Brad Smith
Krabi is located on the west coast of southern Thailand. In addition to scenic views of the meeting point between the Krabi River and Phang Nga Bay, the small town has a year round calendar of events.
Lanta Festival, held in Lanta Old Town, Koh Lanta in the Krabi Province, is a celebration of the island's unique cultural features. The festival is held over three days every year in March. If you are planning a visit during this time, the festival is a great opportunity to sample some authentic Thai food and exotic drinks, including local coffee. Snacks and drinks are widely available from the fifty or so food and beverage vendors around the festival grounds. Traditional entertainment at the Laanta-Lanta Festival consists of music and dance including the Sea Gypsy ritual, known as Rong-Ngen, which is meant to draw protection for the duration of the event. The performance includes floating traditional boats to cast evil spirits away to the sea. Other performing groups from around Thailand also participate in the festivities with side shows of jazz and reggae. Traditional arts and crafts are also demonstrated and displayed in stalls.
April brings ideal weather to book a stay at a coastal resort. Krabi International Rock Climbing also takes place around this time of year. The Krabi Provincial Administration Organisation, Krabi Tourist Association, TAT Krabi Office and Railay Rock Climbing Club join hands to promote Krabi Province as a rock climbing destination to rock climbers around the world. The event takes place on Tonsai Beach and Poda Island in Krabi to showcase the towering cliffs and beautiful views.
which is also known as the Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month is held annually on the 14th and 15th of August. The festival takes place in Krabi Town, a short drive up the coast from Anantara Si Kao Resort. During these two days it is believed that the spirits of departed ancestors visit the earth. The families make up baskets overflowing with delicious treats for the spirits that are carried in a lively and colourful parade to the monastery.
The most flamboyant of the festivals in Krabi is the Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival. This festival shows off its influence of Indian culture. If you want a taste of the pomp and pageantry of a traditional Indian festival, mark the 16th, 17th and 18th of November in your calendar to be present in Krabi Town. The island relies very much on tourism and this festival celebrates the start of the peak tourist season. Krabi heartily welcomes tourists with a grand show of energetic parades, colourful cultural performances, lively musical shows, boat races, and more.
Each year is brought to an end with The Chak Phra Festival. This celebration is in honour of the eightieth birthday of His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which was on the 5th of December 2007. The festivities include a bright and lively parade. The festival also aims to spread love and unity in the community by upholding religion, family and education.
