The small sand pagodas built at Thai temples during Songkran are called chedi sai. The Thai phrase refers to sand stupas or sand pagodas made as part of temple-based New Year customs.
During the festival, people may bring sand to a temple as a symbolic act connected with returning sand that has been carried away on visitors’ feet during the year. The sand is shaped into small pagoda-like structures and decorated with flags or other offerings.
Chedi sai are associated with merit-making and communal participation rather than competitive construction. Their appearance can vary by region and temple, so not every Songkran celebration presents them in exactly the same form.
They are different from permanent Thai stupas or chedis made from brick, stone, or concrete. The temporary nature of the sand structures reflects the festival’s annual cycle and the idea of renewing religious and community ties.