Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, is a fun and very wet festival typically held from April 13-15 although runs longer in some areas like Pattaya where the main day is the 19th. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are 10-15 practical tips to make the most of it:
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Prepare to Get Wet: Songkran is famous for its massive water fights. Bring a waterproof bag for your belongings and expect to be soaked head to toe day or night. There is no opting out and this is partly why some people dislike the event. Street vendors do sell waterproof bags but quality can vary.
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Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes like a swimsuit or rash guard with shorts. Avoid heavy fabrics or anything you don’t want ruined by water or colored powder. Be wary of trenchfoot, and choose footwear carefully. Some people wear earplugs. Don’t wear raincoats, it just makes you a bigger target.
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Protect Your Electronics: Use a waterproof phone case or pouch. Double-bag anything valuable in sealed plastic bags and keep them in a secure spot. Much of the water is chilled with ice which even with waterproof phones can cause damage. Leave anything valuable or susceptible to damage at home. Get a laminated passport card at any local print shop for a few baht and carry this or photos on your phone. Do not take out your actual passport. If you doubt your phone can handle hours of being hit by cold water, leave it at home.
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Get a Water Gun: Join the fun by buying a cheap water gun or bucket from local vendors. It’s part of the experience, and you’ll blend right in. However, even buckets or bowls are fine at many bars. High pressure guns, like the infamous blue pipes, are illegal and can hurt people. Stay away from them.
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Stay Hydrated: The festival happens during Thailand’s hottest month. Drink plenty of bottled water to avoid dehydration amid the heat and excitement. Many people including the author have had heat exhaustion sneak up. The ice water fools people easily.
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Respect the Culture: While it’s a playful event, Songkran has roots in Buddhist traditions. If invited, join locals in pouring water on Buddha statues or elders’ hands as a sign of respect. Experiencing the traditional and religious side of Songkran is highly recommended even if it doesn’t go viral like water fights.
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Plan Your Travel Early: Popular spots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya get crowded. Book accommodations and transport well in advance, as prices spike and availability drops.
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Avoid Peak Traffic: Roads can turn into water-fight zones, causing chaos. Walk or use public transport like tuk-tuks or songthaews where possible, and be patient with delays. Unfortunately many people throw water at motorbikes and these can be dangerous during Songkran.
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Wear Sunscreen: April’s sun is brutal. Slather on waterproof sunscreen and reapply often, especially if you’re outside all day.
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Bring Goggles or Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from water, powder, and the occasional splash of ice-cold liquid. Even a low worn hat is good.
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Know the Hotspots: Chiang Mai’s moat area, Bangkok’s Khaosan Road, and Pattaya’s Beach Road on the 19th, and Soi 7 and 6 other days, are epicenters for Songkran madness. Pick your spot based on the vibe you want—wild or chill.
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Watch Your Valuables: Pickpocketing can and does happen in the chaos. Keep cash and cards in a secure, waterproof pouch close to your body. Cutting the bags is common, keep it safe. Do not show off lots of money in your bags.
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Embrace the Powder: Some locals smear colored powder or white talc on your face as a blessing. Smile and go with it—it’s all in good fun.
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Pace Yourself: The party can last days, with late-night events in bigger cities. Rest when you can to avoid burnout.
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Learn Basic Thai Phrases: “Sawasdee pee mai” (Happy New Year) will earn you smiles and goodwill from locals.
Songkran can be a a blast if you dive in with an open mind. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the chaos!
