Songkran - what to pack and what to expect?
Updated: 3 days ago
When I decided to go to Thailand I really didn't know about Songkran.
I only knew that I wanted to start in northern Thailand and make my way down to the south.
When I arrive on 9th of April to Chiang Mai I discovered two things:
1) There is water festival called Songkran
2) There is still 'burning season' (read about it here).
I didn't have a strict plan so at the same time I could fully enjoy the Festival.
Saying that I want to share with you all details about that festival so if you will decide to go there one day you will be well prepared.
What Songkran is?
Songkran is one of the most exciting and meaningful celebrations in Thailand.
Known around the world for its enormous water fights, and from my own experience it is much more than people throwing water at strangers in the streets.
Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year, a time for cleansing from all bad luck of the old year, a fresh star to the New Year, is about spend time with family, about to give mutual respect and to have a good fortune.
When is celebrated?
The official Songkran holiday is usually celebrated from 13–15 April every year.
Local celebrations can last longer.
Festival transforms cities and towns across Thailand into lively, joyful celebrations.
Where to celebrate?
I was lucky to celebrate Songkran in Chiang Mai.
Why?
Because Chiang Mai is a water capital of Songkran. So the whole city transform in one big water container.
You can celebrate Songkran in Bangkok or Phuket too.
To be honest, all of Thailand takes part in this festival, but not every place lets you experience the true atmosphere of Songkran.
So the choice is yours if you want to go crazy during that time or if you want to be far from 'water'.
How to prepare?
This part is really important and will help you a lot to not worry about small things.
I will list for you all that you have to have if you want to be comfortable at the festival before you arrive. Of course everything you can buy at the Festival but this is the last thing you want to worry about once you are there.
1) Water gun - definitely buy it on arrival. You don't want to carry your water gun before festival and after festival. I left my water gun at my homestay after festival so they can use it next year. You can buy your water gun on the street and at the street markets. Prices vary. Depends what is your need. But don't be stingy if you want to go crazy at the festival.
I needed to buy two guns because I was stingy and my first gun broke after maybe 1 hour of using it. So have a budget around 20Euro to really, really have something nice.
2) Waterproof phone pouch - if you want to carry your phone with you, and even if your phone is waterproof, the phone pouch is a must have without considering it. Trust me is a lot of water from different sources, dirt, and clay so protect your phone.
3) Waterproof fanny pack - if you want to keep money, documents, or other small items with you, this is another essential item that will save you from worry.
4) Clothes and shoes - wear lightweight clothes that dry quickly and comfortable sandals with good grip so you don't slip. I had a cap and I think it saved my eyes and face many times especially from dirty water, you can of course wear sunglasses but I didn't want to be uncomfortable or brake them. Choose what suits you best.
5) Accommodation - if you know you are going to Songkran book your accommodation in advance. And try to stay not in the city centre. I stayed like maybe 20 - 30 minutes walk form the main venue and it was perfect because during the night I had a silence and peace which you need after all day of madness.
6) Respect - I'm not going to lie, there is no chance of staying dry in the main areas where the fun takes place. So, feel free to go wild there, but show some restraint and respect on quieter streets and near to Temples. Don't douse people who don't want it. You could try aiming symbolically just at their legs, but leave it at that. It works both ways: if you don't want to get splashed anymore, simply make that clear, and people will respect it.
Where to refill water during water fight?
You can fill your gun with water practically anywhere. There are plenty of water barrels along the street at your disposal. People also use water from the river. Personally, I’ve never had any trouble filling my water gun. Just be prepared, though—the water can be ice-cold. Ice is used to chill it, which adds to the fun.
Remember, a huge amount of water flows around at the festival. A huge amount of water will also be pouring over you—constantly, ceaselessly. There are traffic jams, noise, music, honking, and crowds of people. At some point, it might get exhausting, so try to take a break for a few hours to calm your nervous system.
After all, it’s about having a good time and making wonderful memories.
I recommend you to see Songkran on my YouTube channel...
Travel freely. Explore simply. Inspire to wander.
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