You already know where you'll go during Bangkok's festival period, but you might want to change it up this year. Here are some places you can travel to in Thailand during Songkran.
One of the most lively festivals is approaching and people from home and abroad are already making plans. Songkran is celebrated all over Thailand, so you may have already been to his EDM or foam parties in Bangkok, but you may have been wanting to try something a little different. These destinations in Thailand are worth visiting, especially for the Songkran holidays.
[Hero and featured image credit: InterContinental Pattaya Resort]
songkran holiday destinations in thailand
Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel
Ideal for water fighting with mountain views
Whether you're looking for a cultural adventure or a fun stay, Chiang Mai has it all. If you're in the area during Songkran, there's a good chance you'll be within 10 minutes of seeing parades, traditional dance performances, and of course water fights, especially around the Old City.
The newly opened Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is perfect for those looking to make the most of their trip. After enjoying Songkran during the day, enjoy a late dinner at Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, just a short walk from the hotel. Be sure to check out our ever-growing bar scene.
For more information, please visit Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel.
Book here
Pattaya: InterContinental Pattaya Resort
Perfect for energetic parties and long Songkran
Pattaya has always been known as one of Thailand's party people destinations. This Songkran will be exactly like that. There will be full-on foam parties, water fights, parades, and even a sand sculpting contest if you want to take a step back for a moment. Additionally, during the Wan Lai Festival, Pattaya will have a long period of time to enjoy the festival as Songkran will be held until April 19th.
You need a comfortable place to rest, preferably away from the chaos. InterContinental Pattaya Resort is the perfect place to relax and return to water combat when you're ready.
For more information, please visit InterContinental Pattaya Resort.
Book here
Hua Hin: SO Sofitel Hua Hin
Great for families, fun pool action
Hua Hin's Songkran experience is a bit more modest compared to Pattaya, which is actually a favorite of many. April 13th is the busiest day, and you can look forward to street parades and water fights. Ideal if you want to experience Songkran but also want to enjoy the seaside.
So, if you don't want to dry for a long time, we recommend SO Sofitel Hua Hin. Once he's out for a splash, come back and enjoy some epic pool play in one of his three outdoor pools. Perfect for families with children. Why not soak up the sun on the outdoor beach?
For more information, please visit SO Sofitel Hua Hin.
Book here
Koh Samui: Kimpton Kitale Koh Samui
Perfect for a relaxing Songkran experience
A trip to Koh Samui is always appealing, but it doesn't lose that aspect during Songkran. In addition to beach parties, you can also see large-scale water fights on Walking Street. While it's certainly less wild than the events in Pattaya, you'll still get a feel for this more sophisticated vacation.
Kimpton Kitale Samui's beachside rooms are perfect for relaxing and serve as a one-stop destination for R&R. There's no need to rush through the crowds as you can relax in your private villa or explore the resort's many dining options. Going out is optional.
For more information, visit Kimpton Kitale Samui.
Book here
Phuket: Avani + Mai Khao Phuket Suites
Perfect for water fights from sunrise to late night
If you want to experience the same lively festivals as Bangkok, Phuket is the place to be. Songkran is celebrated throughout the city from sunrise to sunset, especially in the Old City area. Water fights, beach parties, DJs, cultural performances, you name it.
There's no doubt that staying near the beach is best, but many of the beaches can get quite crowded. Visit Mai Khao for a less crowded experience. However, since it's nearby, you can go out and play in the water to your heart's content. Avani+ Maikhao Phuket Suites is beautiful and the pool bar is a very relaxing time.
For more information, please visit Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites.
Book here
Krabi: Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi
Perfect when you want to go hiking at 10am and go for a water fight at 11am
People in Krabi always look forward to Songkran. The storms begin in earnest from around 10 a.m. until the evening, but some people are said to be sprayed with water as early as 6 a.m. The biggest water battles take place at Ao Nang Beach, but just going around the city will get you soaked. It's also very common for people to put ice in their own water before splashing it on others. After all, it's the peak of summer.
At Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi, you can stay close to the coast and right next to the Monkey Trail. It is perfect for those who want to enjoy a trip to Krabi to the fullest and those who want to enjoy Songkran in Thailand at the same time. A short boat ride takes you to Ao Nang, where you can balance hectic water battles with rest and relaxation on a tropical getaway.
For more information, please visit Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi.
Book here
Khon Kaen: Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel
Great for soaking up the culture and eating lots of street food
One of Isan's biggest Songkran celebrations is held in Khon Kaen. The shores of Kennakorn Lake come alive with food stalls, cultural performances, and water fights.
Therefore, it is better to be nearby. Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid Hotel is one of the most exclusive accommodations in the area, with an excellent restaurant and a large pool where you can relax indoors or poolside.
For more information, please visit Pullman Khon Keng Raja Orchid Hotel.
Book here
Nakhon Si Thammarat: Grand Fortune Hotel Nakhon Si Thammarat
Perfect for a calm and cultural Songkran experience
If you're looking for a calmer, calmer Songkran trip, head to Nakhon Si Thammarat, a cultural delight. Every year, the Hennan Kradan Festival is held, a long-standing tradition with Brahminical roots. A huge parade is held by men in Brahmanical costumes and traditional music is played to welcome the arrival of Lord Shiva from heaven.
It's a great way to experience the culture. Apart from that, water fights can be seen all over the city, just like in other areas, so you won't feel left out even if you get soaked.
For more information, please visit Grand Fortune Hotel Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Book here