Songkran (Thai New Year Water Festival)
13/04/2027 @ 8:00 AM – 15/04/2027 @ 8:00 PM Asia/Bangkok/Phuket
Updated October 2026 by the Phuket Dream Company team (TAT licensed).
When: 13–15 April every year – Songkran 2027 falls on Tuesday 13 to Thursday 15 April 2027. Some areas start the evening before or carry on a day or two later.
Where: All over Phuket, with the biggest water fights in Patong (Bangla Road and the beach road) and gentler, more traditional celebrations in Phuket Old Town.
Songkran is the Thai New Year, and in Phuket it means three days of joyful, island-wide water fights, temple visits and street parties. Whether you want to join the soaking on Bangla Road or see the quieter traditions in Phuket Town, this guide covers what to expect at Songkran in Phuket and how to enjoy it safely.
What is Songkran?
Songkran marks the traditional Thai New Year. Water symbolises cleansing and renewal: families visit temples to make merit, pour scented water over Buddha images and gently over the hands of elders as a sign of respect, and ask for blessings for the year ahead. Over time this gentle sprinkling has grown into the famous nationwide water fight. Songkran is a national public holiday period, and it falls in the hottest part of the year, so a soaking is welcome.
Where to celebrate Songkran in Phuket
- Patong and Bangla Road – the most intense water fight on the island, with music and crowds going late into the night. Great fun for adults; not ideal for small children.
- Phuket Old Town – a gentler, more traditional atmosphere, especially in the morning, with temple activity and friendly water play. The best choice for families.
- Kata and Karon – lively water battles from early afternoon along the beach roads.
- Bang Tao and Laguna – more relaxed and less crowded.
- Soi Ta-iad, Chalong – a busy, younger crowd.
Songkran etiquette
- Never splash monks, and do not throw water over elders’ heads – wait to be invited to pour water over their hands.
- Leave babies, people at work, police on duty and anyone eating at a street stall alone.
- Aim for the body, not the face, and use clean water.
- If someone says “mai ao” (I don’t want it), stop.
- Cover shoulders and knees if you visit a temple.
Safety tips
- The days around Songkran are among the most dangerous on Thai roads. Avoid riding a motorbike – use a taxi, ride-hailing app or a pre-booked driver.
- Keep your phone and cash in a waterproof pouch and leave your passport in the hotel safe.
- Wear dark or patterned clothes (white turns see-through), sunscreen and a cap.
- Watch out for pickpockets in crowds and do not accept drinks from strangers.
- Authorities often tighten alcohol and traffic enforcement over Songkran – expect police checkpoints.
Planning your trip: flights, hotels and tours
Songkran is a peak travel time for Thai families as well as international visitors, so flights to Phuket and hotels sell out and prices rise. Book flights and accommodation early, and leave extra time to reach the airport, as roads can be blocked by water fights. Tours and boat trips still run over Songkran; some private charters add a festive surcharge. Our team can arrange airport transfers, private drivers and day trips around your plans.
Frequently asked questions
When is Songkran 2027 in Phuket?
13–15 April 2027. Water fights may start on the 12th in some places and continue a little after the 15th.
Where is the biggest water fight in Phuket?
Patong, particularly Bangla Road and the beach road.
Is Songkran in Phuket good for families?
Yes, if you choose the right area. Phuket Old Town in the morning, Bang Tao and Laguna are calmer than Patong.
Will I get wet just walking around?
Almost certainly. Anyone on the street is fair game, so carry your phone and money in a waterproof pouch.
Do tours run during Songkran?
Yes, most day trips operate as normal. Book ahead, as it is a busy period.
Can you help with transport?
Yes. Message our team on WhatsApp (+66 95 038 5535) for airport transfers or a private driver over the holiday.
