Take on a Phuket road trip and experience the best of this beach province during Songkran!
The Songkran Water Festival in Thailand is coming up this April! As one of the most significant festivals in Thailand, marking the traditional Thai New Year, it’s a great time for tourists to immerse in the culture as locals come together to celebrate and pay respect to their ancestors.
Experience the best of the Songkran Festival by going on a road trip across Phuket. It's a wild adventure filled with exciting destinations and vibrant activities. So, pack your bags, turn up the tunes, and get ready for a Thailand road trip you'll never forget!
What is the Songkran Festival in Thailand?
Before you go ahead and plan your itinerary, here are things you should know about Songkran in Thailand. The festival came from the northern city of Chiang Mai and started with locals blessing each other by sprinkling water. It has since evolved into the biggest water party in every corner of the country!
Songkran has become a major holiday in the country, with locals taking extra days off to celebrate and visit friends and relatives. This celebration happens on April 13 every year, extending the holiday period until the 15th. In some years, the holiday extends to five days from April 12 to 16!
Songkran in Phuket
Photo Credit: Robin Noguier on Unsplash
Songkran Festival is heavily celebrated with performances and parades in major cities around the country. In Phuket, Songkran activities happen all over the island. Looking to join the water fight? The wild water war happens at 10:00 in Phuket Town and goes full blast by afternoon in Patong, Kata, and Karon. Bring your best water weapon (a water gun or bucket, perhaps) if you plan to drop by Bangla Road at night—that’s where the splashiest celebration is!
If you plan to visit all these water-fight spots, going on a road trip might be your best option to make the most out of your stay.
Why should I rent a car for Songkran?
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Book a car rental in Phuket for Songkran and never have to worry about moving around the country during the holidays! Plus, this gives you the freedom to do everything you want in Phuket at your own pace and time. You won’t have to think about where the nearest public transportation is or where you can hail a taxi.
Opting to self-drive is also a matter of safety and convenience. With a car, you can skip getting wet from festival goers splashing pedestrians and motorcyclists on the road. And, since Songkran happens smack dab during Thailand’s hot season, having an air-conditioned car with you is a more comfortable way to travel around the island.
Think about how you won’t have to drag your tired feet back to the subway after all the crazy water fights! This way, you can conveniently drive at ease back to your accommodation.
Where can I book a car?
You can easily book your car rental in Thailand on Klook! Simply head over to our car rental portal and experience the convenience of choosing which vehicle you want on the dates you prefer. To guide you throughout the process, make sure to read through our Short Guide to Booking a Car Rental and Driving Abroad.
Klook Tip: Don’t forget to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) for a hassle-free trip. You may check their official website to learn more about the requirements, instructions, and other frequently asked questions.
What else can I do in Phuket?
Photo Credit: ohishiftl on Adobe Stock
Thrilled to begin your Phuket road trip during Songkran? If you’re looking for more things to do in Phuket other than the water fights, then you’ve landed in the right place.
1. Explore Phuket with a Klook Pass
Who doesn’t love a great deal? If you’ve listed down places to visit in Phuket, like the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi, Andamanda Waterpark, and so much more, then our Klook Pass Phuket is perfect for you!
You can experience up to 4 activities from the available attractions at a more affordable rate than if you purchase individual tickets. You can save up to 42% at most—how terrific is that? You can even lump activities together and create themed tours! For example, you can do an island hopping escapade with the pass by choosing Phi Phi, Khai Island, James Bond Island, and Coral Island. Or go for a cultural immersion when you visit Siam Niramit, and Hanuman World. The possibilities are endless!
2. Zipline Adventure at Hanuman World
If you're up for an adventure in Phuket, visiting Hanuman World is a must! This attraction takes you into the treetops, where 30 activity platforms are set and maintained to the highest international safety standards. Brave the heights and feel the rush as you soar through the jungle on Thailand's longest and fastest ziplines, including the roller zipline, a high-speed twisted ride through the trees! It's an exhilarating experience that will get your heart pumping and give you a unique perspective on the beauty of the Thai jungle.
