Loi Krathong: The Festival of Light

When: November 24, 2007

The Loi Krathong Festival is a spectacle of exquisite beauty and one of Thailand's most dazzling festivals - a highlight not to be missed if you're heading this way during November. The festival is a 13th century Sukhothai tradition of Brahmin origin, adapted to Buddhism, to give thanks to the Goddess of water and to seek forgiveness for past misdeeds. Though the precise history of the festival is unknown, several myths have flourished...

According to one of the most popular legends, years ago a Buddhist King fell in love with a woman called Nopamas. As beautiful as she was clever, Nopamas was collectively praised for her extraordinary nature. She and the King enjoyed the greatest happiness together, and eventually were married. After a blissful wedding, preparation for a Buddhist celebration began. Although Nopamas had married a King who was a practicing Buddhist, she still remained true to her Brahmin faith, worshipping her own idols and spirits according to the precepts her family had taught her in early childhood. (READ MORE)

Deemed one of the most breathtaking festivals in Thailand, Loi Krathong is not to be missed. Just about any body of water will do, and in Bangkok especially locations along the Chao Phraya River are strung up with dazzling lights and serve as centers for festivity. Wherever you happen to be though, a celebration likely will be thriving. Whether you're seeking redemption, a taste of culture, or merely a blast of partying Thai-style, Loi Krathong is something to be enjoyed by everyone. (READ MORE)