Songkran Splendour

SONGKRAN is a Thai traditional New Year Day which falls on April 13 - 15 every year. It is one of the most important festivals that is celebrated not only in Thailand but also in neighbouring countries such as Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Songkran is also called the Water Festival, a festival which is believed to wash away all bad omens during this time. Traditionally, the activities on Songkran Day begin in the early morning when Thai Buddhists go to the temple to make merits by offering food to monks and listening to the Dhamma talks. In the afternoon, Thai Buddhists sprinkle scented water on Buddha images. During this time, the younger people ask blessings from the elders and pour scented water over their elder's hands. In return, the elders wish them good health, happiness and prosperity.

The Songkran Festival also allows one to show respect to one's elders. Additionally, anyone who goes out on the street is likely to get a thorough soaking. The splashing water over friends or anyone will give them a New Year blessing.

Bangkok Grand Songkran Festival:
Rattanakosin Island, Bangkok

The Buddha image Phra Buddhasihing is brought out from the National Museum for people to sprinkle lustral water at Sanam Luang, opposite the Grand Palace. There are also art and cultural performances, demonstrations of Songkran in the four regions, demonstrations of Thai traditional cooking and paying homage at the nine sacred temples which is the highlight of this event.

Chiang Mai Songkran Festival:
Chiang Mai City, Chiang Mai Province

There are many activities during this famous event, for example, the procession and bathing of Phra Buddhasihing, riding a Kang Chong (A northern vehicle), carrying sand to the temple and cultural performances. The tourists also enjoy the fun splashing of water around the moat of Chiang Mai which is very famous and popular for both Thais and foreigners.

Hatyai Midnight Songkran Festival:
Odeon Intersection,
Sanehanuson Road, Niphat Uthit 3 Road, Hatyai District,
Songkhla Province

The activities during this event include the procession of Songkran at midnight, foam party, merit-making by offering food to the monks and Songkran beauty pageant. In addition, paying respects to the elders by pouring scented water and the procession of Phra Buddhasihing are also very important to local people.

Songkran On The Beach: Patong Beach, Phuket Province

There are the procession of Phra Buddhasihing around Patong beach, floral parade, cultural performance and Songkran beauty contest. Along the beach during the event, people will have fun with splashing of water at each other.

Other venues of major celebrations:
Ayutthaya, Chon Buri, Khon Kaen, Samut Prakan, Sukhothai.
Contact : TAT Bangkok Office : +66 2250 5500 ext 3485-9
E-mail : eplandiv@tat.or.th
Website : www.songkran.net