Tha Phae Gate

After a 5-hr bus ride from Sukhothai, I am back in Chiang Mai just in time for another festival.

Coinciding with Loy Krathong is the festival known as "Yi-Peng". It is altogether a different festival that traces its roots to the ancient Lanna Kingdom. It is characterized by thousands of "Khom Loy" or Lanna-style hot-air lanterns released into the night sky. There’s also a giant krathong parade for two nights along the main tourist fare.

Tha Pae Gate is one of the main points of interest in Chiang Mai as it plays host to numerous events all-year-round, from releasing khom loys during Yi-Peng to waterfights during the Thai New Year. It is also a popular meeting place for many and a good place to people-watching.