A Guide To Songkran

Songkran: Thailand’s Ultimate Water Festival

Every April, Thailand bursts into a nationwide water fight, welcoming the Thai New Year with Songkran. It’s more than just a fun-filled event; it’s a deeply rooted tradition that blends ancient customs with modern celebrations. Whether you're visiting Thailand or just curious about this spectacular festival, here’s everything you need to know about Songkran, from its history to essential do’s and don’ts.

The History of Songkran

Songkran originates from the Sanskrit word “Saṃkrānti,” meaning ‘astrological passage.’ Traditionally observed as the New Year before Thailand adopted the Gregorian calendar, Songkran remains a cherished cultural celebration. The festival marks the end of the dry season and is a time for renewal, reflection, and family reunions. Water plays a crucial role in symbolizing purification and washing away bad luck from the past year.

How Songkran is Celebrated

Songkran is a multi-day event with different customs observed throughout Thailand:

April 13: The first day, also known as the National Elderly Day, is a time when younger generations pay respects to elders by pouring fragrant water over their hands in a ritual called Rod Nam Dum Hua.

April 14: The second day, Family Day, sees people returning home to spend time with their families and make merit at temples.

April 15: The main day of celebration, when streets become water battlegrounds and everyone, young or old, participates in the festivities.

Apart from the water fights, people visit temples to make merit, offer food to monks, and perform Song Nam Phra, a water-pouring ceremony over Buddha statues for blessings.

Songkran Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do’s:

Dress appropriately – Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes, and consider a colourful floral Songkran shirt to blend in with the festive vibe.

Protect your valuables – Use a waterproof bag or pouch to safeguard your phone, money, and important items.

Respect local traditions – Take part in temple activities, such as water-pouring rituals, to fully embrace the cultural aspect of Songkran.

Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen – April is one of Thailand’s hottest months, so protect yourself from heat exhaustion.

Be mindful of road safety – Songkran celebrations can make streets chaotic, so take extra precautions if traveling by motorbike or car.

❌ Don’ts:

Avoid throwing water at monks, the elderly, babies, or motorcyclists – Be considerate and ensure the fun remains respectful.

Don’t wear revealing clothing – While it’s a lively festival, it’s still a cultural and religious event.

Refrain from using ice-cold or dirty water – The water fight is meant to be a joyful experience, not an unpleasant one.

Don’t engage in aggressive behaviour – Songkran is about joy and respect, so avoid any rough play or excessive force.

Best Places to Celebrate Songkran

Songkran is celebrated nationwide, but some places stand out for their extravagant festivities:

Bangkok: The capital’s Khao San Road and Silom Road turn into massive water party zones packed with both locals and tourists. Khao San Road is famous for its backpacker crowd, while Silom offers a lively street party atmosphere with thousands of people armed with water guns.

Chiang Mai: The city’s old moat provides an endless supply of water, making it one of the best places to experience Songkran. Streets around Tha Phae Gate become the epi-center of festivities, and you’ll see locals and visitors alike engaging in playful water battles.

Phuket: Patong Beach becomes a giant water fight with music, parties, and parades. Bangla Road is particularly vibrant, with bars and clubs joining in the celebration, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a mix of fun and nightlife.

Pattaya: Celebrations here extend beyond the official three days, often lasting up to a week. Beach Road and Walking Street become the focal points of the fun, with live music, foam parties, and cultural performances adding to the excitement.

Ayutthaya: For those looking for a more traditional Songkran experience, Ayutthaya offers celebrations that include water fights with elephants. The historical park is a great place to witness a mix of heritage and modern fun.

Final Thoughts

Songkran is a unique festival that offers an unforgettable experience of Thai culture. Whether you’re there for the wild water fights or the traditional ceremonies, understanding its significance and customs will make your experience even more enjoyable. Just remember to respect local traditions, embrace the spirit of the festival, and, most importantly, have fun!

Will you be celebrating Songkran this year? Let us know your favorite Songkran memory in the comments below!