2025 Guide to Buying Weed in Thailand: Laws, Places, Brands and More

Introduction to Cannabis in Thailand

If you’re planning your trip to Thailand in 2025 or a curious local who wants to explore the cannabis industry, you’re in the right place! It’s quite clear that after Thailand's recent changes in the cannabis law in 2022, Thailand became the destination for cannabis enthusiasts. However, it’s crucial to navigate the legal landscape, understand where to buy, and know what to look for in the dispensary – particularly for first-timers unfamiliar with the cannabis culture.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before buying weed in Thailand. We’ll break down each topic from key laws and regulations to cultural considerations, explaining what’s allowed and how to stay within the law while exploring around. We’ll guide you on Where to Buy Cannabis in Thailand and offer tips on How to Buy Weed in Thailand: 2025 Edition. Lastly, we’ll help you navigate the cannabis products with a Guide for THC Dosage as well as discuss Cultural Considerations. This guide is your go-to resource for understanding the cannabis industry in Thailand so that you can have an informed, safe, and fun experience.

Key Takeaways

• Cannabis is currently legal in Thailand for both medicinal and recreational use.
• Cannabis use, purchase, and possession is legal in Thailand for individuals 20+ years of age.
• Cannabis extracts less than 0.2% THC are allowed on domestic flights, but edibles are prohibited.
• Popular tourist destinations like Bangkok and Phuket have numerous dispensaries.
• Choose a dispensary with knowledgeable staff like budtenders to guide you.
• Understanding the main cannabis strains and cannabis forms will help you decide on the product.
• Start with low doses of THC and gradually adjust based on THC tolerance.
• Cannabis was historically viewed as a dangerous substance but the attitudes changed over time.

Understanding Cannabis Laws in Thailand

• February 19, 2019: Cannabis Legalization for Medical Purposes

Thailand’s legal framework for cannabis originated in the Drug Act of 1922 and this legislation has culminated in the 1979 Narcotics Act and has been effective ever since. Fast forward to February 2019, the Thai government has changed the 1979 Narcotics Act which allows limited medical use of cannabis – making it a new era for Thai cannabis laws and taking a step closer toward liberalization.

• June 2022: Delisting of Cannabis and Full Legalization of low-THC Cannabis

The Ministry of Public Health of Thailand delisted cannabis and hemp plants from the Narcotics Act leading to these plants being legal for medical and industrial use. As a result, the private sector could now be able to grow or locally cultivate, possess, sell, and use cannabis and hemp without a license. Later on, cannabis containing less than 0.2% THC content became fully legal leading to a great rise of cannabis dispensaries all over the country with several cannabis products readily available to find and purchase.

• 2023: Tightening Cannabis Regulations for the Thai Cannabis Industry

The Thai government began to tighten regulations of the cannabis industry to focus on limiting recreational use and more primarily medical use to prevent misuse and maintain compliance. Regulations of Thai cannabis laws tend to change at any time, therefore, staying informed and keeping up with current cannabis laws in Thailand is crucial to help you stay compliant.

• 2024: Is cannabis still legal in Thailand? Current Thai Cannabis Laws

Short and precise answer, YES. Cannabis use for recreational purposes is currently legal in Thailand. Despite the Thai government's plan to ban cannabis for recreational use and make it illegal by the end of 2024, as long as there’s no further confirmation from the Thai government, using cannabis recreationally remains legal in Thailand.

• 2025: Thailand’s Cannabis Industry in the Future

In July 2024, a deputy prime minister of Thailand signaled another U-turn on plans to re-criminalise the cannabis plant due to concerns over cannabis abuse with an exception for medical use and research purposes – another change of the hazy position on cannabis in the Thai government. So, now what’s next?

The U-turn of the Thai government towards the cannabis laws in Thailand has raised questions among a great number of not only Thai people but also internationally. Everybody is wondering what’s going to happen in 2025. According to the president of the UTCC Mr. Thanavath Phonvichai, many Thai people are giving the green light to cannabis use with both medical and recreational benefits but under the supervision of the experts. Many people still have little to no knowledge about cannabis and hemp with the rise of concerns for their negative effects.

