Lao Krathong is celebrated all across Bangkok, wherever there is a river, canal, lake, or pond. The festival is open to everyone's participation. It has taken on a modern twist with companies sponsoring large, elaborate Krathong’s, beauty contests and concerts being held, and fireworks being set off.
On the evening of the Loy Krathong festival, you'll begin to notice people gathering on the shores of every body of water in Bangkok around sunset. You'll also see vendors setting up stands to sell ready-made Krathongs to the participants. You should always buy naturally-made Krathongs from bread or banana trunks and avoid any Krathongs made from Styrofoam.
With the last traces of the sun fading from the sky, hundreds of thousands of candle-lit Krathongs will begin to float out on the waterways all over Bangkok. It’s a magical and stunning sight to see, particularly for first-time visitors to Thailand.
Vantage Points on the Chao Phrya River
The Chao Phrya River that winds its way through Bangkok is the heart of Loy Krathong festivities in the city. You can view the Krathongs floating along the river and heading to the sea from any number of vantage points along the river.
There are walkways running along the shore of the river that are open to the public. You'll also see people launching their Krathongs from the water taxi piers up and down the river.
The walkways along the Rama VIII and Rama XI bridges are favourite viewing points, but visitors should arrive early, as these bridge walkways can get crowded. They offer an elevated view of the river that’s well worth the effort.
The Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) is also a popular spectator area with the city’s residents. It offers a wide area right on the water from which to launch Krathongs.
Book a Dinner Cruise on the River
Another idea is to book a sunset dinner cruise on the evening of Loy Krathong aboard the numerous boats offering a delicious dinner, live music, and a leisurely cruise along the river amid the myriad, candle-lit Krathongs floating on the river.
You'll be guaranteed of a magical experience by booking a dinner cruise. You’ll be surrounded by all the colourful Krathongs and enjoy a superb meal as you drift leisurely along the river.
There are many companies offering these dinner cruises. But if you want to experience a dinner cruise on the evening of Loy Krathong, you must book your reservation as early as possible.
Visit Bangkok Parks to Enjoy Loy Krathong
There are several favoured parks as well to view the festivities in the city. Lumpini and Chatuchak Parks have large lakes on their grounds that offer the unforgettable sight of thousands of Krathongs floating peacefully on their calm waters.
The parks turn into a food festival as well, where you can partake of some of the best of Bangkok's street foods. Food vendors from all over the city come to the parks to set up stalls. You can eat to your heart's content while you watch the festivities.
Rentals for the Holidays has modern, quality apartments for rent all over the city of Bangkok. There are many apartments close to the river that allow you to enjoy all the color and cultural attractions of this waterfront area. You can also stay in the Lumpini or Chatuchak Park area and feast on all the food, sights, and fun to be had in the parks on the evening of Loy Krathong.
Rentals for the Holidays can provide single or multi-bedroom apartments in all areas of this vibrant and culturally rich city. If you’re considering visiting Bangkok, contact Rentals for the Holidays to experience an unforgettable and rewarding visit to the most popular tourist destination in the world.