Thailand Public Holidays 2026: Guide, Travel Tips and Top Places to Visit

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Thailand has many cultural and religious holidays that create busy travel seasons. If you plan to visit in 2026, knowing the exact dates will help you avoid crowds or enjoy special celebrations. Many travellers book early for flights, hotels and tours during these periods.

Full List of Thailand Public Holidays 

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Here is a full list of Thailand’s official public holidays in 2026:

Holiday

Date

Notes

New Year Holiday

1 January

Celebrations and fireworks in major cities

Makha Bucha

1 March

Buddhist ceremony with candle walks at temples

Chakri Memorial Day

6 April

Honours the founding of the Chakri dynasty

Songkran Festival

13 to 15 April

Thai New Year with huge water celebrations

Labour Day

1 May

Public holiday nationwide

Coronation Day

5 May

Marks the coronation of King Rama Ten

Visakha Bucha

27 May

Important Buddhist holy day

Asanha Bucha

26 July

Full moon celebrations at temples

Buddhist Lent Day

27 July

Beginning of Lent. No alcohol in many areas

Queen Mother Birthday

12 August

Also known as Mothers Day

Chulalongkorn Day

23 October

King Chulalongkorn remembrance

Loy Krathong

25 November

Festival of Lights. Floating lanterns

Christmas

25 December

Celebrated in big cities

New Year Eve

31 December

Countdown parties

💡 Pro Tip: Book your hotels in Phuket early, especially during weekends or festivals. Prices rise fast, and early bookings on Trip.com often come with extra discounts.

Thailand Public Holidays 2026 Calendar

Knowing the dates helps you plan your journey, choose the right route and secure your hotel before prices rise. Travelling during holidays also gives you the chance to see cultural parades, temple ceremonies, special night markets and city events.

Thailand PB Calendar
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Why Travel During Thailand Public Holidays

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Many travellers love visiting Thailand during holidays because:

  • You can see real cultural celebrations
  • Cities have lively street markets and long opening hours
  • Hotels offer holiday deals
  • Flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and other ASEAN cities are frequent

If you travel during major festivals like Songkran or Loy Krathong, book your hotel early because rooms sell out fast.

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Top Cities to Visit During Public Holidays

The Grand Palace

Bangkok

Bangkok is the main gateway for most flights. The city feels extra lively during holidays with light shows, late night shopping and temple activities.

Top places to visit

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is popular for nature, temples and cool weather. Loy Krathong and Yi Peng are especially beautiful here with floating lanterns.

Top places to visit

Phuket

A beach escape with island tours, sunset cruises and lively nightlife.

Top places to visit

Transport Guide for Thailand Travellers

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Flights

Singapore to Bangkok flights run from morning to night. Average flight time is about two hours and thirty minutes. Book early if you plan to travel during Songkran or Christmas week.

Ferry Travel

Ferries are common in the south for island trips.

Route

Approx Time

Price Range

Phuket to Phi Phi

45 to 60 minutes

SGD $20 to $30

Krabi to Railay

15 minutes

SGD $5 to $10

Koh Samui to Koh Phangan

30 minutes

SGD $8 to $15

Most ferries start from 8 am to 5 pm. Schedules may change by season.

Bus and Mini Van

Buses are affordable for trips between cities.

Route

Travel Time

Price

Bangkok to Chiang Mai

9 to 10 hours

SGD $25 to $35

Bangkok to Pattaya

2 hours

SGD $5 to $10

Phuket to Krabi

3 hours

SGD $10 to $15

Buses run from early morning until evening. Book online to secure seats during holiday weeks.

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How Thailand Public Holidays Can Affect Your Trip

YONA Beach Club Phuket

Travel in Thailand feels very different during holidays. Here is what you should prepare for.

Transport Demand

  • Flights, buses and trains fill up quickly during Songkran, New Year and long weekends.
  • Bus stations such as Mo Chit, Ekkamai and Bangkok Southern Bus Terminal get crowded.
  • Taxi and ride hailing services have higher demand, so waiting time can be longer than usual.

Accommodation Prices

  • Hotel prices rise during Songkran, New Year and major Buddhist festivals.
  • Popular places such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi and Pattaya have strong booking demand.
  • Staying a bit outside tourist zones can help you find cheaper rooms.

Closures and Limited Services

  • Government offices and banks close on public holidays.
  • During big festivals such as Songkran, some restaurants and small shops close for one or two days, while malls, airports and tourist attractions normally stay open.
  • Temples may have special ceremonies that attract more visitors.

Crowds at Popular Attractions

💡 Pro Tip: Book your hotels in Bangkok early, especially during weekends or festivals. Prices rise fast, and early bookings on Trip.com often come with extra discounts.

Travel Tips for Thailand Public Holidays 2026

Wat Arun
  • Book flights to Bangkok and hotels in Bangkok at least two months early especially major holidays.
  • Expect more visitors at temples during Buddhist festivals so it is better to go early in the morning.
  • Be prepared for road closures and traffic disruptions during Songkran due to water festivities.
  • ATMs, convenience stores, and most malls stay open even on public holidays.
  • Wear modest clothes when visiting temples and religious sites.
  • Keep some small cash for food stalls, local transport such as tuk-tuks and taxis.
💡 Pro Tip: Book great-value flights to Phuket as soon as you confirm your itinerary as prices rise quickly during the peak season.

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FAQs about Thailand Public Holidays 2026

  • Are businesses closed during Thai public holidays?

    Most government offices, banks, and schools close on public holidays. However, shopping malls, tourist attractions, restaurants, and many convenience stores usually remain open, especially in major tourist cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
  • Do Thai public holidays affect travel in Thailand?

    Yes. During major holidays such as Songkran and New Year, transportation and hotels can become very busy and more expensive. Travelers are advised to book flights, trains, and accommodation early.
  • Are alcohol sales restricted on some holidays in Thailand?

    Yes. Alcohol sales are banned nationwide on certain Buddhist holidays, such as Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, and Buddhist Lent Day. Bars and stores are required to stop alcohol sales on these dates.
  • What is the biggest holiday in Thailand?

    The Songkran Festival is widely considered the biggest holiday in Thailand. It marks the Thai New Year and is celebrated with family gatherings, temple visits, and famous water fights across the country.
  • When is Songkran in 2026?

    The Songkran Festival, Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, will take place from 13 to 15 April 2026. It is one of the country’s biggest holidays and is famous for nationwide water festivals and celebrations.
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Daisy

Daisy

Travel Lover

I’m a travel lover who can never say no to good food, stunning beaches, and the beauty of nature. Sharing my adventures and travel tips, I hope to inspire you to explore, taste, and unwind wherever you go.

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