What is Songkran?
Quick answer
Songkran is the Thai New Year, celebrated in Thailand each year from April 13 to 15. It’s famous for huge water fights in the streets, but its roots are in gentle traditions of cleansing, respect for elders and making merit at temples. UNESCO listed Songkran as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023.
The word Songkran comes from Sanskrit and means “passing” or “moving,” referring to the sun moving into the zodiac sign of Aries, which marks the traditional new year.
Traditions
| Tradition | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Rod nam dam hua | Pouring scented water over the hands of elders to show respect and ask for blessings |
| Bathing Buddha images | Gently pouring water over statues at temples for good luck |
| Making merit | Giving food to monks and visiting temples |
| Building sand pagodas | Bringing sand to temples to replace sand carried away on people’s feet during the year |
| Water fights | The modern, playful version of the cleansing ritual |
Water fights
Today, streets turn into giant water battles, with people using water guns, buckets and hoses. Some celebrants also dab white chalk paste (din sor pong) on others’ faces, a blessing believed to protect against bad luck.
Famous places to celebrate include Chiang Mai, where the festival often lasts longer, and Silom Road and Khao San Road in Bangkok.
Tips for visitors
- Expect to get soaked: use waterproof bags for phones and passports.
- Don’t throw water at monks, babies, older people or anyone who clearly doesn’t want to join.
- Avoid throwing ice water or water at moving motorbike riders.
- Roads are especially dangerous during Songkran; many accidents happen, so take extra care.
Similar festivals in the region
| Country | Festival |
|---|---|
| Laos | Pi Mai |
| Myanmar | Thingyan |
| Cambodia | Choul Chnam Thmey |
| Yunnan, China (Dai people) | Water-Splashing Festival |
For other colorful festivals, see what Holi is and what La Tomatina is. Getting around by tuk-tuk in Thailand? See what a tuk-tuk is.
Still curious?
Jump to a random question from the archive.