Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival: Tickets, History And Travel Tips

It’s almost time for one of the spectacular events in Chiang Mai. Yes, we are talking about the highly anticipated Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival, aka the Chiang Mai CAD Khomloy Sky Lantern Festival. This festival involves releasing thousands of lanterns into the sky, creating a magical display of lights. If you thought it sounded familiar, you are not wrong. This fest inspired Disney’s movie Tangled’s lantern scene. If you want to learn more about it, check out this blog, where we break down everything you need to know about Yi Peng.

Also Read:

• Best 16 Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• 8 Unique Things to Do in Chiang Mai Any Day of the Year!
• Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for Phuket, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and more!

Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival History

• Country of Origin: Thailand
• Year of Origin: 13th Century
• Where To Observe: Chiang Mai

First-time festival attendees usually ask about Yi Peng’s country of origin and history. Yi Peng’s origin is deeply embedded in northern Thai culture. It began around the 13th century in the ancient Lanna Kingdom era. This Lanna Festival also coincides with Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights. Its legend has been found in the Sukothai Kingdom Period, Ayutthaya Kingdom, Lavo Kingdom Period, and the Rattanakosi Kingdom Period. The difference between the two festivals is the way of floating lanterns. Yi Peng sees people launching thousands of sky lanterns into the air, while Loy Krathong involves floating lanterns into the water.

Yi Peng is a religious festival based on Buddhist and Hindu customs. It occurs on the evening of the full moon of the twelfth month of the traditional lunar calendar. It is known for its breathtaking sky lantern display. The act of releasing sky lanterns (khom loi) symbolizes a way to make wishes and send prayers into the heavens. It is also a form of worshipping Ket Kaew Chulamaneed, the relic of the Lord Buddha. Yi Peng is primarily observed in Northern Thailand, with Chiang Mai celebrating the fest with spectacular processions and activities. The city celebrates Yi Peng and Loy Krathong together, making it an impressive spectacle of lanterns floating in the river and sky.

Yi Peng Lantern Festival 2025 Tickets

• The 2025 Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival Dates: November 5 to 6
• Where Is Happening: The CAD Cultural Center Lanna
• Social Media: Official Website

The 2025 Yi Peng Lantern Festival is on November 5 and 6 at the CAD Cultural Center Lanna. Both days’ festivities start from 1:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Many activities will occur, including religious ceremonies, monks chanting, drum and candle shows, lanterns and fireworks launches, competitions, dances, and parades. If you want to attend this two-day fest, buy the following Yi Peng tickets:

Ticket Types	Price	Includes
Standard Seat	4,800 THB	Transfer service, 2 lanterns, 1 Kratong
VIP Seat	6,400 THB	A/c transportation, more food selection, VIP seat row
Premium Seat	6,900 THB	A/c transportation, more food selection, and nice dinner zone decorations.
Elite Seat	15,500 THB	Lana Thai buffet dinner, the best views to watch the lantern release, souvenir, 2 lanterns per person, and watching the shows.

While booking your tickets, you can select any date, e.g., November 5 or 6. Both days offer the same activities and follow the same itinerary.

Best Travel Tips For Yi Peng Festival

The Yi Peng Festival is more than a spectacle; it could be a cathartic experience for those tired of their mundane lives. Sky lanterns symbolize cleansing and letting go of one’s deepest fears. So, don’t hesitate to attend this festival at least once. To help you elevate your experience, here we offer helpful travel tips, including the dos and don’ts during Yi Peng:

• Advance Booking: Yi Peng attracts massive crowds, and tickets sell out months in advance. Book your tickets online immediately to ensure you can attend the event.
• Hotel Reservations: Attendees usually book hotels near the CAD Cultural Center Lanna months before the festival. Make sure to book a stay beforehand.
• Traditional and Spiritual Experiences: Since Yi Peng is a religious festival, visit temples and engage in spiritual practices and Thai rituals rooted in Lanna culture.
• Enjoy Cultural Performances: In addition to releasing sky lanterns, you can partake in other festivities, such as watching parades, dances, and processions.
• Dress Code: Dress modestly and avoid revealing outfits. Don’t wear tank tops or clothes that show shoulders and knees. Wear white or a traditional Lanna Thai costume.
• Food and Drinks: Yi Peng ticket holders will get the chance to try diverse Thai specialties at the venue. You can also buy many snacks as you walk around the festival.
• How to Launch Lantern: There will be a demonstration on the stage regarding sky lantern launching.
• What Not To Do: Releasing lanterns in Chiang Mai’s city center, drinking alcohol, smoking, bringing your lanterns, obstructing people from releasing their lanterns, littering, and bringing drones.

