Top 10 Best Destinations to Celebrate Songkran in Thailand

Marc Tubelleja (Curious Bear) 14 min read

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I’ve been living in Thailand for years, and let me tell you—nothing compares to the country's very own Songkran Water Festival. Imagine an entire nation turning into one giant water fight, where locals and tourists drench each other in the streets, DJs blast music from every corner, and temples fill with people paying respect to Thai New Year traditions. It’s chaotic, meaningful, refreshing, and honestly? Absolutely legendary!

Songkran hits differently depending on where you celebrate it. Some cities throw wild street battles where you’ll be soaked within seconds (RIP to anyone wearing jeans), while others offer a laid-back mix of temple visits, cultural parades, and water blessings. Whether you’re looking for a nonstop party, a deep dive into Thai traditions, or a bit of both, there’s a perfect spot for you.

So, if you’re planning to visit Thailand in April, you’re in for a trip of a lifetime. And to help you make the best decision, I’ve rounded up the top 10 perfect destinations to celebrate Songkran—from the biggest street parties to hidden gems where you can experience Songkran like a true local. Let’s get into it!

What Exactly is Songkran in Thailand?

Before anything else, let me remind you. If you think Songkran is just about getting drenched in massive water fights, think again—it’s so much more than that. Songkran is Thailand’s official New Year, rooted in Buddhist traditions and ancient customs that go way beyond splashing strangers with buckets of ice water.

The word ‘Songkran’ comes from Sanskrit, meaning "the passage of the sun", marking the shift into a fresh new year. Traditionally, families would visit temples, pour water over Buddha statues, and gently sprinkle water on elders' hands as a sign of respect and blessings. Fast forward to today? Well, you still get all that—but now add neon water guns, street-wide parties, and an entire country turning into the ultimate battleground for fun.

While the official Songkran holiday falls between April 13–15, in reality, celebrations can last a whole week (or longer) in many places across Thailand. Some cities take it up a notch, turning Songkran into a multi-day festival of cultural performances, street markets, and next-level water fights that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

Expect epic water battles, vibrant street parades, temple ceremonies, and a country that transforms into one massive celebration of renewal and togetherness. Whether you’re here for the spiritual side or just want to get absolutely soaked in the madness, Songkran is an experience you’ll never forget.

Perfect Destinations to Celebrate Songkran

Songkran is everywhere in Thailand, but as I mentioned earlier, not all celebrations are the same. Some cities turn into full-on water war zones, while others take a more traditional, spiritual approach with temple visits and cultural rituals. Whether you want non-stop street parties or a more meaningful Thai New Year experience, there’s always a perfect spot waiting for you.

So, where should you be when Songkran kicks off? Here’s my personal list of the top places to celebrate Songkan, Thailand’s most exciting, refreshing, and unforgettable festival. 

#10 Phra Pradaeng

Just when you think Songkran is over, Phra Pradaeng (เทศบาลเมืองพระประแดง) says, “Not so fast!” While most of Thailand dries off after April 15, this spot—just a short ride from Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (Bangkok)—keeps the water fights going for an extra week. If you didn’t get enough action (or just want a second round), this is where you go.

But here’s what makes Phra Pradaeng special: it’s not just about the water fights. This area is home to Thailand’s Mon community, and they bring their traditions into the mix. Expect elaborate parades, traditional Mon dances, and a ceremony where people gently pour water over each other as a blessing (a far cry from getting blasted in the face with a super soaker on Khao San Road).

I’ll be honest—this isn’t the wildest Songkran you’ll find, but that’s what makes it cool. It’s a different side of the festival, with a strong cultural vibe, beautiful flower processions, and a slightly more chill atmosphere (until someone inevitably throws a bucket of water your way). If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-path Songkran experience without straying too far from Bangkok, Phra Pradaeng is a solid choice.

And let’s be real—an extra week of Songkran? Who’s saying no to that?

#9 Nakhon Si Thammarat

If you think Songkran is just about water fights and street parties, let me introduce you to Nakhon Si Thammarat (เทศบาลนครนครศรีธรรมราช)—where things take a seriously historical turn. This southern city doesn’t just celebrate Thai New Year; it brings in an ancient Brahmin ritual called Hae Nang Kradan, a tradition that dates back over 1,300 years. And let me tell you—it’s something you won’t see anywhere else in Thailand.

