Songkran Chiang Mai 2025

Each April, Thailand rings in its New Year with an exuberant splash!

Famously called Songkran or the Water Festival, these Thailand celebrations last several days and include extensive water battles amidst some of the year's hottest weather. Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is the premier destination for celebrating Songkran.

Songkran comes from the Sanskrit word saṅkrānti, which means 'to move' or 'change.' It symbolizes the transition into the Thai New Year. Traditionally, it marks a time of renewal, gratitude, and cleansing, during which water is used to wash away bad luck and welcome fresh beginnings.

The origin of the Songkran festival lies in a Buddhist folk myth. While today it's famous for its massive water fights, it remains profoundly ingrained in Buddhist traditions, family gatherings, and acts of kindness.

The Songkran days in Chiang Mai are from April 13 to 15. Get ready for water splashing, temple visits, and many special events that will take over the entire city!

What to Expect When Attending Songkran Chiang Mai 2025

The key locations you shouldn't miss:

• Tha Phae Gate: The most famous landmark and center of Songkran celebrations, where historical Chiang Mai meets modern festivities.
• Old City moat: A lifeline of Songkran; people use the moat’s water to refill buckets, so it's the ultimate splash zone.
• Nimmanhaemin Road: Chiang Mai’s trendy district that blends Songkran fun with chic cafes, bars, and upscale nightlife.
• Three Kings Monument: A symbol of Chiang Mai’s founding, this is a spiritual and cultural hub during Songkran with traditional rituals and performances.
• Ancient temples (Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Lok Moli): Sacred sites where locals and tourists perform water-pouring rituals for blessings and merit-making.

Here's what to expect:

• Massive water fights: These are the biggest highlights! Expect city-wide water battles with people armed with water guns, buckets, and hoses.
• Traditional ceremonies and rituals: Locals visit ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh to pour scented water over Buddha statues for blessings and purification. Many also take part in sand pagoda building and offering alms to monks. You can also head to Chiang Mai’s other stunning temples to pay respects and seek blessings for the new year.
• Cultural performances: Throughout the city, you’ll find traditional Thai dance and folk performances that reflect the rich heritage of the Thai New Year.
• Vibrant parades: Expect colorful processions of Buddha images, floral floats, and dancers moving through the streets, often accompanied by traditional drummers. The main Songkran parade will take place on Charoenmuang Road (near the Narawat bridge) on April 13.
• Beauty pageants: The famous Miss & Mister Songkran competitions are held, celebrating beauty, grace, and traditional Thai attire.
• Traditional music: From Lanna-style drum performances to classical Thai instruments, music fills the air and adds a festive and cultural touch to the Thai New Year celebrations.

During this water festival, Chiang Mai experiences humid and hot weather. Average daytime temperatures reach around 35 C (95 F), with nighttime lows around 21 C (70 F). Drinking water frequently and applying sunscreen are very important in high temperatures and constant outdoor activities. Board shorts or swimming trunks paired with a shirt are suitable for men. Women should avoid swimsuits alone and opt for light clothing over swimwear. Don't forget fast-drying towels and a small bag for extra clothes!

The Chiang Mai Songkran Festival is free to attend!

Advice For a Safe and Fun Songkran Experience

During the festival, safety is key to having a hassle-free experience! Keep your valuables in a waterproof bag, as everything will get soaked. Respect local etiquette and avoid throwing water at monks, elderly people, or kids—it's considered disrespectful.

Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the heat. If you're in a crowded area, keep an eye on your belongings and stick with friends for added safety. Most importantly, have fun, be respectful, and embrace the festive spirit!

How to Get To or From the Event

Reaching Songkran in Chiang Mai depends on where you're coming from. Here are the best ways to get there:

• By air: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is the main gateway. Direct flights are available from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and international destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong. You can take a taxi or an airport shuttle bus from the airport to the city.
• By train: Trains from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Station to Chiang Mai take 11-14 hours. Chiang Mai Train Station is about 3 km from the Old City. Take a taxi, tuk-tuk, or songthaew (shared public transport) to the city.
• By bus: Buses from Bangkok leave from Mo Chit Bus Terminal and take 8-10 hours. You'll arrive at Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Terminal, about 4 km from the Old City. From there, take a taxi or use a tuk-tuk or songthaew.

Tuk-tuks are quick and fun, and you can negotiate the fare (50-150 THB or $1.49 - $4.46, depending on distance). Songthaews will cost you 20-40 THB ($0.59 - $1.49) per ride.

Songkran Chiang Mai 2025 Bag Policy

There isn't an official bag policy for the event, but here are some practical tips to keep your belongings safe during the festival:

• Waterproof bags are essential: Everything will get soaked! Use a dry bag or a waterproof phone case to protect your valuables.
• Avoid large bags: Stick to a small crossbody or fanny pack to keep things light and secure. Crowds can get packed, so a bulky bag will be inconvenient.
• Protect your valuables: Only bring essentials (cash, phone, ID, and hotel key). Leave passports, expensive cameras, and unnecessary items at your hotel.

Songkran Chiang Mai 2025 Bag Storage

Store Your Bags With Bounce and Celebrate Songkran Worry-Free

Bounce has spots throughout Chiang Mai where you can drop off your bags securely and enjoy these days.

What's the best about Bounce? We offer you an affordable price - just THB 100.00 per day and no cancellation fee. If you have questions during your visit, our support team is available 24/7. Also, each booking includes $10,000 in bag protection, so you can relax and have fun on your journey.

How to Stow Your Bag at Songkran Chiang Mai 2025 With Bounce

• Book: Choose a spot, book, and pay online.
• Store your bags: Show your payment confirmation to the store employee and drop off your luggage.
• Join the celebration: Focus on this special experience and learn about Thai culture.

How to Make the Most Out of Songkran Chiang Mai 2025

• Go full splash mode: Grab a colorful water gun or a bucket and dive into the biggest water fight of the year. The Tha Phae Gate is where the real action happens!
• Embrace the traditions: Visit Wat Phra Singh Temple to pour water over Buddha statues and receive a blessing for the Thai New Year.
• Follow the music: Nimmanhaemin Road and the Old City moat are popular hotspots with DJs, street performances, and endless dancing. Don't miss the party!
• Fuel up like a local: After all that water warfare, treat yourself to Khao Soi, mango sticky rice, or a refreshing coconut shake.
• Make new friends: Songkran is all about community and fun. Join in water battles, laugh, and celebrate with locals and fellow travelers.
• Store your luggage with Bounce: Make your journey more enjoyable by storing your bags securely.

Get ready to dive into the ultimate mix of culture, chaos, and celebration, where every splash brings good luck, laughter, and unforgettable memories—Songkran in Chiang Mai 2025 awaits you!