Optimistically full of hope in the near future 2025, the Thai government will come up with a policy to regulate cannabis use to prevent misuse among children and adolescents as well as the potential crime and health issues related to cannabis use to be equitable as much as possible for medical and recreational parties. Providing cannabis knowledge to the Thai people by giving them the right information from reliable sources to prevent misleading and misunderstanding might be a good idea to ensure the overall population including people who don’t use cannabis.

Things You Need To Know and Key Cannabis Regulations to Follow

1. Age Restrictions: You need to be at least 20 years of age to buy, possess, or use cannabis in Thailand. It’s strictly prohibited to sell any cannabis products to minors, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women. Those who are under 20 years old, and pregnant and breastfeeding women are not allowed to use and possess cannabis except under the supervision of health professionals.
2. Permitted Consumption Methods: Smoking or vaping cannabis can legally be done in private spaces. However, smoking weed in public is illegal and is viewed as a public nuisance. If violated and caught, it could lead to fines of up to 25,000 THB (or about 700 USD) and a potential jail penalty of up to 3 months. Cannabis-infused products like edibles can be purchased and enjoyed in cannabis dispensaries and specific infused dishes can be found at certain approved eateries.

Note: Vapes are technically illegal in Thailand.

1. Personal Possession Legal Limits: Possession of cannabis extracts containing more than 0.2% THC is illegal as it remains regulated in Category 5 narcotics. To possess such amounts of THC extract requires proper authorization to avoid legal issues. Additionally, we don’t have specific quantity limits for personal cannabis usage.
2. Cannabis Cultivation: Cannabis cultivation in Thailand is legal but the individual is required to register in the Thai Food and Drug Administration’s “PLOOK GANJA” application or through the government website.
3. Cannabis Flower Use: Using cannabis flowers or buds for researching, exporting, selling, and processing for commercial purposes requires an official permit.
4. Cannabis and Driving: The individual should avoid driving after consuming food or health products containing cannabis.

Traveling With Cannabis in Thailand 2025

According to the Airports of Thailand (AOT), cannabis in liquid forms whether they are doctor-prescribed tinctures or CBD containing less than 0.2% THC must be limited to 100 ml. However, you cannot transport secondary cannabis products such as edibles, hashish, and oils as airport security cannot test whether the products exceed the legal limit of 0.2% THC. Please be mindful that the AOT does not have the authority to check THC content, however, the office of the Narcotics Control Board must be informed. Therefore, visitors are advised to refrain from carrying any secondary products to avoid delays in security checks and legal issues.

At the moment, there is no limit to how much one can carry cannabis onboard, it must be within the boundaries of airline luggage policies. It is illegal to transport any cannabis or hemp products in any form across the Thai border as well as carry them into the country. However, passengers can transport cannabis on domestic flights in Thailand but must be over the age of 20.

Can You Take Edibles on Flight?

The Airports of Thailand (AOT) is advised against bringing cannabis edibles onto the flight as they cannot test if the THC percentage contained in your edibles is in the legal range (not exceeding 0.2% THC) and it can cause delays and legal issues. Travelers who would like to transport cannabis on domestic flights should securely pack it in checked baggage. This is because the Narcotic Control Board staff will inspect hand luggage to prevent any illegal items including cannabis extracts over 0.2% THC or more from getting on the flight.

Where to Buy Cannabis in Thailand?

Since Thailand has been the first country in Asia to legalize cannabis, over 10,000 cannabis dispensaries have been established across the country. In Bangkok, for example, you can find cannabis shops in almost every corner of the town and almost everywhere you go. According to report from ministry of health, Thailand has at least 1,800 cannabis dispensaries in Bangkok alone. Anywhere with a lot of tourists or tourist attractions areas like Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, Hua Hin, and Khon Kaen are where you can easily find neon green cannabis signs of weed dispensaries.

