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Thailand, celebrated for its beach bars in Phuket, full-moon parties in Koh Phangan, and streetside beer stalls across Bangkok’s Khao San Road, has quietly dialled down part of its famous “holiday freedom.” As of November 8, the Thai government has introduced stricter alcohol control regulations that limit when you can buy and consume alcohol, and the penalties are steep. There is now a ban on daytime drinking during certain hours. Thailand has always had fixed alcohol sale windows, but the latest rules tighten enforcement and expand monitoring, especially in public spaces and tourist-heavy zones. Under the new regulations, drinking alcohol outside legal hours can attract a fine of up to 10,000 baht (approximately ₹28,000). That means your casual mid-afternoon beer on the beach in Phuket or a takeaway Chang beer from a 7-Eleven in Chiang Mai may suddenly become an expensive mistake. Thailand Liquor Rules And Drinking HoursWhile you might think this rule is new, it really isn't. So far, the alcohol rules in the country applied to establishments such as bars and liquor stores, which were banned from selling alcohol from midnight to 11:00 a.m. and again from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., except in restaurants. The focus was, therefore, only on businesses. But now under the revised law, customers themselves can be fined simply for drinking outside permitted times at pubs, bars, or clubs. Authorities say the amendment aims to improve compliance and reduce the health and social risks linked to excessive drinking in Thailand. But this would certainly affect tourism in the country, since Thailand is famous for being one of Asia’s most popular nightlife hubs. After all, Bangkok nightlife, Phuket beach bars, and Pattaya clubs often thrive well past midnight, drawing both locals and tourists who come to experience Thailand’s legendary party culture. The new liquor rule comes months after Thailand went back on its weed law, and once again criminalised its consumption. The regulated drinking hours now are: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM 5:00 PM to midnight Anything outside these time frames is considered a violation if you're caught drinking in a public or monitored space. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
