The Lanterns of Chiang Mai

I was fortunate to witness the Yee Peng Festival in Chiang Mai last November. Yee Peng Festival is unique to this part of Thailand and has been celebrated since the Ancient Lanna Kingdom.

The festival was nothing short of mesmerizing. The weather was cooler than what I am used to in Phuket, making it more relaxing to explore the Old City afoot.

As I walk around the Old City of Chiang Mai, I see residents hang colorful lanterns outside their homes and also light small candles around their doorways. Each corner was a page right out of a fairy tale with the swinging of the lanterns and the faint twinkling of the small candles.

The photo below is my entry to #colourfulphotography contest hosted by @juliank

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Colourful Lantern Tunnels adorned the sidewalks making the affair more magical. I see people flocking to take photos with friends and families. Everyone was in a cheerful and festive mood.

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The hotel where I stayed in was right beside the Three Kings Monument where the center of the festivity took place. It was an energetic weekend filled with traditional dance shows, live music, and vibrant ceremonies. I sure am glad I made the trip to see it with my own eyes.