One of the largest Thai festivals of the year occurs during the month of April, with the focus shifting from Bangkok onto the Northern city of Chang Mai.  In northern Thailand, Songkran is not just for Thai people; everyone is welcome with a smile and a bucket of water.  It’s a great time for tourist to visit, provide that you are happy to join in and get a good soaking.  The word “fun” is at the heart of Thailand culture, and this special occasion epitomize the country and its people.

It is virtuall impossible to stay dry during the festival , so much so that the few people who don’t have the spirit to join in often have to leave town.  Throughout the city on every street and in every alley, you’ll find children and adults confronting you with a loaded water pistol or bucket of water.

Those on motorbike or riding in a tuk-tuk are far from safe, and will likely arrive at their destination soaking we.

Most of the celebrations are centered around a square mile of the Old Town, and Chang Mai of Thailand historic moat is the perfect setting.  Once the festival begins, it turns into a huge water fighting venue and swimming pool, as throngs, of festival-goers line the adjoining street and grass banks of this famous attractive area.

The central area has a large number of taps installed for the duration of the festivities, and most of the bars and restaurants provide large contain of water.  Chiang Mai is without doubt the most popular place to celebrate Songkran in Thailand, and hoards of people from Bangkok arrive every year to join in the fun


Songkran is the official New Year on the Thailand calendar , and a time for people to join with their families to celebrate together.  There are many old traditions associated with the festival; such as the ritual spring cleaning of the house as the dusty dry season finally gives way to the rains.