Dispensaries Recommendations in Bangkok

• Siam Green Cannabis Co.

Siam Green Cannabis Co. is a cannabis dispensary in Bangkok with 5 locations including Phrom Phong, Nana, Chinatown, Silom, and another location in Chaweng, Koh Samui. The shop features its unique green color with a modern interior design offering a warm welcome atmosphere for all visitors.

Opening hours: Daily from 11:00 AM - 3:00 AM (except Chinatown location that opens from 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM)

• The High Society Cannabis Club

The High Society Cannabis Club is located in Sukhumvit 31, Suan Plu, Hua Lamphong, and Koh Phangan, all locations feature a lounge area with gaming consoles providing a laid-back atmosphere – an ideal location for hanging out with friends and sharing a joint while playing the PlayStation 5.

Opening hours:

Sukhumvit 31 – open daily from 9:00 AM - 2:00 AM

Suan Plu – open daily from 9:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Hua Lamphong – open daily from 10:00 AM - 1:00 AM

Koh Phangan – open daily from 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

• Cloud Nine

Cloud Nine Dispensary is located in a vibrant neighborhood of Sukhumvit, directly across from Korean Town in the Asoke area. As you step into this blissful dispensary, you’ll feel like you are in heaven with cloud-shaped decorations hanging from the ceiling and cool white walls. This extraordinary shop is definitely a weed heaven welcoming every visitor entering the premises.

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM

If you plan to explore the city, trust me there are more and I said MORE weed dispensaries scattered all around the capital city of Thailand ensuring you find the right cannabis experience while you’re staying in the country.

Explore Other Top Cannabis Dispensaries in Bangkok

1. Top Rated 20 Shops in Bangkok: Guide To Find Best Weed

Dispensaries Recommendations in Phuket

• Phuket High

Phuket High is known to be the most popular locally-owned cannabis dispensary on the island. They have 5 shops across Phuket including Nai Harn, Rawai, Kata, Bang Tao, and Koh Tao. This dispensary provides a comfortable and relaxing environment for all people to enjoy safe high-quality local cannabis products.

Opening hours:

Nai Harn – open daily from 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Rawai – open daily from 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Kata – open daily from 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Koh Tao – open daily from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

• The Dispensary Phuket - Old Town

The Dispensary Phuket is located in Phuket’s historical charm, the Phuket Old Town, right across the street from HugMe Dog Cafe. Its unique architectural style blends perfectly with the other buildings in the old town as well as offering its plethora of cannabis products. It’s well known for its excellence in sourcing the highest quality cannabis flowers. They also have other branches including in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Opening hours: Daily from 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

• The High Supply

The High Supply stands out with its minimalistic yet colorful dispensary design, which greets you with a hyper-stylized interior and modern decor. They offer a lovely branding and line of unique cannabis products from gummies and baked goods to a menu of cannabis flowers ensuring customers a memorable experience.

Opening hours: Daily from 110:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Explore Other Top Cannabis Dispensaries in Phuket

1. Where to Buy Weed in Phuket: Top 10 Cannabis Shops

How to Buy Weed in Thailand: 2025 Edition

I see many of you want to try legal weed in Thailand since it became legal in 2022 but don’t know where to start? This simple guide to buying weed in Thailand has your back.

1. Find the right cannabis dispensary

A good dispensary apart from having a nice place with top-notch quality cannabis flowers, a good cannabis dispensary should have knowledgeable staff and budtenders to help you out as well as look after your safety – they usually make sure you know the product you’re buying and don’t end up consuming too much. Here's your complete guide to learn how to find the best cannabis dispensary.

1. Don’t hesitate to ask the budtenders

When you look through the weed menu at the counter, you can turn to the budtender if you have any questions in mind. They are typically more than happy to help you find the right product. These are a few things you need to make decisions about including types of cannabis, cannabis strains, and consumption methods. Make sure to tell your budtender the type of experience you’re looking for and provide them with your previous cannabis experience, or zero cannabis experience – this will allow the budtender to assist you better.

