When and where
Next edition: 23 March – 3 April 2027 (expected)
When: 23 March-3 April (12 days)
Rule: Fixed date. Fixed period. 2026: 23 March-3 April; 2027 expected in the same period (not confirmed).
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo)
The Ya Mo festival honours Thao Suranari, Korat's heroine who, according to tradition, helped defend the city against Lao forces in 1826. For twelve days the city is full of golden robes, performances, a light show and stalls. The ceremony of changing the golden shawl at the monument is a highlight. Residents and pilgrims come to pay respect and wish for luck.
Getting there
Korat is about 260 km from Bangkok; train or bus (about 4 hours).
Highlights
- Golden shawl The ceremony where the monument receives a new robe.
- Light show A big light-and-sound show about the history.
- Street markets Food, music and performances by Chumphon Gate.
Tips for Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo)
- Some roads around the monument are closed.
- Come in the evening for the show.
- It is hot: bring water and a hat.
Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows the Thao Suranari Monument by Chumphon Gate in Korat.
Frequently asked questions about Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo)
When is Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo) in 2026?
Thao Suranari Festival falls in 2026 on 23 March – 3 April, at Thao Suranari Monument, Korat. Rule: 23 March-3 April (12 days). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo)?
Watch it best at Thao Suranari Monument, Korat. The ceremony where the monument receives a new robe. Korat is about 260 km from Bangkok; train or bus (about 4 hours). A big light-and-sound show about the history. Highlight: Street markets – Food, music and performances by Chumphon Gate.
What should I bring or wear to Thao Suranari Festival (Ya Mo)?
Some roads around the monument are closed. Come in the evening for the show. It is hot: bring water and a hat. Highlight: Golden shawl – The ceremony where the monument receives a new robe. Highlight: Light show – A big light-and-sound show about the history.
Festivals near Thao Suranari Monument, Korat
- Phimai Festival 50 km as the crow flies
- Siam Tulip Festival, Chaiyaphum 100 km as the crow flies
- Phanom Rung Festival (Sun Alignment) 105 km as the crow flies
- Tak Bat Dok Mai (Flower Alms, Saraburi) 145 km as the crow flies
- Surin Elephant Round-up 150 km as the crow flies
Also in March / April
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Chakri Memorial Day
- Dok Lamduan Flower Festival (Si Sa Ket)
- Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Puasa)
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Hae Pha Khun That (Nakhon Si Thammarat)