Must-Do Things In Chiang Mai

Since you are already in Chiang Mai, make the most of your trip by visiting its renowned attractions. Here we have listed some of the best things to do in this region:

Marvel At The Beauty Of White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)

• Address: Pa O Don Chai, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5 PM
• Tickets: 100 THB

Chiang Mai has many shrines, but none can compare to the beauty of the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun). This contemporary Buddhist temple is known for its unique design, including intricate carvings and an all-white exterior with fragments of mirrored glass embedded that creates a dazzling effect when sparkling in the sun. The temple’s design blends traditional Thai architecture with contemporary art, making it stand out from other Thai shrines. While visiting Chiang Mai for Yi Peng, stop by the White Temple at least once.

Go For A Trek To Doi Inthanon National Park

• Address: 119, Ban Luang, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai 50160, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 6 PM
• Entry Fee: 300 THB (Adults), 150 THB (Children aged 3-14 years old)
• Social Media: Official Facebook

Chiang Mai is not all about temples; it offers several outdoor adventures. Doi Inthanon National Park is an excellent destination for hikers and trekkers. It features many scenic trails, such as the Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail, Ang Ka Luang Nature Trail, and Pha Dok Siew. Hike or trek along the way to explore the park’s stunning viewpoints. The national park also features Thailand’s tallest waterfall, Mae Ya Waterfall, ideal for hiking and picnicking. It is also a perfect destination for birdwatching, since the park is home to around 500 to 510 bird species.

Explore The Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

• Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 9 PM
• Tickets: 50 THB per person

Let’s add another famous pilgrimage site to this list of the best things to do in Chiang Mai. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a Theravada Buddhist temple in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. It is 1,046 meters high from the sea level and 689 meters from Chiang Mai Plain, and is known for its breathtaking views. The shrine is also culturally significant and sacred to many Thai people. Visitors must dress modestly and appropriately and remove footwear to enter the temple.

Step Back In Time At Wat Chedi Luang

• Address: 103 Prapokklao Road, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 AM – 10:30 PM
• Tickets: 50 THB (Adults), 20 THB (Children)

Since Yi Peng is a Lanna festival, it’s only fitting to visit Wat Chedi Luang, a temple from the Lanna era. Construction began in the 14th century and was completed in 1481 during the reign of King Mengrai. Later, the shrine was restored after being deconstructed in 1545 due to an earthquake. Today, it is one of the must-visit temples in Chiang Mai. Visit Wat Chedi Luang to admire its enormous chedi and impressive Lanna architecture.

Plan A Trip To The Golden Triangle

• Address: 932M+W6X, 370 ถนน ท่าแพ, Wiang, Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 24 hours

If you are on an extended vacation, head to Chiang Rai to visit the famous Golden Triangle. This educational park on Tha Phae Road is a joint area between three countries, Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand. It was once the world’s largest opium plantation area. Today, the Golden Triangle is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can see beautiful views. They can also stroll through the shops in the area to buy food or souvenirs.

Stroll Through The Warorot Market

• Address: 10,12, 14 Wichayanon Rd, Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
• Entry Fee: Free Entry

Eat and drink your way through Warorot Market, aka Kad Luang. This local market sells traditional northern Thai food, such as Sai Ua, Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao, Khao Kha Moo, Nam Prik Noom, Tod Man Pla, and crispy pork rinds. It is also known for its Thai sweets, such as Kanom Krok (coconut pancakes) and sticky rice with mango. The market is ideal for buying last-minute souvenirs, household goods, fresh products, street food, and casual clothing. You can visit here from early in the morning till 6 PM.

Where To Stay For The Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival?

As mentioned earlier, Yi Peng attendees must reserve a hotel in advance to ensure a hassle-free experience. Here we have handpicked the best hotels to stay in Chiang Mai.

