How to discover the vibrant culture of Koh Lanta - A Guide to the Island’s Festivals

Koh Lanta is a tranquil sanctuary with a rich cultural legacy, tucked away in the Andaman Sea off the southern Thai coast. A unique tapestry of inhabitants and old seafaring traditions can be found on this picturesque island with its pristine beaches, thick jungles, and lively settlements. The allure of Koh Lanta today is intricately woven from its historical past, which includes the arrival of settlers centuries ago and the native sea gipsies. With a golden glow cast over the placid waters as the sun sets, Koh Lanta comes alive with a plethora of festivals and events that highlight the island's vibrant culture and entice guests to lose themselves in its ageless traditions and upbeat rhythms.

Songkran

Koh Lanta celebrates Songkran, the Thai New Year event, with great enthusiasm, fusing traditional traditions with contemporary celebrations. The island bursts into a jubilant display of water fights from April 13 to April 15, signifying the eradication of the previous year's tragedies and the start of a new year filled with possibilities. Both locals and tourists arm themselves with buckets and water cannons, showering each other with water in a show of blessing and kindness. A truly amazing Songkran experience can be had on Koh Lanta thanks to vibrant street parties and cultural performances that fill the air with laughter and music. Traditional rituals, such as the pouring of perfumed water over Buddha statues, lend a spiritual element to the celebrations.

Sea Gypsy Festival 

Every year in March, Koh Lanta hosts the Sea Gypsy Festival, which is a colourful celebration of the island's native Chao Leh people. The customs and manner of life of the sea gipsies, who have lived along the Andaman coast for many years, are fascinatingly shown by this cultural spectacle. Visitors can take in the vibrant boat races, traditional dances, and captivating musical events that showcase the Chao Leh people's rich nautical legacy over the entire month. Handcrafted objects are on display in artisan markets, and delectable food tempts the senses as a whole, resulting in an immersive experience that honours the distinct cultural identity of Koh Lanta’s Sea gipsy culture.

Loy Kathrong 

The historic Loy Krathong ceremony, usually observed in November, takes on a mystical atmosphere in Koh Lanta. Locals and visitors congregate along the beaches and riverbanks as the sun sets over the breathtaking island's shoreline to release the elaborately adorned krathongs, or floating lanterns, into the water. Crafted with banana leaves, flowers, and candles, these lotus-shaped vases represent letting go of the past and giving thanks to the water goddess. With the addition of traditional music, dance performances, and cultural rites that foster an environment of joy and devotion, the calm waters are illuminated by flickering candles, making Loy Krathong a really memorable and captivating experience in Koh Lanta.

Photo by Greece-China News via pexels

Lanta Old Town Festival 

Every year in December, Koh Lanta's rich tradition and cultural diversity are captivatingly showcased at the Lanta Old Town Festival. This event, which takes place in the charming Old Town neighbourhood tucked along the island's eastern shore, offers a colourful tapestry of traditional music, dance acts, and gastronomic treats. Discover quaint wooden homes decked out with vibrant lanterns, browse handcrafted goods at neighbourhood markets, and sample real Thai food from roadside stands. Boat races, art shows, and neighbourhood gatherings add to the energy and offer a singular chance to fully experience the island's ageless charm and nautical past. Hotels such as Avani+Koh Lanta or other Krabi resort hotels will arrange the trip to Lanta told town for you during this festival, so all you have to do is enjoy!