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Top 9 must-experience festivals in Thailand

Thailand is a land of rich culture and traditions, where festivals are a big part of everyday life. Throughout the year, the country celebrates a variety of festivals, each with its own meaning and story. These events bring communities together, helping them express their beliefs, preserve traditions, and enjoy shared moments. For locals and travelers alike, festivals offer a deeper understanding of what truly defines the Thai way of life.

Here are 9 of the most famous and sacred festivals in Thailand that you shouldn’t miss during your exploration of the Land of Smiles.

Exploring top 9 must-experience festivals in Thailand

1. Water Festival (Songkran)

Time: 13 April – 15 April
Location: Everywhere in Thailand

Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and one of the most important festivals in Thailand. It is a time for spiritual cleansing, family reunions, and paying respect to elders.

A core tradition is gently pouring water over the hands of parents and grandparents as a gesture of gratitude and to seek their blessings. However, this custom has evolved into large-scale, joyful water fights in many parts of the country. During the festival, both locals and tourists take to the streets with water guns, buckets, and hoses, etc,…transforming cities into vibrant playgrounds full of music, dancing, and people soaked from head to toe.

The streets come alive with water fights during Songkran (Photo collected)

It’s important to remember that monks are highly respected in Thai culture, so spraying water on them is strictly prohibited. Similarly, avoid splashing water on the elderly, pregnant women, and infants, as this is considered inappropriate.

2. Lantern Festival (Yi Feng)

Time: November
Location: Chiang Mai

Held in Chiang Mai on the full moon night of the 12th month in the Lanna lunar calendar (usually in November), the Yi Peng Lantern Festival lasts for 3 days and draws thousands of visitors from across the globe. Rooted in agricultural tradition, Yi Peng marks the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the harvest. It is a meaningful time when locals give thanks for nature’s abundance and show reverence to the Buddha, reflecting the deep spiritual and cultural fabric of Thai society.

The festival’s most enchanting ritual is the release of Khom loi – delicate lanterns made from rice paper. Visitors are invited to write personal wishes on the lanterns before releasing them into the night sky. As these glowing orbs float upward, they carry dreams, prayers, and burdens away into the heavens. Watching thousands of lanterns drift into the night sky is truly a magical and unforgettable scene, making it one of the most photogenic Thailand festivals.

A magical night sky filled with thousands of floating lanterns at Yi Peng Festival (Photo collected)

The festival is celebrated both in free public spaces and organized events, where the setting tends to be more visually impressive. Tickets for this usually cost between $100 and $300 (often include transportation, lanterns, dinner, and cultural experiences). Since it’s a very popular event, it’s a good idea to book your spot and hotel early.

3. Lantern Floating Festival (Loy Krathong)

Time: November
Location: Everywhere in Thailand

This festival takes place at the same time as Yi Peng, but on a larger scale nationwide, with the most vibrant celebrations held in Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok.

People pray and release floating lanterns onto the river (Photo collected)

In Thai, “Loy” means “to float” and “Krathong” refers to a lotus-shaped lantern. The festival is a time for Thai people to express gratitude and respect to the water goddess Phra Mae Khongkha for providing abundant water and for her spiritual protection and blessings throughout the year. Before releasing the Krathong into the water, people often place a strand of hair, nail clippings, and a coin on it, believing that this ritual will wash away bad luck and misfortunes from the past year.

As night falls, rivers across Thailand come alive with thousands of flickering Krathongs, casting a starry, magical reflection on the water.

4. Ghost Festival (Phi Ta Khon)

Time: June or July
Location: Dan Sai Town, Loei Province

Phi Ta Khon is a cultural celebration held in northeastern Thailand, often compared to Halloween in Western countries. Taking place on the weekend of the sixth full moon in the lunar calendar (usually in June or July), the festival typically lasts for three days.

During the event, participants wear colorful, handcrafted masks that completely conceal their faces. These masks are typically made from coconut tree trunks, with tall pointed hats decorated with symbolic motifs and willow branches, creating a striking and mysterious appearance.

