When and where
Next edition: 2–31 August 2027 (expected)
When: Seventh Chinese lunar month (August/September)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Lunar (Chinese). 2026: 25 August-10 September (peak 27 August); 2027 expected around 16 August (computed).
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket)
In the seventh Chinese lunar month Thai Chinese believe the gates of the underworld open and hungry ghosts come to visit. On Phuket, where many people are of Chinese descent, Por Tor is observed with offerings of food, burning joss paper and little paper houses and cars. Families pray in temples and set out tables with fruit and pastries. The mood is quiet and mysterious, unlike the loud days of the Vegetarian Festival.
Getting there
Phuket Town is about 40 km from the airport; taxi or bus.
Highlights
- Offering tables Tables with fruit, pastries and incense.
- Burning paper Paper money, houses and cars for the spirits.
- Temple prayers Families pray at the shrines.
Tips for Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket)
- Be respectful; do not walk through offering tables.
- Ask permission for photos.
- Check dates with TAT.
Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The location on the map is approximate.
The map shows Phuket Town where offerings take place in temples and shrines.
Frequently asked questions about Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket)
When is Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket) in 2026?
Por Tor falls in 2026 on 25 August – 10 September, at Phuket Town. Rule: Seventh Chinese lunar month (August/September). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket)?
Watch it best at Phuket Town. Tables with fruit, pastries and incense. Phuket Town is about 40 km from the airport; taxi or bus. Paper money, houses and cars for the spirits. Highlight: Temple prayers – Families pray at the shrines.
What should I bring or wear to Por Tor (Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket)?
Be respectful; do not walk through offering tables. Ask permission for photos. Check dates with TAT. Highlight: Offering tables – Tables with fruit, pastries and incense. Highlight: Burning paper – Paper money, houses and cars for the spirits.
Festivals near Phuket Town
- Phuket Old Town Festival 0 km as the crow flies
- Phuket Vegetarian Festival 1 km as the crow flies
- Phuket Heroines' Festival 11 km as the crow flies
- Loy Rua (Chao Leh Boat Festival) 14 km as the crow flies
- Trang Love Festival (Underwater Wedding) 140 km as the crow flies
Also in August / September
- Akha Swing Festival
- Nan Boat Races
- Phichit Long Boat Races
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Lamphun Longan Fair