Where to go in Chiang Mai for Songkran this year

Why go? From April 13-15, the moat of the Old City turns into the official ‘splash zone’ for Chiang Mai’s Songkran festival. Vendors usually set up shop a day before in anticipation so unofficially, the fun starts on April 12 with bars and locals getting in the spirit early – because why not? In years past, all four corners of the outer moat would be packed with pick-up trucks carrying water-lobbing locals and roadside vendors keeping people well hydrated, in all senses of the word. This year, officials have set up a circuit that loops around Jaeng Hua Rin (top left moat corner), Jaeng Sri Phum (top right corner) and then down to just past Thapae Gate then back around. This keeps things a little more condensed, but much easier to navigate. Just be mindful of getting too much moat water in your mouth or eyes – it’s supposed to be clean but…just to be safe.

Time Out tip: Get there around midday for peak splash action before making your escape before sundown. Ice block vendors along the moat happily top up water barrels for free with any ice purchase, meaning the water only gets colder (and dirtier) as the day goes on. Once the sun dips behind the mountains around 5pm, things can get real cold, real fast. 

Getting there: While the setup is designed for people to drive a circuit – with many locals opting for pickup trucks packed with water barrels and people – you can easily park a bike on any nearby soi and walk in. If you don’t ride a bike, avoid cars as the traffic is gridlock all day long. 

Why go? Most of the city’s ceremonies will take place here as the gate and roads adjacent are transformed into car-free, family-friendly water splashing chaos. With no formal end point, the fun will trickle off down both Thapae Road and into the old city along Ratchadamnern Road, both connected to the moat and the main water splashing circuit. A fully comprehensive schedule has yet to be released, but it’s set to include a two storey high water tunnel experience, live Lanna cultural performances, Mr and Miss Songkran competitions and much much more. What’s guaranteed is that any time of day, you’ll be sure to find something going on! 

Time Out tip: Although a little more tourist-heavy, it’s a better spot to play water if you’re on foot or with children. The area has water top-up spots and a huge water tunnel that keeps you nicely soaked without the shocking, boozy pickup pillions that can get quite rowdy as the day comes to a close. 

Getting there: Parking nearby and walking in is by far the best option, or avoid having to navigate the moat mayhem by joining Thapae Road from Nawarat Bridge for a more cautious approach.

Why go? The best alternative location for Songkran in Chiang Mai, with a huge concert set-up at the Huay Kaew intersection as Maya Mall and Think Park overtake the road and fight for who’s got the best DJs and water cannons.  In true Thai fashion, the road remains open, so do be careful when in the crowds, as they spill out onto the roads making for an exciting dance between revelers and trucks full of dancing families. And while this area is by far the busiest and most exciting part of the area, the main strip of Nimmanhaemin also has its fair share of roadside vendors, bars and locally-organised water splashing event spaces that are just as fun but significantly less busy than the Old City moat. It’s also home to the city’s biggest club, Warmup Café, which is always packed with people, with both dry and wet areas open day and night.

Time Out tip: While the fun is happening here all day, the stages outside the two strip malls become their own at night, bringing in huge crowds from across town as other areas close up shop. Definitely a spot better saved for the end of the day. 

Getting there: Aside from the chaos at the Huay Kaew junction, the road remains relatively traffic free. However, most of us know that it’s always hard to find parking on Nimmanhaemin, so you’re probably better off arriving by Grab. 

Why go? The city’s biggest and best backpacker hub is, unsurprisingly, taking it up a gear this Songkran by turning the open air bar complex into a splash and play festival of boozy, watery mayhem. With a 360-degree water system, stage, lights, colors and sound systems promised this year, it’s bound to be a blast – ideal for those who like to party club-style as soon as the sun comes up. Running from April 12-16, this is one of the longest-running events this year and is guaranteed to be a tourist hotspot from start to finish, with all the bars and venues in the complex taking part.

Time Out tip: As the main tourist spot in the Old City, keep an eye on their official social media channels for announcements about free drinks or exclusive activities – they’re often quite last minute. 

Getting there: Located inside the Old City, you’ll have to navigate the moat to get in. It’s easily accessible by foot from the main moat splash zone and has ample parking for bikes (and a few cars) on nearby side streets.

Why go? This is where the tourists can be found, just a stone’s throw away from Thaphae Road and the moat, it guarantees a more Bangkok-style Songkran experience with both local vendors and five-star hotels hosting parties and welcoming passing water splashers to take a break or join in their festivities. Definitely worth a visit as one of the more underrated neighbourhoods for Songkran this year, but it can be hit or miss depending on the year and what the local businesses have decided to offer. 

Time Out tip: If you’re unequipped and looking for buckets, water guns and waterproof phone pouches, the market stalls along the main road are the place to go to take arms – as long as you’re ok with getting wet first. 

Getting there: Much like Nimmanhaemin, the traffic here is usually less busy than the moat but parking is equally difficult to find. Join this area by walking from Thapae Road or driving in from the south to avoid the moat traffic. 

Why go? Aside from these main neighbourhoods found within the city, the province has designated a number of other official splash zones outside of the municipal area that are also bound to be packed with people, vendors and water gun slinging teens. These spots offer a much more local experience, often toned down in splashing but in overdrive when it comes to stage performances, loud music, food markets and community competitions. This year, Chiang Mai has designated six official out-of-city splash zones, but there’s likely many more out there besides. This year, these include Ton Yang Road (Saraphi), Mae Wang Bamboo Rafts (Mae Wang), Mae Kuang Udom Thara Dam (Doi Saket), Mae Ngat Somboon Chan Dam and Pangpao Beach (Mae Taeng) and Muang Kaew Beach (Mae Rim).

Time Out tip: If you’re looking to go local, keep in mind that people at these events don’t usually appreciate over-splashing. Keep your tactical assault water guns to the tourist zones and swap your armory for a bucket and cup for some good-old family fun.

Getting there: Most of these places are quite out of town, and given it’s a holiday you’ll probably find it hard to get a Grab home. Better to drive yourself there or, if you do end up getting a Grab, convince a friendly family to join their pickup party and hitch a ride back into town.