Everything you need to know about Songkran 2024

Songkran, the world’s famous water festival also known as Thai New Year, filled with water fights, cultural events and good-natured revelry. This festival celebrates annually from 13-15 April across the country. The streets of Thailand transform into a lively battleground of water warriors, with locals and tourists alike sharing in the fun.

What is Songkran?

Songkran is a centuries-old festival with roots in the Buddhist tradition of washing away sins and bad luck from the previous year.

Today, it has evolved into a lively water festival filled with street parties, traditional ceremonies, parades, music, dancing, and epic water fights. Thais and travelers alike take to the streets armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses to drench each other in good-natured fun.

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Best cities to celebrate Songkran in Thailand

While Songkran is celebrated nationwide, certain cities in Thailand are particularly famous for their unique Thai New Year festivities. Here are the top Songkran destinations:

Bangkok

Thailand's capital city lights up during Songkran with major street parties on Khao San Road and Silom Road. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with water fights, music, dancing and traditional ceremonies at temples. Bangkok is one of the best cities for Songkran celebrations.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai hosts perhaps the most spectacular Songkran experience in Thailand. The ancient moat surrounding the old city provides an endless water source for epic water fights. Cultural highlights include the grand parade with Buddha images, beauty contests and traditional performances. Chiang Mai is a must-visit Songkran city.

Pattaya

This seaside city extends the Thai New Year celebration with a unique water festival following the official Songkran dates. Pattaya's Wan Lai festival keeps the party going with beach road water fights, foam parties and concerts. It's the place to be for a longer Songkran holiday.

Khon Kaen

The biggest city in Isaan is known for its fantastic Songkran water fights on Khao Niew Road. Enjoy cultural activities too like the parade, monk alms giving, folk music and more. Khon Kaen provides a wonderful mix of tradition and water play fun.

Phuket

Thailand's largest island combines the traditional with the modern, making it a perfect Songkran destination. Patong Beach hosts lively water fights while Phuket Town has cultural ceremonies. Experience the best of both worlds for Thai New Year in Phuket.

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Where to join Songkran water fight in Phuket

Phuket is one of the best cities in Thailand to experience Songkran, combining traditional festivities with modern beach parties. Here are the top areas to join water fight in Phuket;

Patong Beach

The heart of Songkran action in Phuket, Patong Beach and Bangla Road come alive with massive water fights, foam parties, and music. Bangla Walking Street is closed for traffic and transformed into a lively pedestrian zone filled with revellers armed with water guns. Popular venues like Bangla Boxing Stadium, Seduction Nightclub, and Tiger Disco join in the water-soaked celebration. And don't miss the epic water battle in front of Jungceylon and Central Mall just right next to Bangla.

Phuket Town

For a more cultural Songkran experience, head to the historic Phuket Old Town. Enjoy street food and local delicacies at the special Songkran markets. Thalang Road hosts a retro-themed celebration with classic cars, live music and old-fashioned water play. Phuket Town is the place to appreciate the heritage of Songkran.

Kata and Karon Beach

These popular west coast beaches offer a more laid-back, family-friendly Songkran vibe, but still with plenty of water play fun. The main roads through Kata and Karon turn into water fight zones with locals and tourists joyfully splashing each other. Many beachfront bars and restaurants host their own Songkran parties. It's a great option for those seeking a more relaxed Songkran atmosphere.

Soi Ta-iad, Chalong

Known as Phuket's fitness street, Soi Ta-iad in Chalong is lined with gyms and Muay Thai training camps. During Songkran, it transforms into a unique water fight location popular with young locals, expats and tourists into health and fitness. Gym members and trainers gather in front of their facilities to splash water and celebrate. The energy is high and the water battles are endless. It's an off-the-beaten-path Songkran experience.

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Songkran tips for 2024

Respect cultural traditions

While Songkran is known for its boisterous water fights, it's important to remember the festival's cultural and religious significance. When visiting temples to make merit or witness ceremonies, dress modestly in clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering temple buildings. Refrain from splashing water inside temple grounds or at monks and elderly people. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Use public transportation or join Songkran tour

Many roads in Thailand’s cities become congested during Songkran due to water fight-induced traffic jams and road closures. Avoid the hassle of navigating these wet and wild streets by using public transportation. Better yet, join an organized Songkran tour that includes transportation to the best celebration spots and local insights from experienced guides.

Enjoy the local Songkran Delicacies

Songkran is not just about water play, it's also a time to enjoy traditional Thai New Year dishes and snacks. Don't miss the chance to try classic Songkran treats like Khao Chae (rice soaked in cool jasmine water), Kanom Krok (coconut rice pancakes), and Khanom Tom (Thai Coconut Balls). Street food stalls and markets offer a variety of festive flavours to sample. Indulge in the delicious tastes of Songkran.

By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to fully immerse yourself in the joy and excitement of Songkran Festival. Embrace the wet and wild experience while staying safe, respecting local traditions, and creating unforgettable memories.

What to wear for Songkran Festival

During Songkran, getting soaked is not just inevitable; it’s part of fun. Embrace the water-soaked experience by wearing quick-drying clothes like board shorts, tank tops, and flip-flops. Avoid heavy fabrics like denim that will weigh you down when wet. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho for added protection. And don't forget to bring a waterproof bag or pouch to keep your essentials dry while you join in the water fights.

Songkran Festival Safety tips

With the excitement of Songkran, it's easy to forget basic safety and self-care. Here are some essential tips to stay safe while having a blast:

• Leave valuables like expensive electronics, jewelry, and important documents safely stored at the hotel. Only carry essentials in a waterproof bag or pouch.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water between water fights. Pace yourself and take breaks in the shade, as the festivities can last for days.
• Be cautious of slippery surfaces and uneven roads when running around. Look out for your friends and fellow revelers.
• Apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Thai sun.

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Songkran Tour in Phuket

Cassia Phuket’s Songkran Wet Wheel Tour

The Best Phuket Songkran truck tour, climb abroad Cassia Phuket’s iconic, open-air local truck (Pho Thong) and get ready for and adrenaline-fueled, heart-thumping ride to the island’s wildest Songkran splash spots.

The epic journey departs from Cassia Phuket and hits these insane wet spots:

·        Phuket Town

·        Soi Ta-ied Thai Boxing Street, Chalong

·        Kata Beach

·        Karon Beach

·        Patong Beach

Date:

Saturday, 13 April 2024

Time:

14:00 – 21:00 hrs.

Start Point:

Cassia Phuket

Trip Inclusions:

·        Water Gun

·        Protection Glasses

·        Water Resistant Bag

·        Full-Day Insurance

·        Towel

·        Security Guard

·        English and Russian Speaking MC