When and where
Next edition: The date for next year is not confirmed yet; the festival is usually held in May / June.
When: May (about a week, around the start of the rainy season)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 was 13-19 May (closing 20 May); 2027 not yet known.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai
The Inthakin festivities at Wat Chedi Luang honour Chiang Mai's city pillar, which tradition says protects the city. For a week residents in Lanna dress bring flowers, candles and incense, and there are processions and performances. The grounds hold altars for the pillar and prayer services. The festival marks the start of the rainy season and hopes for a good harvest. The atmosphere is traditional and visitors are welcome.
Getting there
Wat Chedi Luang is in the centre of the old city; reach it on foot or by songthaew.
Highlights
- City pillar Worshippers make offerings to the pillar in the temple.
- Lanna dress Many visitors wear traditional clothing.
- Processions Parades and performances in the temple grounds.
Tips for Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai
- Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes at the hall.
- A free tram or shuttle may run during the festival.
- Come in the evening for the best atmosphere.
Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The festival is held at Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai’s old city.
Frequently asked questions about Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai
When is Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai in 2026?
Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai falls in 2026 on 13–19 May, at Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai. Rule: May (about a week, around the start of the rainy season). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai?
Watch it best at Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai. Worshippers make offerings to the pillar in the temple. Wat Chedi Luang is in the centre of the old city; reach it on foot or by songthaew. Many visitors wear traditional clothing. Highlight: Processions – Parades and performances in the temple grounds.
Is Inthakin City Pillar Festival, Chiang Mai free to attend?
Yes, watching is free. The venue is Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai. Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes at the hall. A free tram or shuttle may run during the festival. Highlight: City pillar – Worshippers make offerings to the pillar in the temple. Highlight: Lanna dress – Many visitors wear traditional clothing.
Festivals near Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai
- Songkran (Thai New Year) 1 km as the crow flies
- Chiang Mai Flower Festival 1 km as the crow flies
- Yi Peng (Chiang Mai lantern festival) 2 km as the crow flies
- Visakha Bucha 7 km as the crow flies
- Bo Sang Umbrella Festival 8 km as the crow flies
Also in May / June
- Bangkok Pride
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Eid al-Adha (Hari Raya Haji)
- Chanthaburi Paradise of Tropical Fruit
- Rayong Fruit Festival
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)