Bangkok’s backpacker mecca of Khao San Road will not be joining in the the full-on water fighting this Songkran (Apr 13-15).

With the party strip in such close proximity to the Grand Palace, authorities are urging revelers in the area to toe a conservative line as a show of continued mourning for HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, meaning no “entertainment activities,” use of powder and water guns, or scanty attire. 

Only traditional water sprinkling and merit-making will be permitted, along with a Buddha image procession. Festivities are likely to return to normal next year, according to a report in The Nation. 

The entire length of this backpacker haven usually turns into an all-day water-fight zone for the duration of the festival, packed with huge crowds of teenagers and international backpackers. 

The cancelation of Songkran festivities on Khao San Road leaves Silom Road and RCA as the main party zones for this year's wet and wild celebrations.