Songkran Time!
Songkran - Khao San Road 2008
Yes - it's that time againÂ
Songkran is upon
us. But will it be the same as yesteryear? Unlikely. The
authorities are continuing their push to make Songkran safer
and more sedate. The aim is noble - to reattach the festival
to its roots as a time for family reunions, merit-making
and respecting elders. Yes, you can still throw water and
have fun... but this year high-pressure water pistols or
PVC pumpguns are banned - outright.
There's a ban on selling them and sellers
face a fine of up to 50,000 baht - don't expect to see them
for sale! In addition, there's a ban on vehicles carrying
buckets of water, water guns and too many people - sensible
measures aimed at reducing the number of road accidents
during the period. The ban takes place between 11 April
2008 and 16 April 2008 and covers Na Phra Larn, Rajdamnoen
Nok, Rajdamnoen Klang, and of course, Khao San Road - no
vehicles from 9 am to midnight! This has to be positive
- yes, you can throw water and but you can't threaten people
with injury any more, no matter how well intended!
This is one of Thailand's most important festivals
- and that's important to rememberÂ
You can still enjoy
being drenched all day, but why not consider a few 'cultural'
alternatives to the usual mayhem? Take a look at the Nine
Temple Tour, which includes Wat Chanatsongkran at the
end of KSR. The tourist authority has also laid on a few
activities in the areaÂ
"Fun-filled splashing in traditional
Thai dress" will take place on Khao San Road from 4-15 April
2008 at 17.00-18.00. In addition, the local traders are
coming up with the goods - expect masses of activities,
games and competitions. The Opening Ceremony for Khao San's
official Songkran activities is on 12 April 2008. As ever,
Songran goes on through 13, 14, and 15 AprilÂ
perhaps even
longer!
Full schedule when it arrives!
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