In collaboration with @hugthailand and www.amazingthailand.com.au
Songkran in Bangkok is not for the faint-hearted—it’s a wild, beautiful, chaotic, and deeply spiritual celebration that somehow turns the whole city into a giant splash zone. Think: getting blessed at a temple at 8am and dancing under a water cannon by 4pm. Welcome to Thailand’s New Year, where you’ll go from serene to soaked in 0.2 seconds.Here’s how I celebrated my ultimate Songkran day—from a traditional temple visit to late-night water raves—plus tips, locations, and my personal recs if you’re planning your own adventure and need help on what to do for your first Songkran, also see my post on “Songkran Ultimate Survival Guide”
Morning: A Spiritual Start in Thai Traditional Style
The day kicked off at the crack of dawn (yes, I was that person up at 6am) at Wat Arun, one of Bangkok’s most iconic temples. I’ve always wanted to wear a Thai traditional outfit and honestly, Songkran is the perfect excuse. You can rent one for just 300 baht (around $9 AUD). Major bargain, major main-character moment. I went to Sagarun Thai costume.
Once dressed, I entered the temple grounds to pour water over Buddha statues—this is a beautiful ritual that symbolizes washing away bad luck and starting the year fresh. You can also receive blessings from the monks if you go early enough.Hot tip: Go early to beat the crowd and catch that soft golden light for pics—trust me, your camera will thank you.
Midday: Market Wanders & Street Food Magic
After temple time, I wandered over to Song Wat Road, which honestly feels like Bangkok’s cool cousin who’s into vintage Thai vibes. I explored the little markets behind the main road and picked up my water gear: a new outfit (bright, floral, obviously) and the cutest water gun.
I grabbed lunch at a hidden gem called FV (find them here). The food? Traditional Thai with an old-school twist. The decor? Straight out of your grandma’s photo album—in the best way.If you’re doing Songkran for the first time, make sure to check out my Ultimate Songkran Survival Guide video linked below for all the must-knows. You’re going to get wet, so prep like a seasoned splash warrior.
Afternoon: Water War Begins – 3 Iconic Locations
Once fed and geared up, the real madness began. I hit up three of the most iconic spots to fully soak in the festivities—literally.
1. CentralWorld
This is a great place to start. BTS (skytrain) is your best friend here—traffic is nuts during Songkran. Expect DJ booths, foam parties, and yes, a LOT of water guns. It’s like Coachella… but wetter.
2. Silom
This stretch turns into one giant splash-fest with music, drinks, and water-filling stations for just 10 baht. Pro tip? Find a bar along the road and camp out on the balcony for prime people-splashing views. Just be warned—it gets crowded.
3. Khao San Road
Party central. It’s absolutely electric in the late afternoon, but try to leave before 6PM unless you want to be trapped in a very damp human sandwich. I escaped just in time and walked over to the next stop…
Evening: The Grand Finale at Maha Songkran
This was my first time at Maha Songkran Festival… and I’m still not over it. Picture two massive stages—one for live music, the other blasting EDM—with water features, cultural performances, Muay Thai shows, and the most delicious street food lineup.
It’s massive (so it never felt too claustrophobic), and the vibe is honestly next level. Watching the sunset behind Wat Phra Kaew while Thai dancers perform in the distance? Pure magic.
This was the perfect way to wrap up a day of chaos, culture, carbs, and community. I stayed until the lights dimmed and my clothes were three shades darker from all the water. Zero regrets.
Final Thoughts
Songkran is a day where you truly experience all sides of Thailand—from calm and reflective to completely unhinged (in the best way). I’ll 100% be doing this again next year. Maybe with a waterproof camera this time.
If you’re thinking about doing Songkran in Bangkok, my best advice?
Start early, wear quick-dry everything, and surrender to the madness.
Let me know in the comments—have you done Songkran? Would you go full water-warrior or stick to the temple blessings?
Until next time—stay splashy!
xo
Ashley