DOPE Cannabis Education & Stoner Stories

Thailand’s cannabis scene has exploded since the country legalized the plant for medical use in 2022, and since then, over 30,000 dispensaries have opened nationwide. In Bangkok, weed shops seem to be on every corner, with flashy storefronts and neon signs luring you in. But what most tourists (farangs) don’t realize is that this rapidly growing market has become saturated. What does that mean for you? Well, on the one hand, there’s an overwhelming amount of options. On the other, it means you could easily end up overpaying for low-quality weed if you don’t know what to look for. In a city where your average shop will charge you anywhere from 300 to 800 baht per gram, scoring good weed for a decent price might feel like a challenge. But fear not—we’ve got your back.

Staying updated with the latest cannabis news is crucial to navigate the evolving cannabis market in Bangkok.

Whether you’re a newbie tourist or an expat trying to figure out the best bang for your buck, there are two key things to keep in mind when navigating Bangkok’s sprawling cannabis landscape: quality and price. And while there’s a lot of cheap greenhouse weed that doesn’t smoke well, knowing a few tips and tricks can help you avoid the pitfalls of the market and get quality buds without emptying your wallet.

1. Understanding the Thai Cannabis Industry

1.1 Overview of the Cannabis Culture in Thailand

Thailand has a rich and diverse cannabis culture, deeply rooted in its history and traditions. For centuries, cannabis has been used in Thai medicine and spiritual practices, often believed to have healing properties and the ability to enhance meditation. This cultural backdrop has made Thailand a magnet for cannabis enthusiasts from around the world. Today, the country’s cannabis scene is vibrant and welcoming, with a growing community of locals and tourists alike exploring the benefits and pleasures of cannabis. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a curious newcomer, Thailand offers a unique and enriching cannabis experience.

1.2 History of Cannabis Prohibition and Legalization

The journey of cannabis in Thailand has been a rollercoaster. In the 1930s, the Thai government banned cannabis as part of a broader crackdown on narcotics. This prohibition lasted for decades, but the tide began to turn in 2018 when Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to legalize medical cannabis. This landmark decision allowed patients to access cannabis-based treatments for various medical conditions. The momentum continued, and in 2022, Thailand decriminalized the possession and use of cannabis for personal use. This progressive shift has paved the way for a thriving cannabis industry, with licensed dispensaries and weed shops now a common sight across the country.

1.3 Current State of the Cannabis Market in Thailand

The cannabis market in Thailand is booming, driven by high demand from both locals and tourists. The Thai cannabis industry is rapidly evolving, with many businesses investing in advanced cultivation and processing techniques to produce top-notch cannabis strains. From potent sativa strains to a variety of cannabis products like edibles and oils, the market offers something for everyone. Licensed dispensaries and weed shops are popping up everywhere, each vying to offer the best quality and prices. This dynamic market is a testament to Thailand’s commitment to becoming a leading player in the global cannabis industry.

2. Laws and Regulations for Cannabis in Thailand

2.1 Who Can Legally Consume Cannabis

In Thailand, the legal age for cannabis consumption is 20 years and above. However, there are specific restrictions to be aware of. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and individuals with certain medical conditions are prohibited from consuming cannabis. Additionally, while you can enjoy your cannabis in private spaces like your home or licensed cannabis clubs, public consumption is strictly forbidden. These regulations are designed to ensure responsible use and to protect vulnerable groups, while still allowing cannabis enthusiasts to enjoy their products in a safe and controlled environment.

1. Know Your Weed: Greenhouse vs. Indoor

Let’s get this straight: not all weed is created equal. One of the biggest traps newcomers fall into is going for the cheapest option without considering how it was grown. In Thailand, the most common types of weed you’ll encounter are greenhouse and indoor-grown cannabis. The difference? It’s all about how the plant is cultivated.

