The vibrant country of Thailand, renowned for its thrilling full moon parties, presents an enchanting opportunity for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in its magical essence. Amidst the festivities, there is another celebration that encapsulates the spirit of Thailand—the traditional New Year period known as Songkran. This exuberant festival, often referred to as the Water Festival, mirrors the zest and fervor of Holi, offering travelers a truly unforgettable experience.
Commencing today and spanning until Wednesday, April 15, Songkran holds deep cultural significance as a time of purification and reverence. Originally, Thai people sprinkled water on their family members as a symbolic act of cleansing away evil while paying homage to their elders.
Chiang Mai, the unofficial capital of Songkran in Thailand, hosts the most prominent Water Festival each year. Due to the popularity of this event, it is advisable to plan your visit well in advance to ensure a seamless experience. Witness the spectacle as people seek blessings from monks, delicately pour water on the hands and feet of Buddha, and fervently seek blessings for the year ahead. In Bangkok, the lively streets of Khao San Road and Silom pulsate with the largest Songkran festivities, while the city’s vibrant malls are adorned with captivating decorations to enthrall eager shoppers.
Interestingly, Songkran holds relevance for Indians as it coincides with the celebration of Baisakhi and various regional New Year festivals. The word “Songkran” itself derives from the Sanskrit term “sankranti,” providing an even greater reason to embrace this vibrant occasion and revel in the spirit of shared festivity.
During my visit to Thailand last year, I had the opportunity to partake in the renowned full moon party at Koh Phangan. However, upon hearing mixed reviews, I postponed it for a future visit. Around the same time, I stumbled upon captivating accounts of Songkran, igniting a deep desire within me to witness this festival firsthand on my next journey to Thailand.
Until then, these captivating images of Songkran fuel my wanderlust, leaving me eager to embark on new adventures. A special acknowledgment goes to the Tourism Authority of Thailand for sharing these mesmerizing visuals.
To fully enjoy Songkran in Thailand, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
1. While merriment and revelry are inherent to Songkran, it is important to respect the festival’s intentions. Consider refraining from excessive drinking, especially if you plan to visit temples.
2. Prioritize your safety during Songkran, which is known to be one of the busiest and potentially hazardous times for travel in Thailand. Ensure your accommodation is booked well in advance and avoid unnecessary travel during Songkran days.
3. Embrace the playful spirit of the festival and be prepared to be sprayed with water from unexpected sources. However, if someone crosses boundaries or acts inappropriately, firmly assert your boundaries and take appropriate action.
Finally, familiarize yourself with a few essential phrases to make friends in Thailand. “Sah-wah-dee-pee-mai” is the traditional greeting for celebrating Songkran and translates to “Happy New Year.” Additionally, you can greet others with “Suk-san-wan-Songkran,” which conveys “Happy Songkran Day.”
