Thailand · 22 November - 2 December 2026
2026 Thailand Lantern Adventure: Bangkok & Chiang Mai
Experience Thailand at its most iconic in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, with once-a-year lantern festivals and unforgettable city energy.
SOLD OUT
Overview
Experience Thailand like never before on an unforgettable 11-day journey from November 22 to December 2, 2026, perfectly timed for the magical Yi Peng and Loy Krathong Lantern Festivals. Watch thousands of glowing lanterns rise into the night sky and drift along candlelit rivers in one of the world’s most breathtaking cultural celebrations. This immersive adventure takes you from the energy and flavors of Bangkok to the charm and traditions of Chiang Mai. Highlights include a hands-on visit to an ethical elephant care sanctuary, a guided foodie tour through Bangkok’s vibrant street markets, and a stop at the world-famous Maeklong Railway Market. Every experience is thoughtfully curated to balance culture, fun, and unforgettable moments. With luxury accommodations, expert local guides, daily breakfast, and seamless planning throughout, this once-a-year journey offers an unforgettable blend of culture, comfort, and exclusive experiences. Space is limited for this special festival departure. Reserve your spot now and let Thailand light up your bucket list.
Highlights
7-Night Resort Stay Certificate
Pay in full for the 2026 BAG Travel Thailand Lantern Adventure by March 20, 2026 and, after completing the trip, receive a 7-night resort stay certificate for a future personal getaway. Extend the magic beyond Thailand and start planning what’s next. Certificate issued after travel. Limit one per room. U.S. residents only. Accommodations only. No cash value. Terms and blackout dates apply.
Yi Peng Lantern Festival
Our Main Event is in Chiang Mai, with VIP-section seating and food selections.
Luxury Hotels
Pamper yourself at some of Thailand's best luxury resort hotels. You deserve it!
Elephant Sanctuary
Come out to the Northern Thai countryside to make a few new enormous friends!
Bangkok Street Food
It's no secret that Bangkok boasts the world's best street food, with an incredible variety and quality.
Hosts
Mike Henderson
Hello, fellow travelers! My name is Mike Henderson, and I am the founder and CEO of B.A.G. Travel. I have been a group travel consultant for over 20 years and have visited more than 35 countries. I am passionate about providing exciting travel experiences that can change people's lives. With my background in urban planning, I love to help my clients immerse themselves in the culture of the places they visit.
B.A.G. Travel has been featured in several popular publications, such as: AFAR, Travel Weekly, Vacationer Magazine, and New World Report. We take pride in being a global "adventure designer" and helping our clients create unforgettable memories!
Oak Mahavan
Hello everyone! My name is Oak Mahavan, and I am a Travel Consultant and Influencer. I love sharing stories and learning from others. My family originally hails from Chiangmai, Thailand, where my grandmother was one of the pioneers of the Northern Thailand Tourism Agency in the 1970s. As a young boy, my grandmother's influence sparked my curiosity, and she took me on the Concord Jet, Northern Thai wedding tours, and elephant camps. Our family helped shape the Northern Thai traveling industry by introducing elephant camps, Khan Toke dinners (the Northern Thai version of a Luau cultural dinner show), and academic bird-watching tours.
I have traveled to 40+ countries and backpacked in Asia for over three months. I am passionate about learning about myself through traveling and sharing my experiences with others. With my background in the Thai hospitality industry, experiential marketing, and customer-centric management, I aim to create unforgettable experiences that last a lifetime!
Schedule
Join us for 11 days and 10 nights in the "Land of Smiles" during one of their most festive times of the year!
Previous
Next
Chiang Mai
DAY 1 - Sunday, 11/22/26
"Sawasdee!" Welcome to Thailand.
🔸Arrival in Chiang Mai - The "Rose of the North": "Meet & Greet" transfer from the airport to our hotel.
🔹Hotel Check In: Arrive at the hotel
Optional Event: Sunday Night Market Street
A lively citywide market with local vendors, handcrafted goods, street food, temple-style courts, and cultural performances. An iconic tradition for over a decade. Wear comfy shoes, bring cash, and enjoy shopping and snacking.
Included
Meet & Greet Airport Transfer
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Chiang Mai
DAY 2 - Monday, 11/23/26
An Evening of Lanna Culture
🔹Khantoke Cultural Center Dinner Show: Experience an unforgettable dinner show celebrating the captivating and vibrant Lanna culture of northern Thailand! - Includes Hotel Breakfast and Dinner. Dinner show and transportation from/to the hotel.
Included
Dinner
Hotel Breakfast
Dinner with Show
Chiang Mai
DAY 3 - Tuesday, 11/24/26
Light Up the Sky at Yi Peng!
🔹THE MAIN EVENT: This evening, we’ll head out of the city to immerse ourselves in the breathtaking Yi Peng Lantern Festival, one of the world’s most magical bucket list experiences. Enjoy excellent seating, vibrant cultural exhibits, and a Northern Thai street food market with dinner included. The highlight of the night will be your chance to float your very own Yi Peng sky lantern, an unforgettable moment to light up the sky, so get ready!