Kampaeng Ngam Hotel

Yi Peng and Loy Krathong attendees must book a stay near Night Bazaar or Tha Phae Gate. Kampaeng Ngam Hotel is conveniently a short walk from both destinations. Its wooden and concrete building has a Lanna-modern style and offers a luxurious contemporary Lanna living experience. The hotel features 44 rooms under standard and deluxe categories. Standard rooms have modern Lanna decor and many amenities such as a minibar, air conditioning, a tea/coffee maker, and an in-room safe.

Deluxe rooms are spacious and feature wooden floors, air conditioning, bathrobes, cable TV, and toiletries. They also feature Lanna artifacts and a Balinese-style bed. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, an outdoor pool, and airport transfer. The on-site bar and restaurant serve local Thai, Western, and Chinese food and signature drinks.

Night Bazaar Inn

Enjoy easy access to the Yi Peng festival after booking a stay at Night Bazaar Inn. It is conveniently near Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Tha Phae Gate, Chai Mongkol Temple, Art in Paradise, and Wua Lai Walking Street. This three-star property is only twenty minutes from Chiang Mai International Airport. In addition to its prime location, the hotel is known for its exceptional facilities, including a saltwater swimming pool, a fitness center, a complimentary airport shuttle, a sun terrace, and Wi-Fi.

This Lanna-style boutique hotel features 50 rooms with cute balconies. Guests can sit on these balconies to enjoy the cool breeze and city views. They can choose from Superior Twin Rooms, Superior Double Rooms, or King Suites. All rooms have air conditioning, work desks, TVs, refrigerators, wardrobes, and private bathrooms. Furthermore, the on-site Lanna-style restaurant serves seafood, Thai, and Asian cuisine with halal and vegetarian options. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Amora Thapae Hotel Chiang Mai

Enjoy a home away from home at Amora Thapae Hotel Chiang Mai. It is centrally located in Chiang Mai near its infamous Tha Phae Gate. It is also a short distance from Night Bazaar, Nakornping Bridge, and the Three Kings Monument. This boutique hotel features 204 comfortable rooms with stunning city or mountain views. Guests can choose from Superior, Deluxe, Deluxe Premier, Princess, and Presidential rooms and suites.

The property features top-notch facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. The luxurious Amora Spa offers relaxing treatments. Guests can remain active and keep up with their workout routine at the on-site fitness center. They can also take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. Other amenities include meeting rooms, wedding venues, buffet breakfast, an on-site restaurant, a lobby lounge bar, and a pool bar.

THEE Kashatharn by TH District

Elevate your experience by booking a stay at the luxurious THEE Kashatharn by TH District. It is only a few steps from Old Town and near Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and Chedi Luang Temple. Inspired by the Lanna cultural legacy, this 4-5-star hotel masterfully blends classic traditions with contemporary design. At every corner, it features the skillful handiwork of local artisans.

The property features diverse accommodations, including Deluxe, Deluxe Pool View, Family Deluxe, Family Pool View, Oriental Suite, and Grand Oriental Suite rooms. Oriental and Grand Oriental suites promise a luxury and sophisticated stay with their excellent amenities, such as double-size beds, TVs, mini-fridges, and bathroom amenities. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, complimentary bicycles, and an on-site restaurant.

Shangri-La Chiang Mai

Enjoy a family staycation at the luxurious Shangri-La Chiang Mai. This family-friendly urban resort is in the heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by stunning vistas of Northern Thailand’s mountain ranges. It is near renowned attractions like the Night Bazaar, Old City, Tha Phae Gate, and Art in Paradise. The Chiang Mai City Art and Cultural Center is only 2.5 km from the premises. This hotel is ideal for guests looking to discover, explore, unwind, and indulge in the city.

The resort features 277 rooms and suites with a Northern Thai design and warm ambiance. All accommodations are decorated generously with teakwood and silk under the Lanna Renaissance theme. Moreover, Shangri-La Chiang Mai has ten meeting facilities, including a 99-seat auditorium that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests. It even hosts weddings, from intimate exchanging of vows to grand ceremonies. You can have your dream wedding with your loved ones in attendance.

The Yi Peng festival is something you don’t want to miss out on this year. Plan a short getaway or a week-long vacation to Chiang Mai to participate in this spectacular sky lantern display. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable. Also, don’t forget to bring all necessary documents (ID, visa, hotel reservation, travel tickets) to ensure a hassle-free trip. Most of all, take many pictures to commemorate the Yi Peng experience.