Bangkok backpacker haven Khao San Road to close from noon to 8pm for Songkran

Khao San Business Association today announced that the Bangkok backpacker haven will be closed for business between noon and 8pm every day so revellers can enjoy the Songkran celebrations. Businesses, bars and restaurants will reopen as usual straight after the 8pm cut off.

Khao San Business Association President Sanga Ruangwattanakul revealed that the closure of Khao San Road, for the first full-scale Songkran party since 2019, from Thursday to Saturday for water-splashing events, will generate 30-40 million baht a day, Bangkok Post reported. Sanga said…

“Business operators on Khao San Road and nearby areas have prepared activities to mark the return of celebrations.

“This morning, an alms-giving ceremony and pouring of scented water on Buddha statues will be held, followed by a dragon dance staged by people from communities in Phra Nakhon district.

“Authorities have allowed shophouses to turn on music and set aside areas for water splashing, but there will be no stages on the road itself.

“Authorities will be on hand to ensure the safety of partygoers, checking people for weapons and any attempts to smuggle in alcohol. Also, on the banned list this year is nudity, revealing clothing, powder smearing and high-pressure water guns.

“About 30,000 to 40,000 Thai and foreign tourists are expected on Khao San Road, each spending an average of 1,000 baht a day during Songkran.

“Hotels in the area are already 70% full.”

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said yesterday that Silom Road would not be closed for Songkran, but people would be free to splash water and indulge in other fun-filled activities as usual. Chadchart said…

“There are 198 spots all over the capital earmarked for people to enjoy water battles, and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will coordinate with police to ensure everyone stays safe.”

Khao San Road isn’t the only place celebrating the Thai New Year. One of Bangkok’s biggest Songkran Festival celebrations will be held in front of the BMA City Hall near the Giant Swing and Phadung Krung Kasem Canal.

For anyone who is in Thailand for the Songkran Festival, the 198 events can be checked via the NICEMap: https://th.riskmap.org/