Greenhouse weed is generally grown in a mix of natural sunlight and some artificial conditions. It’s cheaper to produce, which means it’s usually the most affordable option on the market. You can find greenhouse weed for as low as 100 to 200 baht per gram in some spots, but the tradeoff is that it often doesn’t have the flavor, potency, or smoothness of indoor-grown strains. Think of it like the fast food of weed: it gets the job done, but it won’t leave you feeling gourmet.

Indoor weed, on the other hand, is cultivated in a highly controlled environment, with growers monitoring everything from humidity to light cycles to ensure the highest quality product. This type of cannabis cultivation impacts both the quality and price, making indoor weed more potent, flavorful, and smooth to smoke. However, it also comes with a higher price tag—typically between 400 to 800 baht per gram. If you want to score indoor-quality weed at greenhouse prices, you’ll need to know where to look and how to negotiate.

2. Shop Around—Literally

Bangkok is a city of endless options, and this is especially true when it comes to weed. With so many dispensaries competing for your business, don’t settle for the first shop you see. One of the best ways to get quality weed at a lower price is to shop around and compare prices. Each neighborhood in Bangkok offers something different, and depending on where you are, you might find prices fluctuate quite a bit.

For those looking to smoke weed, there are various options available, from traditional methods to modern products like blunts and flavored papers. It's important to understand legal and safety considerations when purchasing cannabis, especially from the online market.

For example, tourist-heavy areas like Sukhumvit or Khaosan Road tend to have higher prices because they’re catering to travelers who don’t know any better. These shops rely on their central location and flashy storefronts to lure in customers, but their prices can be significantly marked up. If you’re in a rush or not willing to venture out of the main drag, you might end up paying premium prices for average weed.

Instead, consider checking out shops in less touristy areas like Ari, Phra Khanong, or even Chatuchak Market. Not only are you likely to find better deals, but many of these spots also offer a more authentic local experience. Don’t be afraid to chat with the budtenders either—they’re often happy to tell you about upcoming sales or promotions if you ask.

3. Buy in Bulk

If you're planning to stay in Bangkok for a while and want to save on weed costs, buying in bulk is one of the easiest ways to stretch your baht. Many dispensaries offer significant discounts if you're purchasing larger amounts. Instead of buying just a gram or two every day, try getting an eighth (3.5 grams) or even a quarter (7 grams) at once. The price per gram often drops significantly when you buy in bulk, and some places even throw in free samples or accessories like rolling papers or grinders to sweeten the deal.

Of course, make sure you're buying from a reputable shop with good-quality weed. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don't be afraid to inspect the product closely before you buy, and ask the shop about its sourcing and growing practices. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a stash of mediocre weed just because it was cheap.

4. Get to Know the Locals

When it comes to finding good weed at the right price in Bangkok, sometimes the best strategy is to go local. Many long-time expats and Thai cannabis enthusiasts have their favorite spots and are often happy to share their knowledge with fellow smokers. Social media groups, cannabis clubs, or even just chatting with the staff at smaller shops can lead to some great recommendations on where to score the best deals.

Bangkok is home to an emerging cannabis culture, and while many of the big-name shops are vying for tourists, the real gems are often found in local-run dispensaries that cater to the city's expat and Thai communities. These smaller shops often focus more on quality and customer loyalty, offering better deals for regulars and higher-grade weed for the price-conscious smoker.

5. Timing is Everything

One last tip for scoring good weed on the cheap: timing matters. Many dispensaries in Bangkok have daily or weekly specials, and the best deals can often be found during off-peak times. If you can, try visiting shops in the middle of the week or during the afternoon when business is slower. Some places also run "happy hour" deals, where you can get discounts on select strains or buy one, get one offers.

Additionally, keep an eye out for special events or holidays—whether it's the shop's anniversary, a Thai festival, or just a random flash sale, these events can offer steep discounts on premium products. Signing up for newsletters or following dispensaries on social media is an easy way to stay in the loop on these deals.