What is Songkran?
Celebrate Songkran, Thailand’s most famous festival marking the Traditional Thai New Year, with vibrant water-filled festivities. The heart of Songkran is the symbolic act of washing away misfortune and welcoming fresh beginnings, as people splash water to cleanse the past year’s negativity and invite good fortune.
The word Songkran comes from the Sanskrit term saṃkrānti, meaning “to step into,” symbolizing a new phase both spiritually and culturally. Across Thailand, streets turn into lively arenas where locals and visitors join spirited water fights using buckets, hoses, and water guns. This joyful tradition reflects the Thai spirit of unity, generosity, and celebration.
Amid laughter and splashing, Songkran fosters camaraderie and goodwill, transcending age, status, and nationality. It is a cherished highlight of Thailand’s cultural calendar and a must-experience event for anyone visiting Bangkok in April.
When is Songkran Festival 2026?
Thailand's Songkran festival spans three days from 13 - 15 April 2026. This world-famous water festival in Thailand is one of the most anticipated cultural events, drawing millions of visitors from around the globe. During these three days, Bangkok and other major cities will come alive with water-splashing activities, cultural performances, and community celebrations that highlight Thailand’s rich heritage and warm hospitality. Songkran is a unique experience that symbolizes cleansing, renewal, and unity. Plan your trip to Songkran in Thailand 2026 and enjoy one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic festivals.
How Do Locals Celebrate Songkran Festival?
Visit Buddhist Temples
One of the most meaningful Songkran traditions in Thailand is visiting Buddhist temples to start the Thai New Year with blessings. Many locals begin their day by paying respects at sacred sites, and some even aim to visit nine major temples in one day for good fortune.
At these temples, worshippers offer food and gently pour water over the hands of monks, a symbolic act of purification and respect. In Bangkok, famous temples such as Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Boworn, and Wat Benchamabophit draw large crowds during Songkran, reflecting the festival’s deep cultural and spiritual significance.
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Bathe Buddha Statues
Celebrate Songkran Festival in Thailand with reverence through the traditional ritual of Song Nam Phra, which means bathing Buddha images. This sacred practice involves gently pouring scented water over Buddha statues to cleanse away misfortune and invite blessings for the Thai New Year.
Locals perform this ritual to show respect and devotion, embracing the spiritual essence of Songkran. Bathing Buddha statues symbolizes purification, renewal, and a fresh start, making it one of the most meaningful Songkran traditions in Thailand. This practice enriches the cultural heritage of the festival and reflects the Thai people’s deep-rooted values of faith and harmony.
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Pay Respect to Elders
During Songkran Festival in Thailand, one of the most cherished traditions is Rod Nam Dam Hua, a ritual that symbolizes respect and gratitude toward elders. Many Thais travel back to their hometowns to reconnect with family and honor parents and grandparents during the Thai New Year celebrations.
In this heartfelt ceremony, younger family members gently pour scented water over the palms of their elders as a gesture of respect and seek blessings for health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead. This practice strengthens family bonds and upholds the values of filial piety, unity, and harmony, making Songkran a deeply meaningful cultural celebration.
Where to Celebrate Songkran in Bangkok, Thailand?
Silom Road
One of the most popular spots to celebrate Songkran Festival in Bangkok is Silom Road, located in the heart of the city’s bustling business district and nightlife hub. During Songkran, Silom transforms into a lively water-splashing zone filled with music, laughter, and endless fun. EDM beats add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for young travelers and party enthusiasts.
The entire stretch of Silom Road is closed to traffic, creating the ultimate playground for Songkran water fights. While taxis may be hard to find, visitors can easily access Silom via MRT Silom Station or BTS Sala Daeng, ensuring a convenient and unforgettable experience in Bangkok’s urban hub of Songkran celebrations.
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Khao San Road
For Songkran Festival 2026, Khao San Road is one of Bangkok’s most iconic destinations for water festivities. Known worldwide as a water-fighting hotspot, this lively street draws massive crowds, especially backpackers and international travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
The entire stretch of Khao San Road bursts with water stalls, buckets, and water guns, along with vendors offering white paste for traditional blessings. Bars and street food stalls line the road, while live DJ music keeps the energy high, creating a non-stop party atmosphere. If you want to immerse yourself in the joyous spirit of Songkran, Khao San Road is the ultimate place to be.
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Siam Square
Siam Square is one of the best places to celebrate Songkran Festival 2026 in Bangkok, offering a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. Known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, and tutoring schools, Siam Square is the heartbeat of Bangkok’s modern lifestyle and a favorite hangout for students, families, and Bangkok’s new generation.
During Songkran, this bustling area transforms into a lively water-splashing zone where revelers of all ages come together for festive fun. With its central location and energetic vibe, Siam Square is the perfect spot to experience the excitement of Songkran water fights while enjoying Bangkok’s stylish urban scene.
Stay at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection by IHG to Enjoy Songkran Festival 2026 from the Center of Bangkok
Experience the vibrant energy of Songkran Festival 2026 from the heart of Bangkok with a stay at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection by IHG. Situated a mere 400 meters from BTS Chidlom and BTS Ratchadamri stations, our luxury hotel provides seamless access to the city's most popular destinations and festivities. Indulge in the comfort of our 393 meticulously designed rooms and suites, tailored for savvy travelers seeking both style and convenience. As you immerse yourself in the spirited celebrations of Songkran, return to your home away from home at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection, by IHG, where our special staycation offers ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience during this festive season. Enjoy the best of Songkran in Bangkok, Thailand while relishing the unparalleled hospitality and amenities of our esteemed hotel.