Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2025 Tour

trip overview

Discover Thailand’s cultural treasures from tropical islands to ancient temples, culminating in the magical spectacle of thousands of glowing lanterns floating into the starlit sky at the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2025.

What Makes This Journey Special

This Thailand small group tour takes you from Phuket’s stunning coastline to witness the magical Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai. Thousands of glowing sky lanterns rise into the night sky, creating one of the world’s most spectacular celebrations.

Beyond the unforgettable lantern release Chiang Mai experience, you’ll discover authentic Thai culture through meaningful elephant sanctuary encounters, ancient temple visits, and the beautiful Loy Krathong Chiang Mai water ceremonies.

With just 8-10 travellers, this boutique journey creates genuine connections with Thailand’s spiritual traditions and incredible landscapes. The sky lantern celebration is the highlight, but every moment of this cultural adventure will stay with you forever.

It’s stylish. It’s meaningful. It’s unforgettable.

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 1

Welcome to Thailand's Island Paradise

31 Oct 2025

Your Thai adventure begins the moment you touch down at Phuket International Airport, where your private driver warmly welcomes you for the journey to your boutique resort. Your luxurious pool-access suite becomes your tropical sanctuary where you can dive into the crystal-clear pool, savour a refreshing cocktail, or simply breathe in Phuket’s vibrant island energy.

As the sun begins to set, join your fellow travellers and Click and Trip Host for an unforgettable welcome dinner at the renowned 3 Monkeys Restaurant. Perched high above the jungle canopy, this magical venue offers panoramic views, twinkling fairy lights, and the enticing aromas of authentic Thai spices sizzling in open kitchens. The perfect introduction to Thailand’s incredible culinary journey ahead.

Dinner Included

Luxury Longtail Boat for our Thailand Lantern Festival Tour

Day 2

Jewels of the Andaman Sea

1 Nov 2025

Start your morning with the gentle sounds of waves and tropical birds before boarding your private longtail boat for a full day exploring the famous Phi Phi Islands. Your traditional boat comes equipped with comfortable seating, shaded areas, and perfectly positioned spots for those Instagram-worthy shots as you journey across the brilliant blue Andaman Sea.

Navigate between towering limestone cliffs that rise dramatically from the water, discovering hidden beaches accessible only by boat. Stop for snorkelling in crystal-clear waters where vibrant tropical fish dart between coral formations, then cool off in stunning lagoons with that famous emerald glow.

Visit the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach, and Monkey Beach where cheeky macaques might photobomb your shots or steal your snacks if you’re not careful.

Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch on a secluded beach with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and cold drinks while gentle waves provide the perfect soundtrack. The afternoon brings more swimming and exploring before heading back to Phuket under the glow of the setting sun, tired but exhilarated from a perfect day on Thailand’s most beautiful islands.

Breakfast and Lunch Included

Phuket Old Town for our Thailand Lantern Festival Tour

Day 3

Culture & Colour in Phuket's Historic Heart

2 Nov 2025

Today, slow the pace and discover a different side of Phuket.

After breakfast, step back in time as you wander the vibrant, mural-covered streets of Phuket Old Town — a charming tapestry of pastel-painted mansions, ancient Chinese shrines, and quirky local cafes.

This remarkable quarter showcases Thailand’s multicultural heritage, where Hokkien merchants, Portuguese traders, and Malay settlers left their mark on the architecture you see today. Let your senses guide the way, from the enticing aroma of sizzling street food to colourful storefronts brimming with local artwork and handcrafted treasures.

A hosted lunch introduces you to authentic southern Thai flavours — fragrant coconut curries and aromatic spices that reflect the region’s trade connections, quite different from the northern cuisine you’ll discover in Chiang Mai.

The afternoon is yours to embrace at leisure — uncover hidden boutiques, relax back at your resort, or sip iced Thai coffee in tucked-away courtyards. This immersion in Phuket’s trading heritage beautifully prepares you for northern Thailand’s Buddhist traditions and ancient Lanna customs.

Breakfast and Lunch Included

Elephant Sanctuary for our Thailand Lantern Festival Tour

Day 4

From Island Life to Northern Traditions

3 Nov 2025

This morning, trade turquoise seas for misty mountains as you board a short domestic flight to Chiang Mai, the heart of northern Thailand and home to the famous Chiang Mai Lantern Festival.

