Thai Lotto is one of Thailand’s most beloved forms of gambling, played by over 19 million Thais across the country. A government-sponsored lottery that takes place twice monthly on the 1st and 16th, tickets for it can be bought from convenience stores, street vendors or official lottery retailers; winnings depend on correct matching numbers – multiple matches earn larger rewards while smaller prizes may still win money prizes.
A typical Thai lotto ticket costs 80 baht, consisting of two parts. The top part contains lottery numbers while the bottom portion serves to claim prizes. To claim any winnings you must present the ticket along with ID or passport; 0.5% stamp duty must also be paid on winnings from government lotteries while 1% applies for charitable lotteries.
Thai Lotto tickets feature six numbers and a unique barcode at the top, while at the bottom there is a receipt with numbers written on it. To claim your prize at a lottery office (there are multiple across Thailand with most open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm), show all these documents along with ID or passport to claim prize money.
Many Thais believe that certain numbers are auspicious and that selecting them will bring good fortune. It’s not unusual to see people searching the license plate numbers of cars involved in accidents for any sign that there may be a silver lining; while others take an even more direct approach by marking birthdays and anniversaries of loved ones to determine which numbers might hold special meaning for them.
Villagers also frequently visit temples in hopes of witnessing lucky numbers. In Sakon Nakhon, locals flock to Sawang Arom Temple because it is believed to be inhabited by an ancient Naga spirit known for granting good luck when worshiped at this location. Furthermore, it features an holy water basin believed to contain lucky numbers when immersed by devotees.
For those less inclined towards superstition, there’s always “esiimsi,” or fate telling with bamboo sticks. This practice involves shaking a cup filled with bamboo sticks marked with numbers until one falls out; that number then serves as your lucky lottery number. This tradition has spread widely through villages throughout Japan – some even use banana flowers as lucky numbers! Though seemingly frivolous at first, this fun way to pass time makes for great entertainment and who doesn’t love trying their luck?
