Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Febuary 3, 2012 - Febuary 5, 2012
Event Details:
If you are obsessed with beautiful flowers and decorative plants, this is the festival for you. Experience these beautiful flower-decorated floats and a magnificent tapestry of floral splendor that blankets the land. There are also agricultural exhibitions, floral contents, and product sales by local groups of housewives.
For more information:
105/1 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Road,Tambon Wat Ket, Amphoe Mueang, Chiang Mai
Tourism Authority of Thailand Chiang Mai Office
0 5324 8604, 0 5324 8607
Showing posts with label Chiang Mai. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chiang Mai. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 5, 2009
Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
Bor Sang Umbrella and Sankampaeng Handicraft Festival
Date : 16 to 18 January 2009
Venue : Bor Sang village, Chiang Mai
Bor Sang, on highway 1006 heading east from Chiang Mai, appears to be a typical sleepy rural village, the kind the tour bus speeds by giving you just a fleeting glimpse of its two-storey wooden houses. But hidden in the tiny lanes, villagers have perfected a craft that creates the country’s most famous umbrellas.
For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark. According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain.
He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.
For more than 100 years, the village has been associated with the production of umbrellas made from Saa paper derived from mulberry tree bark. According to local history, a monk travelled to neighbouring Myanmar, where he came across Saa paper umbrellas that offered protection against both the sun and rain.
He returned with the production technique and introduced the umbrella to the elders of Bor Sang village, who added their own artistic skills to create a distinctive colourful, but very practical, umbrella. At first it was just a profitable hobby that supplemented the villagers’ earnings from the annual rice crop. However, with time production of the Saa paper umbrellas prospered, prompting villagers to establish a handicraft cooperative in 1941 that now organises the annual festival.
Using silk and cotton, weaved at neighbouring Sankampaeng, villagers eventually added a second line of umbrellas decorated with images of the north, its flowers and birds, all intricately hand-painted. Today, Bor Sang village exports both Saa-paper and silk umbrellas. They are seen at trade shows in a variety of sizes, from giant parasols that offer a shady canopy from the sun, to miniscule variations that adorn popular cocktail drinks.
To celebrate success the village hosts a three-day festival every January. Streets are illuminated by lanterns, while hundreds of umbrellas are hung from the rafters and beams of houses and shops. Bands play, while villagers compete to design the year’s most attractive umbrella. Concerts, a food festival and beauty contest all compete for the attention of the audience, a mix of both tourists and residents, who gather here to celebrate Bor Sang’s innovative handicraft skills.
Throughout the year, tourists visit the village, a short 6 km drive from Chiang Mai, to buy umbrellas and study the process and skills that go into making a handicraft entirely from natural products. But nothing quite compares with the buzz that permeates the village during this colourful three-day handicraft festival, every January. It is a scene that represents village hospitality and charm at its very best.
For more information
TAT Chiang Mai Office, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 5324 8607, 5324 1466
Friday, December 19, 2008
Ringing in the New Year (Thailand Countdown 2009)
Ringing in the New Year Thailand rolls out the red carpet for visitors during the festive season.
As Thailand’s travel industry embarks on the road to recovery after Bangkok’s airports were closed for 10 days, late November and early December, the focus is now on welcoming tourists back for the festive season that begins in earnest on Christmas Eve, 24 December, and continues though the New Year celebrations to 2 January.
Thailand remains a safe and hospitable destination and there is every reason for visitors to return now and enjoy a festive season that will be both enjoyable and value for money.
Hotels and travel companies are rolling out the red carpet offering discounts on rooms and other incentives to demonstrate to visitors that it is business as usual.
So where should we take time out to enjoy the New Year festivities? Try your favourite destination, or perhaps you are thinking of a change of scenery this year, travelling to Thailand’s pretty northern hill country instead of its southern tropical beaches.
Thailand remains a safe and hospitable destination and there is every reason for visitors to return now and enjoy a festive season that will be both enjoyable and value for money.
Hotels and travel companies are rolling out the red carpet offering discounts on rooms and other incentives to demonstrate to visitors that it is business as usual.
So where should we take time out to enjoy the New Year festivities? Try your favourite destination, or perhaps you are thinking of a change of scenery this year, travelling to Thailand’s pretty northern hill country instead of its southern tropical beaches.
The truth is travellers are welcome to join the fun of the New Year countdown just about anywhere in Thailand.
Every provincial town celebrates the New Year with gusto, arranging concerts and food fairs, usually in the town square or on a river embankment. Some will splurge on firework displays comedy acts or beauty contests. But as the clock strikes 12 midnight, a sea of flickering candles will illuminate the scene as villagers and town folk around the country sing the national and royal anthems to ring in the New Year.
If northern climes appeal -- hilly landscapes and cool evening temperatures -- then an adventurous traveller might find they are counting down the seconds to the New Year in tiny Loei, a provincial town noted for its cool season charm, impressive mountain scenery and delightful resorts and even a vineyard.
