Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, founded by King Mengrai in 1296. In 1558, the city was occupied by the Burmese for about two centuries. In 1774, King Taksin recognized its strategic location and reclaimed the city, making it part of Thailand. Under King Rama V, it became the administrative center of Monthon Payap, and later was officially part of Chiang Mai province.
Chiang Mai means “New City” in Thai, where “Chiang” translates to “City” and “Mai” to “New.” Though founded in the 13th century, it’s considered newer compared to Chiang Rai, whose name means “City of the King,” referencing King Mengrai. Today, Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, about 700 km from Bangkok. It is known as the cultural and tourist hub of the north, often called the “Rose of the North” for its serene beauty and relaxed pace of life. Visitors can explore the sacred Phra That Doi Suthep temple, shop along Nimmanhaemin Road, enjoy coffee in trendy cafés, and experience some of the best cuisine in northern Thailand.
Loy Krathong & Yi Peng Festival Overview
The festival takes place annually on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. It’s one of the most beautiful celebrations in Chiang Mai, showcasing the Lanna people’s unique cultural traditions. The highlight is the release of floating lanterns and sky lanterns to honor Buddha and bring blessings. Festivities include fireworks, lantern-making contests, parades, and cultural performances, with main events at Tha Phae Gate and around Chiang Mai’s old city.
Though often mentioned together, Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are two distinct celebrations. Loy Krathong focuses on floating small candle-lit baskets on rivers, while Yi Peng is famous for releasing thousands of sky lanterns that light up the night sky, especially in Chiang Mai and the northern region.
Suggested 5-Day Chiang Mai Itinerary During the Festival
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Chiang Mai International Airport. From there, take a local Songthaew (red truck taxi) or use a ride-hailing app to your hotel in the old city or city center (around 150 THB per ride). In the evening, explore the lively Chiang Mai Night Bazaar on Changklan Road. It’s bustling with shops offering clothing, crafts, souvenirs, and street food. Don’t miss Pad Thai or spicy Tom Yum noodles for dinner.
Day 2: Temples and Lanterns
- Morning: Visit the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep early to avoid crowds. Entry: 30 THB.
- Midday: Tour the Bhubing Palace, the royal family’s winter residence. Entry: 50 THB.
- Afternoon: Explore Chiang Mai Zoo and Aquarium near Doi Suthep foothills. Zoo ticket: 100 THB adult / 50 THB child.
- Evening: Join lantern parades and Yi Peng festivities near Tha Phae Gate and Ping River from 7–10 pm. Public areas like Nawarat Bridge are popular for free lantern releases, while organized ticketed events are available at Mae Jo or Doi Saket.
Day 3: Cultural Experiences
- Wander the old city and visit 3D Art in Paradise museum with interactive exhibits.
- Head to Mae Sa Elephant Camp (about 30 km north) to learn about elephant conservation and enjoy shows.
- Visit Karen Long Neck Village and Tiger Kingdom, then discover the Elephant PooPoo Paper Park to see creative paper-making from natural materials.
Day 4: Chiang Rai & Golden Triangle
- Join a day tour to Chiang Rai. Stops often include Thaweesin Hot Springs, the iconic White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), Black House (Baan Dam), and sometimes the Blue Temple.
- Continue to the Golden Triangle, the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Take a short boat ride on the Mekong River and visit local markets before returning to Chiang Mai.
Day 5: Shopping and Departure
Spend the morning shopping at lifestyle malls like Maya or exploring local art centers. Check out and head to the airport for your flight home.
Festival Highlights & Tips
- Major events include candle offerings, Yi Peng lantern displays, cultural performances, and parades between Tha Phae Gate and Nawarat Bridge.
- Book hotels and flights at least two months in advance. Reserve tours and SIM cards early.
- Arrive at festival areas by 5–6 pm to secure a good spot and enjoy the parades and lantern release.
- Choose larger sky lanterns; smaller ones can burn out quickly. For river krathongs, pick small candle types to ensure they stay lit.
Must-Try Foods in Chiang Mai
- Khao Soi: A signature curry noodle soup with crispy noodles on top, served with chicken or pork, pickled cabbage, lime, and chili paste. Around 40–50 THB per bowl.
- Pad Thai: Classic stir-fried noodles found throughout Thailand; some small shops around Nimmanhaemin offer unique styles with great music and atmosphere.
- Local Chicken Dishes: Affordable and flavorful, often served as combo meals.
- Western Options: Chiang Mai also offers good pizza and international food in popular restaurants.