1. Pay close attention to the product quality before purchasing

There are certain visual factors that you can examine the product as normally you’re not allowed to sample the cannabis product by smoking. A primary indicator to check if the product is of good quality is sight by looking closely at cannabis flowers. They should have a white crystalline trichome which is a sign of the exceptional quality of the flower. If the cannabis flower has a powdery white substance resembling mildew, this can be a red flag to look out for poor-quality cannabis flowers. The trichomes and the mildew may look similar, the difference between these two can be noted in appearance. Trichomes tend to have a sparkly, crystal-like look while mildew looks like a baby powder.

Most cannabis dispensaries allow you to take a whiff of the product, this is a chance to use your sense of smell. You should look out for any signs of moldy smell or the smell that is reminiscent of damp grass. Top-shelf cannabis should deliver robust smells with a hint of skunk, diesel, or citrus. However, each cannabis strain has its unique aroma and flavor.

What to Know Before You Buy Cannabis Products in Thailand?

Just like many other countries where weed is legalized, there is a wide variety of weed strains you can choose and enjoy here in Thailand. For those who are new to cannabis, cannabis can be categorized into 3 main strains: sativa, indica, and hybrid which is a combination of both strains.

• Sativa strains have a higher THC content than CBD (CBD:THC ratio of 3:5) producing energetic effects with a euphoric buzz. This strain is known to have higher amounts of sweet, spicy, and herbal terpene profile.
• Indica strains have a higher CBD content (CBD:THC ratio of 1:1) which tends to produce more sedating, calming, and relaxing effects. This strain has high amounts of myrcene terpene which produces a sweet and fruity smell.
• Hybrid strains contain a blend of both effects and most modern strains appear to be hybrid strains. If the strain is leaning more towards Indica (Indica-dominant hybrid) the terpene profile tends to be more earthy and musky. On the other hand, a Sativa-dominant hybrid provides a more lemony aroma.

What is a Budtender?

A budtender is an employee working at the cannabis dispensary responsible for helping customers to meet their needs including giving product recommendations and showing the latest products they have in store. Most of them were trained to advise customers on the potential effects, benefits, and side effects of particular cannabis strains or other cannabis products. Guiding customers for their best-suited products and packing and weighing products for sale are also budtender’s daily tasks. The budtender is known to be a representative face of the dispensary. For those seeking cannabis experience in Thailand, talking to the budtender is strongly advised for your best experience as well as to avoid any undesirable effects caused by cannabis.

Cannabis can be in any form, these are the most popular and most common ones on the market:

Cannabis Flowers

A cannabis flower, a lot of times known as “weed”, is an unprocessed form of cannabis that consists of dried leaves and buds of the cannabis plants. It has a recognizable and pungent “greenish” scent that smells nothing like kitchen herbs sold in the supermarket.

Cannabis Products in the Thai market:

• Muay Thai, a Sativa-dominant hybrid cannabis strain from the Thai Cannabis Club.
• Jealousy, an Indica-hybrid cannabis strain from the Kush House.
• Durban Poison, a Sativa cannabis strain from the Siam Green Cannabis Co.

Cannabis Cigarettes, Pre-rolls & Vaporize

Smoking weed is the most classic and popular way of consuming this feel-good plant. It’s commonly smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes called joints and pre-rolls. A pre-roll is a ready-made cannabis joint that contains the same items as regular joints which are cannabis flower, rolling paper, and crutch/filter. The regular joint is when you roll the cannabis cigarette yourself. Pre-rolls are a convenient option for those who are new to cannabis or don’t know the proper way to roll a joint. You can buy both pre-rolls and rolling papers for making a joint at the cannabis dispensaries. Another popular way to smoke cannabis is through cannabis vaporizers which are pen-like devices with an opening to inhale the THC oils or other cannabis extractions.

Products in the Thai market:

• A Pineapple Express Pre-roll Joint from the Prikpot.
• RAW Classic Rolling Papers from RAW Thailand.
• Joint Filters from The Session Bangkok.

