In Thailand, April is usually the hottest time of year. But thanks to Songkran, it is also one of the most fun. With a few exceptions, in most parts of the Kingdom the water festival runs from April 13-15.
In Bangkok and most major cities, revellers will be able to enjoy water splashing and various other activities virtually anywhere, on the streets, in entertainment districts, tourist attractions and even in Buddhist temples. For those looking for something different, here are some of the new and lesser-known Songkran events within a three hour's drive from the capital city that you might find interesting.
- Bangkok boasts several venues for Songkran merrymakers, with CentralWorld, Khao San and Silom among the most popular. This year, two grand Songkran parties will be added. The new venues are Iconsiam, the latest mall and landmark on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, and King Power in Soi Rang Nam. At the first place, the celebration will begin on April 11 and continue until April 15. At the latter, the event will be one day longer, starting from April 10. Apart from the wet and wild fun of the festival, both events promise various kinds of entertainment, from music and other performances to contests and many more.
Check out the Facebook pages of each place for updates.
- In Suphan Buri and Ang Thong provinces, communities around several temples in outlying districts will celebrate the occasion in accordance with local traditions.
Temples in Suphan Buri include Wat Nong Kra Thum (April 18) and Wat Bo Kru (April 19) in Doem Bang Nang Buat, Wat Phu Nam Ron (April 19) in Dan Chang, and Wat Thong Pradit (April 12-16) in Song Phi Nong. In Ang Thong, a similar temple event will be held at Wat Nang Kham (April 12-14) in Wiset Chai Chan.
And of course, the main city of each of these two provinces will also hold a big party from April 13-15. In Suphan Buri, the hot spot is Artiwara Road. In Ang Thong, Khao Suk Road.
For details, call the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Suphan Buri Office, which oversees tourism promotion in both provinces, at 035-525-863/4, 035-525-867 or 035-525-880.
- Meanwhile, in Photharam district of Ratchaburi, after enjoying the water festival on the town's main streets, you can take a break for a cultural treat in the late afternoon at Wat Khanon. The temple has long been well known as the centre for the conservation of nang yai traditional shadow puppets. On April 13-14, the 14th Nang Yai Wat Khanon Festival will take place at the temple, from 3-10pm. Besides the puppet show there will also be a period-style market where visitors can try a variety of local delicacies.
Details can be obtained from the Wat Khanon Nang Yai page on Facebook.
