Thailand is well-recognized for its post-sunset charms. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) proudly announced Bangkok’s iconic temple, Wat Arun, and Chiang Mai’s magical lantern festival, Yi Peng as "World Night View Heritage" sites. The announcement was made at the Japan Night View Tourism Summit in Bangkok in a bid to highlight Thailand’s commitment to showcasing its stunning nighttime landscapes.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand took to their official X handle as they wrote, "The Tourism Authority of Thailand proudly announces that Bangkok’s iconic Wat Arun temple and Chiang Mai’s enchanting Yi Peng lantern festival have been recognized as “World Night View Heritage” sites."
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, while speaking to media said, "We would like to express our thanks to the YAKEI Convention and Visitors Bureau for these honours. Wat Arun and Yi Peng Festival are two of Thailand’s iconic historical and cultural heritages that have been welcoming thousands of visitors every year. These recognitions will surely shine a spotlight on their amazing night view charms and inspire more visits by tourists from around the world.”
More About The Sites
Bangkok’s iconic temple on the Chao Phraya riverside, Wat Arun, happens to be one of Thailand’s most-visited tourist attractions. Its main pagoda is decorated with porcelain that glimmers in the sunlight and is beautifully lit up nightly from sunset to sunrise. It is an internationally recognisable landmark and has been used as a location in several Hollywood movies. It is also considered as the icon of the Thai tourism industry, having been featured on the TAT logo.
Another unmissable Thai experience is that of the Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai. This lantern festival coincides with the Loi Krathong Festival, which is celebrated across the country on the full moon of the 12th lunar month. During the Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai you can witness colourful lanterns hanging outside homes and temples, sky lanterns being released, and locals wearing traditional Lanna clothing as they take part in street parades and local celebrations.
Ayutthaya’s world-famous historic ruins, along with Wat Arun and Chiang Mai's Peng Festival have been recognized as World Night View Heritage sites.