Discover Songkran, the Thai New Year

Every year, April 13th marks the beginning of the Thai and Buddhist New Year. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, April is the perfect time to experience this colorful and vibrant celebration. Expect ceremonies, giant water fights, and joyful festivities throughout the country. While in some places the event lasts just a day, in several provinces and especially in the north, like Chiang Mai, the celebrations can stretch over seven days!

Traditions & Customs

More than just a festival, Songkran is a time of gratitude, forgiveness, and spiritual blessing. It is an opportunity to reflect, honor loved ones, and start the year with a light and peaceful heart. Families gather to visit temples and take part in prayer rituals.

Originally, Songkran was celebrated through Buddhist and family traditions. Thai people would prepare fragrant water, called Nam Ob, made from nutmeg, citrus, and flowers. This scented water was gently poured over the hands of elders and over Buddha statues as a sign of respect. The gesture was meant to wash away past mistakes. This meaningful tradition continues to be practiced, now blending with more lively and modern festivities such as the famous large-scale water fights in the streets.

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Giants water fights

During Songkran, the streets across Thailand turn into a massive festive playground. Water battles break out on nearly every corner, bringing together locals and travelers, young and old, in a joyful and refreshing atmosphere. Armed with water guns and buckets, everyone joins in the fun with enthusiasm to celebrate the Thai New Year in the most playful way possible. This tradition goes beyond simple entertainment. Water is a symbol of purification, used to "wash away sins" and welcome the new year with a peaceful mind.

Thai people also enjoy carrying small buckets filled with a colorful paste, made from talcum powder and water. They gently apply it to the cheeks of passersby as part of the joyful celebration. This custom has its roots in Buddhist blessing rituals. Traditionally used by monks to protect and bring good fortune, it has become a symbolic and festive gesture, shared with a smile.

More than just a festival, Songkran is a true ritual of renewal, where water purifies, smiles unite, and Thailand celebrates its soul.

When and where to celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year?

The Thai New Year is officially celebrated on April 13th, but the festivities often continue until the 15th, and even longer in some provinces like Chiang Mai. While Songkran is celebrated nationwide, certain destinations are especially known for their spectacular events. We recommend the following provinces :

Chiang Mai is considered one of the best places to celebrate Songkran. The festivities usually last an entire week and include parades, live concerts, and massive water fights that fill the old city,
Bangkok is also a popular destination, with numerous organized events across the city and huge crowds gathering in areas like Silom Road or Khao San Road,
For a more laid-back, tropical vibe, head to islands like Phuket or Koh Samui, where Songkran is celebrated with beach parties, water games, and sunset fun.