Hae Nang Kradan is a grand procession of sacred relics, where beautifully decorated rafts carry symbolic offerings through the city. It’s deeply spiritual, but don’t worry—it’s not all solemn ceremonies. You’ll still get your dose of Songkran-style fun, from bathing Buddha statues to marching bands, traditional parades, and, of course, street-wide water battles.

And let’s talk about the street food scene here—because if there’s one thing Southern Thailand does right, it’s spicy, flavorful dishes that hit differently. During Songkran, food vendors line the streets, serving everything from fiery curries to fresh seafood, making it the perfect spot for foodies looking to experience something beyond the usual festival chaos.

So, if you’re craving a mix of history, culture, and the signature Songkran madness, Nakhon Si Thammarat delivers big time. Plus, it’s a quick trip from Bangkok via Phetkasem Road, making it an easy add to your Songkran itinerary.

#8 Hat Yai

Hat Yai does Songkran differently—and I mean that in the best way possible. This city, right near the Malaysian border, attracts travelers from all over Southeast Asia, making it one of Thailand's most international Songkran celebrations. If you’re looking for a festival vibe with a mix of Thai locals and international tourists, Hat Yai is where you want to be.

What makes Hat Yai stand out? The energy here is next-level. The entire city turns into a massive water zone, with giant foam parties, DJs blasting music, and endless street battles. Expect crowded streets, people dancing in the middle of water fights, and an atmosphere that feels more like a Southeast Asian music festival than a traditional New Year’s celebration.

But it’s not all chaos—Hat Yai also keeps some traditions alive, with Buddhist ceremonies, water blessings, and cultural performances happening alongside the main festivities. And if you’re a shopaholic, you’ll love how Songkran coincides with some of the best shopping deals in the city’s famous markets and malls.

I must say that Hat Yai’s Songkran is wild, welcoming, and full of surprises. Whether you want to party in the streets, soak in some Thai-Malaysian culture, or just experience a Songkran with a twist, this southern city guarantees an unforgettable time.

#7 Koh Samui

Now, if you dream of celebrating Songkran with your feet in the sand, a coconut in one hand, and a water gun in the other—Koh Samui (อำเภอเกาะสมุย) is your spot. This tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand takes Songkran celebrations to the beach, making it one of the most scenic places to get drenched during Thai New Year.

The vibe in Koh Samui? Fun, lively, but a little more laid-back compared to Bangkok or Chiang Mai. Picture this: water fights spilling onto the beaches, beachfront bars setting up splash zones, and tourists, locals, and expats all joining in for a friendly water war. Chaweng Beach is where you’ll find the biggest parties, while Lamai Beach offers a slightly more relaxed, family-friendly celebration.

And, of course, it’s not just about getting soaked—Koh Samui mixes traditional and modern Songkran with merit-making at temples, colorful street parades, and cultural performances. Plus, when you need a break from all the water madness, you can just chill on a white sandy beach, explore waterfalls, or hop over to Ang Thong National Park.

If you want a balance between party and paradise, Koh Samui’s beachfront Songkran is as unforgettable as it gets. Think of it as the ultimate water festival meets tropical island escape—because why not have both?

#6 Ayutthaya

If you’re looking for a Songkran celebration with a touch of history, Ayutthaya (Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya เทศบาลนครพระนครศรีอยุธยา) is where ancient Thailand meets the New Year festivities. This UNESCO World Heritage City, once the grand capital of the Kingdom of Siam, turns its centuries-old temples into the backdrop for one of Thailand's most unique Songkran experiences.

While you’ll still get plenty of splashing and street-wide water fights, what makes Ayutthaya unique is the mix of tradition and fun. You’ll see locals making merit at temples, pouring water over Buddha statues, and participating in cultural performances and parades that give you a glimpse into Thailand’s past.

