From Kwan Phayao to Wat Klang Wiang – this is how Songkran will be celebrated in northern Thailand in 2025

While in Bangkok preparing for another spectacular water festival, it is in the northern provinces of Chiang Rai and Phayao that Songkran 2025 will take on a deeper, more cultural character. Throughout April and into May, both Thai and international visitors are invited to a colorful celebration where tradition and community take center stage.

Songkran Tan Tung – tradition meets sustainable tourism

The Chiang Rai Tourism Authority is launching the concept this year "Songkran Tan Tung", an initiative to promote cultural heritage, local tourism and sustainability. The name refers to the beautiful fabric flags (tung) that adorn temples and villages in northern Thailand during the New Year season.

The initiative is part of the campaign Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year 2025 and coincides with that Songkran in Thailand now officially recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible World Heritage Site (since December 2023).

Chiang Rai: Festivals and ceremony at Wat Klang Wiang

In Chiang Rai, the celebrations begin at the central temple, Wat Klang Wiang, where visitors can participate in prayers, bathe the Buddha statue Phra Chao Fon Saen Ha and decorate with zodiac flags – a symbol of the new year.

Here are some of the highlights of Chiang Rai:

• Pi Mai Muang Festivall (April 12–16) on Muan Road in the city center
• Songkran at Central Plaza (April 13–15, 19)
• Songkran in Chiang Khong (April 13)
• Chiang Saen Festival (April 12, 16–18)
• Pong Srinakhon traditions (April 19–20)
• Hiking and celebration in Ban Pangkhon (May 3–4)

The events offer local food, flower processions and water games – but also more thoughtful ceremonies such as sand pagoda building and blessings from the elderly.

Phayao: New Year's celebration by the lake and spiritual anchoring

In Phayao it says Wat Si Khom Kham – beautifully situated at Kwan Phayao – in the centre of the celebrations. Activities take place here throughout April, including:

• Songkran at Kung Ngam Muang Monument (April 13–15)
• Tai Lue Festival in Chiang Muan (April 13)
• Dok Kham Tai festivities (April 12–13)
• Vesak celebration with procession at Kwan Phayao Lake (May 11)

Phayao combines water festivals with respect for spirituality and history – something that makes the experience both calming and memorable.

A personal reflection from the north

For those looking for a different kind of Songkran than the loud parties in the big cities, northern Thailand is an obvious choice. Here, the new year is celebrated with dignity, music, fragrant flowers and a deep connection to Buddhist heritage.

Sources:

• Chiang Rai event calendar
• TAT Chiang Rai and Phayao
• Chiang Rai Times

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Thailand Info