Songkran
- Thailand News
Phrae authorities foil Songkran festival illegal timber smuggling
Authorities in the province of Phrae intercepted a major illegal timber operation, thwarting an attempt to smuggle wood past checkpoints in a bid to supply factories ahead of the busy Songkran festival. The bust, which took place today, April 9, is part of an intensified crackdown on illegal logging activities in the region. The operation, led by the director of…
- Thailand News
Fun drought: Songkran water festivities scaled back, says tourism minister
Despite earlier announcements, the traditional water-splashing activities during the Songkran festival in Thailand will not run throughout the entire month-long celebration, according to Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the Tourism and Sports Minister. The minister clarified that although the festival activities were scheduled from April 1 and set to end by the month’s close, water-splashing was not part of the whole duration. Sudawan…
- Thailand News
Smog shock: Chiang Mai claims ‘top’ spot in global pollution woes
Chiang Mai today topped the smog charts as the world’s most polluted city. The northern region of Thailand continues to be ensnared by a thick smog, causing serious health concerns for residents and visitors. The monitoring website IQAir highlighted Chiang Mai as the city with the worst air pollution levels at 9.20am. The fine dust levels were recorded at an…
- Thailand News
Bangkok prepares for Songkran with 1,600 safety officers
The Songkran festivities in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, are set to have more than 1,600 officials and volunteers on guard. This safety measure is particularly aimed at tourist hotspots like Khao San and Silom roads. The Phra Nakhon District Director, Kosol Singhanat, anticipates a substantial influx of tourists in three key areas during the holiday, namely Khao San Road, Sanam…
- Phuket News
Chilling in Phuket: Airport assures cool comfort amid AC tune-up
Phuket International Airport officials have given passengers assurances that despite two of the four main air-conditioning units undergoing maintenance, temperatures will remain comfortable within the terminals. This maintenance is being carried out in anticipation of an increase in passenger traffic over the Songkran holidays. The maintenance announcement was made by Airports of Thailand at Phuket Airport (AoT Phuket) on Saturday,…
- Pattaya News
Pattaya police assure safety for Songkran festival
Pattaya’s police force made an impressive display on April 5, in a bid to assure both locals and tourists of their safety in the lead-up to the much-awaited Songkran festival. The show of strength was led by Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, Suphaset Chokchai, who marshalled a parade of officers and volunteers through Pattaya to illustrate their readiness…
- Thailand Hotels
Where to stay in Bangkok this Songkran 2024: The best hotels
If you’re planning to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant celebrations of Songkran in Bangkok this year, it’s essential to choose the right accommodation to make the most of your experience. From April 13 to 15, the city bursts into joyous water fights as locals and visitors come together to celebrate the Thai New Year. So, to make sure you…
- Press Room
Celebrate Songkran at Siam Paragon Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024
Siam Paragon, a ‘World-class shopping destination’ and a top-of-mind destination for Thais and visitors from across the globe, is teaming up with KASIKORNBANK Public Company Limited to host world-class summer happenings “Siam Paragon Ultrasonic Water Festival 2024, Songkran Lobster Wonderland by Philip Colbert.’ The event will showcase an iconic art installation by world-renowned British Pop Art artist Philip Colbert, known…
- Thailand News
Thai airports expecting a surge in arrivals during Songkran
During the Songkran festival, around 2.61 million passengers are expected to be welcomed across six Thai airports, as reported by the Transport Ministry. This forecast was made by Transport Minister Suriya Juengrungreangkit following a recent meeting. Suriya highlighted that the ministry had issued directives to the Airports of Thailand (AoT), as well as all other transport-related agencies, to prioritise passenger…
- Phuket News
Phuket reveals Songkran festival plans featuring music festival
Phuket officials yesterday revealed their plans for the upcoming Songkran festival celebrations, with two major events scheduled to take place in Cherng Talay and Rawai. The Alive Beach On Cloud Songkran Music Festival is set to be held at the Blue Tree complex in Cherng Talay from April 13 to 15. On April 13, a merit-making ceremony and water festival…
- Thailand News
Immigration officials gear up for Songkran rush at Thai border
The head of the Immigration Police and the chief of Immigration Division 6 recently inspected the Sadao and Padang Besar border checkpoints in Songkhla province. The inspection took place yesterday at 10.30am as part of a drive to ensure the readiness of the immigration facilities in anticipation of the increased flow of tourists during the Songkran festival, which marks the…
- Business News
Thai Tourists undeterred by Taiwan earthquakes for Songkran
Despite Taiwan experiencing its most significant earthquake in a quarter of a century and a series of tremors in Japan, Thai tourists are undeterred and continue with their planned holidays during the Songkran period. Charoen Wangananont, President of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), revealed that the majority of Thai tourists had already secured their tour packages, flight tickets, and…
- Thailand News
Governor warns of fuel station scams this Songkran
