Travel Update: Situation in Bangkok during Songkran

For those traveling to Thailand to celebrate the Thai New Year (Songkran), here is a recent update regarding the anti-government protests in Bangkok. Red shirted protesters in Bangkok have been told to disperse and go home by their leaders and it seems that the anti-government rally is now over. Protesters have now begun leaving the area, and confrontations appear to have ceased.

The situation for travellers all around Thailand including Bangkok are as normal and Songkran celebrations are in full swing. It is recommended that travellers carefully pack mobile phones and and wallets in watertight bags to prevent damage when joining the celebrations.

Just in case you're unsure what kind of celebrations are taking place during Songkran that require watertight bags for your personal belongings, here's why.

Songkran is also known as the Thai New Year from April 13th to 15th. Songkran is a time for cleaning and renewal. The most well known celebration is the throwing of water. Residents will fill the streets with water pales, water guns, and garden hoses and drench each other and passersby. Not only do people celebrate Songkran by throwing water, they will also visit a Wat (Buddhist Monastery) to pray and give food to monks. While at these monasteries, people might even cleanse Buddhist images by pouring water scented with a Thai fragrance over them. This ritual is said to bring good luck and prosperity for the New Year.

Happy Travels,

BikeHike Adventures