14/09/2025
Best Places to Celebrate Loy Krathong Night in Bangkok
Bangkok's celebrations are centered around the Chao Phraya River and various public parks with lakes. Here are some of the best places for tourists to experience the festival:
Along the Chao Phraya River
The Chao Phraya River is the heart of the celebration in Bangkok. You can witness a spectacular sight of thousands of glowing krathongs floating on the water.
Asiatique The Riverfront: This lively shopping and entertainment complex hosts one of the biggest Loy Krathong celebrations. You'll find cultural performances, live music, and firework displays. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Tha Maharaj: A riverfront mall that hosts a festive event with traditional Thai performances and a pleasant promenade to float your krathong.
Rama VIII Bridge: This area often has bustling night markets and food vendors, creating a vibrant atmosphere for the festival.
Riverfront Hotels: Many hotels along the Chao Phraya River, such as the Mandarin Oriental, Shangri-La, and Millennium Hilton, host special Loy Krathong events with dinner buffets, cultural shows, and prime spots for floating krathongs. A dinner cruise on the river is a popular way to see the festivities from a unique perspective.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): This iconic temple by the river provides a magical backdrop for the celebrations.
In Public Parks
For a more tranquil and local experience, you can visit one of Bangkok's public parks with a lake.
Lumpini Park: Located in the heart of Bangkok, this park offers a peaceful setting for floating a krathong on its large lake. It's a popular spot for locals.
Benjasiri Park: Situated near the Emporium Shopping Mall, this park has a picturesque lake and is a great option to get away from the huge crowds of the riverfront.
Benjakiti Park: This park also features a large lake, making it a good choice for floating a krathong.
Tips for Tourists
Eco-Friendly Krathongs: Be mindful of the environment. Look for krathongs made from natural, biodegradable materials like banana leaves, bread, or coconut shells, which are more common nowadays. Avoid Styrofoam krathongs.
Dress Appropriately: While there is no strict dress code, it's respectful to wear smart casual clothing, especially if you plan on visiting a temple or a formal event.
Expect Crowds: The festival is extremely popular. Be prepared for large crowds, especially at major riverfront locations.
Getting Around: Traffic can be heavy on Loy Krathong night. Consider using the BTS Skytrain or MRT subway to get close to your destination and then walk. River boats are also a great option for getting around the riverside areas.
Make a Wish: As you float your krathong, it's a tradition to make a wish for good fortune and a fresh start.