CHIANGMAI SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2009

The Songkran Festival lasts for several days and is a traditional celebration that welcomes in the Thai New Year. It is one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in Thailand making it a great time to visit the country to participate in this fun and friendly event.

On the first day it is traditional for Thais to clean their house in preparation for the year ahead. The following day is given over to the preparation of food and special meals to be consumed over the coming days. The third day is the start of the Thai New Year.

On the third day, it is marked by religious ceremonies which usually take place early in the morning. Come the afternoon, it's time for the water fights which rage through the streets during which everybody, including tourists, are targets. The day is celebrated all over the country with various special events and attractions.

A popular town with tourists, Chiang Mai is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of this unique festival. The whole town gets involved in the celebrations with beauty pageants, feasts, parades, ceremonies and, of course, a huge water fight.

For more information :

Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office (Tourist Info)
105/1 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road

Amphoe Mueang

Chiang Mai 50000

Thailand

Tel +66 53 248 604.

Email : tatchmai@tat.or.th

SONGKRAN FESTIVAL : WHAT DOES IT MEAN ?

The Meaning of Songkran Festival in Thailand

Songkran is the Thai traditional New Year and an occasion for family reunion. At this time, people from the rural areas who are working in the city usually return home to celebrate the festival. Thus, when the time comes, Bangkok temporarily turns into a deserted city.

The festival falls on April 13 and the annual celebration is held throughout the kingdom. In fact, “Songkran” is a Thai word which means “move” or “change place” as it is the day when the sun changes its position in the zodiac. It is also known as the “Water Festival” as people believe that water will wash away bad luck.

This Thai traditional New Year begins with early morning merit-making offering food to Buddhist monks and releasing caged birds to fly freely into the sky. During this auspicious occasion, any animals kept will be set free. Paying homage to one’s ancestors is an important part of the day. People will pay their respects to the elders by pouring scented water over the palms of their hands. The elders in return wish the youngsters good luck and prosperity.

In the afternoon, after performing a bathing rite for Buddha images and the monks, the celebrants both young and old, joyfully splash water on each other.

The most-talked about celebration takes place in the northern province of Chiang Mai where Songkran is celebrated from April 13 to 15. During this period, people from all parts of the country flock there to enjoy the water festival, to watch the Miss Songkran Contest and the beautiful parades.

In Bangkok, the Buddha image “Buddhasihing” is brought out from the National Museum for people to sprinkle lustral water at Sanam Luang opposite the Grand Palace.

THAILAND GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2009

Songkran Festival is well known among tourists who visit Thailand in April, which is the hottest month. It is a must for everyone to join this festival. What they do during this long holiday is splashing clean water (sometime with a few drop of Thai perfume) to each other to reduce the heat of the summer air. For Thais, Songkran is more than the water splashing festival; it is Thailand’s former New Year day. So, we take this holiday as an opportunity to make merit at the temples and visit our respective relatives. Songkran Celebrations will be held throughout the country. If you’re ready to get wet, take a look on the following schedule and find the place to enjoy the festival.

BANGKOK GRAND SONGKRAN FESTIVAL



Date: 10-15 April 2009
Venue: The 9 Royal Temples and around the Rattanakosin Island

Songkran Celebrations of the 4 Regions

Bathing Buddha images from the 4 regions, local food and dessert making demonstrations, and cultural shows and various forms of entertainment, opening ceremony at Temple of the Reclining Buddha 10 April from 18.00-21.00 hrs

Paying worship at the 9 nine royal temples around the Rattanakosin Island

10-15 April 2009 (9.00-18.00 hrs)

Wat Phra Sri Rattanasasadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo), Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho), Wat Suthat, Wat Saket, Wat Bowonniwet, Wat Chanasongkram, Wat Rakang, Wat Arun (Wat Chaeng), and Wat Kalayanamitr

Water splashing in traditional Thai dress (Khao San Road)
4-15 April 2009 (17.00-18.00 hrs)

Banglamphu Community Songkran Activities at Santi Chaiprakarn Park, Phra Athit Road
11-13 April 2009





For more information, please contact :


The Events Planning Division, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)


Tel. +66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3470-3



TAT Call Centre 1672

THAILAND PROMOTIONAL TOUR PROGRAMMES BY TRAIN

Tour Programme : Family Visit to Nostalgic Ratchaburi
Dated : 28-29 Mar 09

This Thailand Travel Programme will lead you to Wat Khanon, whose Nang Yai Shadow Play recently won a UNESCO Award. Apart from this, Siam Cultural Park, Chet Samian Market, Wat Khlong Swannakhiri and Ban Khu Bua's Jipathaphan Museum are included in the programme.