Locals wear colorful, hand-painted masks and parade through the streets (Photo collected)

One of the most fascinating elements of this Thailand famous festival is the spirit-calling ritual. Drumming and wooden clappers are used to summon ancestral spirits, filling the air with an intense and mystical energy. This tradition reflects deep spiritual beliefs and a strong connection to the supernatural world.

Getting to this festival can be a bit of a journey as it’s held in the remote town of Dan Sai, Loei Province. The most straightforward routes are by bus from nearby cities: about 4 hours from Udon Thani, 6 hours from Chiang Mai, or 7 hours from Bangkok . Since Dan Sai is a small town and the festival draws large crowds, it’s essential to book your accommodation well in advance to secure a place to stay.

5. Buffalo Racing Festival (Wing Kwai)

Time: October
Location: Chonburi

Wing Kwai Festival is an annual event held after the rainy season in Chonburi, typically in October. With over 150 years of history, it originated as a way for farmers to show gratitude to their buffaloes for their hard work in the fields.

The highlight of this unique Thailand festival is the thrilling 100-meter buffalo race. Shirtless jockeys ride bareback, trying to guide their buffalo to the finish line without falling off or losing control. It’s truly impressive to witness how fast these powerful animals can run.

Competitor races their buffalo during the festival (Photo collected)

Chonburi is just about an hour’s drive from both Bangkok and Pattaya and the ticket prices often range from 200 to 1,000 baht, depending on the seating tier. Besides the race, visitors can also enjoy fun and quirky activities such as buffalo beauty contests, decorated buffalo parades, and even Muay Thai shows.

6. Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Tesagan Gin Je)

Time: October
Location: Phuket

The Phuket Vegetarian Festival is a vibrant annual event held in the 9th lunar month of the Chinese calendar, typically in September or October. It celebrates the belief that abstaining from meat and stimulants brings good health and peace of mind.

Unlike typical festivals in Thailand, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is known for its intense and often shocking rituals. Mediums of the gods perform acts of self-mortification-walking on fire, climbing ladders of blades, and piercing their cheeks with sharp objects like knives or skewers. These spiritual devotees believe that Chinese deities protect them from pain, often leaving behind little blood or scarring.

Gruesome ritual at the Phuket Vegetarian Festival (Photo collected)

These dramatic displays absolutely are not for the faint of heart. The festival streets can become chaotic, with loud firecrackers exploding throughout the day. In fact, most injuries occur not from those but from careless firework use. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance during the more intense ceremonies.

7. Rocket Festival (Bun Bang Fai)

Time: May
Location: Isan region

Bun Bang Fai, or the Rocket Festival, is an annual celebration held by the Lao people and ethnic Thais in the Isan region of northeastern Thailand. Taking place in Yasothon every May, just before the rainy season, the festival is a vibrant way for locals to pray for good rains and a bountiful harvest. The event kicks off with traditional music performances and boat races during the first two days.

The main attraction of this cultural event is the dramatic rocket-launching competition on the third day. Participants fire homemade rockets, traditionally crafted from bamboo and gunpowder, though today, PVC or metal pipes are also used. These rockets vary in size and power, from 1 kg up to a staggering 120 kg.

Locals launch homemade rockets to pray for good rains (Photo collected)

While the festival is lively and fun, visitors should remain aware of its inherently risky nature. For those attending, it’s essential to follow local guidance and keep a safe distance during the launches to fully enjoy one of the most vibrant and daring Thailand festivals.

8. Lopburi Monkey Banquet

Time: May
Location: Lopburi

The Monkey Banquet Festival is possibly one of the strangest festivals in Thailand. Held annually in Lopburi, Thailand, about 150 km north of Bangkok, it aims to promote local tourism and honor the monkeys, which are the city’s main tourist attraction.