Cannabis Edibles

In this form, cannabis is a part of the food as an ingredient. The classic way to consume cannabis edibles is in the form of brownies or cookies. Other than baked goods, cannabis edibles can be found in other forms like infused drinks, gummies, candies, and chocolate. It takes longer to feel the psychoactive effects and the effects last longer than smoking cannabis which can easily accidentally consume too much.

Products in the Thai market:

• Homemade THC Cannabis Gummies from Local Boys.
• Cannabis Brownies from Fat Buds Weed Shop.
• Homemade CBD Gummies from Chanabis.

Concentrates

Cannabis concentrate is produced by the distillation of parts of the cannabis plant making the concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes higher. Once the concentrate production process is done, it may look like liquid wax, a soft solid, or a hard solid.

Oils

Oil is a liquid cannabis concentrate that can be taken sublingually under the tongue, consumed with a vape pen, added to edibles, or placed in a capsule.

Products in the Thai market:

• CBD oil from Midnight.
• SEYA CBD oil
• ALCHEMI CBD oil

Tinctures

A tincture is a cannabis extract combined with another substance which usually is alcohol or tea. These products are often consumed by putting a few drops under the tongue.

Products in the Thai market:

• GPO THC Forte (High Strength Cannabis Tincture) from Sawasdee Clinic.
• CBD Tincture from Canna River.

Topicals

Cannabis topicals are cannabis-infused products such as gels, balms, and lotions which are used for applying to the skin. They may help alleviate acute symptoms like pain and inflammation.

Products in the Thai market:

• CBD Balm for Pain Relief and Relaxation from Sukjai.
• CBD Intimate Massage Oil from Coquine.

Hashish

Also known as hash for short, it’s a preparation of cannabis made from the resin of the cannabis plant, either sativa or indica. The resin is dried producing an oily and solid substance.

Guide for THC Dosage

There are no official recommendations on how much amounts of THC to take is a safe amount as each individual responds differently to cannabis. The way cannabis affects you can vary which can depend on:

• The type of cannabis products
• The amount of the cannabis product
• The consumption method
• The tolerance to THC level

Therefore, many experts recommend starting slowly with low doses, for example, starting with 2.5 mg THC or less when you decide to consume cannabis edibles. There are also many different ways to consume cannabis, meaning that THC dosage varies too. However, not all cannabis products contain THC, some only contain CBD, and some may contain both CBD and THC – each formulation results in different effects as well. Let’s take a look at each consumption method:

Inhalation

The inhalation method can be done through bongs, pipes, joints, vapes, and inhalers. This type of consumption will enter almost instantly through the lungs before it enters the bloodstream resulting in an immediate onset as well as more potent and consistent effects. The effects can last around 45 minutes and can go up to an hour.

Dosing guidelines: For those who are inexperienced with THC, one or two inhalations from a joint pipe, bong, or vape are all it takes. Contrarily, those who have greater THC tolerances may need a few more puffs.

Sublingual

Sublingual cannabis products like tinctures, oral tablets, and sprays enter the body through glands under the tongue before entering the bloodstream. When compared to edibles, the effects of sublingual products can diminish quickly. It takes 10 to 30 minutes to onset and the effects can last 2 to 4 hours.

Dosing guidelines: Starting with a few drops under the tongue which can be about 2-4 drops are sufficient and you should wait for about 30 minutes before you take another dose.

Ingestion

Ingestible cannabis products are known as edibles such as beverages, candies, and baked goods. When ingesting edibles, they will be metabolized through the digestive system before entering the bloodstream. The onset time of this consumption method usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour and the effects can last 4-6 hours.

Dosing guidelines: Several factors can affect the onset time as it can vary depending on each person’s metabolism. For example, it can be how much food is in your stomach or how hydrated you are. The general rule of taking edibles is to start slow and go low. For first-timers, start with a 2.5 mg THC dose and wait around an hour before taking another 2.5 mg THC is advised. Occasional consumers can start with a 5-10 mg THC dose and gradually increase the dosage if necessary. Cannabis connoisseurs who tend to have great THC tolerances may need more than 10 mg of THC to feel the desired effects.