Arrive in Chiang Mai and immediately feel the difference — cooler mountain air, lush green landscapes, and a more tranquil pace that’s worlds away from Phuket’s tropical energy.

A private transfer takes you deep into the countryside, where the intimate 3Pok Elephant Sanctuary welcomes you with open arms. Your private bungalow, nestled among towering trees, offers the perfect sanctuary for the next two nights.

As the afternoon cools and jungle sounds come alive, hop aboard a traditional bamboo raft and drift lazily down the Mae Wang River, feeling the gentle current beneath you as your guide steers you through winding bends. Tonight, fall asleep to the peaceful symphony of nature and the occasional rumble of elephants in the distance.

Breakfast and Lunch Included

Day 5

Spiritual Chiang Mai and Ethical Wildlife Encounters

4 Nov 2025

Today offers one of the most moving experiences of the journey. Start by enjoying breakfast surrounded by the gentle presence of the sanctuary’s rescued elephants — feel their rough skin as you feed them, walk beside their massive yet graceful forms through the forest, and experience pure joy as you help bathe them in the cool, rushing waters of the river. Every moment here feels heartwarming, humbling, and unforgettable.

Later, step into a completely different world at Versailles de Flore, Chiang Mai’s most aesthetic cafe, where the scent of French pastries mingles with tropical flowers as high tea is served under sparkling chandeliers and whimsical floral arches.

In the afternoon, explore Chiang Mai’s sacred side with a guided visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the city’s most revered temple perched high above the valley with golden spires gleaming in the sunlight, and Wat Chiang Man, where ancient elephant guardians carved in weathered stone watch over centuries of prayers.

Those who wish can enhance the day with a traditional Thai costume rental for truly magical photos among the temples. This perfect blend of wildlife conservation, cultural beauty, and spiritual discovery prepares your heart for tomorrow’s lantern ceremony.

Breakfast and Light Lunch Included

Day 6

Relaxed Morning, Magical Evening

5 Nov 2025

Spend the morning exactly as you wish — whether that’s sleeping in as tropical birds chirp outside your window, enjoying a leisurely breakfast with the aroma of fresh Thai coffee filling the air, browsing the bustling local markets alive with vibrant colours and friendly chatter, or treating yourself to a Thai massage in one of Chiang Mai’s hidden spas where healing hands work away the journey’s tiredness.

This afternoon, the excitement builds as you prepare for one of Thailand’s most breathtaking spectacles: the Yi Peng Lantern Festival. Arriving at the exclusive festival grounds, you’ll have time to soak in traditional arts and crafts, taste local treats that burst with authentic flavours, and join the villagers as they prepare for the night’s ceremony.

As dusk falls and temple bells chime in the distance, enjoy a full Thai Lanna buffet dinner before the main event. Tonight, witness the breathtaking Yi Peng Lantern Festival as thousands of lanterns float into the sky — an unforgettable highlight of the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival 2025.

As your own lantern drifts heavenward, surrounded by golden lights and distant fireworks, it’s impossible not to feel moved by the magic of the moment. This unforgettable lantern release Chiang Mai experience, combined with the beautiful Loy Krathong Chiang Mai celebrations, creates a truly magical sky lantern celebration.

Breakfast and Dinner Included

Day 7

Farewell to an Extraordinary Journey

6 Nov 2025

Enjoy one final slow breakfast in the tropical gardens, where the morning light filters through palm fronds and the gentle rustle of leaves provides a peaceful soundtrack to your last moments in northern Thailand. Breathe in the sweet fragrance of frangipani one last time before it’s time to say farewell.

Your private transfer will take you to Chiang Mai Airport through now-familiar streets, marking the end of a journey filled with new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and memories that will stay with you long after you return home.