To safeguard consumers against potential exploitation during the upcoming Songkran festivities, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s provincial authorities have unleashed a new campaign. Led by Deputy Governor Komkrit Charoenpatanasombat, the crackdown aims to ensure fair pricing at fuel stations across the province. Accompanied by a team of officials including Siriwan Kanasorn, Nopadol Suwongpradit, and Chanthip Niamprad, inspections were conducted yesterday, to prevent…
- Events
The Story of Songkran – All about the Thai New Year
Songkran, or the Thai New Year, is the the largest and most famous of Thailand’s many traditional festivals. Known for huge water fights and water blessing ceremonies, it’s been celebrated for centuries and is rich in culture and tradition. Every year, the celebrations begin on April 13 and normally last three days until the 15th of April. The name was…
- Travel
Tips for your Songkran in Phuket 2024
Thinking about spending Songkran in 2024 in Phuket? You’re in for a treat! Songkran is the Thai New Year, a time full of fun, water fights, and special moments. It happens in April, when everything feels fresh and bright. Phuket, with its beautiful beaches, friendly people, and exciting places to see, is a fantastic spot to join in the celebrations.…
- Things To Do
Everything you need to know about Songkran
Thailand celebrates its New Year every April with the world’s wettest festival, Songkran. It is the world’s largest water festival, when everyone, including children, adults, friends, and strangers, gathers to get soaked. Although it’s widely known as the ‘Water Festival‘ among foreigners, Songkran is actually deeply rooted in traditions. In fact, it’s one of the most important events in the…
- Things To Do
Why you should spend your Songkran in Chiang Mai 2024
Thailand’s most-awaited holiday- Songkran- is approaching! This nationwide holiday celebrating the Thai new year provides us with an opportunity to have our much-deserved break while making memories with our loved ones. Songkran means “to move forward” in Sanskrit. Where do you want to leap forward to the Thai new year? Why not welcome the new year in Chaing Mai, The…
- Guides
Sawasdee pi mai – The four days of Songkran 2024
Despite the annual celebrations, water fights and parties being mostly side-lined this year, Songkran goes on for 2024, albeit in a much-subdued form. Many Thais have decided not to head home, but others have already headed out of the city centres to their homes to be with their families. The best we can do for Songkran 2021 is be happy,…
- Thailand Travel
How to spend your Songkran at Hua Hin 2024
Are you looking for your ideal getaway for the upcoming Songkran Holidays? Do you fancy an escape to the beach? Hua Hin is a fantastic destination to visit in Thailand to celebrate Songkran. It is the nearest beach to Bangkok, only 3-4 hours drive away. So, save yourself some valuable time and travel expenses. Hua Hin is also a popular…
- Things To Do
Where to eat this Songkran in Bangkok 2024
It’s Songkran season, and you know what that means: a feast to remember! Whether you’re gearing up for a water-splashing frenzy in the heart of Bangkok or just looking to savour some scrumptious eats under the Thai summer sun, the city has a number of restaurants serving up special feasts for Songkran 2024. Below, we’ve rounded up the top 5…
- Events
Celebrate songkran in style with ‘Songkran Splash Away Tropical Edition’ at W Bangkok
Immerse yourself in a tropical oasis as W Bangkok presents ‘Songkran Splash Away – Tropical Edition’, an exciting pool party happening on 13 – 14 April 2024, from 3pm to 9pm. Bringing together the spirit of Songkran with a touch of tropical flair, this two-day event promises an unforgettable experience with fun beats in the city centre, the perfect venue…
- Pattaya News
Thai health pushes for alcohol-free Songkran celebrations
The Thai Health Promotion Foundation, StopDrink Network (SDN), and other relevant agencies conducted a press conference on Monday to deliberate on the celebration of Songkran in a manner that prioritised enjoyment, safety, and the absence of violence. Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy Manager of Thai Health, emerged as one of the prominent speakers at the event. Pairoj ardently advocated for the celebration…
- Cannabis
Cannabis at Songkran: A blend of tradition and innovation in Thailand
As the Songkran festival nears, one may ponder the role of cannabis in Thailand’s most colorful and water-centric celebration. With the Thai New Year heralding a time of joy and festivity throughout the nation, Phuket’s Cannabis Cafe is preparing to ensure that your celebrations are enhanced with an exceptional selection of cannabis. Whether you are a resident or a visitor,…
- Thailand News
Songkran festival sees Rama II Road works delay till June 2025
Thailand’s transport minister announced that construction delays on Rama II Road will persist during the upcoming Songkran festival. Despite efforts to expedite the work, the completion date is now set for June 2025. The minister assured that compensation will be paid to the contractors to encourage faster progress. Government spokesperson Suriya Jungrungreangkit addressed the state of transportation during the Songkran…
- Thailand News
Thailand waives tolls for Songkran festival to ease travel costs
The Thai Cabinet approved a toll exemption for vehicles on Motorway No. 7 and Motorway No. 9 during the seven-day Songkran festival period to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate convenience for travellers. The exemption will be in effect from 12.01am on April 11 to midnight on April 17, in time for the country’s traditional new year celebrations. The decision was…
- Thailand News
