Where to go
| Place | Mood |
|---|---|
| Patong Beach | Liveliest: families, food stalls, music |
| Nai Harn (beach and lake) | Calm, local families, full moon over the sea |
| Kata | Quieter |
| Karon | Beach and lake, two options |
| Sapan Hin Lake, Phuket Town | Biggest local gathering: fun fair, stalls, krathong contests |
Tips
- Buy a biodegradable krathong (banana leaf, flowers); avoid plastic and foam.
- Arrive before 8 pm to find a spot; plan your way back as taxis get scarce.
- Ask your hotel whether sky lanterns are allowed on your night: we found no clear rule.
- Official programmes are announced late; nothing is guaranteed.
On the water
An evening cruise adds the sunset before the festival: see the sunset cruise. A night kayak trip even advertises a krathong ceremony: twilight kayaking.
Where to stay
To be on the spot, stay in Patong or in Kata and Karon. November: Phuket in November.
FAQ
What is the date of Loy Krathong 2026?
24 November according to most sources, the 25th according to some.
Do I have to pay?
No: there is no ticket or fixed time on beaches and lakes.
What is the best place in Phuket?
Patong for atmosphere, Nai Harn for calm, Sapan Hin for the biggest local gathering.