Ticket Prices
Bt 2,700 each (Double room)
Bt 3,100 each (Single room)

Remark : inclusive of transfer, 1-night accommodation, 4 meals, snack, coordination fee, etc.

Those who are interested in booking seats can get the booking form from TAT Head Office on Phetchaburi Road, Bangkok, tel: 0 2250 5500 Ext. 2105, 2115-9 and reserve the seats directly. For further details, please contact: TAT Call Centre 1672.

The Story of Nang Yai
Shadow Puppet Drama at Wat Khanon, Ratchaburi, Thailand

Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama performances possibly already existed during the Sukhothai era. Certainly they were a leading form of entertainment during the Ayutthaya era. This typical Thai performing art remained popular throughout the early Rattanakosin era till at least the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V).

The Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama at Wat Khanon was first established during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. It now is the only important location for this form of entertainment in Thailand. However, the puppets are still meticulously maintained and produced, and the performers retain their high standards. The drama group from Wat Khanon performs throughout Thailand. The most popular drama performed is the Ramakien.

To perform a puppet drama, the essential constituents are : a suitable venue (transparent screen and lighting), puppet figures, a musical ensemble, narrators and recitors, and of course the puppeteers and the story line.

Creating the puppet figures is an artform all by itself. Most of the puppets are created from cowhide. The more important figures however require skin of other animals such as leopard skin, bear skin etc.

Wat Khanon in Ratchaburi province now also houses a nicely constructed Nang Yai Exhibition Hall. In an attractive way, quite a few puppets are on display.

Nang Yai Shadow Puppet Drama can be contacted at 03-223 3386, if you want to inquire about performances.

Honda LPGA Tour Pattaya Thailand 2009

Media Information Fact Sheet

The Media Centre is located at the basement of the Clubhouse. Media will enter the Clubhouse through the entrance in front of the triple green 4th , 9th ,16th .

Media Centre Facilities

* Fully-equipped with complete WiFi & 56 LAN functionality

* 56 workstations and 33 phone lines

* 9 desktop computers

* photo-copiers

* fax-machines

* beverages and light snacks will be available all day

* a buffet lunch will be served for all media

Parking

* Each media outlet may request up to one parking pass to park at Car Park B, where there are plenty of parking spaces; but if the lot is full, media can park their cars in the public car park area, where there will be tournament shuttle to take them to the clubhouse.

Photography

* An official photographer will be working throughout the tournament to take course and player shots. These photos will be made available to all media outlets at the media center throughout the day

Media Centre 038.909.610 to 038.909.642

Media Centre Team

James Best 083.198.4722

Barakorn Petchnoi (Bee) 086.389.5645

Supawadee Srirojpinyo (Kate) 086.796.9009

Jittima Maekharosthammakul (Jo) 086.907.8340

Hariruck Pewngam (Poh) 086.644.9636

For further information, please contact:

Aziam Burson-Marsteller Tel: 02.252.9871

James Best 083.198.4722

Supawadee Srirojpinyo 086.796.9009

http://www.lpgathailand.com

Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 at Pattaya’s Siam Country Club, February 26 – March 1, 2009

Following the successes of the Honda LPGA Thailand 2006 and 2007, Mr. Kenji Otaka, President of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Ltd. announces Honda’s continued support of the Honda LPGA Thailand 2009.

Since its inauguration in 2006, the Honda LPGA Thailand has now become one of the highlights in the LPGA Tournament, and forms an integral part of the LPGA calendar. The tournament was a huge success last year which attracted more than 25,000 spectators at the golf course and secured the participation of world-class LPGA golfers.”

It is indeed an honour for Honda, in its capacity as title sponsor, to team up with our partners in organizing this Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 which will be held at Siam Country Club, Pattaya. For fans and enthusiasts, they will be treated to four days of world-class golf, watching their favourite players in action as they attempt to beat their personal best scores to win the top cash prize from US$ 1.45 million prize purse.

