Are you considering celebrating Songkran in Phuket 2023 but unsure of where to start? Songkran is a cultural festival celebrated in summer every year, where water is thrown as a symbol of cleansing and renewal. As the largest island in Thailand, Phuket offers some of the best experiences to enjoy the festivities. In this article, we will provide you with a guide on the best places to celebrate Songkran in Phuket 2023.
Before we dive into the best places to celebrate Songkran in Phuket 2023, let's first understand what Songkran is.
Songkran is a traditional Thai New Year festival that celebrates the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. During the festival, people splash water on each other as a symbol of cleansing and purification. It is a time to visit temples, make merit, and spend time with family and friends. The festival is celebrated from 13th to 15th April every year, and it's a time of joy, fun, and cultural activities.
Phuket, a renowned tourist destination in Thailand, also joins in the celebration of Songkran with diverse activities and events. The well-known activity during the festival in Phuket is water splashing, where locals and tourists equip themselves with water guns, buckets, and hoses to participate in friendly water fights, signifying the purging of negativity and the welcoming of a fresh start for the New Year. Here are some of the best places to experience Songkran in Phuket 2023:
Bangla Road
The bustling party hotspot of Bangla Road in Patong transforms into a massive water fight arena during Songkran. It's the perfect spot for those who love to party and get soaked in the process. With bars, clubs, and restaurants lining the street, you'll never run out of options for food, drinks, and entertainment. Just remember to keep your valuables in a waterproof bag, as you're guaranteed to get drenched!
Jungceylon Shopping Mall
If you prefer to stay a bit drier during Songkran, head to the Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong Beach. Here, you can enjoy various activities, performances, and contests related to the festival, all within the air-conditioned comfort of the mall. Plus, it's a great place to pick up some traditional Thai souvenirs and gifts.
Old Phuket Town
You can join Songkran wet street parties from early morning. It starts rather gently in Phuket Town around 10 am. And for those interested in experiencing the more traditional side of Songkran, Old Phuket Town is the place to be as the area offers a more cultural experience of Songkran, with its beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture and rich history. During Songkran, the streets are closed to traffic and lined with stalls selling traditional food, clothes, and souvenirs. Songkran in Old Phuket Town, things tend to be more local-oriented, with fragrant water spritzed on shrines and traditional Thai dance performances.
Central Phuket
Central Phuket, home to numerous shopping centers and entertainment venues, is another fantastic spot to celebrate Songkran. Join the crowds for epic water fights, or visit Central Festival Phuket and Floresta for a range of indoor activities and events, including live music and traditional performances.
If you're looking for a more family-friendly Songkran experience in Phuket, head to Kamala Beach. We recommend this quieter, more laid-back beach as it offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families with young children. Enjoy water fights and beach games, or simply soak up the sun as you watch the festivities unfold. Besides, Kamala Beach also gives a variety of beachfront properties, bars and restaurants where you can celebrate Songkran in style. Enjoy delicious Thai cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and live music as you take in the breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea. It's the ideal setting to unwind after a day of water-filled fun.
Karon Beach is another fantastic location to experience Songkran in Phuket. The long stretch of golden sand becomes a playground for water fights and beach parties during the festival. With plenty of beachfront amenities, you'll have ample opportunities to refuel and recharge as you join in the revelry. For a more spiritual Songkran experience, visit the local temples in Karon Beach like Karon Temple (Wat Suwan Khiri Khet). Participate in traditional ceremonies, such as offering alms to monks and pouring fragrant water on Buddha statues. These rituals are an important part of the Songkran festival and provide a fascinating insight into Thai culture and beliefs.
Appropriate Clothing: As Songkran involves plenty of water activities, it's best to dress appropriately to avoid getting soaked. It's advisable to avoid wearing light-colored clothing as it may become see-through when wet.
Protect Your Valuables: Valuables like your phone, wallet, or camera can be protected from water damage by storing them in waterproof bags.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Songkran is a traditional festival, and it's essential to respect local customs and traditions. It's recommended to refrain from throwing water at monks and elders.
Stay Hydrated: The festival can be tiring, and it's important to stay hydrated throughout the day. It's advisable to bring a water bottle with you and drink plenty of water.
Have Fun: Most importantly, enjoy the festival and let yourself loose. Embrace the joy and celebration that Songkran brings along.
If you're planning on celebrating Songkran in Phuket 2023, you'll want to make sure you have a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Luckily, there are plenty of properties in Phuket available for Songkran celebrations. If you're traveling with a group of friends or family, renting a villa is a great option. Villas offer privacy, space, and often come with a private pool, making them perfect for celebrating Songkran.
If you're traveling solo or with a smaller group, renting a condo or hotel room is a great option. There are plenty of budget-friendly options available in Phuket, so you don't have to break the bank to enjoy your stay here. Make sure to book your accommodation early, as Songkran is a busy time of year and properties tend to fill up quickly due to Phuket tourism recovery in 2023.
Ready to celebrate Songkran in Phuket 2023? Don't miss out on the cultural festivities and the exhilarating water fights that make this festival one of the most popular in Thailand. From Patong Beach to Old Phuket Town, there are plenty of places to experience the excitement of Songkran.
What is the significance of Songkran?
Songkran is a traditional Thai New Year festival that celebrates the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. It's a time to visit temples, make merit, and spend time with family and friends.
What should I wear during Songkran in Phuket?
Wear appropriate clothing that can get wet, such as shorts and a t-shirt. Avoid wearing light-colored clothing as it may become see-through when wet.
Can I celebrate Songkran in Phuket if I'm not from Thailand?
Yes, Songkran is a festival that welcomes everyone, regardless of their nationality.
Is it safe to celebrate Songkran in Phuket?
Phuket is generally safe during Songkran, but it's important to be cautious and protect your valuables.
When is Songkran celebrated in Phuket?
Songkran in Phuket is actually 1 day on 13th April, however, there are plenty of partying and events celebrated from 13th to 15th April every year in Phuket.
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