What Tourists Need To Know About Thailand's Oddly Specific Booze Restrictions

Thailand is a country of contrasts. On the one hand, you have a palpably spiritual Buddhist culture, over 33,000 temples (some of which are among the most beautiful temples in the world), and deeply ingrained traditions of respect. On the other extreme, you have legendary Full Moon Parties, seedy underground joints, and some of the rowdiest nightlife in Bangkok. Whether you're looking to party hard until the wee hours or peacefully enjoy a cocktail on the beach, Thailand offers a wide variety of experiences.

However, one aspect of travel — and drinking — in Thailand that often surprises tourists is the country's unique and somewhat perplexing alcohol restrictions. Unlike many countries (including in Asia) where alcohol sales are relatively straightforward, Thailand has specific rules governing when and where alcohol can be purchased and consumed. These strict laws aren't exclusive; they apply equally to both locals and tourists, but particularly to businesses that sell alcohol. Failure to comply can result in legal consequences.

@travisleon1

Does anyone know why afternoon alcohol ban exists? #thailand #bangkok #travisleon

♬ original sound – Travis Leon – Travis Leon

One of the most surprising aspects of Thailand's alcohol laws is that alcohol can only be bought from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to midnight. This means that if you're looking to get a beer at 7-Eleven or have a glass of wine at a lounge in the middle of the afternoon, you might be out of luck. These restrictions apply to all retail outlets, including supermarkets, convenience stores, and even some restaurants. Needless to say, there's controversy surrounding this oddly specific booze restriction.

Alcohol sales are also completely banned on Buddhist holidays, like Makha Bucha Day in February/March, Visakha Bucha Day in May/June, and Asahna Bucha Day in July/August. On days of national and local elections, alcohol sales are banned, too. No alcohol is sold from 6 p.m. the day before until 6 p.m. on the day of the election (perhaps to prevent people from making not-so-sober electoral decisions). The only locations exempt from this are some international airports.

Thailand has banned the sale of alcohol in the afternoon for over 50 years. The Thai military junta imposed it in 1972, and the government has upheld it ever since in an effort to curb excessive drinking and its associated social problems. Some suspect the laws are also designed to prevent workers from drinking in the midday and to make it harder for minors to access alcohol after school hours, as the restricted period overlaps with the time students are typically out of school. The legal drinking age in Thailand is 20.

Any business that sells alcohol during no-booze hours can get slapped with a prison sentence of up to six months and a fine of around $280. If a minor buys alcohol during this period, penalties double. While some visitors might expect a degree of flexibility, even in tourist-heavy areas like this popular Thailand destination, the rules are generally followed to the letter. Many convenience stores, for example, will place barriers or signs over alcohol displays, making it clear that sales are not permitted.

However, we have some good news: The ban is getting lifted, kind of. Tourists have been complaining for quite some time as to why they can't have a pint at three in the afternoon, and Thai business owners have had it. It's estimated that $283,300,000 of possible monthly alcohol revenue is lost because of the ban (per Vino Joy News). Lobbying from tourism groups, restaurant operators, the Thai Hotels Association, and an open letter from Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, head of the Restaurant Business Club, has pushed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and the government to reconsider the "outdated" five-decade-long ban — but the law has not changed yet. Some establishments — particularly in the south — might sell alcohol during "ban hours" in a legal grey area.

While these restrictions might seem cumbersome, they reflect Thailand's cultural attitudes toward alcohol consumption. The country values moderation and mindfulness, particularly because of its strong Buddhist traditions. It's also worth noting that, despite these restrictions, Thailand still offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy a drink in a social setting. Whether it's sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar in Bangkok, enjoying a cold beer on a beach in Phuket, or trying local spirits like SangSom rum and Singha, Chang, or Leo beer, there's no shortage of incredible spots to indulge when traveling to Thailand. Just be sure to do so within the bounds of the law and try to hold off during those three hours between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. — unless things change soon.