Way off the beaten track for most tourists, Loei province is a favourite with Thai travellers who love the outdoors – trail walks through a hill-top national park, or simply taking sightseeing trips to chill out at small resorts on the banks of the Mekong River. They will also discover a province that still reflects traditional Thai values; where visitors can participate in simple, but heart warming New Year celebrations.Yet the description is true of most towns in the north and northeast provinces, some adjacent to the Mekong River that separates Thailand from Laos. Similar celebrations echo over the water as citizens welcome the New Year in Chiang Saen near Chiang Rai, Nong Khai, Nakhon Panom and Mukdahan, all popular Mekong River destinations.Mukdahan is where a new bridge spans the wide river linking it to the small town of Savannakhet in Laos. Considered a gateway town, travellers can begin their tour of Laos and Vietnam here. A 150 -km trip across Laos on a modern surfaced highway will bring them in central Vietnam in striking distance of popular destinations such as Hue and Danang.
If northern climes appeal -- hilly landscapes and cool evening temperatures -- then an adventurous traveller might find they are counting down the seconds to the New Year in tiny Loei, a provincial town noted for its cool season charm, impressive mountain scenery and delightful resorts and even a vineyard.
Way off the beaten track for most tourists, Loei province is a favourite with Thai travellers who love the outdoors – trail walks through a hill-top national park, or simply taking sightseeing trips to chill out at small resorts on the banks of the Mekong River. They will also discover a province that still reflects traditional Thai values; where visitors can participate in simple, but heart warming New Year celebrations.Yet the description is true of most towns in the north and northeast provinces, some adjacent to the Mekong River that separates Thailand from Laos. Similar celebrations echo over the water as citizens welcome the New Year in Chiang Saen near Chiang Rai, Nong Khai, Nakhon Panom and Mukdahan, all popular Mekong River destinations.Mukdahan is where a new bridge spans the wide river linking it to the small town of Savannakhet in Laos. Considered a gateway town, travellers can begin their tour of Laos and Vietnam here. A 150 -km trip across Laos on a modern surfaced highway will bring them in central Vietnam in striking distance of popular destinations such as Hue and Danang.
Mukdahan Countdown’s celebrations reflect a three country theme (Thailand, Laos and Vietnam) as the gateway town celebrates 31 December to 1 January 2009, at dam close to town’s centre and along Mekong River embankment. Classical and folk dance troupes from the three countries perform in both Mukdahan and Suvanakhet, in Laos. The bridge, always an impressive sight for visitors is illuminated as are all public buildings on both sides of the river. Food stalls line the town’s embankment, which is also a venue for musical concerts. Ultimately, the focus turns to the river for the countdown light and sound presentations and firework displays launched from pontoons floating on the river. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5505.html)
Also in the Northeast, Ubon Ratchathani celebrates the New Year Countdown in front of its City Hall with a classical music show by local artists and merit making ceremonies. There are daily flights and a rail service from Bangkok and three to four-star hotels catering to international tourists. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5504.html)
The north’s most popular destination, Chiang Mai, celebrates New Year mainly around the old city’s Phae road and at Tha Phae gate. There will be live concerts and countdown party on the road which will be closed to traffic (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5500.html)
Bangkok 2009 Countdown Party will focus on the downtown district Ploenchit-Ratchaprasong-Pathumwan area close to the Skytrain main station. Visitors can easily commute to the main venue, next to Central World, by skytrain from hotels along Sukhumvit Road and areas around Silom Road. It will packed out, a capacity crowd of New Year revellers who will be enjoying the short cool season at beer gardens, while enjoying the live stage concerts all along the popular Ratchaprasong shopping and entertainment strip. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5545.html) (http://www.handsbangkokcountdown.com/)
At the east coast resort of Pattaya, the countdown celebrations focus on a small strip of real estate at the southern end of the bay. Known as the Bali Hai Cape habour it will be transformed by thousands of street lights and decorations, for continuous live concerts by singers leading up to the midnight firework display. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5501.html)
On the Gulf of Thailand side of the southern peninsular, Hat Yai celebrates what it calls the Night Paradise Countdown 2009. Streets will be illuminated with festive lights and decorations at two venues -- Thammanun Intersection in front of Khao Tom Nai Yao shop for popular band concerts and also in front of Wat Chin Niphat Uthit 3 Road. The opening ceremony will be held on the afternoon of 31 December with a carnival followed by the Countdown Celebrations. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5502.html)
On the Andaman Sea coast, the island of Phuket will celebrate a “Colourful Phuket Countdown 2009” starting early on 25 December and continuing nightly to 31 December, at Surin Traffic Circle (Clock Town), from 1830 to 2400. A “Seafood Fest” is the main highlight, where visitors will be entertained by traditional dances, dance contests, concerts, and finally the fun of the countdown to the New Year with an impressive fireworks display. (http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5501.html)
Another Areas
Nakhon Ratchasima : http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5543.htmlSuphan Buri : http://www.tourismthailand.org/festival-event/content-5544.html
Friday, December 12, 2008
Artistic Work Event Program on the theme of "Visit Lanna" (The Colorful Lanna…. of Rajapreuk Flower)
Date : 14- 24 August 2008 at 16.00 - 21.00 hrs
Venue : Royal Chiang Mai Agricultural Research Center (World Horticultural Plants) in Mae Hia Sub-district, Muang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province.
