Not officially confirmed: The data for this festival is less certain; check on the spot or with the organisers.
When and where
When: November (several days, with long-boat race)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 dates unclear (5-9 or 11-15 November in different sources); 2027 not known.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Phimai Festival
The Phimai Festival centres on the Khmer temple park in Phimai, one of the most important ancient temples outside Angkor. In November the park becomes a stage for light-and-sound shows, traditional dances and historic parades. Long-boat races are held on the Chakkarat River, and the market offers Isaan food. The festival combines history, sport and folk celebration. Exact dates change by year, so check the announcement of the province or TAT.
Getting there
Phimai is about 60 km from Korat; bus or taxi.
Highlights
- Light-and-sound show The Khmer sanctuary is lit with storytelling.
- Long-boat race Rowing teams compete on the Chakkarat River.
- Historic parade Khmer-style costumes and performances.
Tips for Phimai Festival
- Confirm exact dates locally as sources differ.
- Combine with a daytime visit to the park.
- Bring a hat and water.
Phimai Festival on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows the Khmer temple park in Phimai.
Frequently asked questions about Phimai Festival
When is Phimai Festival in 2026?
For 2026 we have no verified date; it is not fixed yet, so we do not guess. The rule is: November (several days, with long-boat race). Variable: 2026 dates unclear (5-9 or 11-15 November in different sources); 2027 not known. Check shortly beforehand with the organiser or the province.
Where is the best place to see Phimai Festival?
Watch it best at Phimai Historical Park. The Khmer sanctuary is lit with storytelling. Phimai is about 60 km from Korat; bus or taxi. Rowing teams compete on the Chakkarat River. Highlight: Historic parade – Khmer-style costumes and performances. The Phimai Festival centres on the Khmer temple park in Phimai, one of the most important ancient temples outside Angkor.
What should I bring or wear to Phimai Festival?
Confirm exact dates locally as sources differ. Combine with a daytime visit to the park. Bring a hat and water. Highlight: Light-and-sound show – The Khmer sanctuary is lit with storytelling. Highlight: Long-boat race – Rowing teams compete on the Chakkarat River. In November the park becomes a stage for light-and-sound shows, traditional dances and historic parades.
Festivals near Phimai Historical Park
- Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo) 50 km as the crow flies
- Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment) 90 km as the crow flies
- Surin Elephant Round-up 115 km as the crow flies
- Siam Tulip Festival, Chaiyaphum 120 km as the crow flies
- Khon Kaen Silk and Phuk Siao Festival 140 km as the crow flies
Also in November
- Lopburi Monkey Buffet Festival
- Bua Tong Blossom Festival (Doi Mae U-Kho)
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Wat Saket Golden Mount Fair
- Krathong Sai (Tak)