The Chiang Mai-CAD Eco Friendly Khomloy Sky Lanterns Festival, scheduled for late this month, is projected to draw 190,000 to 200,000 visitors, a 20% increase from last year, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Revenue is estimated at 2 to 2.5 billion baht, driven by higher tourist demand and more event operators.
Around 60% of attendees are expected to be domestic tourists, mainly from northern Thailand, while 40% will come from short-haul international markets like China, Taiwan, and Japan. Average spending per visitor is forecast to rise 10%, with ticket prices ranging from 1,900 to 15,000 baht depending on services.
To accommodate the surge, 108 flights will be cancelled to clear airspace for lantern releases, and 105 extra flights will be added. Hotel occupancy near event venues is approaching 95%, though overall November occupancy in Chiang Mai is expected at 60-70%. New events still have capacity, even as some established ones are fully booked.
Provincial authorities are also illuminating the city centre for the festival. Organisers must manage lantern debris, following practices like purchasing collected waste from residents. The event is expected to boost final-quarter tourism, helping Chiang Mai reach 11-12 million annual visitors, matching last year's total.
For travellers, this means limited availability near venues and higher prices for add-on services. Those interested should book early, as many events are filling up, though some new operators still offer spaces.