Breakfast Included

What Our Travellers Say

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Deborah Z 
 3 December 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We thank Click And Trip for the superb organisation of our trip to India and for the great recommendations of hotels, tour guides and sight-seeing activities in every destination. We would unhesitatingly book again with Click And Trip – the organisation and planning by them was faultless. Click And Trip's travel consultants were some of the very best we have ever worked with – knowledgeable, friendly, highly efficient and reliable, and so client-focussed. Nothing we requested was ever a trouble!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bianca H 
 10 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a fantastic tour. The guides were great, knowledgeable, flexible, accommodating and so nice. The drivers were fantastic and I felt safe with them driving us around Vietnam and Cambodia. I will and have highly recommend this tour company to others
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sabrina H 
 4 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had the most incredible experience with Click and Trip for our Vietnam and Cambodia holiday. They were so helpful pre-departure customising and adding extras we requested to our itinerary. As well as helping us organise our visas for our destinations. All our guides were so friendly and welcoming and made the whole experience so effortless and enjoyable. The activities were amazing and so diverse in each city and our accomodation in Cambodia was a real stand out. I can not recommend Click and Trip more highly and there offering in the travel market is truely unlike anything I have seen. Book with them, you will not regret it.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Susan h 
 15 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Well, thats New York done and dusted !!.What a fabulous time we had. I wanted to email you to thank especially Rosie,Holly and the clickandtrip team for your organisation of our trip. It exceeded our expectations and I will be telling anyone who listens or asks to use your company and yourself. The details and instructions regarding the travelling details were clear and concise. The transfers from flights to drivers to and from airport/hotel seemless. I cannot thank you enough. Your response to any questions was prompt and clear ( and I had a lot of questions). Thank you all for a wonderful holiday we will remember forever.
Kind regards
Susan Hocken
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ian T 
 24 November 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nyssa at Click and Trip was super helpful and knowledgeable. I gave her an overview of what my wife and I were looking to do in a 5 week trip around Australia and she compiled an intenerary that accomplished that, but also had a plethora of suggestions of places to see and activities that I would never have known.
We also had to change our plans towards the end of our trip and she was able to sort that out hassle free for me.
I have already given her details to friends and family that are thinking of touring Oz and I  will not hesitate to use Click and Trip again for any trips to other destinations that may take my fancy in the future.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mariza E 
 23 October 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently went o Bali with a group of friends and we had the best time! From exploring stunning temples and lush rice terraces to thrilling ATV rides through the countryside, every day was a new adventure. Highlights included visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest, ATV’s, Elephant Sanctuary and the adrenaline of swinging over rice terraces.

What made this trip extra special was our local guides which allowed us to really enjoy our time together as a group. We shared laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments that will last a lifetime. From the beginning working with Nyssa was very easy and k always appreciate her quick responses. I look forward to future trips. Highly recommend!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chris D 
 21 June 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 🌸✨ Just returned from our 2nd unforgettable trip with Click and Trip - a 2 week adventure through Japan. From the serene Meiji Shrine to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, the magical Teamlab Borderless, thrilling Tokyo Street Go Carting, and the enchanting Disneysea 🌊🎢, every moment was meticulously planned.
We explored traditional gems like Takayama and Shirakawa-go 🏯, marvelled at Kenroku-en garden's beauty 🌿, and indulged in Wagyu at Bungo Gion 🥩. Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and the serene Kiyomizu-dera temple were highlights, as was dressing up in a kimono and strolling through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets 👘🌸.
Click and Trip took care of everything – from tickets 🎫, transfers 🚕, luxury hotels 🏨, to private guides 🗺️. They even helped us avoid the crowds with their insider tips and perfect itineraries. The Japan Explorer package was a dream, especially the stay in a traditional Ryokan in Takayama, offering Kyoto’s charm minus the crowds 🏡✨.
For a seamless, crowd-free, and unforgettable Japan experience, I can't recommend Click and Trip enough! 🌟
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bianca P 
 26 February 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Choosing click and trip for my trip to Italy was the best decision! It took all the guessing out of the planning process and we had the most amazing tours booked! The team were always there for support and helped get the best value. They are highly knowledgeable about travel, I can’t wait to book my next trip with them!
I highly recommend booking through click and trip you won’t regret!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Tracy E 
 23 February 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thankyou so much to Nyssa who everytime needed assistance in booking an overseas trip she has made it possible, always listens and provides us the best service and helps us live a life time dream. For over 30yrs I have wanted to go to Pompeii and Rome, last trip was cancelled thanks to COVID but Nyssa help make it happen. Thank you so much. Next trip is helping my mum live out her dream and Nyssa has been so incredible helpful. Would highly recommend using Click and Trip for all your travel needs
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Joanna F 
 2 December 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a fantastic trip to Vietnam with Click & Trip; I can't recommend this service highly enough, it takes the stress out of booking and planning a trip, and ensures you are locked into the best tours, hotels and transport for your time away (so you don't have to worry about getting dates and times right or booking an Air BnB that doesn't exist). It feels like a much more bespoke experience than previous travel agencies I've used, so if you get the chance to use them for your next trip, definitely do!

