Agoda Highlights Top Markets Traveling to Thailand for Songkran 2025

As the world continues to recover from the pandemic, Thailand is emerging as a top destination for travelers seeking vibrant cultural experiences. According to Agoda, the digital travel platform, Pattaya has reclaimed its position as the top domestic destination for Songkran festivities among Thai travelers. This surge in travel reflects broader trends in global tourism and economic recovery, as both domestic and international visitors flock to Thailand to celebrate the iconic water festival.



Pattaya: The Ultimate Splash Zone

Pattaya's enduring popularity as a top destination for Songkran celebrations can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the city is known for extending its festivities beyond the traditional dates of April 13 to 15. The iconic Wan Lai festivities, which take place around April 18 or 19, draw thousands of visitors annually. This extended celebration period makes Pattaya a magnet for tourists seeking unforgettable, wet-and-wild fun. As Akkaporn Rodkong, Country Director of Agoda Thailand, noted, "The city’s festive season and one-of-a-kind experiences are sure to attract many travelers."

Secondly, Pattaya offers a unique blend of cultural traditions and modern revelry. The city's lively celebrations and one-of-a-kind experiences create an atmosphere that is hard to resist. This is evident in the city's ranking as the top domestic destination for Songkran festivities among Thai travelers, based on accommodation searches made on Agoda.

Lastly, Pattaya's appeal is not limited to domestic tourists. International visitors also rank Pattaya as their second-favourite destination after Bangkok for celebrating Songkran. This international appeal is a testament to the city's ability to attract a diverse range of tourists.

Top Destinations for Songkran 2025

For international visitors heading to Thailand to experience Songkran, Bangkok takes the top spot, followed by Pattaya, Phuket, Hat Yai, and Chiang Mai. The festival’s unique blend of culture, chaos, and camaraderie continues to draw global attention. Adding even more excitement this year are major events like Maha Songkran 2025 at Sanam Luang from April 11 to 15 and the SIAM Songkran Music Festival 2025, which will showcase performances by world-renowned artists. Both are expected to boost tourism numbers even further.



Outbound Travel Trends

Meanwhile, for Thais heading overseas during the holiday, Tokyo remains the most sought-after destination. Hong Kong, Osaka, and Shanghai follow closely, with Shanghai climbing into fourth place, bumping out Singapore, likely due to China’s recent visa exemption policy, which has increased its appeal among Thai tourists.

Economic Impact

The surge in travel to Thailand for Songkran 2025 is also reflected in the broader trends in global tourism. For instance, Thailand was ranked the 8th most visited country in the world in 2024, thanks to its vibrant culture, mouth-watering food, and breathtaking landscapes. This shows that Thailand's tourism industry is experiencing a rapid recovery after the Thai government lifted travel restrictions in 2022. The fact that Thailand received 35 million tourists in 2024, representing a significant increase from the previous year, driven by eased entry rules and strategic government initiatives, further underscores the importance of tourism to Thailand's economy and the country's success in attracting tourists post-pandemic.

In conclusion, the surge in domestic and international travel to Thailand for Songkran 2025 reflects broader trends in global tourism and economic recovery post-pandemic. Pattaya's enduring popularity as a top destination for Songkran celebrations is a testament to the city's unique offerings and its ability to attract a diverse range of tourists. As Thailand continues to recover from the pandemic, the country's tourism industry is poised for further growth, driven by its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant urban experiences.