As well as thrilling the golf fans with a keenly fought contest, the tournament allows them to see top-ranked professionals of the Ladies Professional Golf Association competing this year. Honda is delighted to confirm the participation of the world’s leading female golfers, Ms. Lorena Ochoa, and Ms. Paula Creamer, who will both take part in next year’s exciting tournament. The Honda LPGA 2009 will be spiced up with an additional Hole-in-one prize of the new Honda Accord 2.4 EL valued at 1.5 million baht.

The player field of Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 will comprise of 50 leading LPGA Tour players and 10 sponsor invites, competing for a purse of US$1.45 million over 72 holes stroke play with no cut in the field. The strong player field of Honda LPGA Thailand 2009 will ensure the Thailand crowds experience the most exciting actions at Pattaya in the weekend of February 26 to March 1, 2009.

Mini Light & Sound Show of Akha Hilltribe In Thailand

Dates: 28 February 2009, 28 March 2009 and 25 April 2009

Venue: Chiang Rai Province

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Chiang Rai Office, with the cooperation of the Chiang Rai Social Development Center, will present a series of mini light and sound shows called "The Akha: People of the Hills" at the Chiang Rai Social Development Center, Mae Chan district, Chiang Rai province.

"The Akha: People of the Hills" mini light and sound show has been shown every year since 1999. The schedules of the performance are as follows: 28 February 2009, 28 March 2009 and 25 April 2009. Ticket prices are 150 baht and 300 baht including a meal.

The show presents the way of life and culture of the Akha, one of the hilltribes that live in the north of Thailand. The performers are the hilltribe people who live at the Chiang Rai Social Development Center. The show helps to earn more funds to support the activities of the center and to conserve the way of life of the hilltribe people.

For more information, please contact :

TAT Chiang Rai Office

0 5374 4674-75, 0 5371 7433

Ticket booking:

Chiang Rai Social Development Centre

0 5391 4471, 08 6913 8937

Thai Exotic Fruit Fair : The Marian Plum Orchards 2009

19-25 February 2009

Venue: The ground near the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Administration Office

Nakhon Nayok Province, renowned as an agricultural area full of fertile soil and plenty of water, boasts several kinds of agricultural produce. Among them, the most popular is the marian plum.

The marian plum, an exotic fruit of Thailand, is in season only for a short period from January to March. Therefore, it is now time to visit the marian plum orchards in Nakhon Nayok and savour the freshly harvested fruit.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Nakhon Nayok Office and the Marian Plum Orchards Association of Nakhon Nayok are jointly planning to hold the Marian Plum and Best Products of Nakhon Nayok Fair 2009 from 19-25 February 2009 at the ground near the Nakhon Nayok Provincial Administration Office, Muang County.

The joyful fair features agricultural and other products of the province such as the high quality marian plums and marian plum saplings. Other activities include a marian plum contest, a marian plum arrangement contest and visits to the marian plum orchards.

For more information, please contact :

TAT Nakhon Nayok on tel. +66 0 3731 2282 or 0 3731 2284

Chiang Mai Flower Festival 2009

6-8 February 2009

Venue: In the provincial town of Chiang Mai at Nong Buak Had Park

Chiang Mai is famous for its variety of valley flowers. Most of them bloom early in the year from January to February, which is regarded as the most beautiful period of Chiang Mai. The celebratory atmosphere and the tradition of the locals who have enjoyed floral beauty since ancient times are why the grand Flower Festival is organised here annually since 1977.

The most interesting highlight of the Flower Festival is the part of many flower floats decorated with a beautiful array of floral species. Each flower, with its shade of colour is carefully selected and positioned on the float to form fine patterns, words and pictures. The beauty of the flowers combined with the creative ingenuity of their arrangement make each float a work of art requiring time-consuming attention from its creators. All floats will start at Chiang Mai Train Station.

A second highlight of the Flower Festival is the beauty of the contestants that sit atop the flower floats. Each contestant wears a different local Northern costume, giving visitors and locals alike rare opportunities to witness the traditional local dresses.

Besides the parade, the Flower Festival also features a display of agricultural products, an exhibition and a contest of several species of flowers such as roses, orchids, carnations, lilies, China asters etc., a flower arrangement exhibition and competition, decorative plants, and mini garden landscaping. In addition, for all those with green fingers, there is a large variety of gardening equipment as well as various kinds of flowering and decorative plants for sale at more than economical prices.

