Loi Krathong and Yi Peng in Bangkok: Where to Celebrate

Loi Krathong and Yi Peng in Bangkok: Where to Celebrate (2026)

Overview

• What it is: Loi Krathong is Thailand’s festival of lights, when people float decorated krathong (banana-leaf baskets) on water to give thanks and let go of misfortune. Yi Peng, the northern Thai lantern rite, involves releasing sky lanterns—mass releases are iconic in Chiang Mai.
• Key Bangkok note: Sky lanterns are generally prohibited in Bangkok due to aviation and fire safety unless explicitly permitted at tightly controlled events. Always check official advisories before planning a lantern release. Confirm with Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) (BMA: https://www.bangkok.go.th; CAAT: https://www.caat.or.th/en) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• When it happens: On the full moon of the 12th Thai lunar month, usually in November. Exact date varies year to year. Confirm on the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) event calendar (https://www.tatnews.org or https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand) (Last verified: 2024-10).

Where to Celebrate in Bangkok

1. ICONSIAM River Park (Chao Phraya riverside) Why go

• Big-river atmosphere with performances, cultural showcases, and vendors selling eco-krathong. In recent years, ICONSIAM has staged light/drone shows; programming varies annually. Confirm event details on ICONSIAM’s official page (https://www.iconsiam.com/en/whats-new) (Last verified: 2024-10). Costs and hours
• River Park entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: ICONSIAM https://www.iconsiam.com).
• Krathong from on-site stalls: typically 50–150 THB (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT sustainability guidance https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand).
• Mall hours are typically 10:00–22:00; riverside programming may run later on festival night. Confirm hours (Last verified: 2024-10; source: ICONSIAM https://www.iconsiam.com/en/visit). How to get there (with exact routes)
• From BTS Siam Station to BTS Gold Line Charoen Nakhon (ICONSIAM):
  • Mode: BTS Sukhumvit Line transfer to Silom Line at Siam, ride to Krung Thon Buri, then BTS Gold Line to Charoen Nakhon (ICONSIAM).
  • Typical duration: 20–30 minutes platform-to-platform.
  • First/last trains: approx. 05:30–00:00 for BTS core lines; Gold Line operates during BTS hours. Confirm schedules (BTS: https://www.bts.co.th/eng/service/service_time.html) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Last mile: Direct skywalk into ICONSIAM, 2–3 minutes on foot (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From BTS Saphan Taksin to ICONSIAM by shuttle boat:
  • Origin: Saphan Taksin Station (S6) Exit 2 → Sathorn Pier; Destination: ICONSIAM Pier.
  • Mode: ICONSIAM free shuttle boat.
  • Typical duration: 10–15 minutes; frequency ~10–15 minutes.
  • First/last departures: commonly 09:00–23:00. Confirm schedules (https://www.iconsiam.com/en/visit/howtogetthere) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Last mile: 2–5 minutes’ walk from ICONSIAM pier to River Park (Last verified: 2024-10). Ideal time to spend
• 2–3 hours.

2. Asiatique The Riverfront Why go

• A lively open-air market with river views, a Ferris wheel, and frequent cultural performances on festival night. Good space to float krathong at the adjacent pier area. Costs and hours
• Entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: Asiatique https://www.thaiasiatique.com).
• Krathong from stalls: typically 50–150 THB (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand).
• Venue trading hours typically 11:00–24:00; shuttle boat often runs from late afternoon to late night. Confirm hours and boat times (Last verified: 2024-10; source: Asiatique https://www.thaiasiatique.com). How to get there
• From BTS Saphan Taksin to Asiatique by shuttle boat:
  • Origin: Saphan Taksin Station (S6) Exit 2 → Sathorn Pier; Destination: Asiatique Pier.
  • Mode: Free shuttle boat.
  • Typical duration: 10–15 minutes; frequency ~15 minutes.
  • First/last: commonly 16:00–23:30. Confirm schedules (https://www.thaiasiatique.com) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Last mile: Pier lands inside the complex; walking time 1–3 minutes (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From BTS Surasak to Asiatique by taxi:
  • Origin: BTS Surasak; Destination: Asiatique Gate 1.
  • Mode: Metered taxi.
  • Typical duration: 10–20 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Typical fare: 70–120 THB (metered; excludes tolls, if any) (Last verified: 2024-10; Bangkok taxi info: https://www.bangkok.go.th). Ideal time to spend
• 2–3 hours.

