Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles, and many visitors leave with lasting impressions of its beautiful attractions and delicious food. Especially when it comes to souvenirs—great quality at low prices. Virtually everyone who visits Thailand ends up buying plenty to take home.
There are many types of Thai souvenirs, but today we’re recommending some time-honored Thai heritage brands that have been used by Thais from their grandparents’ generation all the way to their grandchildren’s—immensely popular among locals. Let’s take a look at which Thai heritage brands have been loved for over 50 years.
1. Golden Cup Oil (67 years)
When it comes to medicated oil, “Golden Cup Oil” is considered the favorite brand among Thais due to its versatile effectiveness—from relieving body aches, bruises, sprains, insect bites, to dizziness.
The “Golden Cup Oil” brand has been around for over 60 years, used by generations of Thais. It’s multi-purpose, affordable, and has a unique fragrance, which is why it remains so popular among locals.
Moreover, Golden Cup Oil works so well that it’s regarded as a highly reputed “souvenir.” Anyone visiting Thailand buys it for themselves and their families—it’s reliable and sure to please the recipient. 2. Five Snakes Herbal Cough Pills (70 years)
Five Snakes Herbal Cough Pills have been used for generations, from grandparent to grandchild, and are super effective for cough relief—they help generate saliva, soothe coughs, and expel phlegm, all with a unique taste. Though the packaging may look old-fashioned, that’s part of the brand’s distinctive charm. Even after 70 years, these pills remain popular across all age groups, and now they come in various flavors including mint, lemongrass, and orange, making them even more appealing to younger consumers. Visitors to Thailand shouldn’t miss bringing these pills home. At just 3 THB, with great flavor and guaranteed effectiveness by Thais, they offer immediate relief for sore throats. This is a heritage brand highly recommended by locals.
3. Snake Brand Prickly Heat Powder (68 years)
As a tropical country, Thailand’s prickly heat powder has to be special—and Snake Brand has over 60 years of history. Thais have been using it for ages, and it’s also the world’s first prickly heat powder. Now, Snake Brand is introducing new packaging for the modern era, but both Thais and foreigners still love the classic steel tin. Beyond the ultra-cooling powder, the unique tin itself is a must-buy for anyone visiting Thailand. Here’s a tip: if you wet it slightly before applying, you’ll feel an intense cooling sensation—try it to believe it.
4. Singha Thai Tea (72 years)
It’s often said that when in Thailand, one essential drink to try is “Thai tea.” Thai tea is everywhere—malls, street food stalls, coffee shops—and the heritage brand for Thai tea is “Singha Thai Tea,” which has been around for over 70 years. What sets this brand apart is its uniquely fragrant taste that other brands struggle to replicate. Today, Singha Thai Tea offers not only classic Thai tea but also rose tea worth trying. Locals say rose tea not only looks lovely but also has a mild laxative effect. Be sure to give it a try when you’re in Thailand.
5. Mae Ploy Thai Chili Paste (57 years)
When people think of Thailand, food is often the first thing that comes to mind. Many visitors come not just for the sights, but mainly for the cuisine. Thai food is known for its spiciness, especially the ingredients in Thai spicy soups—if you haven’t tried them, you haven’t really experienced Thailand. For those wanting to bring home spicy soup ingredients, Thais recommend “Mae Ploy Thai Chili Paste.” With over 50 years of history, this brand offers richly flavorful products, and now there are many varieties to explore, such as new chili paste flavors, Tom Yum soup base, and chicken marinade. The taste is authentically delicious—you’ll fall in love at first bite.