Unusual: 7 unique and strange laws in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but if you don't respect certain laws, you risk a fine or worse.

Here are 7 unique and strange laws you need to know, as infractions can result in a heavy fine or even imprisonment.

1. It is forbidden not to wear underwear

One of the strangest laws in the country is that it is illegal to go out in public without wearing underwear.

There have been no cases of tourists or locals arrested for this offense, but make sure you have enough underwear for your trip.

2. It is forbidden to walk around with a bare chest

The temperature in Thailand can be hot, humid and dry, which means that many tourists tend to walk around bare-chested.

However, if you have rented a vehicle to explore different regions of Thailand, be sure to keep your clothes on to avoid being stopped by the police.

3. Respect the monarchy

Lèse-Majesté is one of the oldest laws in Thailand, introduced in 1908.

It states that it is illegal to insult, defile or threaten the image of the royal family in Thailand.

If you are caught disrespecting the monarchy, you can be imprisoned for up to 15 years and sometimes even more.

So be sure to avoid jokes or any type of criticism towards the royal family during your visit to Thailand.

See also: Things to do and not to do in Thailand, essential things to know

4. Do not step on Thai currency

Thai banknotes

This law is linked to the monarchy, as there is an image of the current King of Thailand, Rama X or an image of his father Rama IX on banknotes and coins.

Wherever you are in Thailand, whether you're strolling through the beautiful nightlife streets, on the sidewalks, or even on the beach, be careful where you step, as it's a crime to step on Thai currency.

See also: Thai coins and banknotes

5. Do not litter

Littering is a serious offense in Thailand, whether on the beach, in town or walking on the sidewalk.

This law is not strange, but the reason it stands out is that people who get caught end up paying a heavy fine or going to prison.

Members of the Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA) can impose a fine of up to 2,000 baht (€51.97) if you are caught throwing trash in the city.

Don't forget that some scammers claim to be BMA inspectors to extort money from tourists.

By simply asking for their ID, you can dispel any confusion and avoid being scammed.

See also: Scams in Thailand: know and protect yourself

6. It is forbidden to speak a foreign language into a microphone

Another strange and unique law in Thailand states that you must only speak Thai when using a sound amplification device such as a microphone.

So, if you hear someone say "test mic" or "Hello test", you are witnessing a serious offense, punishable by a month in prison.

Only religious ceremonies, sporting events and concerts are exempt from this unique law.

See also: Thai language, the minimum vocabulary to know on your first trip

7. Do not display your flag

Thai flag

Did you know that it is illegal to display the flag of another country in public in Thailand?

According to the 1979 Flag Law, if you are caught flying or hoisting a foreign flag, you can be sent to prison.

Only embassies and diplomatic residences are allowed to do so.

If you disrespect the Thai flag or any other foreign flag, you risk a prison sentence of 2 to 6 years.

See also: Recognizing Thai flags

Final thoughts

Each country has different laws and it is interesting to know them before traveling.

Of course, you will never see a police officer come to make sure you are wearing underwear or arrest you for singing a foreign song in a karaoke, but be sure to respect the other laws.

See also:

Do's and Don'ts when visiting a Buddhist temple in Thailand

Source: Legal Reader