Don Mueang Airport prepares for Songkran holiday travel spike
Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport gears up for an influx of approximately 625,000 passengers during the Songkran holiday period, which runs from April 11 to 17. It expects over 4,000 flights, marking a substantial 10.58% rise from the previous year’s data. Don Mueang Airport General Manager Wichit Kaewsaitiam attributed this surge to the government’s strategic policies aimed at bolstering domestic…
- Songkran News
ICONSIAM’s ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION’ promises 12 Days of joy through water splashing and cultural activities
In celebration of the Songkran Festival’s prestigious recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, has collaborated with the government including the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Culture, Tourism Authority of Thailand, The Government Public Relations Department, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, The Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade…
- Thailand News
Migrant workers get free pass home for Songkran celebrations
To ease the journey home for migrant workers from Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced yesterday that they will be exempted from re-entry fees if they wish to return to their home countries to celebrate Songkran between April 1 and May 15. The decision, greenlit by the policy committee on the management of alien workers, aims to…
- Phuket News
Phuket gears up for alcohol-free Songkran at Limelight mall
The bustling town of Phuket is gearing up to host its annual Songkran celebration at the Limelight shopping mall, with officials confirming this year’s event will once again be alcohol-free. Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat formally announced the official plans during a recent press conference. Scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 13, between 4pm to 10pm, the celebration will unfold…
- Thailand News
Toll-free motorway unveiled for Songkran holidays
Motorists are set to enjoy a toll-free journey on the newly announced Intercity Highway Number 81 (M81), disclosed Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachot yesterday. With 97.5% completion, the highway promises to revolutionise travel during the long Songkran break. Surapong highlighted its pivotal role in easing travel woes for residents of Kanchanaburi and neighbouring provinces. “The M81 Highway will be a…
- Business News
Thailand anticipates American tourism influx due to Songkran
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is anticipating a robust tourism influx from North and South America this year, with a projection of at least 1.5 million tourists – a figure that mirrors the 2019 statistics. This surge is attributed to the confluence of the Songkran celebrations and the Easter holiday in April. Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle…
- Thailand News
Six airlines to offer discounted flights for Songkran holiday
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) confirmed that six airlines will introduce 104 additional flights, offering a discount of approximately 20% for early morning and late night domestic flights during the Songkran holiday. This move is designed to offer a more economical travel option for holidaymakers. The announcement was made yesterday by the Deputy Director-General of CAAT, Sarun Benjanirut.…
- Business News
Thailand’s visa exemption sparks rise in travel bookings to China
The visa exemption agreement between Thailand and China has sparked a significant rise in bookings from Thai travellers. During the Songkran holiday through May, airlines and tour operators noted an uptick in Thai passengers on some routes outnumbering their Chinese counterparts. Chotechuang Soorangura, Vice President of the Thai Travel Agents Association, highlighted the robust sales of tour packages to China…
- Thailand News
Bangkok ramps up safety with tech for Songkran Festival
Ramping up safety measures for the upcoming extended Songkran Festival, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has proposed an increase in the deployment of cutting-edge technology. Adit Ngamjitsuksri, an advisor to Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, shared on Tuesday that the BMA has instructed the Traffic and Transportation Department to enhance surveillance by installing additional CCTV cameras along the popular Khao San…
- Thailand News
Thailand announces extra holiday to boost Songkran economy
Thailand’s financial sector is set to benefit from an additional public holiday, as declared by the Royal Thai Government Gazette. The special holiday is part of a government initiative to facilitate travel flexibility and stimulate the tourism, service sectors, and the overall economy during the Songkran festival. This move aligns with the Cabinet’s decision from February 13, and marks a…
- Transport News
Thai minister vows to improve Rama 2 Road traffic ahead of Songkran
The quality of traffic on Rama 2 Road in Thailand is set to improve ahead of the Songkran Festival, as promised by the Thai Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, on February 27. The vow comes in the wake of a delay in the road’s construction, a setback attributed to the impact of Covid-19 on the contractors in charge of the…
- Business News
High airfares dampen Songkran holiday spirit
Despite the extended Songkran holiday, a surge in outbound trips is not anticipated, mainly due to high airfares and deflation risk concerns. This perspective comes from travel agents who predict that the 21-day Water Festival campaign is more likely to entice foreign tourists than the local market. Kriangphon Piyaekchai, the vice president of the Thai Travel Agents Association, explained that…