3. Santichaiprakan Park and Phra Arthit Pier (Old Bangkok, near Phra Sumen Fort) Why go

• One of the most atmospheric spots to float krathong on the Chao Phraya amid historic scenery. Close to Khao San Road and Thammasat. Costs and hours
• Park entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT listing https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/santi-chaiprakan-park).
• Park hours: typically 05:00–21:00; may extend for festival at BMA’s discretion. Confirm (Last verified: 2024-10; source: BMA https://www.bangkok.go.th).
• Krathong from nearby stalls: typically 30–120 THB (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand). How to get there
• From BTS Saphan Taksin to Phra Arthit Pier by Chao Phraya Express Boat (Orange Flag):
  • Origin: Sathorn (Central) Pier; Destination: Phra Arthit (N13).
  • Mode: River boat (Orange Flag).
  • Typical duration: 25–35 minutes.
  • First/last Orange boats: around 06:00–19:00 daily; services may not run late at night. Confirm schedules (http://www.chaophrayaexpressboat.com/en/timetable/) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Last mile: 5–7 minutes’ walk from Phra Arthit Pier to Santichaiprakan Park (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From MRT Sam Yot to Santichaiprakan Park by taxi:
  • Origin: MRT Sam Yot Exit 1; Destination: Santichaiprakan Park Gate.
  • Mode: Metered taxi.
  • Typical duration: 8–15 minutes.
  • Typical fare: 50–90 THB (metered) (Last verified: 2024-10; source: BMA https://www.bangkok.go.th). Ideal time to spend
• 1.5–2 hours.

4. Benjakitti Park (Benjakitti Forest Park) Why go

• Lakes, boardwalks, and calm water ideal for families to float krathong without river crowds. Costs and hours
• Entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT listing https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/benjakitti-park).
• Park hours: typically 05:00–21:00. Confirm (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT link above).
• On-site krathong sellers near gates: often 30–100 THB (varies by year) (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT general guidance https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand). How to get there
• From MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) to Benjakitti:
  • Origin: MRT QSNCC Exit 3; Destination: Benjakitti Gate (Ratchadaphisek side).
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 5–8 minutes.
  • First/last MRT: approx. 06:00–24:00. Confirm schedules (BEM/MRT: https://www.bemplc.co.th/EN/Service/ServiceTime) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From BTS Asok to Benjakitti:
  • Origin: BTS Asok; Destination: Benjakitti Gate via skywalk/Benjakitti Link.
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 12–15 minutes (Last verified: 2024-10). Ideal time to spend
• 1.5–2 hours.

5. Lumphini Park Why go

• Bangkok’s classic green lung with large lakes and many access points; popular but spreads crowds well. Costs and hours
• Entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT listing https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/lumphini-park).
• Park hours: typically 04:30–21:00. Confirm (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT link above).
• Krathong from nearby vendors: typically 30–120 THB (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand). How to get there
• From MRT Lumphini to Lumphini Park:
  • Origin: MRT Lumphini; Destination: Lumphini Park Gate (Rama IV).
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 2–5 minutes.
  • First/last MRT: approx. 06:00–24:00. Confirm schedules (https://www.bemplc.co.th/EN/Service/ServiceTime) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From BTS Sala Daeng to Lumphini Park:
  • Origin: BTS Sala Daeng; Destination: Gate near Si Lom corner.
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 5–8 minutes (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From CentralWorld to Lumphini Park by taxi:
  • Origin: CentralWorld; Destination: Lumphini Park (Rama IV Gate).
  • Mode: Metered taxi.
  • Typical duration: 10–20 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Typical fare: 60–120 THB (metered) (Last verified: 2024-10; source: BMA https://www.bangkok.go.th). Ideal time to spend
• 1.5–2 hours.

6. Khlong Ong Ang Walking Street (Old City canal) Why go

• A revitalized canal with street food, live music, and art along the water. On Loi Krathong, the canal zone often has themed decor; floating may be restricted—check announcements. Costs and hours
• Walking street hours typically Fri–Sun 16:00–22:00; special openings likely on Loi Krathong. Confirm (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT News https://www.tatnews.org/2021/12/bangkok-extends-khlong-ong-ang-walking-street/).
• Entry: Free (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT link above). How to get there
• From MRT Sam Yot to Ong Ang:
  • Origin: MRT Sam Yot Exit 1; Destination: Ong Ang canal promenade (Bamrung Muang side).
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 5 minutes (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From MRT Wat Mangkon to Ong Ang:
  • Origin: MRT Wat Mangkon Exit 1; Destination: Ong Ang (Song Wat bridge zone).
  • Mode: Walk.
  • Typical duration: 10–12 minutes (Last verified: 2024-10).
• From BTS National Stadium to Ong Ang by taxi:
  • Origin: BTS National Stadium; Destination: Ong Ang Walking Street (Phahurat end).
  • Mode: Metered taxi.
  • Typical duration: 10–15 minutes.
  • Typical fare: 60–100 THB (metered) (Last verified: 2024-10; source: BMA https://www.bangkok.go.th). Ideal time to spend
• 1.5–2 hours.

