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Cultural · Bangkok, Chiang Mai, nationwide, Thailand

Songkran (Thai New Year)

“The world's biggest water fight — 3-day Thai New Year celebration”

Songkran is Thai New Year — the world's biggest water fight taking over Thailand April 13-15. Chiang Mai has the wildest celebration (5 days). Bangkok's Khao San Road becomes a lakeside war zone. Historically, water symbolises washing away the past year's bad luck.

Upcoming dates

Next
2027
April 13-15 (Bangkok) / April 13-17 (Chiang Mai)
Tuesday-Thursday
Following year
2028
April 13-15 (Bangkok) / April 13-17 (Chiang Mai)

April 13-15 nationwide (fixed dates). Chiang Mai extends to April 17. Full Songkran week extends April 12-18.

Duration
3 days nationwide (5 days in Chiang Mai)
Crowd
Massive — Bangkok
Budget/day
$80-160 mid-range (double normal)
Book ahead
3+ months

Booking + planning tips

Best for: Party travellers + families with kids + photographers
  • ✓Book Chiang Mai flights + hotels 2-3 months ahead — everything sells out
  • ✓Waterproof phone case is essential — you WILL get soaked
  • ✓Do not bring anything valuable/damageable out on the streets
  • ✓April is Thailand's hottest month (38-40°C) — Songkran water is welcome relief
  • ✓Some businesses close April 13-15 for holiday — restaurants may have limited hours

Book hotels for Songkran (Thai New Year) 2027

Prices spike + hotels sell out during this event. Book 3+ months ahead.

Fly to Chiang Mai International (or Bangkok BKK/DMK)

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Airport transfer

Getting out of Bangkok (CNX)

Skip the taxi rank and lock in your fare before you land.

Pre-book a fixed-price transfer

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Driver waits at arrivals with your name, tracks your flight, and the price you see is the price you pay. English-speaking, fixed price. No surge, no haggling at 2am.

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Frequently asked

When is Songkran 2027?
April 13-15 (fixed dates nationwide). Chiang Mai extends the celebration to April 17. Some regions start April 12.
Where is the best place to celebrate Songkran?
Chiang Mai has the biggest + wildest celebration (5 days). Bangkok Khao San Road + Silom Road are epic in a Bangkok way. Phuket has beach-focused celebration.
Is Songkran family-friendly?
Yes during the day — kids love the water fights. Evenings become more party-focused with alcohol. Family-friendly zones exist in Chiang Mai Old City.
What should I wear for Songkran?
Clothes you don't mind getting soaked. Waterproof phone case essential. Waterproof shoe covers or flip-flops. Change of clothes for evenings.
How far in advance should I book for Songkran?
3 months minimum. Chiang Mai hotels sell out 4-6 months ahead. Flights climb 6 weeks before peak.