What is Songkran: The Full History of Songkran Festival

How Did Songkran Start?

Thailand is a cultural crossroads, shaped by the influences of its neighbors, yet distinctly its own. Songkran, Thailand’s famous water festival, is no exception. It is a celebration with deep roots, stretching back centuries to ancient Brahman and Buddhist traditions. Once linked to Hindu astrology, it eventually became woven into the very fabric of Thai culture.

But Songkran festival was not always the high-energy, city-wide water fight we know today. In the past, it was a quiet, intimate affair, centered around family, temples, and tradition. People would visit wats (temples), offer food to monks, and pour water over Buddha statues and elders as a symbol of respect and purification.

Somewhere along the way, the gentle trickle of water turned into playful splashes, which then escalated into the country’s biggest nationwide water battle. April is also the hottest month of the year, so some Thais do joke about the festival being a relief from the heat.

How To Celebrate Songkran

Before Songkran became a water festival, it was a family and temple-focused holiday. People spent the day cleaning their homes, preparing food for monks, and visiting family members.

Today, Songkran festival has evolved into a massive celebration that attracts visitors from around the world. While traditional customs remain, Songkran is now famous for its street-wide water fights, music, and festive atmosphere. However, the cultural and religious roots of the festival remain strong. Many people still start the day with temple visits, merit-making, and family gatherings before heading to the streets for fun.

If you find yourself in Thailand during Songkran festival, brace yourself—you will get drenched. There is no escape. A quick run to 7-Eleven? Risky. Even the unsuspecting and the unwilling become targets in this nationwide water fight. Locals and tourists alike flood the streets, armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses, turning entire cities into splash zones of joy. Want to join in? Here is how to celebrate:

1. Join the Water Fights
• Popular streets turn into massive splash zones where anyone can join.
• Use waterproof gear to protect your phone and valuables.
• Keep your valuables close, it’s always a packed celebration.
• Be respectful! If someone doesn’t look like they’re having fun, don’t splash water on them. Especially if it’s too cold.

2. Visit a Temple
• Many people offer food to monks, pour water over Buddha statues, and make merit.
• This is a peaceful way to experience the festival’s spiritual side.

3. Take Part in Traditional Ceremonies
• Pour water over the hands of elders to seek their blessings.
• Participate in sand pagoda-building at temples, an old tradition believed to bring good luck.

4. Dress for The Occasion!
• Many Thais wear bright floral shirts or traditional silk outfits for the occasion.
• Shops and markets sell colorful Songkran-themed attire for visitors to join in.
• Don’t have any of these? Any bright, flowy, floral shirt will do!

H2: Where To Celebrate Songkran in Phuket
Phuket is one of the best places to experience Songkran, with celebrations happening all over the island. Here are some top spots:
1. Bangla Road (Patong Beach)
This is Songkran on overdrive—loud music, DJs, and water fights that rage from day to night. If you are looking for a wild, high-energy party, this is the place to be.
2. Phuket Old Town
A beautiful fusion of past and present, Phuket Old Town offers a balanced mix of cultural traditions and modern festivities. Enjoy street food, watch traditional performances, and take in the historic architecture—all while staying refreshingly soaked.
3. Local Temples
For a calmer, more traditional Songkran, visit a temple. Here, you can participate in Buddhist rituals, water blessings, and merit-making—a meaningful way to embrace the festival’s spiritual essence without the splash-heavy chaos.