Opening Ceremony
On 14 August 2008 at 18.00 -19.00 hrs
Chaired by H.E. Minister of Tourism and Sports
Activites
On Rajapreuk Square. Activities start at 16.00 hrs
Kaad Mua Khrua Hom :
It is a presentation of local traditional market of Lanna people. Local dialect love to say "Tiu sa Aeo Kaad Mua Kaad Muang."
Stage for Major Shows :
There are displays featuring local traditions and culture of Lanna people; the presentation of 4-region cultural shows and contemporary plays, e.g., Jumping Bird Show, King-ka-ra Bird Dance, Khru Ka-wai Sword Dance
Works f Art Road (Chiang Mai Pedestrian Road) :
Activities on the art road assemble all works of art for presentation and for sale and display to spectators to watch, e. g., local Lanna music performance, real-life paintings, works of art by students, artistic inventions from skilled artists and craftsmen.
Main Auditorium starts 12.00 noon
- Exhibition of Artistic Handicrafs on the theme of " Phum Phaya Sala Muang" meaning the local wisdom of Lanna craftsmen who are to present artistic handicrafts at the Event. The craftsmanship includes a variety of paintings, carvings, decorative works, woodworks, steelwork, fabric works and a host of other handicrafts.
- Sale of OTOP Products and Tourism Booths
- Small Stage Shows : A variety of Thai cultural shows, presentations including tourism promotional activities.
- Tourism Information Booths for 8 northern Lanna provinces
- HM the King Commemorative Garden Booth and Bangkok Bank Booth
For further details, please contact:
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3485-9
- TAT Chiang Mai, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
www.tourismthailand.org
Venue : Royal Chiang Mai Agricultural Research Center (World Horticultural Plants) in Mae Hia Sub-district, Muang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai Province.
Opening Ceremony
On 14 August 2008 at 18.00 -19.00 hrs
Chaired by H.E. Minister of Tourism and Sports
Activites
On Rajapreuk Square. Activities start at 16.00 hrs
Kaad Mua Khrua Hom :
It is a presentation of local traditional market of Lanna people. Local dialect love to say "Tiu sa Aeo Kaad Mua Kaad Muang."
Stage for Major Shows :
There are displays featuring local traditions and culture of Lanna people; the presentation of 4-region cultural shows and contemporary plays, e.g., Jumping Bird Show, King-ka-ra Bird Dance, Khru Ka-wai Sword Dance
Works f Art Road (Chiang Mai Pedestrian Road) :
Activities on the art road assemble all works of art for presentation and for sale and display to spectators to watch, e. g., local Lanna music performance, real-life paintings, works of art by students, artistic inventions from skilled artists and craftsmen.
Main Auditorium starts 12.00 noon
- Exhibition of Artistic Handicrafs on the theme of " Phum Phaya Sala Muang" meaning the local wisdom of Lanna craftsmen who are to present artistic handicrafts at the Event. The craftsmanship includes a variety of paintings, carvings, decorative works, woodworks, steelwork, fabric works and a host of other handicrafts.
- Sale of OTOP Products and Tourism Booths
- Small Stage Shows : A variety of Thai cultural shows, presentations including tourism promotional activities.
- Tourism Information Booths for 8 northern Lanna provinces
- HM the King Commemorative Garden Booth and Bangkok Bank Booth
For further details, please contact:
- The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tel. 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 3485-9
- TAT Chiang Mai, Tel. 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
www.tourismthailand.org
Northern fruit and art festivals
Two northern towns Lamphun and Chiang Mai stage cultural events for August visitors.Northern towns are noted for their culture, art and heritage linked to the ancient kingdom of Lanna, but they are equally recognised for a variety of fruits, sometimes difficult to find elsewhere in the country. So no surprises that Lamphun, a town close to Chiang Mai with a heritage pedigree that goes back a thousand years, is celebrating the Longan fruit season with a festival that runs from 9 to 18 August. No festival would be complete without its beauty contest and, of course, Lamphun residents are proud to cast their vote for the local Miss Longan, while they enjoy the temple fair atmosphere of an event that continues to retain its character and links with the town’s proud history. Held at the Lamphun stadium, in the centre of town, this is an ideal opportunity to taste and buy Longan fruit at exceptionally reasonable prices. Not to be outdone by its neighbour, Chiang Mai hosts the annual Lanna Arts Festival, from 12 to 24 August, at Chiang Mai Royal Agricultural Centre that served originally as the venue for the highly successful Royal Flora show. Stages for cultural performances have been set out at the Mae Hia sub-district venue, promising visitors a colourful spectacle of Lanna cultural performances from eight northern provinces. Apart from traditional dance and music, visitors will enjoy handicraft demonstrations and a stroll through a traditional market to buy local products sourced in and around Chiang Mai.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Splashing blessings on everyone in sight
While the water splashing will flourish, the traditional values of Songkran are the focus of the 2008 celebrations. Songkran is without doubt the most popular of all Thai festivals and rightly so. It marks the beginning of a new astrological year and its exact dates are determined by the old lunar calendar of Siam. This year the three-day festival falls on 13 to 15 April.