Included
Dinner
Hotel Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Chiang Mai
DAY 4 - Wednesday, 11/25/26
Chill in Chiang Mai
🔹FREE DAY: Explore Chiang Mai at your own pace.
Optional Event: Join us at night near Tha Phae Gate to witness the dazzling magic of the Loy Krathong Yai (Yai - means big) Parade and festivities near the Ping River. Note, there will be opportunities to purchase your krathong (floating light vessel on a flower) and fireworks. Once purchased, you can make a wish and float the lit krathong in the river. There will be street food, vendors, and local Loy Kratong activities.
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Chiang Mai
DAY 5 - Thursday, 11/26/26
Open Day
Included
Lunch
Hotel Breakfast
Not Included
Dinner
Chiang Mai ➪ Bangkok
DAY 6 - Friday, 11/27/26
Bangkok - The "City of Angels"(Krung Thep Maha Nakhon)
🔹🛫 Depart Chiang Mai: Hotel check-out, group airport transfer, and group flight to Bangkok (economy airfare included)
🔹🛬 Arrival in Bangkok: Meet & Greet airport transfer and hotel check-in at hotel.
🔹🍜 Bangkok Chinatown Street Food Tour! - Explore the culinary wonders of the world’s street food capital, where family recipes have been perfected for generations. This world-famous street food scene promises bold flavors and authentic tastes at every stop, so be sure to come hungry for this unforgettable dinner event!
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Dinner (street food tour)
Flight from Chiang Mai (CNX) to Bangkok
Not Included
Lunch
Chiang Mai
DAY 7 - Saturday, 11/28/26
Grand Day Tour
🔹Grand Palace: Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha and origin of Thai massage and medicine school). Thai lunch set included.
Included
Lunch
Hotel Breakfast
Not Included
Dinner
Bangkok
DAY 8 - Sunday, 11/29/26
FREE DAY
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Bangkok
DAY 9 - Monday, 11/30/26
A Day of Unusual Markets
🔹Maeklong Railway Market: get "run-over" with excitement at one of Thailand's most unusual markets - in the middle of a train rail route! Don't forget to tuck your caboose in as the train passes by!🚆🤭
🔹Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Float while you shop! Visit the largest and most famous floating market in Thailand! Lunch provided.
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Bangkok
DAY 10 - Tuesday, 12/1/26
FREE DAY
Explore THE world's most visited city at your leisure and then prepare for our final night dinner cruise.
🔹Dinner River Cruise: Enjoy Bangkok’s luxury dinner river cruise after sundown, viewing wonderful temples, famous river hotels, and symbolic bridges of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, considered the Venice of the East.
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Dinner Cruise
Not Included
Lunch
Bangkok
DAY 11 - Wednesday, 12/2/26
"La Gorn (Goodbye)," Thailand!
🔹Departure: Check out from the hotel and transfer to the airport for your trip home...or elsewhere in Thailand (possible extension option?).
Included
Hotel Breakfast
Airport Departure Transfers
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Airfare
What's included
What's Included
Premium Loy Krathong | Ye Peng Lantern Festival Tickets + Transportation
Luxury 5-Start Hotel Accommodations in Chiang Mai and Bangkok
Flight from Chiang Mai to Bangkok (economy class)
Airport Arrival Meet & Greet by our Tour Guide
Guided Tours and Admissions per the itinerary
All transfers and transportation if traveling with the group are private, deluxe, air-conditioned coaches and English-speaking guide.
Hotel Porterage
Local taxes on accommodation and sightseeing tours, based on current rates
Meals as listed on the itinerary
What's Not Included
Gratuities to Restaurant Staff and Hotel Porters
Visas and Transfers + their handling fees
Meals that are not listed in the itinerary
Tip and Gratuity Increase in local tax rates
Early room check-in; late room check-out
Hotel/Report Incidental and Damages Charges
Personal items
Tips for the Tour Guides and Drivers – suggested amount is $6.00 (USD) a day for each guide and $3.00 (USD) a day for each driver.
Miscellaneous fees, i.e., individual transfers; passports, extra hotel charges (mini bar, spa, gym, etc.); airline seat selection, laundry, meals not listed in the itinerary, beverages at meals, and baggage fees
Travel Protection - strongly recommended for any trip. You may request a quote upon check-out.
Optional Tours & Events
Any Airfare not mentioned in What's Included
Gallery
Trip Tips
Check your Passport! 👀 🛂
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the departure date.
Purchase Travel Protection
Travel Protection is strongly recommended for ANY trip. Add "Travel Protection Quote" to your checkout cart and receive a confirmation email with link to our comprehensive plans by our partner: IMG. https://www.bagtravel.net/travel-insurance
Review Our Full Terms & Conditions
https://www.bagtravel.net/terms-and-conditions/ for our full list of exclusions + code of conduct.
Add Ons
Qualify for a 7-Night Resort Stay Reward | Pay in Full by August 1, 2026
Deposit by July 15, 2026, pay in full by August 1, 2026, and complete your qualifying trip to become eligible for a 7-Night Resort Stay reward....
