A blanket alcohol ban will be in place from 12.01 am (00:01) tonight until midnight on Wednesday.
The 48 hour ban marks two Buddhist holidays – Asahna Bucha and Khao Phansa (the start of Buddhist Lent)
The Royal Thai Police said that jail terms of six months and/or fines of 10,000 baht await anyone breaking the ban on the selling and distribution of alcohol.
Spokesman Pol Col Krissana Pattanacharoen said the ban will be strictly enforced.
The only exceptions are international airports.
Asahna Bucha marks the day of the first sermon after the Lord Buddha’s enlightenment celebrating the Four Noble Truths.
These are the truths about Suffering, the Cause of Suffering, the End of Suffering and the truth of the path that leads to the End of Suffering.
Many Thais will be going on holiday but will be joining in with candlelight vigils.
Many will also give up alcohol for Buddhist Lent – a four month period.
