Thailand celebrated the festival of lights called Loi Krathong, which is celebrated to pay homage to Lord Buddha. The main events include releasing sky lanterns and floating krathongs, meaning decorated baskets. This year, restrictions on the festivities were observed as the country mourns the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
Loi Krathong takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar; hence, the exact date of the festival changes every year. In the Western calendar this usually falls in the month of November. In 2015 it was celebrated on November 25th.
Thailand:
Thailand is a Southeast Asian country. It’s known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples displaying figures of Buddha. In Bangkok, the capital, an ultramodern cityscape rises next to quiet canalside communities and the iconic temples of Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaew). Nearby beach resorts include bustling Pattaya and fashionable Hua Hin.
Capital: Bangkok
Currency: Thai baht
Prime minister: Prayut Chan-o-cha
Official language: Thai