At the heart of the celebration is a lavish, colorful “pyramid” buffet prepared for the monkeys in front of the Prang Sam Yod temple. Tables are elaborately decorated with an abundance of fresh fruits, vibrant salads, sticky rice, and traditional Thai desserts – some two tons and 100,000 baht ($2,750) worth. These mischievous guests then descend to ‘dine’, creating a lively scene.

A typical feast for the monkeys at the Lopburi Monkey Banquet (Photo collected)

Many travelers are delighted by the chance to feed and interact with the monkeys, which is an experience believed to bring good luck. This playful connection with the animals has become a signature charm of Lopburi.

However, please be warned that these monkeys are far from shy. Regular feeding has made them bold or even mischievous, so it’s wise to keep your belongings close and your sense of humor closer.

9. Candle Festival

Time: July
Location: Ubon Ratchathani

The Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani is held annually at the beginning of Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa), usually over two days in late July.

The giant wax sculptures at the festival (Photo collected)

The highlight of the event is the vibrant candle procession, featuring various elaborately carved wax sculptures slowly parading through the streets. Accompanying the floats are groups of young people dressed in traditional Thai costumes, dancing gracefully to the rhythm of local music.

Each candle sculpture typically illustrates stories from Hindu and Buddhist mythology, including legendary creatures like the three-headed elephant Erawan, the divine bird Garuda, and the serpent deity Naga.

Unlike many religious Thailand festivals, the Candle Festival is more relaxed and festive. While alcohol is restricted, visitors can enjoy local food, traditional music, Muay Thai shows, and wax sculpture contests.

The best time to visit Thailand and travel tips during festivals

Thailand has a tropical climate with three main seasons: hot (March-June), rainy (July-October), and cool (November-February). The cool season is generally the most pleasant for travel, especially from November to early February, when temperatures are milder and many major festivals take place.

As Thailand is a country with strong Buddhist traditions, travelers should be mindful of local customs, especially dress modestly when visiting temples or taking part in religious activities and women should keep a respectful distance from monks and avoid physical contact. Additionally, since many Thai festivals follow the lunar calendar, their dates can change each year. It’s always a good idea to check the festival schedule in advance.

Organizing trips during these times can be quite challenging, especially for travel agents and independent travelers alike. For major celebrations like Songkran or the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, demand surges months in advance. Hotel prices skyrocket, guides speaking less common languages (such as Spanish, German, or Italian) are difficult to secure, and popular experiences like lantern tickets sell out quickly and are non-refundable. In fact, individual travelers often book tours 3–6 months ahead, while group organizers typically confirm a year in advance to ensure availability. For last-minute bookings, options are limited and prices significantly higher. Even with smaller, local festivals which tend to attract niche markets such as French or German travelers, early planning is still essential.

With so many moving parts, working with a trusted local DMC in Thailand makes all the difference. From finding the right hotels to handling logistics and offering cultural insights, we take care of every detail. Our value lies in crafting the entire experience and the peace of mind that comes from having an expert partner on the ground. We provide our partners ready-to-sell packages with exclusive B2B rates. Contact us at info@365travel.asia or register on our agent hub here.

There's no better way to immerse yourself in local culture than to experience it directly. It is warmly welcomed by a three-generation Hanoian family residing in the city's southwest. Savoring a meal with traditional dishes and discovering Vietnam culture through conversation with the hosts in the warm atmosphere of this hospitable family promises an enriching experience. This is an excellent opportunity for those who love Vietnam, its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

Discover the enchanting textiles of Vietnam's ethnic minorities with a full-day workshop in Lao Chai Village. Join Black H'Mong artisans to explore hemp production, batik design, and indigo dyeing. Uncover the meanings behind H'Mong folk art symbols and enjoy a traditional H'Mong lunch. This experience includes a hike of about 1.5 hours in Muong Hoa valley, through beautiful rice terraced fields. This workshop is suitable for all ages and skill levels and offers a unique cultural immersion.