Traditionally, April 13 is known as “Maha Songkran Day” and marks the end of the old year, April 14 is “Wan Nao”, while April 15 is “Wan Thaloeng Sok” when the New Year begins.
While the festival has its roots in Buddhist heritage, the washing of Buddha images, merit making, traditional family values and the sprinkling of water in respect for elders, it is best known for the fun and “sanuk” everyone gains from splashing copious quantities of water on all who happen to pass by.Songkran is celebrated with gusto by young and old, throughout the country. City communities and villages in rural Thailand forget their troubles and concentrate on the serious of business of having fun as well as cooling off, during the height of the summer’s scorching tropical temperatures. Probably of all the national festivals, this is the one that foreigners love to experience the most. They will come across water splashing festivities wherever they travel giving them an opportunity to share in a festival that is immensely popular, while still retaining a link to its traditional roots and values.One of the traditional values points to the Thai family and the opportunity for family members to express their respect for their elders. Younger members of the family pour scented water on the hands of their parents, and grandparents. They may present them with gifts or tokens of their love. In return, elders wish youngsters good luck and prosperity.
In temples, elder members of the family gather to make merit, offering alms to the monks. They may help clean the temple courtyard, or perform bathing rites for Buddha images
In by-gone days, the fun of splashing water on friends or strangers had to wait until the late afternoon when the religious duties and ceremonies were over.Today, the lines are often blurred with the younger generation making the most of the three-day opportunity to splash water on everyone in sight.
Possibly the most famous of the Songkran celebrations takes place in Chiang Mai. It attracts thousands of visitors, from all over Thailand as well as international tourists determined to share in the fun.Often simply called the Chiang Mai Water Festival, the core of the celebrations will be held, 13 to 15 April, at the city’s main irrigation canal, with parades and cultural performances as well as arts demonstrations. The actual opening ceremony will be held 12 April, at the Royal Flora complex when the Minister of Tourism and Sports will declare the festival open.
There are other opportunities to join in Songkran festivities regardless of where you are travelling.
In the North:
Chiang Saen Water Festival runs from 13 to 21 April, in Chiang Saen district of Chiang Rai province. In the Golden Triangle area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, a ceremony, during the day, will pay homage to the town’s Buddha image. In the evening, the visitors can join a Lanna-style dinner, known as Khan Tok, or shop for handicrafts on a street closed to traffic, also the venue for folk dance performances.
Si Satchanalai Water Festival, from 13 to 15 April, at Si Satchanalai district, Sukhothai province, features parades and water splashing in the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. The town is 67 km north of Sukhothai and is a popular stop on Around North Thailand tours.
Northeast
Thai-Lao Water Festival, from 13 to 17 April, plays out on the banks of the Mekong River in Nong Khai town that faces Laos and its capital, Vientiane. Sports competitions will be organised in the week preceding the festival.
Koon Flower and Sticky Rice Road and Water Festival in Khon Kaen province, features parades, performances and water splashing on Si Chan Road, known as sticky rice road for its profusion of vendors selling this staple northeast food. Ubon Ratchathani Water Festival, in the city centre, will feature a Thai-Indochina Food Festival at Thung Si Mueang Park, which will sell speciality dishes and food items representative of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Nakhon Phanom Water Festival has an unusual theme of noodles. The main event will be held on Sinthorn Vichit Road or Khao Pun Road (rice flour noodle road) where booths will sell products and dishes made of rice flour noodles, the speciality of this province.
Central
Bangkok Water Festival gets underway,12 April, with a sound and light show at Arun Ratchawararam Temple, from 1800 to 2100. This year, the city will focus on a traditional style Songkran Festival by supporting and inviting people to make merit at temples and return to their villages up-country to be with their families. Water splashing on streets in the business district will be discouraged. However, the city is promoting its “Passport to nine royal temples” for those who visit temples during the festival, with an incentive to win prizes. Water splashing will be encouraged only in specific areas such as Khao Sarn Road.
Phrapadaeng Water Festival, which follows different dates than most of the celebrations, will be hosted, 18 to 20 April, in front of Phrapradaeng district office, Samut Prakarn province. There will be parades, Thai-Mon traditional sports and performances.
Eastern seaboard
Bangsaen Water Festival, 16 to 17 April, is held a week after national celebrations at Bangsaen beach in Chonburi province. A competition to determine the most artistic sand pagoda takes centre stage with more than 100 miniature pagodas sculptured from the sand.