For more information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand Chiang Mai Office

Tel: 0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607

2009 Thailand Chinatown Festival

Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated on the first day of the First Moon of the Chinese lunar calendar and this year it falls on January 26. It is regarded as the most important celebration in the Chinese calendar.

Chinese New Year, which signifies the turning over of a new leaf, is a time for family reunion and thanksgiving. The celebration is traditionally highlighted with a religious ceremony given in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household and the family ancestors. The sacrifice to the ancestors, the most vital ritual of all, unites the living family members with those who have passed away. All members of the family return home and join the important family meal, a most significant feast, on New Year's Eve. This is a time for the Chinese to congratulate each other on having passed through another year, a time to finish out the old, and to welcome in the New Year.

In Thailand, this festival is celebrated nationwide, not only among Chinese immigrants and their families, but by Thais, too. On this occasion, China will bring the famous troupes of Chinese Art and Culture from 7 regions and provinces; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Hainan Province, Shandong Province, Anhui Province, Heilongjian Autonomous Region, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Jilin Province to join the celebration.

Bangkok

Bangkok Chinese New Year Festival 2009

Venue: Chinatown, Bangkok 26-27 January 2009 (16.30 hrs onwards)CentralWorld, Bangkok 26 January 2009 (13.00 hrs onwards)

Every Chinese New Year’s Day, Chinese immigrants and Thais of Chinese ancestry in Bangkok gather around Chinatown to celebrate the festival, which features cultural performances from the People’s Republic of China, and sales of various products and delicious foods. Come and enjoy the festivities free of charge! You are invited to wear red.

For more information, please contact TAT Bangkok tel. 0 2250 5615, 0 2250 5500 ext 2991-5 or Samphanthawong District Office Tel. 0 2234 3460, 0 2237 3345

Pattaya, Chonburi

Pattaya Chinese New Year Festival 200924, 26-27 January 2009

Venue: South Pattaya Port (Bali Hai Pier)

Pattaya City celebrates Chinese New Year 2009 at Bali Hai Pier on 24 Jan (19.00 hrs) with cultural performances from 7 provinces of China. The celebrations include Magic Stunt (changing facial make up type), Local Dances, Kung Fu Fighting, Chinese Opera, Folk Music, Mongolian Theatrical Arts, and Magic Shows. On 26 and 27 January, there are dragon and lion dance shows, Chinese Girl Contest and many more cultural and musical performances at Bali Hai Pier.

For more information, please contact TAT Pattaya Tel. 0 3842 7667

Suphan Buri

Suphan Buri Chinese New Year Festival 2009

25 January-8 February 2009

Venue: Suphan Buri City Pillar Shrine

Pay respect to Chinese gods and goddesses, enjoy Chinese opera and free vegetarian food during the festival, and then visit the Chinese Museum.

For more information, please contact TAT Suphan Buri Tel. 0 3553 6030 or Suphan Buri City Pillar Shrine Tel. 0 3552 1690

Nakhon Sawan

Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year Festival 2009

19-30 January 2009

Venue: Muang County, Nakhon Sawan

Pay respect to the Chinese gods and goddesses in the festival and enjoy food and products as well as various entertainments. The magnificent parade is held on 28 and 29 January.

For more information, please contact TAT UthaiTani Tel. 0 5651 4982

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai Chinese New Year Festival 2009

26-27 January 2009

Venue: Kuang Meru Rd., Chinatown Chiang Mai

Experience the Chinese traditional performances, music, and food until midnight.For more information, please contact TAT Chiang Mai Tel. 0 5324 8604

Nakhon Ratchasima

Nakhon Ratchasima Chinese New Year Festival 2009

26-27 January 2009

Venue: Monument of Thao Suranari, Muang County, Nakhon Ratchasima

Enjoy the city’s wonderful decorations, Chinese cultural performances, music, dragon and lion dances, light and sound show and Chinese food.

For more information, please contact TAT Nakhon Ratchasima Tel. 0 4421 3030

Hat Yai

Hat Yai Chinese New Year Festival 2009

26-28 January 2009

Venue: Hat Yai Municipality Public Park and Sanehanuson Rd., Hat Yai, Songkhla Province

Experience the dragon and lion dances and wonderful road decorations, various forms of entertainment, Chinese Doll Contest, and delicious food.