Bach Ma National Park is a nature lover's paradise, offering breathtaking views, bird-watching opportunities, and a hike through tropical forests to its peak for panoramic views. Departing from Danang or Hoi An, the journey includes the memorable Hai Van Pass and explores historical relics from the Vietnam War.

Exploring Angkor Wat is a must for anyone visiting Cambodia. Its architectural brilliance, with expansive galleries, intricate bas-reliefs, and towering spires, reflects the artistic and engineering prowess of the Khmer Empire. Angkor Wat is officially symbolizing the nation's identity and pride. We highly recommend dedicating an entire day to this magnificent temple complex, its grandeur, intricate carvings, and ionic temples.

Exploring the local life through Cambodia's famous floating villages offers a fascinating insight into rural Cambodian life on water. Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the region, plays a crucial role in the lives of many Cambodians, providing a livelihood and sustenance for countless communities. It is home to several floating villages, with Chong Kneas Floating Village and Kampong Phluk Floating Village standing out.

Experience the magic of the sun's first golden rays as they cast a warm glow over the ancient temples, creating an enchanting moment. Get up early in the morning and embark on a journey through the vast Angkor temple complex in a traditional tuk-tuk to witness this beautiful sunrise. It's an experience not to be missed by early risers.

What could be more magnificent than witnessing the sun cast its final golden-orange rays over Cambodia's largest freshwater lake from a boat? Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Apsara show, where women in tight-fitting traditional dresses perform intricate, graceful dances that narrate classical myths and religious stories through their codified, sinuous movements. This experience will surely finish the day with lasting memories.

The Opulence Cruise, symbolizing wealth and elegance, is ready to provide an unmatched experience on the waters of the Chao Phraya River. Satiate with an international gourmet buffet and live music by professional singers. Admire the architecture and landmarks like Wat Kanlaya, Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Asiatique, and other stunning sights.

 

This tour visits the famous River Kwai bridge built during World War II by POWs near Kanchanaburi, 130 km west of Bangkok. Explore the Wat Cemetery, where around 9,000 allied soldiers who died building the bridge and the "Death Railway" are buried. Discover the past at the JEATH Museum, showcasing wartime photos and artifacts. The tour includes a train ride over the original Death Railway track and a delicious lunch at the disembarkation station.

Experience a traditional northern Thai dinner served on a Khantoke tray, accompanied by performances of traditional Lanna dances and music.

Suan Dok Temple, built in 1370 and the royal cemetery of the Chiang Mai Royal Family, features a gilded Chedi with Buddha relics and a renowned 16th-century Golden Buddha. Engage in interactive discussions with Thai monks to explore Buddhism and the Buddhist way of life. Experience the Meditation Retreat, which promotes peace and deep insight into life's truths.

Located in Northern Laos, this small town is known for its ancient temples, French colonial architecture, and slow-paced lifestyle. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a blend of cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, perfect for exploring local traditions and serene river cruises.

Nestled amidst stunning limestone mountains and lush greenery, Vang Vieng is famous for its outdoor adventures. From tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River to exploring caves and hiking, Vang Vieng is an adventurer’s paradise.

One of Southeast Asia's most enigmatic archaeological sites. Shrouded in mystery, this prehistoric site has puzzled historians and archaeologists for decades, offering a glimpse into a lost civilization's secrets and inviting visitors to explore its intriguing past.

Located in the southern tip of Laos, Si Phan Don is a serene riverine archipelago on the Mekong River. It's known for its waterfalls, and the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

Join our immersive Calligraphy Workshop and explore the art of traditional craftsmanship. Begin with a presentation on the making of Dó paper and the inspiring story of Zo Project. Dive into the world of calligraphy, learning its history, styles, cultural significance, and spiritual expressions. Get hands-on with painting tools, including handmade papers, brushes, ink, and inkstones. Experiment with freestyle writing, followed by a live modern calligraphy performance in English and Vietnamese. Conclude with a guided practice session to create your own calligraphy piece.

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.

