Songkran runs April 13–15 nationally, but some districts stretch it to a full week. Every corner of the country becomes a water fight. It's genuinely fun. It's also a magnet for scammers, overpricing, and hostels that quadruple rates.
The three districts worth showing up to
- Silom Bangkok — the biggest street party, closed to traffic, foam machines every 50m
- Chiang Mai Old City moat — locals fill trucks from the moat, drive around throwing buckets, most authentic vibe
- Khao San Bangkok — chaos, backpackers, super-soakers, not for the sensitive
How to prepare
- Waterproof phone pouch (฿100 at 7-Eleven, ฿400 at the airport)
- Wear quick-dry shorts + shirt you don't love
- Leave passport at the hotel, take a photocopy
- ATM/cards go in the pouch or stay at the hotel
The real Songkran rule: if someone smears wet clay-water paste on your face, that's a blessing, not vandalism. Smile, say korp khun, keep moving.
How to opt out
Not everyone wants to spend three days soaked. Book a Mergui-adjacent island stay Apr 11-16 and you'll be in a place where Songkran barely happens. Ang Thong marine park + Koh Samui south coast are both quiet.
The overpricing question
Domestic flights spike 2-3x. Hotels in Chiang Mai / Bangkok are booked out by January. Book 60+ days ahead or use our Songkran Early-Bird code (LOMA-SONGKRAN-18, 18% off + water-fight kit).
