10 Cool Facts About Songkran Festival You Probably Didn’t Know
13Apr 2025
Ever wondered why everyone in Thailand turns into a water warrior in April?
Or why people are splashing strangers, cleaning Buddha statues, and building tiny sand temples?
Let me tell you, there’s more to the Songkran Festival than wild water fights.
I used to think it was just a cheeky excuse to drench tourists. Turns out, it’s Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration — and it’s got ancient roots, deep spiritual vibes, and family warmth.
So grab a towel, and let’s dive into 10 cool facts about Songkran Festival that’ll make you appreciate every splash.
1. Songkran is Thailand’s Traditional New Year
The Songkran Festival isn’t just a water party — it’s the Thai version of New Year.
Before 1941, it was the official New Year’s Day, announced by the Thai Royal Palace, not your calendar app.
Even now, it’s celebrated from 13th to 15th April, rooted in the solar calendar and the zodiac.
When the sun moves from Pisces to Aries, it symbolises new beginnings.
That’s Sankranti in Sanskrit — meaning “movement” or “passage.”
So yep, every splash during Songkran is a little cosmic nudge into the new year.
2. The Word ‘Songkran’ Means Movement in Sanskrit
Songkran comes from “Samkranti,” the Sanskrit word for a solar shift.
The idea is simple: it’s time to change, clean, refresh.
The Zodiac calendar is behind the whole thing.
In Thai astrology, the sun sliding into Aries marks a major celestial shift.
Hence, the festival is like a spiritual reset button.
You’re not just getting wet — you’re letting go of the past, one water gun at a time.
3. Each Songkran Day Has a Deeper Meaning
Now, this blew my mind.
Songkran isn’t just one holiday; it’s three meaningful days.
- Maha Songkran (Day 1): National Elderly Day.
Visit your grandparents. Pour water on their hands. Show respect. - Wan Nao (Day 2): Family Day.
People cook, clean, and head to the temple to prep for rituals. - Wan Thaloeng Sok (Day 3): Thai New Year Day.
You’ll see new clothes everywhere — it’s about renewal and good fortune.
It’s tradition wrapped in love and fresh laundry.
4. The Water Has a Purpose — It’s Not Just for Laughs
Here’s the spiritual bit.
Water fights are fun, but their roots are deeply symbolic.
The water? It washes away bad luck and sins.
You’ll see people sprinkling Buddha statues, cleaning homes, and bathing elders’ hands.
Even the wildest Khaosan Road water battles are inspired by this idea of cleansing and rebirth.
Think of it like emotional detox with a Super Soaker.
5. Songkran Traditions Change by Region
What’s celebrated in Bangkok might look totally different in Chiang Mai or Phuket.
Here’s how it varies:
- Northern Thailand: On 13 April, locals shoot firecrackers to scare off red-shirted boat spirits.
- Southern Thailand: It’s called “Wan Wang” or “free day.” No work. No nail trimming. No harming animals.
- Central Thailand: It’s more about temple visits and building sand pagodas called chedi sai.
Each spot adds its own spice to the Songkran festival stew.
6. The Origin Story is Wild — Involves a Kid Outsmarting a God
This one sounds straight out of a mythological sitcom.
Kapila Brahma, a Hindu deity, challenged a child named Thammabal with a riddle.
If the boy failed, he’d lose his head. If he won, the god would.
Spoiler: the boy overheard eagles discussing the answer.
He nailed it. The god lost and got beheaded.
Now, his seven daughters (Nang Songkran) carry his head around every year in a cosmic procession.
Each goddess represents a day of the week, adding celestial drama to the Songkran Festival.
7. Songkran Is Celebrated Beyond Thailand
It’s not just Thailand getting drenched.
- Cambodia has Sangkranta
- Laos throws Pi Mai
- Myanmar celebrates Thingyan
- India’s Odisha marks Pana Sankranti
- Even parts of Yunnan, China, go big with Poshui Jie (lanterns and water)
So yeah, Southeast Asia turns into one big splash zone every April.
8. There’s More Than Water — There’s Powder and Pagodas
This bit’s underrated.
You’ll see people smearing white chalk paste (called din sor pong) on each other’s cheeks.
Why? To ward off evil and bring good vibes.
Temples are another sight — families build mini sand stupas as acts of merit.
Some bring offerings like food, garlands, and incense.
Others just share a quiet moment, away from the madness.
It’s balance — a blend of peace and play.
9. Pageants, Parades and Powder — It’s a Cultural Feast
Forget the Western swimsuit pageants.
Mr and Miss Songkran competitions are all about traditional dress, grace, and charm.
Each contestant represents their local region’s heritage, not a designer brand.
On top of that, you’ve got:
- Buddha statue processions
- Traditional Thai dance
- Street food that’ll make you cry happy tears
- Foam parties on Chaweng Beach
- Family barbecues in rural homes
The Songkran festival is everything, everywhere, all at once.
10. It’s a Festival of Love, Laughter, and Letting Go
To me, Songkran Festival is like a national group therapy.
But instead of crying, we laugh, throw water, hug grannies, and clean up our messes.
Here’s what makes it unforgettable:
- Clean slate energy — old out, new in
- Family rituals — reconnecting with those who matter
- Spiritual moments — merit-making, blessings, and temple time
- Public madness — streets-turned-rivers, music, water balloons
It’s part spiritual awakening, part foam party.
I’ll never see April the same way again.
And that’s why I think everyone should experience the pure joy and ancient roots of the Songkran Festival.
Still got questions about the Songkran Festival? Let’s tackle a few below.
What does Songkran Festival celebrate?
It celebrates Thai New Year, based on the solar calendar, when the sun enters Aries. It’s a time for cleansing, renewal, and spiritual rebirth.
Why do people throw water during Songkran?
Water symbolises washing away bad luck and purifying the soul. It began with gently pouring water on elders and Buddha statues, and evolved into fun street battles.
How long does Songkran Festival last?
It officially lasts three days, from April 13–15, though celebrations often extend across the week.
Can tourists join in?
Absolutely. In fact, Bangkok’s Khaosan Road and Chiang Mai’s Old Town are Songkran magnets for international travellers. Just bring a waterproof bag.
Is Songkran religious?
Yes, originally. It blends Theravada Buddhist rituals with Hindu astrology, but today, it’s both a spiritual and social event.
That’s the scoop on 10 cool facts about Songkran Festival. Ready to get soaked?
Check out more fun things to do in Phuket here.