The Thai Buddhist Era (B.E.) calendar is used across Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, appearing on passports, official forms, and even festival posters. If you’re traveling to Thailand, doing business, or exploring history, you’ll need to know how to convert between Buddhist Era and the Western Gregorian calendar (A.D.).
📊 Quick Reference Table
| Buddhist Era (B.E.) | Gregorian Year (A.D.) |
|---|---|
| 2566 | 2023 |
| 2567 | 2024 |
| 2568 | 2025 |
| 2569 | 2026 |
| 2570 | 2027 |
🛫 Why This Conversion Matters
- Travel Planning: Thai public holiday dates and event tickets use B.E.
- Business Documents: Contracts and licenses follow the Thai calendar.
- History & Culture: Museum artifacts often date events in B.E.
- Legal Deadlines: Court or visa dates in Thailand use B.E.
❓ FAQs
Q: Will the +543 year difference ever change?
A: No, it’s fixed.
Q: Do Thai people also use A.D.?
A: Yes, for international business and tourism, both dates are often shown.
🌏 Related Resources
- Free Online Buddhist Era Converter
- Thai Public Holiday Calendar (B.E. & A.D.)
- Guide to Major Thai Festivals
💡 Final Tip
Whenever you see a year that looks far into the future—like 2568—it’s probably in Buddhist Era format. Just subtract 543, and you’ll have the Gregorian year!
Mastering this small skill will make your time in Thailand smoother, whether you’re booking a ticket, signing a contract, or studying history.