Chiang Mai Lantern Festival Tour (November 2024)

Itinerary

• Day 1: Nov. 14th: Chiang Mai Arrival, Floating Lantern Making & Releasing

  Welcome to Chiang Mai, a city that comes alive with festive spirit during the Lantern Festival season. Upon your arrival, you'll be warmly greeted by your local guide and escorted to your hotel for check-in.

  In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in a unique lantern-making and releasing experience at a charming, secluded restaurant with views of the Ping River. Begin by crafting your own Krathong, a traditional floating lantern beautifully adorned with flowers, candles, incense sticks, and other ornamental items. While the sun sets over the river, savor the flavors of authentic northern Thai cuisine.

  As dusk settles, enjoy a leisurely walk to the Saphan Nawarat Bridge, where you'll join the locals in releasing your lanterns into the river - a symbolic act of letting go of negative thoughts and paying respect to the water goddess.

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• Day 2: Nov. 15th: Chiang Mai, Yi Peng Festival

  Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Warorot Market, which is adorned with lanterns and festive decorations. Next, board a traditional Samlor, a three-wheeled rickshaw, for a ride through the famous Thapae Gate into the historic Old City of Chiang Mai. Here, you'll explore two of the city's most significant temples: Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh.

  After some free time, prepare for an enchanting evening at the Yi Peng Festival. As the celebration unfolds, delve into cultural performances such as the Sword Dance, enjoy a traditional Lanna Thai basket meal, and witness the monk chanting and meditation ceremony. The highlight of the evening is the release of sky lanterns, a breathtaking sight as they float upwards, creating a mesmerizing display of glowing lights. This tradition is believed to carry away worries and bring good fortune for the year ahead.

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• Day 3: Nov. 16th: Chiang Mai, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

  Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, then take advantage of free time to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant festive atmosphere. Relax and explore at your own pace, soaking in the lively energy all around you.

  In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic drive through winding roads to Wat Umong, a mystical temple known for its ancient tunnels. Accompanied by your guide, explore the atmospheric cave-like passageways, admire the intricate Buddha statues, and enjoy the lush greenery there.

  Next, ascend to the revered mountaintop temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Chiang Mai. Take a moment to admire the temple's stunning golden spire and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance as monks chant their evening prayers.

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• Day 4: Nov. 17th: Chiang Mai, Elephant Care

  Today, venture beyond the city into the countryside for a shared excursion at an elephant sanctuary. Take the opportunity to care for Thailand's beloved national animal, the Asian elephant. Upon arrival, receive a safety briefing and change into traditional attire provided by the sanctuary. Spend your morning feeding, interacting, and walking alongside these gentle giants.

  After lunch, learn how to prepare and cook sticky rice, mixing it with herbal ingredients to create a special treat for the elephants. Continue enjoying quality time as you guide them to a pond for a refreshing bath. As the tour concludes, transfer back to your hotel.

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• Day 5: Nov. 18th: Chiang Mai, Lanna Family Cooking Experience

  Enjoy your morning by visiting a traditional Lanna family, where your gracious host will welcome you into their Thai-style teakwood house. Explore the orchard and herb garden to gather fresh ingredients, then, with your host's guidance, learn to prepare authentic Northern Thai dishes. The experience concludes with a delightful home-cooked lunch enjoyed with the family. The afternoon is free for you to unwind at your own pace.

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• Day 6: Nov. 19th: Chiang Mai, Departure

  Today marks the end of the tour, filled with the joyful ambiance of the Lantern Festival. Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

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