Throughout Southeast Asia from about April 13th-April 16th the massive water festival Songkran takes place. Songkran is actually Buddhist New Year and in many places like Thailand has evolved into a water gun fight that takes place throughout the streets. One of the most exciting and active places to experience Songkran is in Bangkok.
Here’s everything you need to know about Songkran in Bangkok, from where to go, the ground rules, and how to have the best time of your life.
Songkran In A Soggy Nutshell
Buckets of water, hoses, and of course oversize water guns it’s hard to describe how widespread the soaking is during Songkran. (That’s what the video here is all about.) From the moment you walk out the door, at any hour, you are subject to getting water sprayed, splashed, and dunked on you by anyone on the street. You either accept it or don’t go outside during Songkran. You too however are free to shoot, spray, and splash back, with some exceptions.
Songkran Rules
A few groups of people are exempt from getting water thrown on them. This list of groups includes monks, the elderly, babies, people in shops and stores, as well as workers at food stalls or outside. People who may have trouble moving through disability as well shouldn’t be wet unless they’re participating. It take a bit of common sense but when you’re out during Songkran, you’ll quickly be able to figure out who’s in and those groups you shouldn’t throw water on.
Don’t shoot people in the eyes and don’t shoot drivers (especially those on motorbikes) either. Be thoughtful and observe how locals around you are behaving and you shouldn’t run into any trouble. Lastly, it’s not an official rule but try not to get the water in your mouth because chances are it’s not clean. Bringing along a towel or goggles to protect your eyes from water is also not a bad idea.
Where To Enjoy Songkran
I did say that Songkran happens across Bangkok but there are some hot spots. You can start at Wat Pho, one of the biggest temples in the city to see the religious side of Songkran. There’s music, offerings, as well as music and food. Songkran at Wat Pho is a laid back experience but it does get crowded so you can arrive early to avoid the peak times.
Another Songkran hot spot is Khaosan Road, the notorious backpacker street. Here Songkran is a full on party with lots of tourists in the mix. During the day it’s hectic and at night it can be described as mild chaos as the music (and drinking) all get turned up. Khaosan Road during Songkran is not for the faint of heart.
You can also go to Silom Road, which is even more crowded and a local favorite place to celebrate. There’s a beautiful barrage of water from all angles with large crowds, plenty of food and shops around to refuel and probably the best place to enjoy Songkran if you want to go all in. For a more family atmosphere there’s Siam Square where it’s known as “white Songkran” since alcohol is not served here. You still get the crowds but more kids so if you have little ones it might be the best spot for you.