Songkran

  • Things To Do8 modern and traditional ways to celebrate Songkran in Thailand 2024

    8 modern and traditional ways to celebrate Songkran in Thailand 2024

    Thailand’s scorching heat in April calls for Songkran– the famous water festival, a time for locals and tourists alike to chill out (literally and figuratively). Marking the Thai New Year, the festival is celebrated enthusiastically across the country, officially from April 13 to 15 with water fights, vibrant parades and cultural performances. While gearing up in your vibrant Songkran floral…

  • Business NewsSplashy Songkran: Thai restaurant sales set to surge despite economic lull

    Splashy Songkran: Thai restaurant sales set to surge despite economic lull

    Looking ahead to the upcoming Songkran festival, a trade group predicts a boost in restaurant sales during the second quarter, which could potentially surpass pre-pandemic levels, despite the current stagnant economy. Thaniwan Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association, noted that although the second quarter is typically a slow season for the Thai restaurant industry, the Songkran festival is expected…

  • Thailand NewsPhrae authorities foil Songkran festival illegal timber smuggling

    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 NewsFun drought: Songkran water festivities scaled back, says tourism minister

    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 NewsBangkok prepares for Songkran with 1,600 safety officers

    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 NewsChilling in Phuket: Airport assures cool comfort amid AC tune-up

    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 NewsPattaya police assure safety for Songkran festival

    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 HotelsWhere to stay in Bangkok this Songkran 2024: The best 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…

  • Thailand NewsThai airports expecting a surge in arrivals during Songkran

    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 NewsPhuket reveals Songkran festival plans featuring music festival

    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 NewsImmigration officials gear up for Songkran rush at Thai border

    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 NewsThai Tourists undeterred by Taiwan earthquakes for Songkran

    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…

  • EventsThe Story of Songkran – All about the Thai New Year

    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…

  • TravelTips for your Songkran in Phuket 2024

    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 DoEverything you need to know about Songkran

    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 DoWhy you should spend your Songkran in Chiang Mai 2024

    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…

  • Thailand TravelHow to spend your Songkran at Hua Hin 2024

    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 DoWhere to eat this Songkran in Bangkok 2024

    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…

  • EventsCelebrate songkran in style with ‘Songkran Splash Away Tropical Edition’ at W Bangkok

    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 NewsThai health pushes for alcohol-free Songkran celebrations

    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…

  • Thailand NewsSongkran festival sees Rama II Road works delay till June 2025

    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 NewsThailand waives tolls for Songkran festival to ease travel costs

    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 NewsDon Mueang Airport prepares for Songkran holiday travel spike

    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 NewsICONSIAM’s ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION’ promises 12 Days of joy through water splashing and cultural activities

    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…

  • Phuket NewsPhuket gears up for alcohol-free Songkran at Limelight mall

    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 NewsToll-free motorway unveiled for Songkran holidays

    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 NewsThailand anticipates American tourism influx due to Songkran

    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 NewsSix airlines to offer discounted flights for Songkran holiday

    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.…

  • Thailand NewsBangkok ramps up safety with tech for Songkran Festival

    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 NewsThailand announces extra holiday to boost Songkran economy

    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…