 

Join our Bookbinding Workshop and experience the magic of traditional bookbinding! Start with a fascinating presentation on how Dó paper is crafted and the inspiring story of the Zo Project. Explore various bookbinding tools—knives, scissors, glue, and thread—before diving into an exciting hands-on session. Watch a live demonstration of binding techniques, then unleash your creativity by stitching, folding, and assembling your own notebook. Add a personal touch with unique decorations, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Wrap up with a fun Q&A, sharing stories and tips on this timeless craft. Let’s turn paper into art together!

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.

Join our Pottery Workshop for a hands-on experience in traditional ceramics! Start with an introduction to the history of pottery, different clay types, and techniques. Watch a live demonstration by skilled artisans, then get your hands dirty as you shape your own piece using a pottery wheel or hand-building methods. Experiment with textures, patterns, and sculpting to create a unique design. After molding your masterpiece, learn about glazing and firing processes. Enjoy a relaxing, creative atmosphere while connecting with clay and craftsmanship. Wrap up with a Q&A session and take home a special handmade souvenir as a lasting memory!

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Gom Sen is a social enterprise dedicated to preserving Vietnamese pottery and empowering artisans, especially those with disabilities. Rooted in Bat Trang village, it seeks to sustain traditional craftsmanship and provide stable livelihoods. A pivotal 2018 encounter with disabled painters highlighted pottery’s transformative power. Despite challenges, Gom Sen creates eco-friendly ceramics, merging tradition with modernity while fostering social impact through meaningful employment and artistic expression.

Begin your journey with a tranquil cruise from Hue’s Imperial Citadel along the Perfume River to Bao Vinh Old Town, once a lively trading hub now echoing with charm and history. Continue to Tien Non Village, where you’ll cycle through the peaceful countryside to Thanh Tien Village, famous for its delicate paper flowers. Visit the house of artisan Than Van Huy, a guardian of this centuries-old craft, and learn about his creative process. Next, ride to Sinh Village, the heart of folk painting in Hue, where you’ll visit the home of artist Ky Huu Phuoc, whose works vividly capture local life and tradition. The tour concludes with a serene cruise back along the river, offering quiet reflection on a day rich with heritage, artistry, and the timeless beauty of Hue’s riverside villages.

Embark on a serene cycling pilgrimage through Hue’s sacred landscapes, beginning at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda by the Perfume River, where ancient bells echo through pine-scented air. Ride through peaceful village paths to Huyen Khong Son Thuong, hidden in the forested hills of Cham, a Zen retreat famed for its poetic calm and spiritual seclusion. Continue to Huyen Khong Pagoda in Nham Bieu Hamlet, nestled beside the Bach Yen River, known for its harmonious blend of Theravāda tradition and lush gardens. Pedal onward to Kim Son Pagoda, a quiet treasure with traditional wooden architecture, then visit Truc Lam Pagoda, a peaceful neighborhood temple with classic Vietnamese design and a deeply contemplative atmosphere. This cycling tour nourishes the soul, inviting calm reflection at every turn.

A bicycle journey through Kim Long village offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of the former "Great City" (1636-1687), a period richly reflected in its cluster of significant cultural relics. Behind the evergreen hedges of secluded garden houses, you'll discover echoes of a bygone era, brought to life through the enchanting stories shared by your hosts. The nostalgic architecture, warm familial atmosphere, exquisite local delicacies, and above all, the graceful observance of Hue etiquette, create a cultural sanctuary where you can truly savor the art of Hue living. The experience deepens as you cycle along tranquil paths bordered by vibrant vegetable gardens, fragrant flowers, and serene rice paddies, each moment an invitation to profound peace. This privileged access to Hue family culture and heritage includes sharing a genuine Hue-style meal with your hosts, complete with a soothing herbal foot bath, and partaking in a traditional tea and cake tasting. Along the way, spontaneous stops at local handicraft workshops allow for authentic immersion in the daily rhythms of village life, transforming your journey into a voyage of both discovery and introspection, revealing not only the unique landscape architecture, feng shui, and philosophies of Huế, but also the profound art of living itself.

