Top Things to Do During Songkran
1. Join the Water Fights
This is the main event. Grab a water gun (available everywhere for ฿50–300), find a busy street, and get soaked. The best spots:
- Silom Road — LGBTQ+ friendly, incredible energy
- Khao San Road — backpacker chaos, foam parties
- Siam Square — young local crowd, easy BTS access
Tips:
- Wear quick-dry clothes and water-safe shoes
- Use a waterproof phone pouch (critical!)
- Carry a dry bag for valuables
- Sunscreen — you'll burn fast
2. Visit a Temple
Start your Songkran day the traditional way:
- Wat Pho — Bangkok's most famous temple, beautiful during Songkran
- Wat Arun — stunning riverside temple
- Wat Saket — Golden Mount with panoramic views
Arrive early (6–8am) before the water fights start. Dress respectfully — cover shoulders and knees.
3. Attend a Music Festival
2026 has three major festivals running simultaneously:
- S2O (Apr 11–13) — EDM + water cannons, Kygo/Zedd/Alan Walker
- Siam Songkran (Apr 11–14) — Martin Garrix, Marshmello
- GCircuit (Apr 10–13) — LGBTQ+ circuit party
4. Experience Rod Nam Dam Hua
The most meaningful Songkran tradition. Pour scented water (nam ob) over the hands of elders to receive their blessings. If you're staying with a Thai family, you'll likely be invited to participate.
5. Build a Sand Stupa
At many temples, you can join locals in building small sand pagodas (chedis) decorated with flags and flowers. It's a meditative, beautiful tradition.
6. Eat Songkran Food
Special dishes during the festival:
- Khao Chae — rice in jasmine-scented cold water with side dishes (the official Songkran food)
- Mango sticky rice — peak mango season in April
- Som Tum — papaya salad, refreshing in the heat
Do's and Don'ts
Do's
- Do pour water gently on monks and elders — never blast them
- Do respect dry zones — some streets are designated water-free
- Do wear modest clothing at temples
- Do carry your passport (original) if going to ticketed events
- Do use BTS/MRT — taxis are impossible during Songkran
- Do drink water constantly — April heat is brutal (35–40°C)
Don'ts
- Don't throw water at motorcyclists — this causes accidents and deaths every year
- Don't use dirty water or ice directly on people
- Don't bring expensive electronics without waterproof protection
- Don't drive — road accidents spike during Songkran week
- Don't be aggressive — it's meant to be fun and respectful
- Don't disrespect Buddha images or monks