The world's biggest water fight — three days of nationwide celebration every April, with spiritual origins that most tourists miss.
Songkran is the Thai New Year (usually April 13–15); the water represents purification — pouring water over Buddha images and elder relatives' hands is the sacred act.
The public water-throwing evolved from the traditional gentle pouring — now Khao San Road and Silom become war zones with water guns, hoses, and trucks of ice water.
Bangkok (Silom, Khao San) is chaotic and intense; Chiang Mai's moat road is the most famous venue — both are overwhelming in the best way.
Waterproof everything — phone case essential; wear clothes you don't mind soaking; closed-toe shoes (streets flood); bring your own water gun for full participation.
Transport chaos during Songkran — book accommodation months in advance; prices triple; flights in/out Bangkok are expensive; consider arriving before April 12 or leaving after April 16.