Pattaya Water Festival follows on from Bangsaen, 17 to 20 April. The water splashing celebration first moves to Na-Klua, a village just north of Pattaya, 18 April, Pattaya beach, 19 April and finally moving, 20 April, to Sattahip, a fishing and Naval town on the eastern seaboard.
South
Ranong Mineral Water Festival runs from 12 to 15 April, at Raksawarin Public Park in the centre of Ranong town, located on the Andaman Sea coast, some 300 km north of Phuket. Here, people will enjoy the luxury of splashing mineral water on one another following the style witnessed in Myanmar’s traditional festivities. Also, during the four days, there will be booths selling tourism products and packages to Ranong province and other Andaman coast destinations.
Hat Yai Midnight Songkran, will be hosted 12 to 14 April, at Nipat Uthit Road in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province. The water splashing will start from 2200, 12 April to midnight on 13 April. Ceremonies to sprinkle water on the town’s Buddha images will be conducted on the mornings of 13 and 14 April.
www.tourismthailand.org
Traditionally, April 13 is known as “Maha Songkran Day” and marks the end of the old year, April 14 is “Wan Nao”, while April 15 is “Wan Thaloeng Sok” when the New Year begins.
While the festival has its roots in Buddhist heritage, the washing of Buddha images, merit making, traditional family values and the sprinkling of water in respect for elders, it is best known for the fun and “sanuk” everyone gains from splashing copious quantities of water on all who happen to pass by.Songkran is celebrated with gusto by young and old, throughout the country. City communities and villages in rural Thailand forget their troubles and concentrate on the serious of business of having fun as well as cooling off, during the height of the summer’s scorching tropical temperatures. Probably of all the national festivals, this is the one that foreigners love to experience the most. They will come across water splashing festivities wherever they travel giving them an opportunity to share in a festival that is immensely popular, while still retaining a link to its traditional roots and values.One of the traditional values points to the Thai family and the opportunity for family members to express their respect for their elders. Younger members of the family pour scented water on the hands of their parents, and grandparents. They may present them with gifts or tokens of their love. In return, elders wish youngsters good luck and prosperity.
In temples, elder members of the family gather to make merit, offering alms to the monks. They may help clean the temple courtyard, or perform bathing rites for Buddha images
In by-gone days, the fun of splashing water on friends or strangers had to wait until the late afternoon when the religious duties and ceremonies were over.Today, the lines are often blurred with the younger generation making the most of the three-day opportunity to splash water on everyone in sight.
Possibly the most famous of the Songkran celebrations takes place in Chiang Mai. It attracts thousands of visitors, from all over Thailand as well as international tourists determined to share in the fun.Often simply called the Chiang Mai Water Festival, the core of the celebrations will be held, 13 to 15 April, at the city’s main irrigation canal, with parades and cultural performances as well as arts demonstrations. The actual opening ceremony will be held 12 April, at the Royal Flora complex when the Minister of Tourism and Sports will declare the festival open.
There are other opportunities to join in Songkran festivities regardless of where you are travelling.
In the North:
Chiang Saen Water Festival runs from 13 to 21 April, in Chiang Saen district of Chiang Rai province. In the Golden Triangle area, where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet, a ceremony, during the day, will pay homage to the town’s Buddha image. In the evening, the visitors can join a Lanna-style dinner, known as Khan Tok, or shop for handicrafts on a street closed to traffic, also the venue for folk dance performances.
Si Satchanalai Water Festival, from 13 to 15 April, at Si Satchanalai district, Sukhothai province, features parades and water splashing in the Si Satchanalai Historical Park. The town is 67 km north of Sukhothai and is a popular stop on Around North Thailand tours.
Northeast
Thai-Lao Water Festival, from 13 to 17 April, plays out on the banks of the Mekong River in Nong Khai town that faces Laos and its capital, Vientiane. Sports competitions will be organised in the week preceding the festival.
Koon Flower and Sticky Rice Road and Water Festival in Khon Kaen province, features parades, performances and water splashing on Si Chan Road, known as sticky rice road for its profusion of vendors selling this staple northeast food. Ubon Ratchathani Water Festival, in the city centre, will feature a Thai-Indochina Food Festival at Thung Si Mueang Park, which will sell speciality dishes and food items representative of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Nakhon Phanom Water Festival has an unusual theme of noodles. The main event will be held on Sinthorn Vichit Road or Khao Pun Road (rice flour noodle road) where booths will sell products and dishes made of rice flour noodles, the speciality of this province.
Central
Bangkok Water Festival gets underway,12 April, with a sound and light show at Arun Ratchawararam Temple, from 1800 to 2100. This year, the city will focus on a traditional style Songkran Festival by supporting and inviting people to make merit at temples and return to their villages up-country to be with their families. Water splashing on streets in the business district will be discouraged. However, the city is promoting its “Passport to nine royal temples” for those who visit temples during the festival, with an incentive to win prizes. Water splashing will be encouraged only in specific areas such as Khao Sarn Road.