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Free
Travel Protection Quote Request – No Cost
Request a free, no-obligation travel protection quote from our partner IMG. This add-on does not include coverage. Insurance is only provided if you choose to enroll and pay directly with the provider....
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Free
$100 VALUE EARLY BOOKING BONUS - DEADLINE 2/15/26
Deposit by Feb 15, 2026 to receive a $100 Restaurant.com dining certificate, issued after travel and subject to Restaurant.com terms. Space is limited and booking is now live. Deposit is non-refundable....
Read More
Free
You'll Be Staying Here
InterContinental Chiang Mai the Mae Ping (or similar)
InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping is a regal 5-star icon where royal Lanna heritage meets timeless luxury. Near Old Town and Tha Phae Gate, it offers palace-level design, impeccable service, and a truly once-in-a-lifetime stay in Chiang Mai.
Check out this fun and informative hotel review: https://youtu.be/Y2Mh_tesLNY?si=3tWY7ZOCMoJwnUzq
Cape House Hotel Bangkok (or similar)
Welcome to Cape House, a refined 5-star retreat in the heart of Bangkok’s most prestigious neighborhood. Perfectly positioned for shopping, dining, and city exploration, this elegant property blends upscale comfort with the warmth of contemporary Asian design.
Each spacious studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suite is thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and connection — ideal for our group to unwind after full days of adventure. Expect modern finishes, generous layouts, stylish décor, and all the amenities you need for a seamless short or extended stay.
Related Blog Posts
Are you curious about visiting Thailand? We've got tips!
Four Must-See Festivals in Thailand
Thailand is a land of vibrant culture and progressive thinking, and to truly immerse yourself in it, there are four festivals you can't afford to miss. Be sure to mark these on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience!
Thailand Travel for First-Timers
Planning your first trip to Thailand? Discover essential travel tips, local customs, must-see attractions, and expert advice for a smooth adventure.
Thailand for Foodies: Where to Eat in the Land of Smiles
Calling all foodies! Discover where to eat in Thailand, from street food gems to local favorites across the Land of Smiles.
FAQs
How do I qualify for the $1,000 travel discount promo?
🎁 BONUS: 7-Night Resort Stay Certificate
Pay your 2026 BAG Travel Thailand Lantern Festival Adventure in full by March 1, 2026, attend the trip, and receive a 7-night hotel resort stay certificate to use on a future personal vacation.
Details & Eligibility:
• Issued after travel is completed and attendance is verified
• Limit 1 certificate per room booked
• U.S. residents only
• Limited to the first 4 paid-in-full bookings
• Certificate covers accommodations only; taxes, fees, and travel not included
• Subject to provider availability, terms, and blackout dates
Plan now. Celebrate later. Your next getaway is already waiting.
Do you provide International Flights to Thailand and the pre-trip option locations?
Select "Flight Quote" and add to your cart before check-out. Flight quotes for all attendees will be submitted by June 1, 2024.
Do you offer Payment Plans?
We offer a monthly, interest-free plan and a "Travel-Now-Pay-Later" payment plan. Both require initial deposit(s).
"Travel Now, Pay Later" is offered by our partner: Uplift (subject to credit approval).
Do you offer Travel Insurance?
We offer a special rate through our partners to provide you some of the most comprehensive travel protection options available.
What if I prefer my own Travel Insurance?
B.A.G. Travel and our partners offers some of the most comprehensive Travel Protection products and best rates in the business...
However - if you decline our Travel Protection offer, you MUST complete and submit the "Travel Insurance Waiver Form" at least 30 days before departure. You can find our Travel Insurance Waiver Form HERE.
What are your Cancellation Terms?
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions. Your purchase of any portion of this trip constitutes your full acknowledgement and agreement to these terms.
Purchase Travel Protection: Life happens! In case you need to cancel, have the peace of mind that comes with being covered by Travel Protection. You can request a quote from B.A.G. Travel upon initial cart checkout or up to 30 days before departure.
Cancellation: Please be aware that our travel bookings are non-refundable, and canceled bookings will incur charges. These charges can be up to 100% of the cost of the booking, regardless of whether travel has commenced. Where we incur any liability for a cancellation fee or charge for any booking which you cancel, you agree to indemnify us for the amount of that fee or charge. All cancellations must be in writing to B.A.G. Travel, LLC via requests@bagtravel.net, prior to departure date.
Is the Lantern Festival mobility accessible?
The rural site will include grass, gravel, and uneven terrain, but Festival staff will be stationed at key points to assist guests as needed. Accessible restroom facilities will also be available on-site.
Are the tour vans accessible?
The tour van will be a 9-seater Toyota Commuter (or similar), with space for 2 folded wheelchairs.
Are all of the tours accessible for those with mobility issues?
No. The tours that are not recommended are: Maeklong Railway and Damnoen Saduak Floating Markets, Bangkok Backstreets Food Tour, and the Loy Krathong Parade. Alternative activities for those time slots will be presented if interested.