and relax in the morning.
In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the airport for a one-hour flight to Sukhothai, the birthplace of the famous Thai Loy Krathong Festival ("Lantern Festival"). Upon arrival, your private guide and driver will transfer you directly to your hotel.
In the evening, your tour guide will accompany you to the venue of the Loy Krathong Festival, where you can experience the festivities together with the locals: Visit various exhibitions, stroll among the souvenir and food stalls, and watch traditional Thai performances...
A fabulous day in Sukhothai with a Loy Krathong festival celebration
Explore the ancient ruins of the Kingdom of Sukhothai by bicycle. You will visit the four main attractions in the Sukhothai Historical Park and the Ramkhamhaeng National Museum.
Make a Thai krathong (floating lantern):
—Since Thailand's most famous lantern festival originated in Sukhothai, there is no better way to experience this important part of the local culture and tradition than to learn how to make your own lantern.
— Try your hand at making a krathong (a floating lantern) at our specially organized lantern-making experience. Once it gets dark, head to the Jom River to release your lantern and make a wish as it drifts away.
Enjoy the Loy Krathong light and sound show
The light and sound show is an important part of the Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai. The show combines Thai history, folk dances, laser effects and fireworks and takes place at 7:30 pm in the Sukhothai Historical Park.
From Sukhothai to Chiang Mai via Lampang
Visit one of Thailand's oldest temples
After breakfast, you will leave Sukhothai and travel to Chiang Mai. En route, you will stop in Lampang to visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang. Built in the 13th century, this temple is one of the most revered temples in Thailand and an outstanding example of Lanna architecture.
After your arrival in Chiang Mai, you will have some free time in the afternoon to relax or explore the area.
Lanna costume fitting and Yi Peng festival celebration
Before heading to the Yi Peng Festival, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Thai culture by wearing traditional clothing. A professional makeup artist will help you create a beautiful Thai look that perfectly complements your traditional outfit.
In the late afternoon you will be taken to the venue of the Yi Peng Festival and the sky lantern launch.
Highlights of the trip: Exclusive premium experience
— Private round-trip transfer between your hotel and the venue, allowing you to make the most of your time during the peak Lantern Festival season — Buffet dinner in the "special zone" (enjoy Thai cuisine, soft drinks, juices, and water) — 2 sky lanterns per person
A very special encounter with the gentle giants
Nestled in a pristine and picturesque valley, about an hour and a half's drive from Chiang Mai, lies the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary – a paradise for homeless elephants. Here, all the animals find a safe, loving, and secure home. Experience an unforgettable half-day visit to the elephant sanctuary. You'll learn a lot about elephants and can interact with them – feeding them, walking with them, petting them, bathing them, and playing with them in the mud.
After the program, enjoy lunch in the park. Your private guide and driver will return you to your hotel around 2:00 PM.
Departure from Chiang Mai
Departure from Chiang Mai. Travel to the airport is at your own risk.
Hand-picked hotels
Your choice of accommodation shapes your trip. We carefully select hotels based on their unique character – from boutique hotels in the city to beachfront hotels.
What is included in the delivery?
No surprises, no hidden costs. Our prices are transparent and tailored to your individual plan. Here you can see clearly what is typically included.
Price guide
Their inclusions
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