9 Best Countries to Visit in December for Indians
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Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are Thailand’s most spellbinding light festivals. On a single November week, cities glow with candlelit floats drifting along rivers (Loy Krathong) and Lanna sky lanterns rising in unison (Yi Peng). This guide covers the 2025 dates, the best destinations, what to expect on the ground, etiquette and safety, shooting tips for creators, and a ready-to-use itinerary. Use the CTAs below if you want us to plan a custom festival trip with confirmed event tickets and hotels in the right neighborhoods.
Where to Celebrate
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Chiang Mai (Yi Peng)
Thailand’s most photogenic lantern release with parades, Lanna dance, and temple ceremonies (Tha Phae Gate, Nawarat Bridge).
Arrive 2–3 days earlyBook lantern-release event ticketsShoot at blue hour
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Sukhothai (Loy Krathong)
Historical Park turns surreal with candlelit ruins, classical dance, and fireworks framing ancient stupas.
Stay near Old CityBuy park show tickets earlyCarry tripod
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Bangkok
City-wide krathong floating along the Chao Phraya; Asiatique, IconSiam, and parks host concerts and fireworks.
Avoid peak bridgesUse eco-krathongsRiverside dinner cruise
Etiquette, Sustainability & Safety
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Eco-friendly krathongs
Choose banana leaves/flowers; avoid styrofoam and metal tacks.
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Temple respect
Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered) and follow local directions.
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Lantern safety
Attend licensed releases; keep clear of trees, wires, and airports.
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Leave no trace
Dispose of waste responsibly; support vendors using sustainable materials.
Tip: Book refundable rooms near event hubs (Tha Phae Gate in Chiang Mai, Sukhothai Old City, riverside areas in Bangkok). Ride-hailing demand surges after fireworks.
Photography Tips
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Arrive for blue hour to balance lantern glow with sky detail.
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Use fast primes (f/1.4–f/2) or phone night mode; stabilize on railings.
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Bracket exposures for fireworks; mind crowd movement and wind.
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Carry spare batteries and microfiber cloth; humidity can fog lenses.
5-Day Festival Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive Chiang MaiOld City cafésSunset at Wat Phra Singh
Day 2
Temple rounds (Wat Chedi Luang)Yi Peng paradeLantern-release event
Day 3
Morning marketFly to SukhothaiEvening show in Historical Park
Day 4
Loy Krathong ceremonyFireworks & classical danceNight photography
Day 5
Train to BangkokRiverside floating at IconSiamDinner cruise
Curated Festival Packages
Chiang Mai Yi Peng Experience (4D/3N)
From ₹34,500Event ticketsTemple walkLantern photo tour
Enquire NowReady to witness Thailand’s light festivals?
We’ll secure the right tickets, hotels, and transfers for stress-free celebrations.