Your Questions Answered

Book early as this tour coincides with the annual Yi Peng Lantern Festival, making it extremely popular with very limited availability during this magical time.

We maintain intimate groups of just 8-10 travellers maximum, ensuring a boutique Thailand small group tour experience where you can truly connect with fellow adventurers.

Absolutely! Solo adventurers find kindred spirits easily, while couples love the romantic atmosphere. Solo travellers can share rooms or upgrade to private accommodation.

Yes, solo travellers are very welcome! You can choose to share a room with another guest (matched by gender) or book a private room for a small supplement.

The tour is designed for modern adventurers aged 25–45, although we welcome anyone over 16 who appreciates meaningful cultural experiences and boutique travel.

Yes, we thoughtfully balance curated experiences with free time for personal exploration, reflection, and those spontaneous moments that make travel magical.

This is deeply cultural-focused, emphasising meaningful experiences, spiritual encounters, and authentic traditions rather than nightlife or party activities.

Most travellers from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the US don’t require a visa for short stays. Check with your local embassy for current requirements.

Booking is beautifully simple. Just hit the white “Book Now” button at the top of the page or below these FAQs and follow the prompts. A pop-up will appear inviting you to choose your room type — twin share, private solo, or a double for two. Once selected, secure your spot with a $599 deposit per person (or $699 for a private room), then choose whether to pay the rest in instalments (due 1st August and 16th September 2025) or settle it all upfront. From there, enter your details, add extras like pre- or post-tour stays or optional activities, pick your payment method (card or direct debit), and voilà — your place is confirmed with an instant welcome email. The magic starts now.

In 2025, the Chiang Mai Lantern Festival will take place on the 5th and 6th of November, aligning with the full moon of the twelfth lunar month — a time when the skies come alive with glowing lanterns and the spirit of renewal. It’s one of the most enchanting times to visit northern Thailand, and our journey is designed to immerse you in the heart of it all.

The main Yi Peng celebrations happen in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand’s cultural capital and the spiritual heart of the Lanna Kingdom.

While some public areas host free events, our tour includes exclusive access to premium viewing locations and organised lantern release experiences.

The festival celebrations typically span several days, with the main lantern release ceremony occurring on one special evening during our tour.

Comfortable, modest clothing is recommended. Many guests enjoy wearing traditional Thai costumes, which can be rented as an optional activity.

Lanterns carry wishes, prayers, and hopes for good fortune. Releasing them symbolises letting go of worries and welcoming positive energy for the year ahead.

The Yi Peng Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai is Thailand’s most famous and spiritually significant sky lantern celebration, drawing visitors from around the world.

Deborah Z

3 December 2025

We thank Click And Trip for the superb organisation of our trip to India and for the great recommendations of hotels, tour guides and sight-seeing activities in every destination. We would unhesitatingly book again with Click And Trip – the organisation and planning by them was faultless. Click And Trip's travel consultants were some of the very best we have ever worked with – knowledgeable, friendly, highly efficient and reliable, and so client-focussed. Nothing we requested was ever a trouble!

Bianca H

10 April 2025

It was a fantastic tour. The guides were great, knowledgeable, flexible, accommodating and so nice. The drivers were fantastic and I felt safe with them driving us around Vietnam and Cambodia. I will and have highly recommend this tour company to others

Sabrina H

4 April 2025

We had the most incredible experience with Click and Trip for our Vietnam and Cambodia holiday. They were so helpful pre-departure customising and adding extras we requested to our itinerary. As well as helping us organise our visas for our destinations. All our guides were so friendly and welcoming and made the whole experience so effortless and enjoyable. The activities were amazing and so diverse in each city and our accomodation in Cambodia was a real stand out. I can not recommend Click and Trip more highly and there offering in the travel market is truely unlike anything I have seen. Book with them, you will not regret it.

