TOURISTS are banned from splashing water in some of Thailand's most popular holiday hotspots – and rule-breakers could face being jailed for up to two years.

Water splashing is a traditional part of Thailand's annual Songkran celebration, which this year takes place from April 13 to 15.

However, Thailand still has strict Covid rules in place, with face masks mandatory in most situations.

The ban on water throwing events is because it's thought that tourists are unlikely to wear face masks when throwing water at each other.

The Prime Minister of Thailand has expressed concern over the water splashing, and has asked his government to visit tourist hotspots to remind visitors about a current ban on water throwing.

Anyone who breaks current public health safety rules could be fined a maximum of 40,000 baht – equivalent to around £900 – or face up to two years in jail.

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In some cases, the punishment could see someone fined AND jailed due to the anti-Covid emergency decree.

On top of this, lawbreakers could face an additional fine of up to 20,000 baht – around £451 – because of the Communicable Disease Control Act.

Some elements of the traditional celebrations can still go ahead, under strict protocols.

However, it's reported that where mass events are permitted to take place, there will be no foam parties, nor any sale or consumption of alcohol.

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However, recent images show that revellers have been ignoring – or potentially just unaware – of official advice.

Government officials have been deployed to visit tourist hotspots such as Phuket, to spread the message of the safety restrictions in place.

Thai tourists and locals have been pictured celebrating the festival – which takes place in April, Thailand's hottest year of the month.

Tourists sprayed each other with water pistols on Khaosan Road in Bangkok.

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