For more information, please contact TAT Hat Yai Tel. 0 7423 1055

Phuket

Phuket Chinese New Year Festival 2009

31 January-2 February 2009 (18.00-23.00 hrs)

Venue: HM Queen Sirikit 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary Park, Thalang Road and Soi Rommani

Experience Chinese opera, Kung Fu fighting and cultural performances form China at the Queen’s Park, various activities in downtown, and yummy food along Bangyai Canal. Don’t miss the parade on 31 January and another Chinese opera on 1 February.

For more information, please contact TAT Phuket Tel. 0 7621 2213

9 Wonders of Wat Pho : Reclining Buddha Temple

Dates: Today - 6 April 2009

Venue: Wat Pho or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha

Wat Pho or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a famous tourist attraction of Bangkok. With its many interesting spots, Wat Pho invites you to experience a magnificent mini light and sound performance "9 Wonders of Wat Pho".

The nine wonders of Wat Pho are:

1. The Reclining Buddha image

2. The Satellite Pavilions

3. The Four Huge Pagodas (of the first four reigns of the Rattanakosin Period)

4. The Legend of the Songkran Festival

5. The World Heritage Inscriptions

6. Wat Pho Giants

7. Sala Kan Parian (the temple hall for sermons)

8. Phra Phuttha Deva Patimakon Buddha image

9. The Contorted Hermit Mount

This Light and Sound performance is shown until 6 April 2009, six rounds daily:

Round 1: 19.00 hrs. (Thai narration)

Round 2: 19.30 hrs. (English narration)

Round 3: 20.00 hrs. (Thai narration)
Round 4: 20.30 hrs. (English narration)

Round 5: 21.00 hrs. (English narration)

Round 6: 21.30 hrs. (English narration)

Admission:
Thais: 50 baht per person
Buy 10 tickets get 1 free. 50 people for 2,000 baht

Foreigners: 200 baht per person
Buy 10 tickets get 1 free. 50 people for 8,000 baht

For more information, please call

TOT office : 0 2226 0335, 0 2226 0369

fax: 0 2226 0370 (09.00-16.00 hrs.)

The Grand Firework Displays to Celebrate Thai King’s Birthday 2007

4-8 December 2007

Venue: The Royal Turf Club, Along both banks of the Chao Phraya River between Rama IX Bridge and Industrial Ring Bridge, The Royal Bangkok Sports Club, Mae Phim Beach, Benja Kitti Park

On the auspicious occasion of HM. King Bhumibol’s 80th Birthday Anniversary this year, the government of Thailand and private organizations will arrange the grand fireworks in several places starting from 4 to 8 December 2007.

Schedules:
4 Dec – 14 sets of fireworks from Seiko, JapanVenue: The Royal Turf Club, Phitsanulok Rd.

5 Dec – 9 sets of fireworks and candle lighting ceremonyVenue: Along both banks of the Chao Phraya River between Rama IX Bridge and Industrial Ring Bridge

6 Dec – Over 3,000 beautiful fireworks will be litVenue: The Royal Bangkok Sports Club, Henry Dunant Rd.

7 Dec – Fantasy FireworksVenue: Mae Phim Beach, Rayong Province (179 km east of Bangkok)

8 Dec – Fantasy FireworksVenue: Benja Kitti Park, Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre

For more information, please call

TAT main office on tel. +66 (0) 2250 5500 or TAT Call Centre 1672

Thailand's Sand Sculpture Festival

28 November 2007 – 28 March 2008

Venue: On a field next to Srisothon Rd., Muang County, Chachoengsao Province (82 km east of Bangkok)

On the auspicious occasion of HM. King Bhumibols’ 80th Birthday Anniversary this year, the World Sand Sculpture Festival is being held in Thailand from 28 November 2007 to 28 March 2008.

Originated in 1993 in Europe, the festival is well-known for displaying exquisite craftsmanship on the gigantic sand statues. In Chachoengsao Province 82 km to the east of Bangkok, more than 80 pieces of sand sculptures created by over 70 professional sand sculptors worldwide will be exhibited on 4.8 acres of land.

The sand sculpture festival is divided into 3 sections:

• Sand sculptures to extol the King
This zone is dedicated to works related to HM. the King and his multifarious duties.

• Thai history and literature on sand sculptures
An exhibition in the dark with light and sound effects features scenes from Thai literature and history.

• The international sand sculptures
Sand sculptures representing famous landmarks such as Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Statue of Liberty, etc.