Phrapadaeng Water Festival, which follows different dates than most of the celebrations, will be hosted, 18 to 20 April, in front of Phrapradaeng district office, Samut Prakarn province. There will be parades, Thai-Mon traditional sports and performances.
Eastern seaboard
Bangsaen Water Festival, 16 to 17 April, is held a week after national celebrations at Bangsaen beach in Chonburi province. A competition to determine the most artistic sand pagoda takes centre stage with more than 100 miniature pagodas sculptured from the sand.
Pattaya Water Festival follows on from Bangsaen, 17 to 20 April. The water splashing celebration first moves to Na-Klua, a village just north of Pattaya, 18 April, Pattaya beach, 19 April and finally moving, 20 April, to Sattahip, a fishing and Naval town on the eastern seaboard.
South
Ranong Mineral Water Festival runs from 12 to 15 April, at Raksawarin Public Park in the centre of Ranong town, located on the Andaman Sea coast, some 300 km north of Phuket. Here, people will enjoy the luxury of splashing mineral water on one another following the style witnessed in Myanmar’s traditional festivities. Also, during the four days, there will be booths selling tourism products and packages to Ranong province and other Andaman coast destinations.
Hat Yai Midnight Songkran, will be hosted 12 to 14 April, at Nipat Uthit Road in Hat Yai district, Songkhla province. The water splashing will start from 2200, 12 April to midnight on 13 April. Ceremonies to sprinkle water on the town’s Buddha images will be conducted on the mornings of 13 and 14 April.
www.tourismthailand.org
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Thailand International Balloon Festival 2008
Date : 3rd – 7th December 2008
Venue : Khao Yai (War Dog Battalion, Pak Chong), Nakhon Ratchasima
The event is expected to attract over 300,000 spectators to witness a colourful showcase of hot air balloons from all over the world, including the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Malaysia.
The first Festival, held in 2007, attracted over 150,000 Thai and foreign spectators and received wide coverage in all media.
The Thailand International Balloon Festival builds international awareness of Thailand, showcasing the wonderful weather conditions for balloon flying and the country’s unique and beautiful hinterland, proving that Thailand is more than a sunny beach!
Live Concerts; Farmers Fair; Fun Games/ Races; Fireworks; Wine Tasting; Food Tasting; Horse Shows; Dog Shows; Cowboy Shows; Archery; Marching Bands; and the Musical Balloon Glow & Festival Of Light & Fire.
Contact :
Earth Wind and Fire Company Limited
158/60 Moo 6 Cheungdoi, Doi Saket Chiang Mai, Thailand 50220
Tel : +66 53 - 292 - 224
Fax : +66 53 - 292 - 226
Website : www.thailandballoonfestival.com
Email : info@wind-and-fire.com
Venue : Khao Yai (War Dog Battalion, Pak Chong), Nakhon Ratchasima
The event is expected to attract over 300,000 spectators to witness a colourful showcase of hot air balloons from all over the world, including the USA, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Japan and Malaysia.
The first Festival, held in 2007, attracted over 150,000 Thai and foreign spectators and received wide coverage in all media.
The Thailand International Balloon Festival builds international awareness of Thailand, showcasing the wonderful weather conditions for balloon flying and the country’s unique and beautiful hinterland, proving that Thailand is more than a sunny beach!
Live Concerts; Farmers Fair; Fun Games/ Races; Fireworks; Wine Tasting; Food Tasting; Horse Shows; Dog Shows; Cowboy Shows; Archery; Marching Bands; and the Musical Balloon Glow & Festival Of Light & Fire.
Contact :
Earth Wind and Fire Company Limited
158/60 Moo 6 Cheungdoi, Doi Saket Chiang Mai, Thailand 50220
Tel : +66 53 - 292 - 224
Fax : +66 53 - 292 - 226
Website : www.thailandballoonfestival.com
Email : info@wind-and-fire.com
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Yi Peng Festival
Yi Peng Festival
Date : 11 - 13 November 2008Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai
HIghlights :
An amazing procession of hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, Miss Yi Peng beauty contest, light and sound presentation in Ping River, the ancient Thai Lanna Krathong activities, local cultural performances, and local handicrafts market in Lanna style.
Contact :
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
Website : www.loikrathong.net
www.tourismthailand.org
www.tatchiangmai.org
E-mail : tatchiangmai@tat.or.th
Date : 11 - 13 November 2008Venue : Tha Phae Gate, banks of Ping River, Chiang Mai Municipal Office, Chiang Mai
HIghlights :
An amazing procession of hanging lanterns, Krathong design contest, Miss Yi Peng beauty contest, light and sound presentation in Ping River, the ancient Thai Lanna Krathong activities, local cultural performances, and local handicrafts market in Lanna style.
