More Than Five Hundred Thousand International and Four Million Domestic Tourists Travelling During Maha Songkran Travel Season, Going to Beat Ramadan Exodus in Indonesia, Latest Update for You

Published on April 13, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

More than five hundred thousand international tourists and four million domestic travelers are expected to be on the move during the Maha Songkran travel season this year, marking a significant surge in tourism during Thailand’s biggest holiday. As the country gears up for the celebrations, the Maha Songkran exodus is set to rival the annual Ramadan exodus in Indonesia, traditionally one of the busiest travel periods in Southeast Asia. With this massive influx of travelers, Thailand’s roads, airports, and railways are bracing for the chaos that accompanies such high volumes of travel. Whether it’s domestic visitors traveling to reunite with family or international tourists flocking to experience the famed Songkran water festival, this year’s Songkran promises to be a record-breaking period for tourism in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Rai, Ayutthaya, Hat Yai, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Udon Thani, Hua Hin, Sukhothai, Samut Prakan, Rayong, Chonburi, Kanchanaburi, Krabi, Lopburi.

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As Thailand welcomes the start of its most cherished festival, Songkran, the country’s infrastructure, from roads to airports, railways, hotels, and cruise lines, is experiencing an unprecedented surge in both domestic and international travel. The country is at its most vibrant and lively, with people flocking to join in the iconic water fights, cultural ceremonies, and family reunions. However, the massive influx of travelers brings with it significant challenges, including travel chaos across the country. The annual exodus for Songkran celebrations has reached new heights this year, and as Thailand faces record-breaking numbers of tourists, the strain on its travel and tourism sectors is becoming increasingly apparent.

Tourists Arriving in Record Numbers for Songkran Travel

This year’s Songkran travel period has seen an incredible spike in both international and domestic tourism. With millions of travelers hitting the roads and taking to the skies to visit family or simply join the festive celebrations, Thailand has transformed into one of the world’s hottest travel destinations. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand, this year marks a return to pre-pandemic tourism levels, with the country set to welcome a record number of international visitors, including travelers from China, Japan, South Korea, Europe, and other regions.

Songkran celebrations are deeply rooted in Thai culture, and it’s no surprise that tourists are eager to experience the festivities firsthand. From the famed water fights in Chiang Mai’s old city to the traditional religious ceremonies in Ayutthaya, Thailand’s Songkran festivities offer a unique opportunity to explore the country’s heritage. International tourists have flocked to the country, increasing demand for flights, hotel rooms, and local transportation.

Despite the significant tourism boost, the sheer number of visitors has led to congestion, with travelers experiencing delays and difficulties navigating crowded airports, train stations, and highways. The excitement of Songkran and the explosion of travel during this time make it clear that the holiday season, while magical, is also a challenging period for many who seek to explore Thailand’s cultural riches.

Travel Chaos on the Roads: Thailand’s Songkran Rush

With millions of vehicles on the road, the Songkran period is a notorious time for travel chaos. The country’s highways, particularly those connecting Bangkok to other major cities and provinces, are experiencing gridlock as travelers rush to reunite with family or take part in the festivities. Road safety is a primary concern, as speeding, reckless driving, and alcohol consumption increase dramatically during the holiday period.

For travelers heading out of the major cities, the prospect of long hours in traffic is becoming a reality. Highways connecting Bangkok to popular Songkran destinations like Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and Phuket are experiencing serious congestion, leading to delays and frustration. In fact, the first few days of Songkran already reported a surge in accidents, with significant traffic jams caused by the large number of vehicles trying to reach their destinations.

The chaos on the roads extends beyond Thailand’s domestic travelers. International tourists, eager to join in the celebrations, are also affected by the traffic disruptions, which create additional hurdles for those unfamiliar with local roads. Many travelers have been left stranded in gridlocked traffic for hours, heightening the stress of their holiday.

Airports Strained by High Passenger Traffic During Songkran

As airports across Thailand prepare for a record-breaking number of travelers during Songkran, the pressure on their facilities is reaching critical levels. Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, the busiest in the country, has been overwhelmed with passengers arriving from around the globe. From long lines at check-in counters to extended wait times for security checks, airports are feeling the strain of Songkran travel in real time.

While Suvarnabhumi and other major airports like Chiang Mai and Phuket have ramped up staff and increased resources to accommodate the surge, the overwhelming demand is still creating delays. Travelers are experiencing longer-than-usual wait times, not only for check-in and boarding but also for baggage collection and customs clearance. This has resulted in significant frustration among passengers, many of whom were expecting a smoother holiday journey.

For international tourists arriving for Songkran, their first encounter with the country may involve a stressful, congested airport experience. However, once they make it past security and boarding, many are met with the vibrant sights and sounds of the festival, making the chaotic start to their holiday a distant memory.

Railways: Overcrowded Trains and Delays During the Songkran Exodus

Thailand’s railway system is also feeling the pressure of the Songkran travel rush. With millions of people looking to travel to different parts of the country, train stations are packed with passengers eager to get on board for their Songkran journeys. Overcrowding in train stations has been reported across Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, where tourists flock to take the train to local festivals and family gatherings.