Numbers of fun-filled activities such as sand sculpture for kids, games, picture taking, and on stage performances, are prepared to entertain visitors. The Sand Sculpture Festival is taking place about 800 metres from Wat Sothon Temple, on New Srisothon Rd. (next to Carrefour), Muang County, Chachoengsao Province.

Opening hours:
Mon-Fri 10.00-19.00 hrs.
Sat-Sun 9.00-20.00 hrs.

Public holidays 8.00-22.00 hrs.

Admissions:
Adult 80 Baht/Child 40 Baht

For more details, please contact :

TAT Central Office Region 8

Tel. +66 (0) 3731 2282, 3731 2284, or TAT Call Centre 1672

The Death Railway in Thailand

The River Kwai Bridge Week
28 November – 9 December 2007

Venue: Kanchanaburi

The most notorious railway in the world must be the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi, a tourist province bordering Myanmar, 126 km to the west of Bangkok.

This railway was built by the Japanese Army in 1942 during World War II as a route of supply extending 413 km from Nog Pladuk of Thailand to Thanbyuzayat of Burma (former name of Myanmar).

To rush the work to an early completion in rugged mountains and deep jungles of Kanchanaburi, a total of 61,700 allied POWs and 270,000 Asian forced labourers were sent to work on the project. They had to work in hot and damp weather conditons 10 hours aday and 7 days a week with little to eat. Epidemics of malaria and cholera were rampant among them, and there was not enough medicine to go round.

Under such extremely harsh conditions, almost half of the workers had perished when the construction of the railway and the bridge over the River Kwai was finished 13 months later.

However, this railway was made use of by the Japanese for only a few months because they failed to turn back the overwhelming waves of counteroffensive launched by the allied powers.

To commemorate the tragic history of the railway and to promote the tourism of Kanchanaburi, the municipality of the provincial town, the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the State Railway jointly hold the annual festival of The River Kwai Bridge Week from 28 Nov. to 9 Dec. 2007 in the area around the bridge.

The festival features a historical exhibition, fun fair, bazaar and enticing light & sound presentation. Tickets to the show are available at 100, 200, and 300 baht.

For more details and ticket reservations :
TAT Kanchanaburi
Tel : +66 (0) 3451 1200, 3451 2500

Thailand Beautiful Flower Festival 2007

28 December 2007 - 6 January 2008

Venue: Hat Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Town, Chiang Rai Province (785 km north of Bangkok)

Chiang Rai, with its mountainous scenery, beautiful flowers and fresh air, especially in the cool season, is a recommended place for recreation. Since Chiang Rai Province is about to arrange Chiang Rai Beautiful Flower Festival 2007, you are invited to this impressive fair.

The 4th Chiang Rai Beautiful Flower Festival 2007 is scheduled to be held from 8 to 16 December 2007 at Hat Chiang Rai in Chiang Rai Town. The festival will be organized to develop Chiang Rai Province as a producing area of quality flowers and ornamental plants as well as to promote tourism of Chiang Rai Province.

During the festival there are many activities including: - The flower and ornamental plant contest- The orchid and orchid garden contest- Miss Thin Thai Ngam beauty contest- Parade of floral floats- Agricultural produce fair- OTOP trading

For more information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office: Region 2

Tel: +66 (0) 5371 7433, 5374 4674 to 5

Blooming Mexican Sunflowers on Mount Mae U-kho, Northern Thailand

Early November-Mid December
Venue: Mount Mae U-kho, Khun Yuam county, Mae Hong Son Province (924 km north of Bangkok)

In November when the cool breeze begins to blow, the green Mount Mae U-kho will turn golden as the Mexican sunflowers (Tithonia Diversifolia) blossom. This wild flower, called buatong in the northern dialect, looks exactly like the sunflower but is much smaller.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand and Mae Hong Son Province would like to invite you to see the blooming Mexican sunflowers spread over the fields and valleys on Mount U-kho from the early November to mid December this year. Travellers are allowed to put up a tent near a buatong field to get as close as possible to the flowers in their cool natural surroundings. Other kinds of accommodation can also be found nearby.

Apart from the magnificent scenery of blooming flowers, from now to 30 November this year the province has prepared hot-air balloons for tourists to enjoy the view from the sky. A balloon trip takes about 15 minutes at a cost of 100 baht per person and a free cup of coffee will be served on board.

