Where to Celebrate
Songkran
STORY
See & Do
Songkran, the Thai New Year festival, is one of the most exciting and culturally rich celebrations in Thailand. Held annually from April 13 to 15, this nationwide event marks the traditional solar new year and is best known for its festive water fights, symbolizing the washing away of misfortunes and welcoming a fresh start.
Beyond the exhilarating water battles, Songkran holds deep spiritual significance. Many Thais visit temples to offer alms to monks, pour scented water over Buddha statues for blessings, and pay respects to elders by gently pouring water on their hands. Each region of Thailand embraces Songkran with its own distinctive traditions, creating a unique experience for travelers seeking both fun and cultural immersion.
From the lively streets of Bangkok to the traditional festivities in Sukhothai, Songkran transforms Thailand into a countrywide celebration. Here are some of the best places to experience the festival.
Bangkok: The Heart of Songkran Festivities
As Thailand’s bustling capital, Bangkok offers a wide variety of Songkran experiences. Khao San Road is the epicenter of the city’s wildest water fights, attracting tourists and locals for non-stop splashing and partying. Silom Road, another hotspot, turns into a water-soaked battlefield with thousands of revelers armed with water guns. For a more family-friendly atmosphere, major shopping malls such as ICONSIAM and CentralWorld host Songkran-themed events, featuring traditional performances, cultural activities, and water play zones.
Koh Kret: A Traditional Mon Songkran
Located on the Chao Phraya River in Nonthaburi, Koh Kret is a small island known for its Mon community, who have preserved their traditional Songkran customs. Unlike the raucous water fights in major cities, Songkran on Koh Kret emphasizes cultural and religious activities, including sand pagoda building, temple visits, and traditional dance performances. It’s a great place to experience a more laid-back and authentic version of the festival.
Ayutthaya : A Unique Songkran with Elephants
The ancient capital of Ayutthaya offers a Songkran experience unlike any other. Here, visitors can witness elephants playfully spraying water at festival-goers, creating a memorable and picturesque scene. The historical setting, with its majestic ruins and temples, adds a touch of cultural charm to the celebrations. Tourists can also participate in traditional activities, such as making merit at temples and enjoying folk performances.
Chiang Mai: The Ultimate Water Festival Experience
Chiang Mai is often regarded as the best place to celebrate Songkran due to its vibrant mix of modern festivities and traditional customs. The city’s famous moat (Khu Muang) becomes the main battlefield, where people splash water from buckets, hoses, and water guns. Aside from the lively water fights, Chiang Mai also hosts a grand procession of the revered Phra Buddha Sihing statue, allowing locals and tourists to take part in traditional rituals and receive blessings for the new year.
Pattaya & Bangsaen : Never Ending Songkran Festival
Pattaya takes Songkran to another level with its extended celebrations, known as the Wan Lai Festival, which continues even after April 15. The city’s beaches and streets become lively hubs of entertainment, featuring parades, concerts, and large-scale water fights. Bang Saen Beach and Naklua in Chonburi also host similar festivities, offering an extended period of Songkran enjoyment.
Patong, Phuket: Beachside Water Fights
Phuket’s most exciting Songkran action takes place on Bangla Road in Patong Beach, where revelers engage in wild water fights late into the night. The festival atmosphere is heightened by music, dance performances, and lively parties. Those looking for a more cultural experience can visit local temples, where traditional Songkran ceremonies take place.
Khon Kaen: The Fun of Khao Niew Road
Khon Kaen is the heart of Songkran in northeastern Thailand (Isan), with its main festivities concentrated on Khao Niew Road (Sticky Rice Road). The city is known for its friendly and energetic celebrations, featuring live music, street performances, and plenty of water-throwing fun. The Isan cultural elements, including traditional music and dance, make Songkran in Khon Kaen a unique experience.
Sukhothai: A Classic and Cultural Celebration
As the birthplace of Songkran, Sukhothai offers a more traditional and serene celebration. The festivities here are centered around the Sukhothai Historical Park, where visitors can engage in cultural performances, pay respects at ancient temples, and participate in merit-making ceremonies. The historic backdrop enhances the festive spirit, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a meaningful Songkran experience.