One of the high spots of the Thai calendar is the annual New Year celebration, or Songkran, which falls on or around April 13, when the sun moves into Aries, and lasts for three days or more. The word 'Songkran' originates from the Sanskrit meaning 'beginning of the solar year'.

These days, Songkran has turned into a water-throwing funfest, in which anyone and everyone is liable to get thoroughly drenched-a blessed relief in this, the hottest season of the year.

Chiang Mai is without doubt Thailand's leading venue for Songkran celebrations and is celebrated with enthusiasm and ceremony in this temple-studded city. Songkran in Chiang Mai is one of the biggest parties of the year and they certainly don't hold back!