If you're thinking of a journey to Phuket then you're probably wondering when the best time to visit the island is. It all comes down to what you want. Depending on when you choose to go to Phuket, you might end up fighting it out with the residents in a water fight, sitting alone on a secluded beach or caught in the middle of the annual abuse fest.
Without a doubt the most exciting time to go to Phuket is during Songkran, which is the Thai New Year. What was once a traditional gesture of putting a little water on one another has actually changed into the world's most intense water battle. It goes on all over Thailand and the islanders in Phuket offer all of it they have actually got.
If you do not like getting damp, do not even bother going outside. Songkran happens April 13 to 15, with April 15 being the wedding day for the water battle. It's crazy. Individuals line the streets all round the island, armed with water guns, containers and tube pipelines. Some individuals ride around in the backs of pickup typically with a barrel or more loaded with water. Patong is where the action is wildest and the madness goes on well into the night. Everybody plays: residents, immigrants, males, females, young, old. It needs to be seen to be believed.
For something totally out there, you need to take a look at the Phuket Vegetarian Festival. It resembles nothing else you will ever experience. Entranced men and women (maa song) are said to feel no pain as they walk around the streets with their cheeks pierced with needles, knives, spears and all type of interesting things. If you're squeamish, offer this one a miss. The festival happens every year in October.
The celebration is also a great time to go veggie and you'll discover that the best time to travel to phuket majority of the regional dining establishments strike meat from the menu. Obtain a map and travel to the Chinese temples to see events and other interests. On the last day, head to Saphan Hin, where the festival climaxes with individuals lining the streets and throwing firecrackers into the roadway as the maa tune stroll the final procession through Phuket Town.
Chinese New Year is also an enjoyable time to go to Phuket, particularly if you're a fan of Chinese food. The festival isn't quite as intense and flashy as in Bangkok, but it's still worth seeing if you happen to be in the location. It occurs in February.
New Year's Eve in Phuket is best enjoyed in Patong. Everyone heads to the beach prior to midnight to view the spectacular fireworks display. Street sellers always have a range of fireworks on offer, although due to many people being intoxicated, these frequently end up shooting into crowds of bemused onlookers, so beware.
Of course, if you just want a peaceful holiday, the very best time to visit Phuket is from May to October during low season when visitor numbers are method down but the island is still simply as stunning.