Imagine being soaked in water from head to toe, surrounded by smiling faces, loud music, and colorful decorations. This is what it feels like to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok, the most exciting and festive time of the year in Thailand.
Songkran is the Thai New Year, which falls on April 13-15 every year. It is a time to wash away the old and welcome the new, to honor the traditions and culture of Thailand, and to have fun and enjoy life. Songkran in Bangkok is especially lively and vibrant, as the city turns into a giant water fight and a massive street party.
If you want to experience the ultimate Songkran celebration, Bangkok is the place to be. You will not only get to join the water fight, but also witness the beautiful parades, visit the stunning temples, and taste the delicious Thai food. There is something for everyone during Songkran in Bangkok, whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.
Are you ready to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok in style? Then book your trip with trip.com, the best travel website for finding cheap flights, hotels, and tours. Trip.com will help you plan your perfect Songkran getaway, with low prices, flexible bookings, customer service, and rewards program. Don't miss this chance to enjoy the most amazing Thai New Year ever. Book your trip with trip.com today!
What to Expect During Songkran in Bangkok
Songkran in Bangkok is unlike any other festival in the world. It is a time when the whole city comes alive with joy and energy, and everyone joins in the celebration. Here are some of the things you can expect during Songkran in Bangkok:
- A festive atmosphere: Songkran in Bangkok is a time to celebrate and have fun. The streets are filled with people, music, and decorations. You will see people wearing colorful clothes, flower garlands, and traditional costumes. You will hear the sounds of drums, bells, and whistles. You will smell the fragrances of incense, flowers, and food. You will feel the spirit of Songkran in every corner of the city.
- A cultural experience: Songkran in Bangkok is also a time to honor the traditions and culture of Thailand. It is a time to pay respect to the Buddha, the elders, and the ancestors. You will see people sprinkling water on Buddha statues and monks, as a way of cleansing and blessing. You will see people making merit, by giving alms, donating, and volunteering. You will see people building sand pagodas, as a symbol of stability and prosperity. You will see people paying respect to their ancestors, by visiting their graves and offering prayers.
- A fun adventure: Songkran in Bangkok is most famously known for its water fight, which is the highlight of the festival. It is a time to let loose and enjoy the water. You will see people splashing, spraying, and throwing water at each other, using buckets, hoses, water guns, and balloons. You will see people laughing, dancing, and playing in the water. You will see people having the time of their lives in the water.
Where to Celebrate Songkran in Bangkok
Bangkok is a big and diverse city, and there are many places where you can celebrate Songkran. However, some of the best and most popular places are:
- Khao San Road: This is the backpacker's paradise, and the most famous spot for Songkran in Bangkok. Khao San Road is a long and narrow street, lined with bars, restaurants, shops, and hostels. During Songkran, it becomes a huge water fight zone, where thousands of people gather to soak each other with water. You will also find DJs, stages, foam parties, and beer stalls along the street. Khao San Road is the place to go if you want to party hard and meet people from all over the world.
- Silom Road: This is the business district of Bangkok, and the second most popular spot for Songkran. Silom Road is a wide and long boulevard, with skyscrapers, offices, and hotels. During Songkran, it becomes a water fight arena, where tens of thousands of people flock to splash each other with water. You will also find fire trucks, water cannons, and stages along the road. Silom Road is the place to go if you want to experience the biggest and wildest water fight in Bangkok.
- Ratchaprasong: This is the shopping and entertainment hub of Bangkok, and a great spot for Songkran. Ratchaprasong is a busy and modern area, with malls, cinemas, and restaurants. During Songkran, it becomes a water fight zone, where many people come to enjoy the water. You will also find cultural shows, parades, and concerts along the area. Ratchaprasong is the place to go if you want to see the glamorous and colorful side of Songkran in Bangkok.
- Siam Square: This is the youth and fashion center of Bangkok, and a cool spot for Songkran. Siam Square is a trendy and hip area, with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. During Songkran, it becomes a water fight zone, where many young people come to have fun and show off their style. You will also find live bands, DJs, and contests along the area. Siam Square is the place to go if you want to mingle with the cool and chic crowd of Bangkok.
No matter where you choose to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok, there are some tips and advice that you should follow to have fun and stay safe during the water fight. Here are some of them:
- Wear proper clothes and shoes: You will get wet, so wear clothes that are light, comfortable, and quick-drying. Avoid wearing white or transparent clothes, as they may become see-through when wet. Wear shoes that are sturdy, waterproof, and slip-resistant. Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops, or bare feet, as they may cause injuries or infections.
- Protect your phone and valuables: You will need your phone to take pictures and stay in touch, but you don't want it to get wet or damaged. Use a waterproof case or bag to protect your phone and other valuables, such as money, cards, and documents. Keep them close to your body, and avoid flashing them in public. Better yet, leave them in your hotel or locker, and only bring the essentials with you.