But let’s talk about the real highlight: Songkran with elephants. Yup, in Ayutthaya, you might just find yourself getting soaked by a playful elephant armed with its own built-in water hose. The Ayutthaya Elephant Palace & Royal Kraal is known for letting these gentle giants join in on the water fights—just be prepared to get drenched in the most unforgettable way possible.

For travelers who want a Songkran that’s both cultural and ridiculously fun, Ayutthaya is a must-visit. Between historical ruins, temple blessings, and elephants casually turning the streets into a splash zone, this city offers one of the most unique and photogenic Songkran celebrations in Thailand.

#5 Khon Kaen

Now, if you’re looking to experience Songkran with an authentic Isaan (Northeastern Thailand) twist, Khon Kaen (เทศบาลนครขอนแก่น) is the place to be. This city takes its celebrations up a notch, turning its streets into a five-day extravaganza of water fights, cultural parades, and some of the best Isaan food you’ll ever taste.

Unlike the nonstop party vibes of Bangkok or Pattaya, Khon Kaen blends tradition and fun effortlessly. The festival officially kicks off with a grand parade featuring traditional Isaan music, beautifully decorated floats, and cultural performances that give you a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. The energy here is unmatched, and locals go all out with their celebrations.

One of the biggest highlights? The massive water fight on Si Chan Road. This is Khon Kaen’s version of Khao San Road, where everyone—locals, tourists, and even entire families—gather with water guns, buckets, and hoses to soak each other in pure Songkran madness.

And let’s not forget the food. If you’re a foodie, this city will ruin you in the best way possible. Songkran here means market stalls packed with grilled meats, spicy som tam (papaya salad), sticky rice, and Isaan-style sausages—the kind of flavors that keep you coming back for more.

If you want a lively yet cultural Songkran experience that gives you a taste of Isaan’s vibrant traditions, amazing food, and legendary hospitality, Khon Kaen should definitely be on your list.

#4 Phuket

If you’ve ever dreamed of celebrating Songkran on a tropical island, where the streets are just as wild as the beaches, Phuket (เทศบาลนครภูเก็ต) is where you need to be. This place turns into a full-on festival zone in April, blending crazy water fights, high-energy parties, and stunning seaside views—because why not get soaked while surrounded by some of the world’s most beautiful beaches?

The main action happens on Bangla Road in Patong, where Songkran transforms the city’s most famous party street into a nonstop battlefield of super-soakers, DJs blasting music, and tourists from every corner of the world dancing under waterfalls of ice-cold water. It’s chaos, fun, and everything you’d expect from Thailand’s biggest islands.

But if packed party streets aren’t your thing, Phuket still has you covered. Many locals and visitors head to the temples for traditional Buddhist ceremonies, water blessings, and merit-making activities, giving you a chance to experience the spiritual side of Songkran before diving into the madness.

And let’s not forget the beaches—because nothing beats cooling off in the Andaman Sea after a full day of water fights. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant street party or a more relaxed, beachfront Songkran experience, Phuket offers the best of both worlds.

#3 Pattaya

If you thought Songkran only lasted a few days, Pattaya (เมืองพัทยา) is here to prove you wrong. This city doesn’t just celebrate—it stretches the party for an entire week with its legendary Wan Lai Festival, making it one of the longest and most epic Songkran experiences in Thailand.

Picture this: beachfront water fights, massive foam parties, live DJs, and fireworks lighting up the night sky. Walking Street and Pattaya Beach Road turn into nonstop splash zones, where locals and tourists battle it out with super soakers, hoses, and buckets of water—because in Pattaya, no one stays dry.

But Songkran here isn’t just about the chaos. If you wander away from the madness, you’ll find temple ceremonies, traditional Thai dance performances, and cultural processions highlighting the city’s more profound connection to the festival. Pattaya blends modern party vibes with cultural traditions, so whether you’re looking for an all-out Songkran beach bash or a chance to experience the Thai New Year through a more local lens, you’ll find it here.

Oh, and did I mention the foam machines? Because, trust me, Pattaya takes things to the next level.