To get there from Chiang Mai, use Highway 108 passing Chomthong and Hot Counties of Chiang Mai. Then you will pass Mae Sariang County of Mae Hong Son and arrive in KhunYuam County. Now drive along Highway 1236 for 26 km to reach Mount Mae U-kho.

For more information, please contact :
Mae Hong Son Tourism Coordination Centre
Tel. +66 (0) 5361 2982 to 3

See also :

Mount Mae U-kho's Topography

The Nature Living in Pai

Travel in Chiangmai

Loi Krathong Festival

Things to do in Bangkok

The Loi Krathong Festival, Thailand Nationwide

The Loi Krathong Festival is the most romantic festival in Thailand, especially in modern times. Almost without exception, young lovers will go out in pairs to spend the evening together, floating krathong (vessels with flowers, lit candles and joss sticks) and saying silent prayers. The festival is celebrated nationwide in Thailand with different unique characteristics of festivities. Enjoy the festivities at any site convenient to you!

Bangkok : The Royal Rattanakosin Loi Krathong Festival

21-24 November 2007

Venue: Rama VIII Bridge and citywide along the Chao Phraya River

Experience the simulated “Chong Priang Lod Chud Loi Khom” ceremony, the royal ritual to make the offering of light to the three deities of Brahmanism; namely, Brahma, Siva, and Vishnu (Narayana) or collectively called “Devamurti”. Take part in many other activities such as traditional games and launching krathong, various contests and competitions like krathong competition and Rattanakosin style attire contest.

For more information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 # 3489

Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511

For event information, please call 1672

Ayutthaya : Loi Krathong Tam Prathip Festival

23-25 November 2007

Venue: Bangsai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre

Highlights: Nang Noppamat pageant, Nang Nopphamat processions, Thai food fair, vocational product sales, floating market, firework and floating lanterns and long boat races.

For more information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand Central Office: Region 6

Tel: +66 (0) 3524 6076-7

Bangsai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre

Tel: +66 (0) 3536 6252-3

Sukhothai : Loi Krathong and Candle Festival

21-25 November 2007

Venue: Sukhothai Historical Park

In this festival, you will watch the Nang Nopphamat procession, exhibitions, lighting of lanterns at the historical site, a krathong launching and firework displays over all waterways and a krathong competition. Enjoy highlight festivities of candle lighting and the light and sound presentation with cultural dances and other interesting activities.

For information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office: Region 3

Tel: +66 (0) 5525 2742-3

Chiang Mai : Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival

22-25 November 2007

Venue: Chiang Mai Municipality Office and citywide

Come and experience another form of Loi Krathong festival, in Lanna Thai style. This festival creates a mesmerising sight, with a unique ritual of launching Lanna-style hot air balloons, which is believed by locals to rid them of their troubles. Enjoy different festivities, including the Tho Phae contest, boat race in the Ping River, small and giant krathong contests, and beauty contests.

The impressive ancient Lanna tradition will be celebrated throughout the city. Visitors are invited to join special activities such as Loi Sa Pao, a merit making dedicated to the dead; Phang Prathip, lighting small lanterns in an equal number of your age to live long and prosperous life; Lantern floating to release all sickness and bad fortune; and Tan Khom, lighting an octagonal lantern before bringing it to a temple where the monks will give a sermon all day and night.

This year, locals and tourists can bring their lanterns and hang them on the trees prepared by Chiang Mai Municipality to bless His Majesty the King on the auspicious occasion of his 80th Birthday Anniversary.

For more information, please contact:

Tourism Authority of Thailand Northern Office: Region 1

Tel: +66 (0) 5324 8604, +66 (0) 5324 8607

PR Division Chiang Mai Municipality

Tel: +66 (0) 5325 9094, +66 (0) 5325 9097

See also :

The Festival of Light

Things To Do in Chiangmai

Bangkok Travel

Find The Best Price on Hotels

Loi Krathong: The Festival of Light 2007, Thailand

24 November 2007

Venue: Nationwide Happened to be in Thailand in November, you will experience the most spectacular Loi Krathong Festival. The festival is a tradition has been observed for no less than 700 years since the Sukhothai period (1238-1438), in the reign of King Phra Ruang (1347-circa 1374). It is traditionally performed on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, which falls on 24 November this year.

