If you’ve never heard of Songkran, think of it as Thailand’s New Year celebration – but with a serious splash. This three-day festival (April 13-15) is one of the country’s wildest events. Picture a national water fight, street parties, cultural traditions and a whole lot of fun wrapped up into one unforgettable experience.
When we were in Thailand for Songkran, we stuck to the main streets of Karon in Phuket during the day. Our hotel was perfectly located, so it was easy to pop out, soak in the fun and head back when we needed a break. The vibe was lively, yet still family-friendly with water fights and music. But once dinner was done, and the kids were happy chilling back at the hotel, Sukh and I hit up Bangla Road in Patong. Let me tell you – if you think the daytime action is wild, wait until the night. Neon lights, thumping beats and a high-energy vibe turned it into a whole other level of fun.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Thailand in April, it’s the perfect time to dive into the culture (pun intended!). And while you’re soaking it all in, why not check out some of the other incredible experiences Thailand has to offer? From the Krabi Hot Springs (check out my tips and secrets for those) to the stunning replicas at Muang Boran (my ultimate guide is the one to read), there’s so much more to explore.
Songkran is definitely an experience you won’t forget. If you’re planning to go this year, this Songkran survival guide covers everything you need to know to enjoy the festival to the max – from what to expect to what to pack – and a few stories from my own wet adventure!
What Is Songkran?
Songkran marks the start of the Thai New Year. The word ‘Songkran’ comes from the Sanskrit word Sankranti, which means ‘to move’ or ‘transition.’ Traditionally, the festival was all about cleansing and renewal, with water being the main tool to wash away bad luck and welcome good fortune.
These days, Songkran may feel like it’s more about the epic water fights but its cultural roots are still alive and well. Families visit temples, pour water over Buddha statues and take part in Rod Nam Dum Hua. This ritual involves pouring scented water over the hands of elders to show respect.
In the mornings, we got a taste of the more traditional side of Songkran near our hotel in Karon. Locals were visiting temples and building sand pagodas. It was such a peaceful way to kick off the day – and we were lucky enough to catch some of the rituals before the water battles took over the streets.
What to Expect During Songkran
1. Water Fights Everywhere
The highlight of Songkran? Hands down, the water fights. Streets turn into full-on battlegrounds where no one is safe. Armed with water guns, hoses and buckets of ice-cold water, people soak anyone and everyone in sight.
To be honest we weren’t sure what to expect. At first I was quite taken aback that a random person launched buckets of water at us as we were heading for lunch at a restaurant. But we quickly understood that it’s all part of the fun and got stuck in.
The kids had an absolute blast joining in the water fights on the main streets. It was the perfect balance of family fun and local vibes – lots of laughs but without the business of the bigger spots like Patong.
By night, though, we swapped Karon for Bangla Road in Patong. If you’ve ever been to Bangla Road, you know it’s already a hotspot for nightlife. But during Songkran? It’s next level. Neon lights, thumping music and water fights on steroids. Everyone – young and old – was out dancing in the streets, water guns in hand. The party atmosphere was electric.
2. Street Parties and Music
Songkran isn’t just about water fights. It’s a full-on celebration of life – music, dancing and food are all part of the mix. The streets come alive with performances, DJ sets and food stalls serving up everything from pad Thai to mango sticky rice.
In places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the vibe is electric. But even in smaller spots like Karon, you’ll find locals and tourists soaking up the fun. When night hits, Bangla Road turns it up to 11—literally. Sukh and I got swept up in the neon-lit madness, dodging water streams and dancing along to the beats. The energy was infectious.
3. Cultural Traditions
While the modern celebrations are wild, the cultural side of Songkran is just as special. Temples host meaningful ceremonies and families gather to show respect to their elders.
If you’re in Chiang Mai, make sure you catch the grand parades. They showcase stunning Buddha statues and traditional Thai costumes – such a beautiful reminder of the festival’s deep roots. It really adds a layer of meaning to the whole experience.
How to Dress for Songkran
So let’s get into this Songkran Survival Guide, Dressing for festival is all about practicality because when the water fights start, you’ll be drenched from head to toe. You want to stay comfortable, dry off quickly and still have the freedom to move around and enjoy the festivities. Here’s what you need:
- Quick-Drying Clothes: Lightweight T-shirts and shorts are ideal. Cotton and synthetic blends work well. I regretted being out in denim shorts!
