New Year’s Day is not exactly the same date in the four countries, but is during this period. Although Buddhists usually make trips to family homes and also temples to make merit, the principal activity nowadays is the mass water-fights that seemingly take place on every city street and rural highway.
The Northern Thai city of Chiang Mai was historically the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The Songkran New Year Festival originated here and the city is still the destination of choice for both Thai and foreign tourists. The focal point of the water-fights here is the streets surrounding the Old City’s moat.
Most other cities and holiday resorts in Thailand hold their own water-throwing activities, although Pattaya is a few days later with its celebrations. In Laos, the festival is called Pi Mai Lao and the best places to join in the fun are Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
Cambodians call their festival Chaul Chnam Thmey while over in Myanmar it is Thingyan. The capital cities of the two countries, Phnom Penh and Yangon, plus Mandalay are hot spots to cool down in for the New Year.
Southeast Asian nations arm for massive water fight
News in Asia
Residents of cities, towns and villages right across the top of Southeast Asia are getting ready for the pitched water-throwing battles which herald the start of the traditional New Year. In Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand, the festivities typically begin on the 12 April and run through until the 19.