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Songkran Festival Zone Planner
Songkran (April 13–15) is the world's biggest water fight. But "Songkran" means different things in Chiang Mai vs Bangkok vs Phuket. Pick the right zone for your crowd.
Pick your Songkran
What this solves
Family with 5-year-old in Khao San at 3 pm on Apr 13 = bad day. Same family in Phra Athit or Nang Loeng = wonderful.
How to read
- Family zones: Nang Loeng (Bangkok), Chiang Mai temples. Daytime only. No foam parties.
- Party zones: Khao San, Silom, RCA (Bangkok), Tha Pae Gate area (Chiang Mai). Foam + buckets + beer.
- Local authentic: residential soi. Less foreigner, more traditional water-pouring on elders' hands.
- Gear: waterproof phone pouch, quick-dry clothes, water shoes. Don't bring a DSLR.
Limitations
- Date extensions: Bangkok runs 1–5 days, Chiang Mai 3–7 days. Verify current year.
- Phuket Songkran is wet but smaller than mainland.
- Alcohol + water = injuries. Be careful.
FAQ
Is Songkran really just a water fight?
Originally it's a Buddhist new year: pouring water on elders' hands for blessing. The water fight is the modern export version. Respect both.
What should I pack?
Quick-dry shirt, swim shorts, water shoes (NOT sandals), waterproof phone pouch (40 THB at 7-Eleven), waterproof bag for documents. Don't bring valuables.