The word loi means to float and krathong means a receptacle traditionally made of banana leave for holding small items of food, flowers, and other offerings in a religious ceremony. So, loi krathong simply means to float such vessels (with flowers, lit candles and joss sticks) on water. This is done either as thanksgiving and worship to the Goddess of Water or as a kind of homage paying to the legendary footprint the Buddha left on the bank of the River Narmada in India.

The Loi Krathong Festival is the most romantic festival in Thailand, especially in modern times. Almost without exception, young lovers will go out in pairs to spend the evening together, floating krathong and saying silent prayers. The festival is celebrated nationwide in Thailand with different unique characteristics of festivities. Enjoy the festivities at any site convenient to you!

Major venues are Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Tak, Chachoengsao, and Samut Prakan.

**Important**

Event dates and programme details are subject to change. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel

Thailand Coming Event : Surin Elephant Round-Up

17-18 November 2007

Venue: The Elephant Stadium, Kotchasan Road, Surin Province

The world-renowned Surin Elephant Round-up, was first held in 1960 in Surin Province of the Northeast, a province with the largest number of elephants in Thailand and is known as the home of elephants, with the objective to promote provincial tourism. The event was an instant success. Since then it has drawn large audiences of Thais and foreign visitors every year. The popular spectacle features elephant round-up, showing how to capture wild elephants and tame them for work.

See with your own eyes how the mahouts control such a large creature which can weigh up to three tons. Other exciting and amusing items include elephant races, a tug-of-war between one elephant and a group of strong men, and an elephant football match in which a really big soccer is played by giant-sized players. The highlight of the programme that visitors should not miss is the colourful parade of battle elephants reminiscent of the battlefield in ancient times.

The Surin Elephant Round-up is usually scheduled for the second or third weekend of November, which falls on 17-18 November this year when the weather is dry and cool. If you don’t have time or are not convenient to go to witness the greatness of this world famous event, you can still have a great time watching elephant shows at your convenience at many places. Some of them are named here: Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo on the outskirts of Bangkok, Samutprakarn Crocodile Farm & Zoo in Samut Prakan Province, Sriracha Tiger Zoo and Nong Nooch Tropical Garden & Resort in Chon Buri and Phuket Zoo in Phuket.

At these places, you will be impressed by the loveliness of the jumbos and amazed by their intelligence demonstrated by their various performances, ranging from dancing to playing football. If you happen to be in Thailand during 17-18 November and are planning for a recreational activity, the festival is recommended.

This year an “Elephant Round-Up Tour by Train” is organized on 16 – 18 November at 3,970 Baht per person. Apart from the fascinating shows, the package includes silk weaving village and Phanom Rung Historical Park tours.

The train schedule is as follows:

Fri 16 - Depart from BKK’s Hua Lamphong station at 20.30 hrs

Sat 17 - Arrive in Surin Province at 04.30 hrs
- Leave Buriram Province at 21.40 hrs
Sun 18
- Return to BKK at 05.50 hrs

For more information, please contact :

Surin Provincial Office

Tel: +66 (0) 4451 2039

Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA)

Tel: +66 (0) 2237 6046 to 8

The Grand Rehearsals of the Royal Kathin Procession 2007

26 and 29 October 2007

Venue: Along the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok

The Grand Rehearsals of the Royal Kathin Procession to present the monastic robes to the monks are scheduled to be held on 26 and 29 October 2007. The magnificent fleet of 52 barges with altogether 2,082 oarsmen is set to sail down the Chao Phraya River, starting from Wasukri Royal Landing Place at 15.30 hrs, passing the Royal Navy Convention Hall around 16.00 hrs, and ending at the Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun) at 17.00 hrs.

This is a rare opportunity for Bangkokians and visitors from the provinces and foreign countries to view the most splendid waterborne pageantry similar to the Extravagant Royal Barge Procession performed on 12 June 2006.

People can view the Barge Procession en route along both sides of the River. On this occasion, the Royal Navy Convention Hall also provides seating areas to view this spectacular event. Tickets are available as follows:

- 30,000 Baht per table (10 seats) with set menu Location: the 3rd floor, Chumphonkhetudomsak Building

- 3,000 Baht per seat with set menu Location: the 2nd floor, Chumphonkhetudomsak Building

- 1,200 Baht per seat with snack box Location: on a grandstand in front of Chumphonkhetudomsak Building

** Please note that on the Royal Ceremony of the Kathin Procession these areas are not open to public **

For more details and reservations, please contact

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tel. +66 (0) 2652 8319 to 20

+66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2115 to 9