Hanuman World gets its name from the monkey god, Hanuman, a revered Hindu figure. The park pays tribute to his fearlessness and determination to reach his goals, no matter the obstacles. Tackle the ziplines and other activities at Hanuman World like a true adventurer who won't let anything stand in their way!
3. Siam Niramit
Another fantastic show to watch in Phuket is the Siam Niramit show! At Siam Niramit, experience an unforgettable journey through Thailand's history and traditions.
The show features over 100 performers, breathtaking stage designs, and cutting-edge special effects. It highlights various aspects of Thai culture, including religion, festivals, and art, all presented spectacularly—through colorful costumes, traditional dance performances, and even a display of Thai martial arts. With its grand scale and attention to detail, Siam Niramit promises to be an unforgettable cultural experience you don't want to miss when visiting Phuket.
Klook Tip: Add in a dining buffet option so you can feast on traditional Thai food after the show!
4. ANDAMANDA Phuket Waterpark
Looking for more water adventures in the heart of Phuket? Drive over to ANDAMANDA Phuket Waterpark after Songkran! As the largest waterpark in the area, it offers 17 thrilling rides, 32 slides, and 8 attractions across 5 Thai-themed zones. Plus, you'll get to savor the taste of Thailand with its spectacular Thai architecture and stunning tropical landscape.
Grab your swimsuits and sunscreen because ANDAMANDA Phuket is not just any ordinary water park. It's a Thai heritage-themed attraction that showcases the rich local culture and mythology. From the intricate design of the slides and pools to the delicious Thai food served on-site, every aspect of the waterpark is infused with Thai elements—as seen from the retail area, restaurant, cafes, and event spaces.
5. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
Photo Credit: Cheila Anja on Adobe Stock
You can meet rescued elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket in their new home, where they can live freely and retire from their past life of working in the logging and tourism industries. Did you know this ethical elephant sanctuary is the first of its kind in Phuket? It’s even endorsed by National Geographic and World Animal Protection. As you observe the elephants in their natural habitat, you can see them roam around, bathe, forage, and socialize freely in a 30-acre tropical jungle!
Here, visitors can feed the elephants, bathe them in the river, and even help to prepare their food! Additionally, guests can learn about the elephants' history and behavior from knowledgeable guides passionate about elephant welfare. The sanctuary also offers opportunities to learn about the local culture, including traditional dress and dance performances.
6. James Bond Island Day Tour
Photo Credit: Sven Vahaja on Unsplash
Discover the stunning beauty of James Bond Island, locally known as Khao Ping Kan, on a tour that takes you on a boat ride to explore the hidden gems of Ao Phang Nga National Park! Here, you have the chance to kayak into the mystical lagoons and caves of Panak Island and Hong Island, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs that offer breathtaking views.
As you visit this world-famous island, you'll literally feel like you're in a James Bond movie with the iconic landscapes as your backdrop. The limestone karst towers are a sight to behold and the perfect place for some great photo opportunities for your social media pics!
7. Let's Relax Spa Experience
If you're feeling drained after the excitement of Songkran, why not recharge your body and pamper yourself at Let's Relax Spa? With over 20 years of experience, this spa is a real gem in Phuket, well known for its top-notch service at an affordable price! They've won multiple awards, including the coveted title of “Thailand's Most Popular Day Spa.” No wonder it's been featured in Lonely Planet guides too!
Experience "Southern Tranquility" at Let's Relax Phuket. This spa is a hidden oasis in the bustling Patong Beach area, offering a range of treatments to soothe you. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing facial or a rejuvenating foot spa, Let's Relax Spa has you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let the experts work their magic!
Whether planning your next Songkran trip or simply looking for an adventure, a road trip in Phuket is the perfect way to experience the beauty and excitement of this vibrant island. Hit the road and explore all Phuket has to offer this Songkran season!
Thailand Local Traffic Guide during Songkran (refer to: Penghu Local Traffic Guide)
- Phuket car rental: 30% OFF, starting at USD 29.94
- Bangkok car rental: 30% OFF, starting at USD 30.76
- Instant confirmation, free cancellation (limited time only)
