There are moments in travel that stay with you forever, and Northern Thailand during lantern season is one of them.
For a few luminous nights each year, Chiang Mai transforms into a living canvas of light, ritual, and quiet wonder. Streets glow, temples hum with ceremony, and the sky fills with thousands of lanterns carrying wishes, intentions, and new beginnings. It is a time that feels both celebratory and deeply spiritual, a rare intersection of beauty, meaning, and collective energy.
This 5-night journey to Chiang Mai is intentionally timed around one of the most visually breathtaking and culturally significant periods of the year. Designed as more than just a holiday, this experience invites you into the heart of Northern Thai culture through moments of stillness and movement, tradition and modern life, personal reflection and shared celebration.
Across the week, you’ll step inside sacred temple spaces, witness age-old rituals, explore local markets, and take part in a lantern ceremony that symbolises release, renewal, and hope. These are not rushed photo stops, but thoughtfully curated experiences that allow you to be present, curious, and connected.
Your trip host, Bevan, has spent four years living in Thailand and brings deep on-the-ground knowledge, trusted local relationships, and extensive experience in designing and leading group journeys. Bevan’s approach to travel is rooted in intention, creating trips that prioritise meaning, cultural respect, and genuine connection.
At its core, this journey is about depth rather than density. It balances meaningful guided experiences with space to wander, rest, and discover Chiang Mai at your own rhythm, whether that looks like slow mornings with coffee, quiet afternoons in leafy courtyards, or evenings spent soaking in the city’s gentle energy.
We believe in valuing the experience over the photo. In living the moment rather than chasing it. In allowing certain memories to exist simply in your body and heart, not only on your camera roll.
Blending spiritual heritage, local tradition, community celebration, and shared connection, this experience is designed to feel grounded, intentional, and deeply human. You won’t just visit Chiang Mai, you’ll feel it, move with it, and carry a piece of it with you long after you return home.
Secure your booking with a deposit. The balance payment is due 60 days prior the trip departure.
Settled at Meliá Chiang Mai, a contemporary hotel ideally located for exploring the city, offering comfort, style, and a relaxed home base throughout the journey.
Things to Know Before You Take This Trip
This journey has been thoughtfully designed to balance comfort, cultural immersion, and meaningful shared experiences. The notes below will help you prepare practically and mindfully, so you can arrive feeling informed, grounded, and open to experiencing the magic of Chiang Mai during lantern season.
Timing & Festival Context
Late November in Chiang Mai coincides with two deeply meaningful celebrations that together create the city’s most iconic festival atmosphere.
Yi Peng is a traditional Lanna festival tied to the full moon of the Thai lunar calendar. During this time, sky lanterns (khom loi) are released into the night sky as symbols of letting go of misfortune and welcoming good fortune.
At the same time, Loy Krathong, celebrated throughout Thailand, involves floating small decorated baskets on waterways to honour the water goddess and release past negativity.
In Chiang Mai, these celebrations overlap, creating an atmosphere filled with light, ritual, gratitude, and community gatherings. It is both a visual spectacle and a deeply symbolic cultural moment.
Weather in Late November
Late November marks the beginning of Thailand’s cooler, drier season.
Daytime temperatures typically range between 24–30°C
Evenings are cooler, particularly after sunset
Rainfall is possible but usually short-lived
While conditions are generally excellent, weather can be unpredictable. Occasional showers may occur, particularly in the late afternoon or evening. We recommend packing a light rain jacket or compact umbrella.
Lantern events proceed rain or shine, and local organisers are accustomed to seasonal shifts.
Cultural Awareness & Respect
Thailand is a country with strong spiritual traditions and a deep cultural emphasis on respect. Participating in festival season means engaging with awareness and consideration.
Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered)
Remove shoes before entering temples and some indoor spaces
Avoid touching anyone on the head
Do not point your feet toward people, monks, or Buddha images
Speak calmly and respectfully — public confrontation is discouraged
Ask permission before photographing locals or monks
These customs are not about perfection; they are about intention.
The Meaning Behind the Lanterns
The act of releasing a lantern during Yi Peng is symbolic. It represents letting go of past challenges, releasing negativity, and setting intentions for the year ahead.
The experience is not simply about watching lanterns rise into the sky, it is about participating in a shared ritual of renewal and reflection.
Approach the ceremony with patience, presence, and quiet respect.
Practical Festival Notes
Festival evenings attract large crowds, patience and flexibility are important.
Follow instructions from local staff and guides during lantern releases.
Photography is welcome, but we encourage moments without phones. Expect increased traffic and slower movement around the city during festival days.
Thailand - Helpful Things to Know
The traditional greeting is the wai (palms together with a small bow).
Smiling is part of everyday communication and social harmony.
Bargaining is acceptable in markets, but politeness is essential.
Public displays of anger or confrontation are culturally discouraged.
The Thai Royal Family is highly respected, avoid negative or political commentary.
Travel Tips
Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM upon arrival for easy connectivity.
Download offline maps before arrival.
Carry small cash notes for markets and taxis.
Keep a digital copy of your passport.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen daily.
Tap water is not drinkable in Thailand; bottled water is widely available.
Mindset for This Journey
This experience is about depth rather than performance.
About presence rather than perfection.
About valuing what you feel more than what you capture.
We invite you to travel with intention, curiosity, and openness, allowing space for wonder, respect, and meaningful connection.
We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:
Email: hello@tricitieedition.co
Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!