Loi Krathong, Festival of Lights
Posted by beach climber on November 3rd, 2011 filed in UncategorizedLoi Krathong is a beautiful festival throughout Thailand that takes place this Wednesday, November 10th. Although it is celebrated throughout the entire Kingdom, it is particularly beautiful in Krabi and anyone visiting at this time should not miss this lovely holiday.
Loi Krathong is a ceremony to honour Buddha and the Bodhisattva of Water and originates from India. Loi means to float and krathong is a circular decorated object made from banana leaves and flowers. It also has at least one candle on it. The krathong is sent down a river, stream or out to the sea and symbolises the letting go of all angers and grudges. The releasing of the krathong is also believed to bring good luck.
Krathong can be made yourself or purchased in Krabi throughout the day, as the releasing of the floating objects takes place in the evening. The best place to enjoy the festival in Krabi is in Ao Nang and begins with a parade along Ao Nang Beach. Each year tourists flock to the beach to take photographs of this beautiful event and also enjoy participating in it.
This is one of the country’s most popular cultural festivals and a memorable experience for many visitors in the Kingdom. It is also a wonderful way to get involved in Thai culture.