Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate Songkran this year? Look no further than the City of 4 Rivers, Nakhon Sawan. Located in central Thailand, Nakhon Sawan is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. But during Songkran, it becomes a hub of activity and excitement.
From April 13th to 16th, Wat Woranat Banphot (Wat Kop) in Nakhon Sawan will host the Khao Nor-Khao Kaew Songkran Festival. This festival is a one-of-a-kind celebration that combines traditional Songkran rituals with modern entertainment. Visitors can expect to see colorful parades, enjoy live music and dance performances, and participate in water fights with locals and tourists alike.
But there’s more to Songkran in Nakhon Sawan than just the festival. The city’s name itself means “City of 4 Rivers,” and visitors can explore the area’s natural beauty by taking a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River. The river begins in Nakhon Sawan and is a vital part of the city’s history and culture. Whether you’re looking to experience traditional Songkran celebrations or simply want to explore a beautiful part of Thailand, Nakhon Sawan is the perfect destination.
History of Songkran in Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan, also known as the City of 4 Rivers, has a rich history of celebrating Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year. The festival is celebrated in mid-April and marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season.
Songkran is a time for family reunions, temple visits, and water fights. It is a time to cleanse oneself of past sins and make merit for the new year. In Nakhon Sawan, the festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and is one of the most popular events of the year.
The history of Songkran in Nakhon Sawan dates back to the Ayutthaya period, when the city was an important trading center. It is said that the festival was first celebrated by the Mon people, who lived in the area and had their own calendar. The tradition was later adopted by the Thai people and became an important part of Thai culture.
Over the years, the festival has evolved and become more elaborate. In Nakhon Sawan, the festival is celebrated with a procession of Buddha images from various temples, which are carried on floats decorated with flowers and lights. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and dance performances.
During the festival, visitors can also enjoy traditional Thai food, shop for local handicrafts, and participate in water fights. The city is transformed into a giant water park, with people spraying water on each other using buckets, water guns, and hoses.
Celebrations and Activities
Songkran in the City of 4 Rivers, Nakhon Sawan is a lively and colorful celebration that lasts for four days. The festival is held in mid-April and is one of the most popular events in Thailand. Visitors from all over the world come to experience the festivities and join in the fun.
The festival is centered around water, which is used to symbolize the washing away of sins and bad luck. People pour water on each other, play with water guns and participate in water fights. The streets are filled with people dancing, singing, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the festival is the procession of the Buddha image, which takes place on the first day of the festival. The procession is led by monks and is accompanied by traditional Thai music and dance. Visitors can join in the procession and offer flowers and incense to the Buddha image.
In addition to the water activities, there are also cultural performances, food stalls, and traditional games. Visitors can try their hand at Thai boxing, watch traditional dances, and sample local delicacies. The festival is a great way to experience Thai culture and traditions.
It’s important to note that the festival can get quite crowded, so visitors should be prepared for large crowds and plan accordingly. It’s also recommended to wear waterproof clothing and to protect electronic devices from water damage.
Overall, Songkran in the City of 4 Rivers, Nakhon Sawan is a must-see event for anyone visiting Thailand in April. With its lively celebrations, cultural performances, and traditional activities, it’s a great way to experience Thai culture and traditions.
Food and Drink
Songkran is not just about water fights and fun activities. It is also a time to enjoy delicious food and drinks. During the festival, the streets are filled with food vendors selling traditional Thai dishes, snacks, and drinks.
One of the must-try dishes during Songkran is Khao Chae, a refreshing dish made of rice soaked in jasmine-scented water and served with various side dishes, such as sweet pork, fried shrimp paste balls, and stuffed shallots. Another popular dish is Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, and chili.
For those with a sweet tooth, be sure to try Kanom Krok, a coconut milk pancake, and Khanom Buang, a crispy Thai crepe filled with sweet or savory toppings.
As for drinks, the most popular drink during Songkran is undoubtedly Nam Oi, a sweet and refreshing drink made from sugar palm fruit. You can also try Cha Yen, Thai iced tea, or Cha Manao, lime juice with honey and salt.
When it comes to dining during Songkran, there are plenty of options available. From street food to restaurants, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Some recommended places to try include the Nakhon Sawan Night Market, the local food court at Big C Supercenter, and the riverside restaurants along the Ping River.
Best Places to Celebrate Songkran in Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan, also known as the City of 4 Rivers, is a popular destination for celebrating Songkran in Thailand. Here are some of the best places to join in the festivities:
- Wat Woranat Banphot (Wat Kop): This temple is one of the key locations for Songkran celebrations in Nakhon Sawan. From April 13-16, 2023, the temple hosts a variety of traditional activities, including merit-making ceremonies, water pouring, and cultural performances.
- Riverside Walk: This scenic walkway along the Chao Phraya River is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to splash water and join in the fun during Songkran.
- Nakhon Sawan Tower: For a bird’s eye view of the festivities, head to the top of Nakhon Sawan Tower. From there, you can see the city’s streets and waterways filled with revelers and water fights.
Other popular spots for Songkran celebrations in Nakhon Sawan include the City Pillar Shrine, where locals gather to pour water and pay respect to the city’s guardian spirits, and Robinson Department Store, which hosts a lively water fight in its parking lot.
Whether you choose to join in the traditional ceremonies at the temple or splash around with fellow revelers on the streets, Songkran in Nakhon Sawan is a memorable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Tips for Enjoying Songkran in Nakhon Sawan
If you’re planning to celebrate Songkran in Nakhon Sawan, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Wear appropriate clothing: It’s important to dress appropriately for Songkran. Wear light-colored clothes that you don’t mind getting wet, as well as comfortable shoes that you can walk in for hours. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof bag to protect your valuables.
- Stay hydrated: Songkran is a hot and humid festival, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and bring a refillable water bottle with you. You can also buy drinks from street vendors, but make sure they’re sealed and safe to drink.
- Protect yourself from the sun: The sun can be intense during Songkran, so make sure to wear sunscreen and a hat. You can also bring an umbrella to provide shade.
- Be respectful: Songkran is a traditional festival, so it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Don’t throw water at monks, the elderly, or people who don’t want to participate in the festival.
- Join the festivities: Songkran is a time for celebration, so don’t be afraid to join in the fun! Dance to the music, splash water on your friends, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable Songkran experience in Nakhon Sawan.
Conclusion
Songkran in the City of 4 Rivers, Nakhon Sawan is an unforgettable experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The festival is a unique celebration of Thai culture and tradition, and it provides an opportunity to experience the country’s rich history and heritage.
During Songkran, visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including water fights, parades, and traditional ceremonies. The festival is a time for families and friends to come together and celebrate the start of the Thai New Year.
While in Nakhon Sawan, visitors can also explore the city’s other attractions, such as the Chao Mae Pak Nam Pho Shrine, which is home to the famous dragon and lion procession. The city is also known for its four rivers, which provide a picturesque backdrop for a range of outdoor activities.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, be sure to include Nakhon Sawan and Songkran in your itinerary. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
For more information about traveling to Thailand, visit Tourism Thailand.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.