Chang Mai Loi Kraton Festival

After spending a few days in Bangkok I took a second class sleeper from the Hualampong train station north to Chang Mai for the Loy Kraton Festival. This festival is celebrated on the first full moon of every November. It's widely believed that Loy Kraton had its origins in India, where it centered around an Indian queen or river goddess. This beautiful festival is celebrated all over Thailand. Thai people hope to insure their happiness and prosperity throughout the coming year by launching, under the light of the full moon, a kraton into a river, ocean, lake or canal. Kratons are constructed of leafs, flowers and candles, and they're sold by street vendors. It's recommended that you put a small amount of money in your kraton before sending it on its way. Chang Mai is one of the best places to celebrate Loy Kraton.