The Thai State Railway has worked to increase the number of trains running during the holiday period to accommodate the surge in passengers. However, this has not been enough to prevent overcrowding. Travelers are finding themselves standing for long hours in crowded carriages, some even unable to board trains due to a lack of available seats.

This rail travel chaos is exacerbated by delays and limited capacity during peak travel times. Trains running to popular Songkran destinations are often packed, leaving passengers with little choice but to wait for the next available train. Despite efforts to manage the increased demand, Thailand’s rail system remains strained, resulting in a less-than-ideal travel experience for many.

Cruises and Water Transportation: A Popular Yet Overcrowded Option

With Thailand’s iconic beaches and coastlines becoming a popular destination during Songkran, the demand for cruises and water transportation has surged. From luxurious cruises departing from Phuket and Krabi to short boat trips in Bangkok, the water travel sector is experiencing an increase in demand. However, the surge in passengers has led to overcrowding on boats, making travel by sea less comfortable for many tourists.

While cruises provide an excellent opportunity to explore Thailand’s coastal beauty, many tourists have found themselves squeezed into overcrowded vessels, with limited space and amenities. The increase in tourists has also strained local marinas and dock facilities, causing delays in boat departures. Despite the picturesque setting, water transportation during Songkran is becoming a less relaxing and more chaotic option for travelers.

Hotel Industry Boom Amidst the Songkran Surge

As the number of tourists continues to rise, Thailand’s hotel industry is experiencing an enormous boom. From budget accommodations to luxury resorts, hotels are fully booked during the Songkran holiday period. The tourism industry has capitalized on the increased demand by offering Songkran-themed packages and exclusive services aimed at travelers seeking the ultimate festival experience.

However, with high occupancy rates, many hotels are facing challenges in providing personalized services to their guests. Check-in times are longer, room availability is limited, and some travelers report delays in receiving services due to the overwhelming number of guests. Hotels in popular destinations like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya are struggling to meet the demand, with some travelers resorting to last-minute bookings or being placed in less desirable rooms.

Despite these challenges, the Songkran festival continues to provide a significant boost to the Thai hotel industry, with businesses eager to take advantage of the high volume of tourists. The influx of visitors is helping to recover the losses caused by the pandemic, although the chaos that comes with the increased demand is an ongoing issue for hoteliers.

As Thailand enters the much-anticipated Songkran holiday, which marks the Thai New Year, the country faces a chaotic mix of joy and tragedy. The first day of Songkran has already seen 27 fatalities, with more than 200 accidents reported on the roads, according to the latest travel reports. The so-called “Seven Dangerous Days” of Songkran, known for its high rate of accidents, is already living up to its name despite the government’s repeated efforts to curb travel-related risks. The roads are jam-packed with thousands of vehicles, while airports and train stations are experiencing unprecedented traffic as people from all corners of the country and beyond flood the streets to join in the country’s grandest celebration.

Unprecedented Surge in Tourism and Travel Chaos

Thailand’s Songkran 2025 is witnessing record-breaking tourist arrivals. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has projected that the holiday period, running from April 12 to 16, will bring in over 476,000 international visitors. Meanwhile, the number of domestic tourists is expected to hit 4.42 million, injecting significant revenue into the country’s economy, with tourism spending estimated at over 26,500 million baht. The streets, highways, and airports are brimming with people—locals returning home to spend time with their families and international tourists eager to join in the traditional water fights and cultural ceremonies.

The surge in travel has left the country’s transport infrastructure stretched to its limits. Thailand’s highways, often heavily congested during Songkran, are clogged with thousands of vehicles heading in all directions. Some major routes connecting Bangkok to popular holiday destinations like Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Ayutthaya have become parking lots due to the sheer volume of traffic. For many, the excitement of Songkran quickly gives way to frustration as long hours on the road become the norm.

This travel rush has exacerbated the already volatile road safety situation, with many accidents stemming from speeding, reckless driving, and alcohol consumption. As Songkran festivities spill into the streets, the intoxicating mix of alcohol and excitement leads to dangerous driving behavior, causing unnecessary fatalities and injuries. This year, while there’s been a slight decline in the number of fatalities compared to the previous year, the death toll remains high for the first day of the holiday period.

Airports Strain Under Record Passenger Numbers

Thailand’s airports are similarly overwhelmed, particularly Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, which serves as the entry point for a majority of international visitors. As passenger numbers climb, check-in counters, security checks, and baggage claim areas have been overwhelmed with long queues and delays. International airlines are also feeling the pressure, with many flights delayed due to the high number of passengers and the strain on airport resources.

Despite efforts by airport authorities to prepare for the influx by deploying additional staff, the sheer volume of travelers has led to overcrowded terminals and long wait times. International tourists, arriving in droves from countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, are facing a chaotic first experience of Thailand as they navigate congested airport facilities. With heightened security measures in place to ensure passenger safety, the process of moving through the airport has become cumbersome for many, especially those unfamiliar with the customs and practices in Thai airports.