Susan h

15 March 2025

Well, thats New York done and dusted !!.What a fabulous time we had. I wanted to email you to thank especially Rosie,Holly and the clickandtrip team for your organisation of our trip. It exceeded our expectations and I will be telling anyone who listens or asks to use your company and yourself. The details and instructions regarding the travelling details were clear and concise. The transfers from flights to drivers to and from airport/hotel seemless. I cannot thank you enough. Your response to any questions was prompt and clear ( and I had a lot of questions). Thank you all for a wonderful holiday we will remember forever. Kind regards Susan Hocken

Ian T

24 November 2024

Nyssa at Click and Trip was super helpful and knowledgeable. I gave her an overview of what my wife and I were looking to do in a 5 week trip around Australia and she compiled an intenerary that accomplished that, but also had a plethora of suggestions of places to see and activities that I would never have known. We also had to change our plans towards the end of our trip and she was able to sort that out hassle free for me. I have already given her details to friends and family that are thinking of touring Oz and I will not hesitate to use Click and Trip again for any trips to other destinations that may take my fancy in the future.

Mariza E

23 October 2024

I recently went o Bali with a group of friends and we had the best time! From exploring stunning temples and lush rice terraces to thrilling ATV rides through the countryside, every day was a new adventure. Highlights included visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest, ATV’s, Elephant Sanctuary and the adrenaline of swinging over rice terraces. What made this trip extra special was our local guides which allowed us to really enjoy our time together as a group. We shared laughs, stories, and unforgettable moments that will last a lifetime. From the beginning working with Nyssa was very easy and k always appreciate her quick responses. I look forward to future trips. Highly recommend!

Chris D

21 June 2024

🌸✨ Just returned from our 2nd unforgettable trip with Click and Trip - a 2 week adventure through Japan. From the serene Meiji Shrine to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, the magical Teamlab Borderless, thrilling Tokyo Street Go Carting, and the enchanting Disneysea 🌊🎢, every moment was meticulously planned. We explored traditional gems like Takayama and Shirakawa-go 🏯, marvelled at Kenroku-en garden's beauty 🌿, and indulged in Wagyu at Bungo Gion 🥩. Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and the serene Kiyomizu-dera temple were highlights, as was dressing up in a kimono and strolling through Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets 👘🌸. Click and Trip took care of everything – from tickets 🎫, transfers 🚕, luxury hotels 🏨, to private guides 🗺️. They even helped us avoid the crowds with their insider tips and perfect itineraries. The Japan Explorer package was a dream, especially the stay in a traditional Ryokan in Takayama, offering Kyoto’s charm minus the crowds 🏡✨. For a seamless, crowd-free, and unforgettable Japan experience, I can't recommend Click and Trip enough! 🌟

Bianca P

26 February 2024

Choosing click and trip for my trip to Italy was the best decision! It took all the guessing out of the planning process and we had the most amazing tours booked! The team were always there for support and helped get the best value. They are highly knowledgeable about travel, I can’t wait to book my next trip with them! I highly recommend booking through click and trip you won’t regret!

Tracy E

23 February 2024

Thankyou so much to Nyssa who everytime needed assistance in booking an overseas trip she has made it possible, always listens and provides us the best service and helps us live a life time dream. For over 30yrs I have wanted to go to Pompeii and Rome, last trip was cancelled thanks to COVID but Nyssa help make it happen. Thank you so much. Next trip is helping my mum live out her dream and Nyssa has been so incredible helpful. Would highly recommend using Click and Trip for all your travel needs

Joanna F

2 December 2023

We had a fantastic trip to Vietnam with Click & Trip; I can't recommend this service highly enough, it takes the stress out of booking and planning a trip, and ensures you are locked into the best tours, hotels and transport for your time away (so you don't have to worry about getting dates and times right or booking an Air BnB that doesn't exist). It feels like a much more bespoke experience than previous travel agencies I've used, so if you get the chance to use them for your next trip, definitely do!

Thailand Lantern Festival Tour

trip overview