When and where
Next edition: The date for next year is not confirmed yet; the festival is usually held in September / October.
When: Early September to October
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 was 4-6 September; 2027 not yet known.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Phichit Long Boat Races
Phichit holds a major boat-racing festival each year on the Nan River at Wat Tha Luang. Long boats with dozens of paddlers compete for the royal trophy while thousands watch from the bank. The races are preceded by a formal opening and rituals honouring the river and boat spirits. It is an inexpensive, authentic event for anyone who wants to see traditional Thai boat culture.
Getting there
Phichit is about 350 km from Bangkok; bus or train, the temple is close to the centre.
Highlights
- Royal Trophy The main races compete for a royal cup.
- Pre-race rituals The river and boat spirits are honoured before the start.
- Temple bank The temple grounds and riverbank form a natural grandstand.
Tips for Phichit Long Boat Races
- Arrive early for shade and parking.
- Bring a hat, water and cash.
- Race schedules can differ per day.
Phichit Long Boat Races on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows Wat Tha Luang on the Nan River in Phichit, where the races are held.
Frequently asked questions about Phichit Long Boat Races
When is Phichit Long Boat Races in 2026?
Phichit Long Boat Races falls in 2026 on 4–6 September, at Nan River at Wat Tha Luang, Phichit. Rule: Early September to October. An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Phichit Long Boat Races?
Watch it best at Nan River at Wat Tha Luang, Phichit. The main races compete for a royal cup. Phichit is about 350 km from Bangkok; bus or train, the temple is close to the centre. The river and boat spirits are honoured before the start. Highlight: Temple bank – The temple grounds and riverbank form a natural grandstand.
Is Phichit Long Boat Races free to attend?
Yes, watching is free. The venue is Nan River at Wat Tha Luang, Phichit. Arrive early for shade and parking. Bring a hat, water and cash. Highlight: Royal Trophy – The main races compete for a royal cup. Highlight: Pre-race rituals – The river and boat spirits are honoured before the start.
Festivals near Nan River at Wat Tha Luang, Phichit
- Phetchabun Sweet Tamarind Festival 85 km as the crow flies
- Nakhon Sawan Chinese New Year (Pak Nam Pho) 85 km as the crow flies
- Loy Krathong 95 km as the crow flies
- Phi Ta Khon (Ghost Mask Festival, Dan Sai) 125 km as the crow flies
- Uttaradit Langsat Festival 135 km as the crow flies