Resources & Information:
- Informational Site: Songkran Festival
- What is it?: A 3-day celebration commemorating the traditional New Year in Thailand & Southeast Asia. Since water symbolizes washing away sins & bad luck, participants douse each other with water from water guns, hoses, and buckets.
- When is it?: April
- Location: Thailand
Accommodations:
- Planning -- You should start planning your trip about 4-5 months in advance (Nov / Dec timeframe).
- All Options -- Look at all options including budget hotels, bed & breakfasts, vacation home rentals, and family & friends. We suggest trying AirBnB.
Celebrations in Bangkok:
- Silom Sub-district -- This area of Bangkok has the largest & wildest crowds with thousands of young Thais using anything that can spray water to douse passerbys. Firetrucks are posted at intersections unleashing their water canons.
- Khao San Road -- The entire length of this street turns into an enormous water fight, and there are bars, DJs, drinking, and dancing.
- Phra Pradaeng District -- A more traditional area, you can enjoy the Thai-Ramn flag ceremony, ‘saba’ game, Raman dances, boat races, floral floats parade, and more.
- Wisutkasat Area -- This area hosts a parade, beauty pageant, food fairs, and other fun activities.
Tips / Advice:
- Valuables -- Use water-proof bags for protection.
- Transportation -- Use public transportation to go to any of the hot spots as traffic will be at a standstill.
- Locals -- Embrace the local people, culture, and rituals. Wish locals a Happy New Year in Thai -- "Sawasdee Pee Mai!”
- Water Fighting -- Do not douse monks, babies, or the elderly. Do not throw ice or dirty water. And do not throw water at motorcyclists.
- Fun -- Enjoy yourself, and have a great time!
Cost:
$ $ $
Difficulty:
⚒ ⚒ ⚒
Bliss Level:
☺︎ ☺︎ ☺︎