Songkran: tips for enjoying Thailand's water festival

Location: Throughout Thailand

Dates: 13–15 April

Level of participation: 5 – Songkran is a no-holds-barred water fight, and tourists are fair game, both to be soaked and to do the soaking

The Lunar New Year in Thailand marks a time when the country literally goes to water. Part a time of respect and part riot, Songkran is an occasion when images of the Buddha are ‘bathed’ and young Thais seek the blessing of their elders by pouring scented water over their hands (a ceremony known as rod nahm dum hua). After that, it’s a water-throwing free-for-all – traditionally, the custom was to pour water gently over other people but it has evolved into little more than a good excuse for an almighty water fight.

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/travel-tips-and-articles/76374#ixzz3V5FAJkIh