Loy Krathong Festival is one of the most popular and spectacular festivals in Thailand. It is celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month, usually in November, when people release floating baskets (krathongs) and flying lanterns (khom loy) into the water and sky, symbolizing the release of negative emotions and the gratitude to the water goddess.
But did you know that Loy Krathong Festival originated in Sukhothai, the first capital of Thailand and a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Sukhothai is where the legend of Nang Noppamas, the first woman who made a krathong for King Ramkhamhaeng, began. Sukhothai is also where you can witness the most authentic and spectacular Loy Krathong Festival, with historical and cultural performances, light and sound shows, and thousands of lanterns illuminating the ancient ruins.
If you want to experience the Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai, you need to plan ahead and book your tickets and accommodation in advance, as this is a very popular and busy time of the year. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai, and how to make the most of your trip to this amazing destination.
What to Expect at Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai?
Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai is a five-day event that usually takes place a week before the official Loy Krathong date, to avoid clashing with other celebrations in the country. The festival is held at the Sukhothai Historical Park, a vast area of ancient temples, monuments, and statues that date back to the 13th and 14th centuries.
The festival is divided into two parts: the day activities and the night activities. During the day, you can enjoy various cultural and historical performances, such as traditional dances, music, puppet shows, and reenactments of the Sukhothai era. You can also explore the park and admire the stunning architecture and scenery, or join a guided tour or a bicycle ride to learn more about the history and culture of Sukhothai.
At night, the park transforms into a magical wonderland, with thousands of candles, lanterns, and fireworks lighting up the sky and the water. The highlight of the night is the light and sound show, which tells the story of Nang Noppamas and the origin of Loy Krathong Festival, accompanied by impressive visual and audio effects. You can also participate in the Loy Krathong ritual, by making or buying your own krathong and releasing it into the pond, or by launching your own khom loy into the air. You can also watch the beauty contest, where the contestants dress up as Nang Noppamas and compete for the title of Miss Noppamas.
How to Make Your Own Krathong?
One of the most fun and rewarding things to do at Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai is to make your own krathong. A krathong is a floating basket made of natural materials, such as banana leaves, coconut shells, flowers, incense, and candles. Making a krathong is not only a creative and enjoyable activity, but also a way of expressing your gratitude and respect to the water goddess, and of letting go of your worries and troubles.
To make your own krathong, you will need the following materials and tools:
- A base, such as a slice of banana trunk, a coconut shell, or a bread
- Banana leaves, cut into strips and folded into triangular shapes
- Toothpicks or pins, to attach the banana leaves to the base
- Flowers, such as marigolds, orchids, roses, or jasmine
- Incense sticks and candles, to place in the center of the krathong
- Scissors, glue, and a needle and thread, to decorate and secure the krathong
The steps to make your own krathong are as follows:
- Cover the base with banana leaves, using toothpicks or pins to secure them. Make sure to leave some space in the center for the incense and candles.
- Arrange the flowers on top of the banana leaves, using glue or needle and thread to attach them. You can also use other decorations, such as coins, paper, or fabric, to personalize your krathong.
- Insert the incense sticks and candles in the center of the krathong, making sure they are stable and upright.
- Your krathong is ready to be released into the water. Before you do that, make a wish, say a prayer, or express your gratitude, and then gently place your krathong on the surface of the pond. Watch it float away, carrying your hopes and dreams with it.
How and Where to Celebrate Loy Krathong in Sukhothai?
To celebrate Loy Krathong in Sukhothai, you need to plan ahead and book your tickets and accommodation in advance, as this is a very popular and busy time of the year. You also need to check the official dates and schedule of the festival, as they may vary from year to year. Here are some tips and suggestions on how and where to celebrate Loy Krathong in Sukhothai:
The best way to get to Sukhothai is by flying from Bangkok to Sukhothai Airport, which takes about an hour. You can also take a bus or a train from Bangkok to Phitsanulok, and then take a local bus or a taxi to Sukhothai, which takes about four to five hours.
The best place to stay in Sukhothai is near the Sukhothai Historical Park, where the festival takes place. There are many hotels, guesthouses, and homestays to choose from, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the recommended options are Legendha Sukhothai Hotel, Sukhothai Treasure Resort & Spa, and Old City Guesthouse.
The best time to visit the Sukhothai Historical Park is in the late afternoon, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. You can buy your entrance ticket at the park gate, which costs 100 baht per person. You can also rent a bicycle or an electric car to explore the park, which costs 30 baht and 150 baht per hour, respectively.
The best spot to watch the light and sound show is in front of the Wat Mahathat, the main temple of the park. The show starts at 7 pm and lasts for about an hour. You can buy your ticket for the show at the park gate or online, which costs 500 baht per person. You can also bring your own mat or chair to sit on, or rent one at the park for 20 baht.
The best place to release your krathong or launch your khom loy is at the pond near the Wat Sa Si, a small temple on an island. You can make or buy your own krathong or khom loy at the park, or at the nearby markets or shops. The price of a krathong or a khom loy ranges from 20 to 100 baht, depending on the size and quality. You can also join the beauty contest, which takes place at the same area, and cheer for your favorite contestant.
Loy Krathong Festival in Sukhothai is a unique and unforgettable experience that you should not miss if you are in Thailand in November. It is a chance to witness the birthplace of Thailand’s Festival of Lights and Lanterns, and to immerse yourself in the ancient and beautiful culture of Sukhothai.
If you are interested in booking a trip to Sukhothai, or finding out more about Loy Krathong Festival, please visit our website or contact us. We are happy to help you plan your dream vacation.