Rail Travel: Overcrowding and Delays

Thailand’s railway system is another critical transportation network struggling to accommodate the influx of travelers. Train stations, particularly those in Bangkok, are packed with passengers eager to get on their trains and head to holiday destinations. The surge in train bookings has caused overcrowding, with some passengers forced to stand for long hours in packed carriages. While additional trains have been added to meet the demand, delays are still common due to the overwhelming number of people trying to board.

This rail travel chaos is most evident in the routes leading to Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, and other destinations popular for Songkran celebrations. The high demand for train tickets has left many travelers scrambling for last-minute bookings, with some even resorting to alternate forms of transportation as they are unable to secure a seat. The overcrowded trains and limited seating options are contributing to the overall sense of chaos that has characterized this year’s Songkran travel season.

The Cruise Industry Struggles with High Demand

Along with road and rail travel, the cruise industry is also feeling the pressure as a significant number of tourists choose to visit Thailand’s coastal destinations during Songkran. From luxury cruises to shorter boat trips, water transport is becoming increasingly popular among those looking to explore Thailand’s stunning coastline during the festival. However, this surge in demand has resulted in overcrowded boats, leaving many travelers frustrated with limited space and amenities.

Local marinas and docking facilities have struggled to accommodate the rising number of vessels, with long wait times and delays for boat departures becoming common. The demand for cruises and water transport is also putting a strain on the infrastructure of coastal tourism hubs like Phuket and Krabi. While these destinations are typically bustling during Songkran, the overcrowded boats and vessels are making travel by sea a less enjoyable option for some tourists.

Hotel Industry Booms Amid Travel Surge

The hotel industry is reaping the benefits of this year’s Songkran travel surge, with bookings skyrocketing as tourists flock to Thailand’s most famous holiday destinations. Hotels in cities like Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, and Bangkok have reached full occupancy, with many businesses offering Songkran-themed packages to cater to the growing demand. For those who can secure rooms, the holiday promises a festive atmosphere, with many resorts and hotels hosting water fights, cultural performances, and traditional Songkran ceremonies.

However, the high demand has left some tourists struggling to find accommodations, with many resorts and hotels sold out months in advance. The limited availability of rooms has forced some travelers to opt for less desirable options or settle for accommodations in areas far from the festivities. For local residents, “staycations” have become an increasingly popular option, with hotels offering Songkran specials to attract domestic tourists who are choosing to stay in Thailand instead of traveling abroad.

The Road Ahead: Ensuring Safe Travel Amid Chaos

As the Songkran holiday period reaches its peak, Thai authorities are continuing to enforce stricter safety measures to manage the chaos and reduce the risk of accidents. Over 60,000 police officers have been deployed to monitor the roads, ensuring that travelers are adhering to traffic laws and discouraging reckless driving. Roadblocks and checkpoints have been set up across the country to enforce DUI laws, with thousands of arrests already reported for drunk driving during the holiday period.

Despite these measures, the ongoing combination of heightened alcohol consumption, crowded roads, and excitement-filled celebrations raises concerns about the safety of both locals and tourists. The authorities are urging travelers to plan ahead, exercise caution, and respect road safety rules to minimize the number of accidents during this high-risk period.

Conclusion: The Songkran Experience Amid Travel Chaos
Songkran 2025 is shaping up to be one of Thailand’s most chaotic yet exciting travel seasons. With an influx of tourists arriving in record numbers, the country’s transportation networks, from roads to airports and railways, are stretched thin. The chaos on the roads, overcrowded airports, and overwhelmed hotels and cruise lines are part and parcel of this vibrant, albeit hectic, holiday period. While Songkran remains one of the most celebrated festivals in the world, the strain it puts on the country’s infrastructure highlights the need for continued efforts to improve travel conditions and safety during peak tourism seasons.

For those embarking on Songkran travel, it’s important to be prepared for the hustle and bustle, anticipate delays, and ensure safe travel practices. With a little patience and planning, tourists can still enjoy the full experience of Songkran while navigating the challenges that come with this once-in-a-year festival.

Conclusion: Navigating the Chaos of Songkran Travel

As the Songkran holiday period continues, travel chaos in Thailand is expected to peak. The massive increase in both domestic and international tourists has transformed the country into a bustling travel hub. With airports, highways, railways, cruises, and hotels all strained under the weight of the Songkran rush, tourists are facing an increasingly chaotic travel experience. While the festival’s celebration of culture, tradition, and unity remains a highlight for millions, the travel challenges cannot be ignored.

For those planning to travel during Songkran, preparation is key. Travelers must be prepared for long delays, crowded transportation hubs, and the inevitable stresses of peak season travel. Despite the chaos, Thailand’s Songkran festival offers an unparalleled cultural experience, making the journey worthwhile for those who plan ahead and embrace the vibrancy of the holiday.

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