Topical

A topical is a cannabis product that is applied directly to the skin which includes lotions, patches, balms, and oils. They are normally non-intoxicated as they are not entering the bloodstream. It is usually known to be applied multiple times throughout the day for longer-lasting effects. It takes approximately 5-10 minutes and it can last from 45 minutes up to 1 hour.

Dosing guidelines: Due to its non-intoxicating effects, there’s a minimal risk of overconsumption of THC dosing. For first-time users using transdermal patches, start with a smaller dose by cutting the patch in half and then wait for about 15-30 minutes before slowly increasing the dose if needed. For those with higher THC tolerances, using the entire patch or a greater dose is sufficient.

Cultural Considerations: Thai People’s Attitude Towards Cannabis

What do Thai people think about cannabis in the past?

In 2009, the Thai government saw cannabis as an economic product as Thai cannabis and hemp plants were used for the textile industry, manufacturing clothing, and other textile products by the Hmong Hill tribes, a minority ethnic group who lives in the mountain area in the Northern part of Thailand. Products such as fashionable garments, ropes, and accessories made from cannabis or hemp fibers were the indigenous products of Northern Thai people with the passing of Thailand’s Narcotic Act in 1979. Back then, Thailand prohibited cannabis cultivation, except for Hemp plants for clothing and accessories production which is still effective today. The Thai government approved the official proposal for the cultivation and industrialization of cannabis hemp in the region in 2009. As a result, the hemp fiber industry is a popular export item and has been developing gradually, making the industry one of the world’s leading suppliers.

Societal Movement of Cannabis Through Fashion & Music

According to a 2019 study, the Thai government and police officers consider cannabis as a dangerous substance and all cannabis users are charged as criminals. Common Thai people consider it a recreational substance used by youngsters for pleasure and fun. Cannabis has influenced Thai youth in their social life as a pro-cannabis culture. It can be viewed and expressed through their selection of music and fashion known as the “Hippy Movement” in Thailand which is called “Peua Cheewit” in Thai, meaning “for life” social movement in the 1970s.

Thai Folk Songs from two well-known bands, Carabao and Maleehuana, were related to cannabis which is commonly known in Thailand as “gancha”. Reggae music is also popular among Thai youths, many reggae fans follow the Reggae culture related to cannabis by enjoying music and wearing cannabis leaf logo shirts to show support for the cannabis plant.

What do Thai people think about cannabis now?

The most recent of Thai people's attitudes toward cannabis legalization in 2024 according to the Thaiger, the majority of the Thai populace views it positively. Individuals and enterprises are eager and interested to explore the cannabis plants’ health benefits along with other aspects of the plant. However, there’s still an ongoing debate towards this topic both pros and cons, even from the medical fraternities. Some are concerned that the legalization of cannabis would be harmful to children as they may use it recreationally which can lead to their brain development issues.

The Bottom Line

Thailand’s cannabis laws have shifted dramatically, from the legalization of medical use to the fully legalized low-THC cannabis (under 0.2%). For those who want to purchase, possess, or use cannabis in Thailand, you must be at least 20 years old with restrictions for minors, pregnant, and breastfeeding women. Over 6,000 cannabis dispensaries are sprouting up all over the country. Some of the leading dispensaries are Siam Green Cannabis Co., Cloud Nine, and Phuket High. To buy legal weed in Thailand, start by selecting a licensed dispensary with knowledgeable budtenders who can help you choose the right products.

Understanding the cannabis strains as well as the type of cannabis products can also help you when purchasing weed. The dosage can vary so it’s best to start with low doses and slowly increase as needed. Thai attitudes towards cannabis shifted over time, it used to be valued for textiles historically. Then, it was expressed through music and fashion, and today, most Thais view cannabis positively with some concerns about its recreational use.