Bangkok’s biggest temple fair returns for 13 days this November

Good news – the Golden Mount Temple Fair is back at Wat Saket for 13 days and 13 nights, November 17-29.

The date to circle is November 17. Following the opening ceremony, a procession carries a long red cloth up Phu Khao Thong and wraps it around the bell-shaped spire, a ritual passed down through generations. Join the crowd tackling the 300-odd steps to pay respects to the Buddha relics enshrined there, then catch your breath on the terrace overlooking the Old Town.

Back at the bottom, the compound fills with stalls and charcoal smoke. Graze your way past moo ping skewers, crispy hoi tod sizzling on griddles, khanom krok straight from the pan and plastic bags of sugary cha yen with a straw poking out. Between snacks, flick through racks of cheap T-shirts, throw darts at balloons for an oversized teddy or squeeze aboard the rickety rides your parents probably remember.

Turn up after dark, when the heat eases and the bulbs flicker on. Wear comfy shoes, bring small notes and pace yourself – you'll want room for dessert.

The Golden Mount Temple Fair runs November 17-29 at Wat Saket, Bangkok.