Contact :
TAT Chiang Mai, Tel : 66 (0) 5324 8604, 66 (0) 5324 8607
Website : www.loikrathong.net
www.tourismthailand.org
www.tatchiangmai.org
E-mail : tatchiangmai@tat.or.th
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai The capital of the Northern part is blessed with rich historical and cultural heritage. is not only a large and ancient city of northern Thailand, but also a famous tourist destination. Historical places from the Lanna era as well as natural beauty, which allows for climbing, elephant riding, trekking and bicycling await tourists. The people themselves are an unforgettable part of Chiang Mai. Handicrafts of silk, silver and wood are timeless souvenirs for visitors from all over the globe. Along with all this, a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and entertainment all help to make Chiang Mai one of Thailand's prime tourist attractions.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Doi Chiang Dao
Doi Chiang Dao. One of Thailand’s most impressive mountains, lies in the Doi Chiang Dao Wildlife Reserve. To get there, follow route 107 from Chiang Mai to Fang then turn off to the left after 77 kilometres and drive to Chiang Dao Cave. Villagers there act as guides and can be hired as porters for the long, hard climb through the dense forest to the remote mountaintop.
Pa Pae Hot Springs
Pa Pae Hot Springs in Mae Taeng district is the largest hot springs in Thailand with the main geyser shooting up to 4 metres in the air. There is an intense smell of sulfur in the vicinity of the spring as the surrounding dense forest cuts down the strength of the wind. To get there, turn left from the Chiang Mai – Fang road at Mae Malai intersection, and proceed on Mae Malai – Pai road (route 1095) for 44 kilometres. Make a right walk of about 500 metres leads to this impressive spring. It is best to visit the site during the dry season
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Wiang Kum Kam
In 1984, just outside the modern Chiang Mai metropolitan area, archaeologists uncovered the remains of an ancient city. Research concluded that this was the city of Wiang Kum Kam, one of many fortified cities built by King Mengrai as he consolidated his hold on the north. In fact, it appears that Mengrai may have lived at Wiang Kum Kam for a few years before Chiang Mai was constructed. Nearly 20 temple sites have been uncovered in the area, which lies between the Ping river and the Lamphun highway. The buildings were buried underground by years of flooding, which apparently is the reason Mengrai eventually moved his capital to Chiang Mai. In fact, the Ping river originally flowed along the north side of the town, but at some point during the Burmese occupation from the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries, the river changed course and now flows along the west side of the site. The change of course was apparently the final straw which caused the city to be largely abandoned for 300 years. The site is too large to cover on foot. The best way to see it is to start at the still working temple of Wat Chedi Liam, and tour the site by bicycle, tram or pony carriage. The nine main sites taken in on a typical tour are not greatly interesting compared to many of 's ancient sites. What does make the trip worthwhile is the gentle pace and scenery of the countryside viewed from the back of a carriage or on a bicycle. Although most of the sites are not much more than platforms and ruined chedis, there are two working temples in the area that date from the city's heyday at the end of the thirteenth century. One is your logical starting point, Wat Chedi Liam. The other, more vibrant temple is Wat Khan Tom (also known as Wat Chang Kum), where in fact the spirit of King Mengrai is said to still reside.
Chiang Mai is located in the north of Thailand
Chiang Mai is located in the north of Thailand, about 720 kilometers from Bangkok at an elevation of 1,027 feet (310 meters) above sea level. To the North it borders Myanmar’s Shan State while to the South it connects with Sam Ngao district of Tak province. Chiang Rai, Lamphun and Lampang lie to the East, and the West touches Pai, Khun Yuam and Mae Sareang districts of Mae Hong Sorn province.Chiang Mai’s geography comprises mainly groves and mountains with a broad plain in the middle of the region on both sides of Ping River. The province covers an area of 20,107.057 square kilometers (12,566,910 rai), made up of8,787,656 rai (69.92%) of forest, 1,611,283 rai (12.82%) of agricultural land and 2,167,971 rai (17.25%) of residential and other land.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city
Chiang Mai. More than 700 km northwest of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city. This statistic, often bandied about, has always testified to the enormity of Bangkok rather than the size of Chiang Mai, but things are changing.
The northern capital still captures the feel of a small town, but most first-time visitors are surprised at how cosmopolitan it is.
Allow a day or two to wander around the city, see its temples, and experience the exten-sive Night Bazaar, which offers Thai and northern Thai clothes and fabrics, crafts, jewellery, antiques and the like.
At Warorot market, one can find even more bargains. There are also many shopping destinations just outside the town specialising in such items as umbrellas, silverwork, woven baskets, woodcarvings, and antiques.
The northern capital still captures the feel of a small town, but most first-time visitors are surprised at how cosmopolitan it is.
Allow a day or two to wander around the city, see its temples, and experience the exten-sive Night Bazaar, which offers Thai and northern Thai clothes and fabrics, crafts, jewellery, antiques and the like.