The ancient village of Thuy Bieu, a timeless symbol of transition and harmony, invites you on a five-hour exploration. A leisurely bicycle ride (up to 10km, adaptable to your preference) through verdant orchards and shady lanes, followed by a serene boat trip back along the poetic Perfume River, offers moments of pure tranquility. Beyond the well-preserved communal houses, you'll discover the aesthetic beauty of traditional wooden architecture and Feng Shui gardens, a captivating blend of royal legacy and rustic charm. Nearby, delve into the compelling history of the Nguyen Dynasty through original monuments such as the Roman Colosseum-inspired Tiger Arena, once host to dramatic duels between tigers and elephants, the unique temple-cemetery dedicated to the Kings’ loyal elephants, and the time-honored bronze casting village. Enhance your immersion with enriching hands-on experiences: prepare a home-cooked meal alongside a local family using fresh garden ingredients, indulge in a soothing herbal foot bath, savor seasonal fruits and local delicacies, and connect with the village artisans through their traditional crafts.

Note: For an alternative experience during the dry season (March-August), consider an afternoon departure at 2:00 pm, culminating in a delightful dinner. A visit to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda can also be seamlessly incorporated into your itinerary, further enriching your journey through Hue's captivating cultural tapestry.

Explore the cultural soul of Hue on a refined day tour through its most inspiring sites. Begin at the majestic Imperial City, where ancient walls and palaces echo the glory of the Nguyen Dynasty. Then visit Truc Chi Garden, where bamboo paper is transformed into luminous works of art. Continue to the peaceful An Hien Garden House, a former royal residence rich in traditional architecture and charm. Nearby, the Huong River Museum of Ancient Pottery showcases centuries of craftsmanship along Vietnam’s waterways. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, continue your journey at Lebadang Memory Space, a stunning fusion of nature, art, and architecture—where the spirit of Hue’s artistry lingers long after your visit. After that, admire modern Vietnamese creativity at the Diem Phung Thi Art Museum and the vibrant Le Be Dang Art Museum then let your artful breath slow, gazing upon the Perfume River’s gentle flow.

Visit the craft villages in the surroundings of Hue and discover the unique traditional crafts that have existed for hundreds of years in the former capital of Vietnam. Meet talented artisans to understand their work, then cycling through rural villages to get a real insight into Vietnamese local life.

 

Step into Hue’s wartime past with a powerful half-day historical tour tracing echoes of conflict and resilience. Begin at Tay Loc Airfield, once a strategic military site during the Vietnam War and the Tet Offensive. From there, head to Vong Canh Hill, where an old bunker offers sweeping views once used for surveillance and defense. Continue to The Nine Bunkers Historical Site, a quiet yet haunting reminder of urban warfare in the city's suburbs. Then visit the historic Dong Ba Gate and Thuong Tu Gate, both scarred by intense fighting during the 1968 Battle of Hue. From Truong Tien Bridge, begin a reflective walking segment: cross this historic span—once a front line—and imagine the divided city it once symbolized. Nearby, stop at the storied Saigon Morin Hotel, a former colonial command post and later a press base during the war. End your journey at Hue University of Education, where student voices once rose amid the shadows of war, echoing the spirit of resilience.

Situated 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi is a legendary historical site, not only for those intrigued by Vietnam's wartime history but everyone. The tour offers a thrilling military jeep ride through the picturesque Vietnamese countryside, promising an unforgettable adventure.

Explore the lesser-known Mekong Delta of Ben Tre, known as Coconut Island. Cruise the scenic Delta, discover traditional crafts, cycle through village roads to visit local homes, savor tropical fruits, and meet a former Vietcong soldier turned rice paper artisan. Enjoy a delicious 5-course lunch, beautifully blending culture, history, and the riverine charm of the Mekong Delta.

See an authentic Hoi An like no others. Ride through rice paddies fields, get to know locals who make a living from traditional crafts and taste Vietnamese coffee.