About Yi Peng in Bangkok

• Sky lanterns: Bangkok typically restricts or bans the release of sky lanterns except at pre-approved venues/times due to air traffic and fire risk. Expect hotels and malls to replace lantern releases with candle ceremonies, light shows, or cultural performances.
• Always confirm year-specific rules:
  • BMA announcements (https://www.bangkok.go.th) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • CAAT airspace advisories, especially near Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) (https://www.caat.or.th/en) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• If a true mass Yi Peng lantern release is essential, consider celebrating in Chiang Mai, where licensed events are organized with aviation clearance. For planning:
  • Flights: Bangkok (BKK or DMK) → Chiang Mai (CNX)
    • Mode: Domestic flight.
    • Typical duration: 1h05m–1h20m.
    • First/last departures: commonly ~06:00–22:30 daily. Confirm schedules (Airports of Thailand: Suvarnabhumi https://www.suvarnabhumi.airportthai.co.th; Don Mueang https://www.donmueang.airportthai.co.th; Chiang Mai https://www.airportthai.co.th/en) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Trains: Bangkok Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal → Chiang Mai
    • Mode: SRT intercity.
    • Typical duration: 9–13 hours depending on service (day/night).
    • First/last departures: multiple daily/overnight. Confirm schedules and book on SRT D-Ticket (https://www.dticket.railway.co.th/DTicketPublicWeb/home) (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Buses: Bangkok (Mo Chit 2) → Chiang Mai (Arcade)
    • Mode: Intercity bus.
    • Typical duration: 9–11 hours.
    • First/last departures: frequent day/night. Confirm schedules (Transport Co., Ltd. “Borstor”: https://www.transport.co.th) (Last verified: 2024-10).

Getting Around on the Night

• BTS SkyTrain and MRT
  • Operating window typically ~05:30–00:00. Lines may extend hours on major festival nights—check closer to date. Confirm schedules (BTS: https://www.bts.co.th/eng/service/service_time.html; MRT: https://www.bemplc.co.th/EN/Service/ServiceTime) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• Chao Phraya Express Boat
  • River services generally run until early evening (e.g., Orange Flag to about 19:00). Night movement depends on cross-river ferries and venue shuttles. Confirm timetables (http://www.chaophrayaexpressboat.com/en/timetable/) (Last verified: 2024-10).
• Cross-river ferries
  • Typical fare: 5–10 THB per person; hours vary by pier, often until ~21:00–22:00. Confirm at specific piers (Last verified: 2024-10; reference: Chao Phraya Express Boat site above).

Practical Tips

• Eco-friendly krathong: Choose banana leaf, bread, or ice krathong; avoid foam and plastic. Expect 20–120 THB depending on size and materials (Last verified: 2024-10; source: TAT sustainability page https://www.tourismthailand.org/Articles/loy-krathong-festival-of-thailand).
• Safety: Watch footing at crowded piers; keep kids away from water edges; candles get hot—carry a small lighter and a bottle of water to douse flame after floating.
• Etiquette: Be respectful in temple areas (covered shoulders/knees); don’t litter; take photos without blocking others.
• Weather: It’s the cool season but still warm; brief showers are possible—pack a light rain jacket.
• Cash: Many pop-up vendors are cash-only; small bills help.

A Simple Evening Plan (example from central Bangkok)

• 17:00–18:00 Early dinner near Saphan Taksin.
• 18:15 Boat to ICONSIAM or Asiatique; browse stalls and buy an eco-krathong (50–150 THB; Last verified: 2024-10; TAT link above).
• 19:00–20:30 Float your krathong; watch performances.
• 21:00 Head back by BTS/MRT before last trains. Confirm last departures (BTS: https://www.bts.co.th/eng/service/service_time.html; MRT: https://www.bemplc.co.th/EN/Service/ServiceTime) (Last verified: 2024-10).

Key Reminders for 2026

• Event programs, park hours, boat services, and any Yi Peng-related permissions change year by year. Confirm schedules and local rules in the week before the festival using:
  • TAT events/news: https://www.tatnews.org (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • BMA advisories: https://www.bangkok.go.th (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • CAAT safety notices: https://www.caat.or.th/en (Last verified: 2024-10).
  • Operators: BTS (https://www.bts.co.th), MRT (https://www.bemplc.co.th), Chao Phraya Express Boat (http://www.chaophrayaexpressboat.com), ICONSIAM (https://www.iconsiam.com), Asiatique (https://www.thaiasiatique.com) (Last verified: 2024-10).

Enjoy a beautiful and responsible Loi Krathong in Bangkok—and if your heart is set on floating a sky lantern, plan a side trip to Chiang Mai where officially sanctioned Yi Peng releases are organized with safety approvals.