- Swimwear: Wear a swimsuit underneath your clothes – you’ll thank me later. This is something I really wished I’d done!
- Comfortable Shoes: Flip-flops or waterproof sandals are a must. Avoid sneakers unless you want soggy feet. Again I wasn’t prepared and was wearing my nice leather sliders. I’d definitely go in croc flip flops next time. They’re comfortable to walk in and waterproof.
- Bright Colours: Songkran is a celebration, so embrace the festive vibe with bold, cheerful outfits.
- Waterproof Accessories: Keep essentials like your phone, money, and ID safe in a waterproof pouch.
What to Pack for Songkran
A little preparation goes a long way, especially when you’re diving into the chaos of water fights and street parties. You’ll want to make sure you’re well-equipped to keep the fun going without any hiccups. Here’s a packing list to keep you ready for the festivities:
- Water Gun: Pick one up at a local market or convenience store. Trust me, you’ll want to join the action. We bought ours while we were out there and brought it home with us!
- Waterproof Phone Case: Essential for capturing memories without ruining your device.
- Dry Bag: Perfect for storing valuables while you’re in the splash zone.
- Sunscreen: April in Thailand is hot, so protect your skin.
- Towel: A quick-dry towel is handy for drying off before entering restaurants or temples.
- Spare Clothes: Keep a dry set of clothes handy for when the day winds down.
Songkran Survival Tips
To make the most of Songkran and stay safe while having a blast, keep these survival tips in mind:
- Be Ready to Get Wet: No matter where you go, you will get soaked. Embrace it and enjoy the fun.
- Respect Local Traditions: While the water fights are playful, remember that Songkran is also a deeply cultural event.
- Stay Hydrated: With all the excitement and heat, it’s easy to forget to drink water. Carry a reusable bottle with you.
- Avoid Driving: Roads can be chaotic during Songkran, so stick to public transport or walk.
- Plan Ahead: Popular spots like Khao San Road and Bangla Road can get crowded. Discuss a meeting spot with your group in case you lose each other in the crowds.
Where to Celebrate Songkran
Chiang Mai
The heart of traditional Songkran, Chiang Mai offers the perfect mix of cultural rituals and lively celebrations. The moat around the old city turns into a water fight zone, while temples host beautiful ceremonies that showcase the festival’s deep cultural roots.
Where to Stay: Anantara Chiang Mai Resort – A riverside retreat with luxury amenities, ideal for relaxing after the Songkran excitement.
Bangkok
Bangkok goes all out for Songkran. Khao San Road brings a fun, backpacker vibe, while Silom offers a more local atmosphere. Both are perfect for getting soaked and joining in the fun.
Where to Stay: Capella Bangkok – A luxury riverside retreat along the Chao Phraya River. It combines sleek modern design with Thai heritage, offering a serene escape from the Songkran chaos. Close enough to the action but perfect for recharging after a day of water fights.
Phuket
In southern Thailand, Phuket’s Bangla Road is the ultimate party spot during Songkran. The mix of water fights, nightlife, and beach vibes makes it a must-see destination.
Where to Stay: Amari Phuket – Located near Patong Beach, it’s perfect for easy access to Bangla Road, plus it offers ocean views and a more laid-back atmosphere when you want to chill.
If you’re planning your trip around Songkran, knowing the dates and choosing your location wisely will make all the difference. Songkran 2025 will be celebrated from April 13-15, though in some areas, the festivities spill over into extra days of water fights and fun.
Booking Tips
- Accommodation: Hotels in popular areas book up fast during Songkran. Try to secure your stay at least 2-3 months in advance.
- Transport: Plan ahead for flights and intercity travel. Some routes get busier during the holiday period, so it’s best to reserve seats early.
- Pack Smart: Don’t forget waterproof pouches for your belongings and light clothing that can handle a good soaking.
Songkran is one of those experiences you just have to see to believe. It’s the perfect mix of culture, chaos and celebration. Whether you’re in Karon enjoying the family-friendly vibes or heading to Patong for an all-out party, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re planning to join the fun, this Songkran survival guide has everything you need to know to make the most of the Thai New Year. For us, it was the perfect balance of family fun during the day and a little adults-only adventure at night. The atmosphere was electric, and the memories we made will definitely stay with us. If you’re lucky enough to be in Thailand for Songkran, you’re in for one wild ride.
Want to see it all in action? Watch my reel for the highlights of our Songkran adventure. You won’t want to miss it!
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