Son My Memorial, the site of the My Lai Massacre, offers scenic views and profound insights into the Vietnam War's tragedies. The experience also includes meeting and talking with survivors from 1968, adding a powerful reflection on the war and a valuable educational experience, especially for history students.

Experience a profound journey through Phnom Penh with this tour. Visiting the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offers a real insight into Cambodia's history and the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime. Conclude with a visit to a lively outdoor market to explore local goods and souvenirs. This tour provides a meaningful blend of historical reflection and cultural discovery.

Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam's first, offers an enriching and meaningful experience for students. Explore the wildlife rescue center that protects endangered species like critically endangered pangolins. Get hands-on with keepers, preparing food, cleaning enclosures, and creating enrichment tools.

Cambodia was once one of the most mine-affected countries in the world. This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about humanitarian demining, including training rats to detect mines and the process of clearing them, and to witness a live demonstration of HeroRATs at work on a simulated minefield. It's a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Visiting Chiang Mai's elephant sanctuary offers a chance to connect with rescued elephants in an ethical setting. Observe these gentle giants, participate in feeding, and learn about the sanctuary's conservation efforts. The experience promotes respect for these animals and supports their protection and rehabilitation.

Phnom Kulen, 50 kilometers from Siem Reap, is a sacred mountain revered by Hindus and Buddhists. It’s widely regarded as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire. The visit offers a scenic drive, exploration of intricate carvings, and a traditional Cambodian blessing. Key sites include the Thousand Lingas and the giant reclining Buddha at Preah Ang Thom pagoda.

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  • Learn how to greet people in their languages!
  • Always keep calm, be patient and be polite!
  • Respect local cultures!
  • Connect with people before taking photos of them!
  • Dress modestly and neatly!
  • Follow proper culture etiquette!
  • Asian societies remain fairly traditional and are attached to old customs. So please kindly
  • Respect cultural sites!
  • Many cultural sites, even those in ruins are sacred grounds, so:
  • It is forbidden to walk or climb anywhere off regular footpaths, to scrawl or scribble on monuments, and to collect stones or any parts of the monuments or sites.
  • Contact with monks!.
  • Answer questions!

A unique experience and a different way to see Hanoi. Explore hidden backstreets, local homes, markets, and how locals live, work, and play. Unlike other tours, we show the city's beautiful and raw sides. Highlights include must-see landmarks. Discover the serene outskirts around West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, showcasing the harmony between city life and its peaceful surroundings. Enjoy stops at authentic eateries to savor Hanoi's best dishes, including family recipes and local specialties.

Join us for a hands-on Handmade "Dó" Paper Workshop, where you'll learn the traditional process of crafting high-quality handmade paper. Discover the raw materials, explore unique papers from ethnic villages in Northern Vietnam, and see stunning creative products. Get hands-on by making your own paper and decorating it with flowers, leaves, and plants. Enjoy a peaceful day in the fresh while immersing yourself in this artistic experience. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with nature and creativity!

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Zó Project is a social enterprise committed to preserving Vietnam’s ancient Dó paper craft through sustainable innovation. Dating back to the 3rd century, this durable paper has declined due to industrialization. Zó partners with artisans, designers, and ecologists to revive it through workshops, cultural events, and contemporary products. By blending tradition with sustainability, Zó empowers artisans, safeguards cultural heritage, and promotes eco-friendly practices for future generations.

Join our Beeswax Drawing Workshop for an immersive experience in the traditional art of batik-style resist dyeing. Begin with a warm welcome and a taste of Dao ethnic herbal tea before exploring the cultural significance and origins of beeswax drawing, a craft rooted in Southeast Asian traditions. Learn how to melt and apply natural beeswax to fabric, mastering techniques to create intricate patterns and fine details before dyeing. With guidance from skilled artisans, you’ll craft your own unique piece, blending creativity with cultural heritage. This hands-on workshop offers a meaningful connection to tradition and a beautiful handmade souvenir to take home.

