Songkran Festival in Koh Samui – The Ultimate Water Festival Experience
Songkran, the Thai New Year celebration, is Thailand’s most exciting and widely recognised festival. Known as the Water Festival, Songkran is a mix of cultural traditions and high-energy water fights, making it one of the most thrilling events in the country. If you are planning to experience Songkran in Koh Samui, here’s everything you need to know!
A Brief History of Songkran
Songkran is celebrated annually from April 13-15 and marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. The word “Songkran” originates from the Sanskrit term meaning ‘transformation’ or ‘change’. Historically, it was a time for paying respects to elders, making merit at temples, and cleansing Buddha statues with water. Over time, the festival evolved into Thailand’s biggest nationwide water fight, attracting millions of locals and tourists.
How to Celebrate Songkran in Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of the best places to experience Songkran Festival Day.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Water Battles on Chaweng Beach Road – This is the most popular spot for Songkran events in Koh Samui. Locals and tourists take to the streets with water guns, buckets, and hoses, drenching everyone in sight.
2. Traditional Temple Visits – Visit local temples to pour water over Buddha statues, receive blessings from monks, and participate in merit-making ceremonies.
3. Live Music & Street Parties – Many bars, clubs, and restaurants along Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village host special Songkran parties with DJs and live performances.
4. Local Cultural Performances – Some resorts and cultural centres offer traditional Thai dance performances, Muay Thai demonstrations, and parades.
Songkran Attire – What to Wear?
When celebrating Songkran Festival Day, be prepared to get completely soaked!
Here’s what to wear:
✅ Quick-dry clothing – Avoid heavy fabrics; opt for lightweight materials.
✅ Bright & floral shirts – Traditional Songkran attire includes colourful, floral-themed shirts.
✅ Waterproof phone pouch – Essential for protecting your valuables.
✅ Sunglasses or goggles – To shield your eyes from unexpected water splashes.
✅ Comfortable sandals or waterproof shoes – Avoid flip-flops as streets can get slippery.
Songkran Do’s and Don’ts
✅ Do’s:
Respect the traditions – Visit a temple and observe cultural rituals.
Stay hydrated – The heat and partying can be exhausting.
Be mindful of others – Not everyone wants to be soaked, so be considerate.
❌ Don’ts:
Don’t throw water at monks, babies, or the elderly – This is considered disrespectful.
Don’t use ice-cold or dirty water – Stick to clean, fresh water.
Don’t drive after drinking – Songkran is known for high accident rates, so stay safe.
April’s Special – Songkran & Easter at Explorar Koh Samui!
Celebrate Songkran on 13 April 2025 with a full day of festive highlights at Explorar Koh Samui. Enjoy complimentary mocktails and local snacks at the Explorar Walking Street, join the energy of our signature pool party with live DJ and the fun-filled Duck Race Challenge, and try your luck in the Songkran Lucky Draw with exclusive prizes. Toast to the Thai New Year during Happy Songkran Hours with Buy 1 Get 1 cocktails and beer bucket specials, then end the evening with a traditional Thai Samrub dinner featuring bold local flavours. Guests staying on 12 April will also receive complimentary Songkran goodie bags with water guns, waterproof pouches, and more.
For those looking to celebrate Songkran in Koh Samui but also find a tranquil retreat, Explorar Koh Samui is the perfect choice. Situated close to the vibrant Chaweng Beach festivities yet offering a peaceful sanctuary, it’s ideal for unwinding after the excitement of the festival while still being within easy reach of the action.