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Shopping in Bangkok

Buddha-Statues - its a No Go!

Especially on the many markets there are the special offers also to buy things that are beautiful to look at, but when importing to the home (by customs) not everything is welcome. What many tourists do not realize is that the execution of certain articles is prohibited, unless you have a special permit for export, which is not easy to get. Buddha statues are one of them.

Small hand-sized objects some people say it might be ok, and the problems start at a certain size, but let's face it, the Buddha is much more than an ornament for the home living room, and faithful Buddhists see it as a sign of lack of respect when you buying a Buddha statue as a piece of furniture. If there's no other way around and something like that should be, a dancer as a statue is also "pretty" and easy to export.

Antiques, real art objects and religious objects in principle require permission from the Fine Art Department. If you should plan such a purchase, please first inform yourself at a Thai embassy in your country.