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Indigo Store is dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s ethnic traditions and supporting local artisans. For 28 years, it has collaborated with experts and NGOs to restore lost craft villages, revive traditional weaving, and sustain cultural heritage. By funding festivals, training artisans, and reinvesting 50% of earnings into local communities, Indigo Store ensures that ethnic minorities can maintain their crafts, earn a livelihood, and pass down traditions for future generations.

Join our Hoi An Folding Lantern Making Class and craft your own foldable Hoi An lantern with Ha, a skilled artisan from the Reaching Out workshop. This hands-on experience allows you to transform creative ideas into a functional work of art while learning traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Guided by an English-speaking host and two artisans, you’ll follow step-by-step instructions to construct a unique, collapsible lantern to take home.

Every purchase or experience at Reaching Out supports skilled artisans with disabilities, providing them with opportunities for independence and meaningful work. Established in 2000, this social enterprise has grown into a renowned fair-trade business, offering authentic Vietnamese products and experiences while empowering a diverse team through craftsmanship and community integration.

The "Connecting with Herbs" experience at An Farm Hoi An offers families a fun and enriching day exploring the world of herbs. Guests enjoy organic herbal teas, tour the farm, and learn about the benefits of various herbs. Hands-on activities include harvesting, drying, and making herbal drinks like teas, detox juices, and mocktails. Participants also create home remedies and enjoy a relaxing foot bath. The experience concludes with a nourishing vegetarian meal made from farm-fresh ingredients. This immersive program promotes wellness, sustainability, and a deeper connection to nature while preserving traditional herbal knowledge.

After breakfast, let’s explore Bat Trang ceramic village, a hub of Vietnamese pottery craftsmanship. Begin your journey with a walk to Bat Trang Temple, followed by a visit to Van Chi house, where scholars who passed university exams in the past are honored. Discover the charm of the nearby centuries-old houses: one traditional, the other a fascinating blend of old and new, complete with a wrought-iron staircase imported from France and a fruit-filled courtyard. Continue to visit Lò Bàu Cổ, an ancient, traditional kiln used in Bat Trang village to produce high-quality ceramics before joining a hands-on pottery class (2 hours) at Gom Sen, a social enterprise preserving traditional pottery and supporting artisans, especially those with disabilities. Engage in shaping and decorating your ceramic piece, blending tradition with creativity. Lunch at local restaurant.

 

Experience a distinctive culinary at Nen Light – one of the best dining establishments in Ho Chi Minh City recently listed in the Michelin Guide 2023. Nén Light stands out with its sophisticated culinary style that tells inspiring stories through each dish, infused with the flavors and tastes of Vietnam. Championing a cuisine without boundaries, the young chef curates a tasting menu of 7 or 9 courses that tells a story. She uses mostly local ingredients in her ingenious creations and changes the menu every four months to keep it fresh. With their trademarked Sto:ry Menu concept, each experience at Nén Light is a multi-sensory journey that aims not only to satisfy the palate, but to touch the heart and provoke the mind of the diner as well.

After breakfast, meet our guide and driver for a transfer out of the city center to Van Phuc Silk Village. Your visit begins with an introduction to Vun Art's inspiring mission and the craftsmanship behind their unique silk artwork, which is made from leftover fabric collected from nearby garment workshops. A hands-on experience (60 minutes) lets you create your piece of art, guided by the unique artisans. You'll also explore their workshops, the local market, and the village's ancient temple and pagoda (outside).

As you finish the tour, you'll get a glimpse into the challenges faced by people with disabilities, their resilience, and their stories. You'll learn about their sustainable materials and how they're making a difference by reducing fabric waste and protecting the environment.

In collaboration with 365 Travel, Vun Art is a social enterprise commited to provide vocational training, meaningful work, and a sense of purpose to people with disabilities. They also celebrate Vietnamese culture by creating stunning pieces inspired by traditional folk art and the heritage of Van Phuc Silk Village.