Living with a disability in Thailand is not always straightforward for people with reduced mobility or those facing other forms of physical or mental impairment. The Land of Smiles has very few adapted facilities, and even the simplest journey can quickly become an obstacle course.

Disabilities in Thailand: limited progress in urban areas

Getting around the city can be challenging for a person with a disability. In Thailand, pavements and roads adhere to no particular standards, and it is not uncommon to encounter level differences of several centimetres between different sections of the same surface. Few buildings are equipped with access ramps, and pedestrian crossings lack auditory signals for the visually impaired. Additionally, service animals specially trained to assist people with disabilities are extremely rare.

Disabilities in Thailand: public transport inadequately equipped

Public transport is no exception to this rule, and it is nearly impossible for a person with reduced mobility to use it. Taxis remain an option which, although not specifically adapted, allow for travel under acceptable conditions.

In Bangkok, people with disabilities should not rely on the Sky Train, as most stations are not equipped for people with reduced mobility.

The same applies to the regular metro and the national railway network. In certain international airports, the situation is somewhat better, with some specially equipped lifts and competent assistance services available to people with disabilities.

Rural areas particularly unsuitable for people with reduced mobility

While Thai cities are poorly adapted for people with disabilities, the situation is even worse in rural areas where there is virtually no adapted infrastructure. It is strongly recommended not to venture outside the main urban areas without being accompanied by people physically capable of assisting you.

List of main national disability support organizations in Thailand

Association of the Physically Handicapped in Thailand 73/7-8 Soi 8, Soi Thepprasan, Tivanon Rd, Talaat Kawan, Nonthaburi 11000
Tel: 02 951 0569 Fax: 02 580 1098

Disabled People International – Asia Pacific Region 29/486 Moo 9, Soi 12, Muangthong Thani, Bangpood, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120
Tel: 02 503 4268-9 Fax: 02 503 4268-9

Thailand Association of the Blind Tel: 02 246 3835 Fax: 02 245 9846

National Association of the Deaf in Thailand 144/9 Moo Ban Thitiporn, Pattanakarn 29, Pattanakarn Road, Suan Luang, Bangkok 10250
Tel: 02 717 1902

Christian Care Foundation for Children with Disabilities in Thailand (CCD) 18/1075 Moo 5 Sukhaprachasan 2 Road (Soi Wat Koo), Bangpood, Pakkred, Nonthaburi 11120 Tel: 02 584 6966

Christian Foundation for the Blind Tel: 04 324 2098

Thai Disabled Development Foundation Tel: 02 281 9280 Special Olympics Thailand

List of main regional organizations

Light for the Blind Association of Persons with Physical Disability International Foundation for Children with Disabilities (FCD) 546 Lat Phrao 47 Road, Wangthong, Bangkok 10310
Tel: 02 539 2916 / 02 539 9558 Fax: 02 539 9706

Foundation for the Welfare of the Crippled Fr. Ray Foundation Site web Mermaids Dive Centre Pattaya 75/124 Moo 12, Jomtien Beach Road Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20260
Tel: 03 823 2219