- Respect people and places: You will have fun, but you don't want to offend or hurt anyone. Respect the people and places around you, and follow the rules and etiquette of Songkran. Ask for permission before splashing someone, especially if they are elderly, pregnant, or wearing a uniform. Avoid splashing water on the face, eyes, or ears, as it may cause irritation or infection. Avoid using ice, dirty, or colored water, as it may be harmful or rude. Avoid splashing water on Buddha statues, monks, temples, or shops, as it may be disrespectful or damaging.
- Stay hydrated and healthy: You will be exposed to the sun and the water, so you need to take care of your health. Drink plenty of water and fluids, and avoid alcohol or caffeine, as they may dehydrate you or impair your judgment. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, and avoid sunburn or heatstroke. Wash your hands and face frequently, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as they may get infected by the water. If you feel sick or injured, seek medical attention immediately.
What to Eat and Drink During Songkran in Bangkok
One of the best things about celebrating Songkran in Bangkok is the food and drink. Thai food is famous for its flavors, diversity, and freshness. There are many dishes and drinks that you can try during Songkran, but some of the best and most suitable ones are:
- Pad thai: This is the national dish of Thailand, and a must-try for any visitor. Pad thai is a stir-fried noodle dish, with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and lime. You can choose your preferred meat, such as chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetarian. Pad thai is a perfect dish for Songkran, as it is refreshing, satisfying, and easy to eat.
- Som tam: This is a spicy and sour salad, made from shredded green papaya, tomatoes, carrots, peanuts, dried shrimp, garlic, chili, lime, and fish sauce. Som tam is a popular dish for Songkran, as it is refreshing, spicy, and crunchy. It is often eaten with sticky rice and grilled chicken, for a complete and delicious meal.
- Tom yum: This is a hot and sour soup, with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, tomatoes, and chili. You can choose your preferred meat, such as chicken, pork, shrimp, or seafood. Tom yum is a great dish for Songkran, as it is warming, flavorful, and aromatic. It is often eaten with rice or noodles, for a filling and comforting dish.
- Mango sticky rice: This is a sweet and sticky dessert, made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, and ripe mango. Mango sticky rice is a favorite dessert for Songkran, as it is sweet, creamy, and refreshing. It is often sprinkled with sesame seeds or toasted coconut, for a crunchy and nutty taste.
- Thai iced tea: This is a cold and sweet drink, made from black tea, condensed milk, sugar, and ice. Thai iced tea is a refreshing drink for Songkran, as it is cooling, creamy, and energizing. It is often served with a straw and a spoon, for a smooth and satisfying sip.
How to Plan Your Trip to Bangkok for Songkran
If you are convinced that Songkran in Bangkok is the ultimate festival experience, then you should start planning your trip now. The best way to do that is to book your trip with trip.com, the best travel website for finding cheap flights, hotels, and tours.
Trip.com will help you plan your perfect Songkran getaway, with the following benefits and features:
- Low prices: Trip.com offers the lowest prices for flights, hotels, and tours. You can compare and choose the best deals for your budget and preferences. You can also save more with exclusive discounts and promotions.
- Flexible bookings: Trip.com allows you to book your trip with ease and convenience. You can change or cancel your bookings anytime, without any fees or hassle. You can also pay with multiple options, such as credit card, PayPal, or cash on delivery.
- Customer service: Trip.com provides 24/7 customer service, with friendly and professional staff. You can contact them anytime, anywhere, for any questions or issues. You can also get support in your preferred language, such as English, Malay, Chinese, or Thai.
- Rewards program: Trip.com rewards you for every booking you make, with points and coupons. You can use them to redeem free flights, hotels, and tours. You can also join the TripPLUS membership, and enjoy more benefits, such as VIP access, priority service, and extra discounts.
To book your trip to Bangkok for Songkran with trip.com, simply visit their website and enter your destination, dates, and preferences. You will find a wide range of options for flights, hotels, and tours. You can also check out their Bangkok page, where you will find more information and tips about the city and the festival.
Plan Your Trip to Bangkok Today!
Songkran in Bangkok is a unique and unforgettable experience that you should not miss. It is a time to celebrate the Thai New Year in style, with water fights, parades, temples, and food. It is a time to have fun, learn, and enjoy the culture and spirit of Thailand.
Are you ready to celebrate Songkran in Bangkok in style? Then book your trip with trip.com, the best travel website for finding cheap flights, hotels, and tours. Trip.com will help you plan your perfect Songkran getaway, with low prices, flexible bookings, customer service, and rewards program. Don't miss this chance to enjoy the most amazing Thai New Year ever. Book your trip with trip.com today!