songkran festival

Songkran Koh Larn 2026 : Koh Larn Songkran Festival Review

Songkran on Koh Larn is something special. Every April, this small island near Pattaya transforms into a place full of color, tradition, and energy unlike anything you will find on the mainland. This blog covers everything you need to know about Songkran Koh Larn 2026, the full schedule, how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive.

What is Songkran Koh Larn 2026?

Songkran is Thai New Year and one of the most important festivals in Thailand. Every year the island of Ko Lan celebrates with its own special Songkran festival a colorful and wonderful event unique to this island.

In 2026, the Koh Larn Songkran festival runs from 16 April to 19 April 2026. This is a very special event because Koh Larn celebrates Songkran in a traditional island style. You will see Buddhist merit-making ceremonies, Buddha statue processions around the village, traditional drum parades, and of course water splashing.

If you are already visiting Pattaya during Songkran 2026, we strongly recommend you take the ferry to Koh Larn for at least one day. Koh Larn during Songkran has a very different atmosphere compared to Pattaya it is more community-based, more cultural, and very authentic.

Songkran Koh Larn 2026 Full Schedule

Here is the complete activity schedule for each day of the festival:

16 April 2026

• 07:19 Merit-making ceremony at Tawaen Beach
• 16:00 Buddha statue procession around the village

17 April 2026

• 07:19 Merit-making at Wat Mai Samran temple, Koh Larn
• 09:30 Buddha statue procession at Tawaen Beach
• 19:00 Traditional Ramwong folk dance performance at the temple square

18 April 2026 Wan Lai The Main Day

This is the most important day of Koh Larn Songkran. Wan Lai is a special local Songkran tradition unique to this part of the Eastern Gulf coast.

• 07:19 Songkran water-pouring ceremony at Wat Mai Samran temple + blessing of elderly community members
• 09:30 Long drum procession with traditional flowers
• 12:30 Water-splashing ceremony at Wat Mai Samran temple
• 15:00 Traditional ceremony at Chao Por Dam Shrine
• 18:00 Traditional Ramwong folk dance performance at the temple square

19 April 2026

• 07:19 Village merit-making, boat launch, and spirit-sending ceremony at Wat Mai Samran temple

How to Get to Koh Larn for Songkran

The ferry to Koh Larn departs from Bali Hai Pier Pattaya. This is the main pier you need to go to.

• Ferry ticket price: 30 THB per person (one way)
• Journey time: Around 45 minutes
• Tip for Songkran days: Go early during the festival the ferry gets very crowded. We recommend arriving at Bali Hai Pier before 08:00 if you want to attend the morning ceremonies.

Also you can check our full guide here: Koh Larn One Day Trip From Pattaya

Where to Go on Koh Larn During Songkran

The main locations for the 2026 festival activities are:

• Tawaen Beach Ceremonies on April 16 and 17 morning. This is also the most popular beach on Koh Larn with many restaurants and beach chairs. Read more: Tawaen Beach Pier Guide
• Wat Mai Samran temple The island’s main temple. Most of the big ceremonies happen here on April 17, 18, and 19.
• Chao Por Dam Shrine The traditional local shrine where the special Wan Lai ceremony takes place at 15:00 on April 18.

Tips for Songkran on Koh Larn 2026

Here are some things you should know before you go:

• Protect your phone and camera water splashing is everywhere on Wan Lai day. Use a waterproof bag or case.
• Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet on April 18 especially, you will get soaked.
• Bring cash the island has limited ATMs and during the festival it gets very busy.
• Book your accommodation early Koh Larn gets very full during Songkran. Check options here: Koh Larn Accommodation
• Go early for the ceremonies the Buddhist morning ceremonies start at 07:19. These are a beautiful and respectful part of the festival. Dress modestly if you plan to join.
• Stay for the evening dance the Ramwong folk dance on April 17 and 18 evening is a very local experience and a great photo opportunity.

Is Koh Larn Songkran Worth It?

Well, as I said, Songkran Koh Larn isn’t just about the water splashing. It combines real Thai island culture Buddhist merit-making, traditional drum processions, and folk dancing with the fun and energy of Songkran. It is a completely different experience compared to the big water fights in Pattaya city.

If you want to experience Songkran in a more authentic and local way, Koh Larn in 2026 is absolutely worth the short ferry ride from Pattaya.

Songkran Koh Larn 2026 Summary