Indica VS Sativa
Thailand has a rich cannabis heritage that leans strongly toward sativas. In fact, Thai landrace strains (like the famed old-school “Thai Stick”) are 100% sativa. These native Thai strains became legendary for their energizing, clear-headed buzz. Back in the 1960s and ’70s, Thai sativas were prized worldwide for a euphoric high that was unlike the heavy indicas that you would find. This cultural legacy means Thai growers and consumers traditionally appreciate sativa’s uplifting effects for daytime productivity and creativity.
Even today, walking into Thai dispensaries, you’ll notice plenty of sativa and sativa-dominant strains on the menu. Many local customers and tourists seek out these varieties. For example, dispensaries in Bangkok frequently stock classic pure sativas like Durban Poison and Haze, known for their strong energetic highs and focus boost. Fruity, mood-boosting sativas are also in demand; one favorite is Strawberry Cough, cherished for its sweet berry flavor and happy, stress-relieving buzz.
At Kandy in Phuket, we see the same trend: one of our top-selling strains right now is Strawberry Skunk, which is a sativa-leaning hybrid with sweet strawberry notes. Travelers often pick it for daytime exploring or socializing, as it provides a relaxed yet cerebral uplift that’s great for staying positive and engaged without anxiety. If you’re visiting a Thai beach or market on a sunny afternoon, a strain like Strawberry Skunk (or similar fruity sativas) can complement the experience nicely.
That said, indicas certainly have their place in Thailand’s scene too; especially in the evenings. After a long day of sightseeing or if you’re simply looking to chill out, many folks turn to indica-dominant strains for a dose of Thai-style relaxation. Popular indica classics such as Northern Lights and Granddaddy Purple are beloved in Thailand for their ability to soothe the body and mind. These strains deliver the kind of deep calm that helps with jet lag, muscle aches, or unwinding on a lazy island night. Local growers have also introduced new indica hybrids to the market. For instance, Kandy’s Truffa Palooza is an 80% indica strain that exemplifies what many seek in an evening smoke. It’s sedating and deeply calming, with a heavy body high that users love for easing stress and insomnia. In Phuket, some tourists will pick up a energizing sativa during the day, then come back later for a powerful indica like Tahoe Snow (an ~90% indica) to help them sleep soundly. One local budtender shared that it’s common to see beachgoers grab a daytime strain for a boost, and then return at night asking for “something strong to help me relax.” The variety available post-legalization means you can always find a strain suited to the mood or time of day.
(Remember: all these strains sold legally in Thailand are lab-tested and come from licensed cultivators.)
From Thai Tradition to Your Personal Preference
Thailand’s cannabis scene offers a unique blend of old and new. On one hand, the country’s sativa tradition lives on. The spirit of the classic Thai landrace can be felt in the uplifting highs that many local users still adore. On the other hand, the post-legalization boom has introduced indicas and hybrids from around the world, giving consumers here a variety we have not seen before. Ultimately, Indica vs Sativa is about finding what fits you best. Some tourists discover they love the euphoric laughter that a tropical sativa brings, while others feels that nothing beats a strong indica for a relaxed night by the pool.
By understanding these fundamental differences, you’ll be better equipped to navigate any Thai cannabis menu and choose a strain that matches your desired experience. But don’t forget: each strain is unique, and everyone’s body reacts a bit differently.
Not sure whether an indica or sativa is right for you? Feel free to visit Kandy Weed Shop (we have locations in Phuket’s Chalong, Patong, and Bang Tao areas). Our team is happy to answer questions and guide you to the perfect strain for your needs. We’re committed to helping you enjoy cannabis safely and responsibly while you’re in Thailand. With the right strain and a bit of guidance, you can look forward to an enjoyable, memorable experience.
Sabai sabai (easygoing and relaxed), just like the Thai way of life.