#2 Chiang Mai

If Songkran had a capital, it would be Chiang Mai (เทศบาลนครเชียงใหม่). No joke—this city turns the entire Old Town into one giant, city-wide water fight, and it’s one of the most famous and traditional places to celebrate the Thai New Year. Want to experience Songkran at its absolute peak? This is where you go.

The heart of the action is the Old City Moat, where locals and tourists gather with buckets, water guns, and hoses, turning the historic walls into a non-stop splash zone. If you’re standing anywhere near the moat, prepare to get drenched—even if you’re just an innocent bystander (there’s no such thing in Chiang Mai during Songkran).

But Chiang Mai doesn’t just go wild with water fights. The city also keeps the spiritual side of Songkran alive with temple visits, Buddha statue processions, and almsgiving ceremonies where people make merit for the new year. If you want to witness the traditional heart of Songkran, head to local temples like Wat Phra Singh to see how locals pay respect to Thai traditions.

Top spots to experience Songkran in Chiang Mai:

• Thapae Gate
  • The central battle zone is where the biggest crowds gather.
    
    
• Nimmanhaemin Road
  • A mix of water fights and street parties with a trendy vibe.
    
    
• The Old City Moat
  • The longest-running, most iconic Songkran location in Thailand.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Miss Songkran beauty pageant and the grand Songkran parade on Charoenmuang Road—because Chiang Mai doesn’t just celebrate Songkran, it perfects it.

#1 Bangkok

Finally, if you want the most intense, high-energy, and full-throttle Songkran experience, Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, กรุงเทพมหานคร) is the place to be. The Thai capital transforms into a massive, city-wide party, where you’ll find everything from insane water fights to cultural festivities all happening at once.

The city’s two main battlegrounds for Songkran are:

• Khao San Road
  • The ultimate backpacker party zone, where the streets turn into a non-stop water war. Expect loud music, neon water guns, and crowds that don’t hold back.
    
    
• Silom Road
  • A wilder, bigger version of Khao San, packed with thousands of people, giant water cannons, and full-on street-wide battles. If you love organized chaos, this is your spot.

But if you’re looking for a more traditional way to celebrate, head to Sanam Luang, where you can witness sacred Buddha image processions, make merit at temples, and experience Songkran in a more spiritual setting.

At the end of the day, Bangkok is the best of both worlds—it’s got the wildest Songkran parties, the most vibrant cultural celebrations, and an electric atmosphere that makes it the top destination to ring in the Thai New Year. If Songkran is on your bucket list, Bangkok should be right at the top.

🍀 Curious Bear Tip: Want to level up your Songkran experience? Head to Bangkok's biggest and most popular malls like Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, and ICONSIAM, where you can enjoy the fun without melting under the heat. Many places have staged water zones, music festivals, and even foam parties.

Top 10 Recap: Best Destinations to Celebrate Songkran in Thailand

Ready to dive into the ultimate Thai New Year celebration? Here’s a quick roundup of the best places to experience Songkran in Thailand—from wild street battles to cultural gems that bring a unique twist to the festival.

🐻 Enjoy Songkran in Thailand's Best Places!

Have you decided to celebrate Songkran in Thailand this April? It is essential for local Thai people and all visitors as it is a unique and enjoyable season. However, if you hope to visit Thailand to celebrate Songkran and if you are in search of the perfect destinations to enjoy the festivity, my curated list may give you some significant insights into where to go.

So, are you ready to get soaked, have the time of your life, and welcome the new year the Thai way? Pack your bags, grab your best waterproof gear, and let’s make this Songkran one for the books! It will be an experience that sticks with you for life.

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🐻 Reminder from The Bear Group

This article is updated as of March 2025. We keep this guide fresh and accurate so you can experience Songkran in Thailand like a pro. Celebrations, travel costs, and event details can change due to seasonality, government updates, and tourism trends. While we do our best to provide reliable information, we recommend checking local sources for the latest information on events, accommodations, and transportation before your trip.

All images in this article comply with GDPR and copyright regulations. We prioritize using original and credited visuals to bring the Songkran spirit to life. If any updates are needed, The Bear Group will ensure accuracy and proper attribution.

Experience like a true local 🇹🇭 Plan smart. Travel happy. And get ready to be soaked! 💦