At Warorot market, one can find even more bargains. There are also many shopping destinations just outside the town specialising in such items as umbrellas, silverwork, woven baskets, woodcarvings, and antiques.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Wat Phra Kaew
The Wat Phra Kaew is regarded as the most sacred Buddhist temple (wat) in Thailand. It is located in the historic center of Bangkok (district Phra Nakhon), within the grounds of the Grand Palace.
The construction of the temple started when King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama I) moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other temples it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the highly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas.
The main building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Even though it is small in size it is the most important icon for Thai people. Legends hold that the statue originated in India, but it first surfaced in the vassal Kingdom of Cambodia and was given as a gift to the King of Ayuttaya in the 15th century 1434. The image disappeared when Burmese raiders sacked Ayuttaya and the image was feared lost. A century later, the 'Emerald' Buddha reappeared in Chiang Saen, after a rainstorm washed away some of its plaster covering. It was then moved to Chiang Rai, then Chiang Mai, where it was removed by prince Setatiratt to Luang Prabang, when his father died and he ascended the throne of that Siamese vassal state. In later years it was moved to the Siamese vassal state of Vientiene. During a Haw invasion from the North, Luang Prabang requested Siam's help in repelling the invaders. The King of Vietienne tratoriously attacked the Siamese army from the rear, so the 'Emerald' Buddha returned to Siam when King Taksin fought with Laos and his general Chakri (the later King Rama I) took it from Vientiane, which at that time had been brought to its knees by the Thai Army. It was first taken to Thonburi and in 1784 it was moved to its current location. Wat Preah Keo, in Phnom Penh, is considered by many modern Cambodians as its rightful resting place, whereas, Haw Phra Kaew, in Vientiane, is considered by many Lao people as the Emerald Buddha's rightful place.
The wall surrounding the temple area – from the outside only a plain white wall – is painted with scenes from the Thai version of the Ramayana mythology, the Ramakian. Several statues in the temple area resemble figures from this story, most notably the giants (yak), five-meter high statues. Also originating from the Ramayana are the monkey kings and giants which surround the golden chedis.
The Temple also contains a model of Angkor Wat, added by King Nangklao (Rama III), as the Khmer empire of Cambodia and the Thais share cultural and religious roots.
Despite the hot weather most of the year in Bangkok, long trousers are required to enter the wat. This rule is strictly enforced. The facility can offer the rental of proper trouser wear.
The construction of the temple started when King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (Rama I) moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok in 1785. Unlike other temples it does not contain living quarters for monks; rather, it has only the highly decorated holy buildings, statues, and pagodas.
The main building is the central ubosoth, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Even though it is small in size it is the most important icon for Thai people. Legends hold that the statue originated in India, but it first surfaced in the vassal Kingdom of Cambodia and was given as a gift to the King of Ayuttaya in the 15th century 1434. The image disappeared when Burmese raiders sacked Ayuttaya and the image was feared lost. A century later, the 'Emerald' Buddha reappeared in Chiang Saen, after a rainstorm washed away some of its plaster covering. It was then moved to Chiang Rai, then Chiang Mai, where it was removed by prince Setatiratt to Luang Prabang, when his father died and he ascended the throne of that Siamese vassal state. In later years it was moved to the Siamese vassal state of Vientiene. During a Haw invasion from the North, Luang Prabang requested Siam's help in repelling the invaders. The King of Vietienne tratoriously attacked the Siamese army from the rear, so the 'Emerald' Buddha returned to Siam when King Taksin fought with Laos and his general Chakri (the later King Rama I) took it from Vientiane, which at that time had been brought to its knees by the Thai Army. It was first taken to Thonburi and in 1784 it was moved to its current location. Wat Preah Keo, in Phnom Penh, is considered by many modern Cambodians as its rightful resting place, whereas, Haw Phra Kaew, in Vientiane, is considered by many Lao people as the Emerald Buddha's rightful place.
The wall surrounding the temple area – from the outside only a plain white wall – is painted with scenes from the Thai version of the Ramayana mythology, the Ramakian. Several statues in the temple area resemble figures from this story, most notably the giants (yak), five-meter high statues. Also originating from the Ramayana are the monkey kings and giants which surround the golden chedis.
The Temple also contains a model of Angkor Wat, added by King Nangklao (Rama III), as the Khmer empire of Cambodia and the Thais share cultural and religious roots.
Despite the hot weather most of the year in Bangkok, long trousers are required to enter the wat. This rule is strictly enforced. The facility can offer the rental of proper trouser wear.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Mae Hong Son province
How to Get There Mae Hong Son is a province in the northern part of Thailand and can be reached from Chiang Mai either by Highway No.108via Mae Sariang, for the distance of 349 kilometers, or by HighwayNo.1095 via Pai, a distance of 274 kilometers. Travelling will taketime due to winding road through several mountains.
Mae Hong Son is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that is terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants.
Former governors of Chiang Mai used to organise the rounding up of wild elephants which were then trained before being sent to the capital for work. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hilltribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.
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