Thailand Gears Up for an Unforgettable Songkran Festival, Anticipating Record-Breaking Tourism Growth and Nearly Half a Million International Visitors - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Saturday, April 12, 2025

Thailand is gearing up for its grand annual celebration, the Songkran Festival 2025, which is expected to attract 476,000 foreign tourists and 4.42 million domestic visitors, generating over 26,500 million baht in tourism revenue. The festival, running from April 12-16, 2025, is set to enhance Thailand’s reputation as one of the world’s top festival destinations, marking a significant increase in both international and local travel. This year’s Songkran promises to be a major economic boost for the country, with a 3% rise in foreign arrivals and a 6% growth in domestic tourism, solidifying its position as a global hub for cultural and festive tourism.

Thailand is set to host its grand annual event, the “Songkran Festival,” offering a refreshing splash of water fun across the country while simultaneously boosting travel numbers. The five-day celebration, from April 12-16, 2025, is anticipated to generate over 26,500 million baht in tourism revenue. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) estimates that 476,000 foreign tourists will attend, marking a 3% increase in international arrivals, and that 4.42 million domestic visitors will join the festivities, a 6% rise from the previous year. With Thailand’s vibrant Songkran festivities, the country aims to solidify its position as one of the world’s top festival destinations.

TAT’s efforts in organizing and supporting events, along with contributions from government and private organizations, ensure that this festival reaches every corner of Thailand. From bustling cities to scenic tourist spots, the nationwide celebration fosters tourism across regions, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of the Songkran spirit. The initiative also strengthens confidence in Thailand’s ability to host large-scale tourism activities successfully.

To cater to the soaring demand for both domestic and international travel, Airports of Thailand (AOT) has arranged additional flights during the Songkran period. Between April 11 and 17, 2025, the country will see 267,603 international flights, marking a 9.1% increase, and 213,792 domestic flights, an increase of 22.7%. The total number of passengers is expected to reach 79.19 million, reflecting an 18.3% rise from the previous year. International passenger numbers will increase by 14.1% to 48.24 million, while domestic travel will soar by 25.5% to 30.95 million.

In Bangkok, 196 activities will be held during the festival, spread across various zones, offering both cultural and fun experiences. Key events include the Maha Songkran World Water Festival at Sanam Luang, the King Power Songkran Festival, and the vibrant Songkran celebrations on Khao San Road, Silom Road, and more. With these exciting activities, tourists and locals alike can partake in the cultural essence of Songkran while enjoying the cooling waters.

Highlights from some of the main Songkran celebrations include:

• Larn Khon Muang at Bangkok City Hall (Giant Swing)
• Maha Songkran World Water Festival at Sanam Luang
• Songkran Festival at Lan Khon Muang
• Colorful Thai-style Songkran Festival in the hometown
• King Power Songkran Festival Rangnam 2025
• Iconic water festivals at Khao San Road, Silom, and Barattong
• Water Festival 2025 and S2O Songkran Music Festival
• Thai Songkran Festival at M District and Benjasiri Park

As the Songkran Festival unfolds, Thailand celebrates its cultural heritage while marking a significant milestone in tourism and international engagement.