The Queen Mother Sirikit’s death impacts travel to Thailand. This updated guide details the essentials: dress code, atmosphere, and open sites.
Situation Update (January 8, 2026): Return to Normal
- Status: Tourism activities have fully returned to normal (100%), including nightlife and entertainment. Flags are no longer at half-mast.
- Dress Code: The requirement for black clothing has been relaxed for tourists, though sober attire remains appreciated at temples and official sites.
- Royal Cremation: The official royal mourning period continues for one year. The Royal Cremation ceremony is expected to take place in late 2026.
Official Announcement: The Queen Mother Sirikit’s Death
After several days of rumors, the Royal Household Bureau has officially confirmed the news, immersing the nation in deep sorrow.
Circumstances of Death Confirmed by the Palace
Her Majesty Queen Sirikit passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, in the evening at 9:21 PM, at the age of 93, from a blood infection. She was hospitalized at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok. This announcement ends a long period during which her public appearances had become non-existent due to health issues.
The National Mourning Period: A Time of Remembrance
A national mourning period has been declared. While the mourning period for the royal court is one year, a 30-day period of public reverence was announced.
During the first year, the Queen Mother’s body will lie in state at the Grand Palace before the royal cremation. Flags were flown at half-mast during the first month, and a general atmosphere of sobriety remains expected for official ceremonies.
Who Was Queen Sirikit, the Mother of the Nation?
To understand the depth of the nation’s grief, it is essential to grasp the importance of Queen Sirikit, a figure who is part of the long and rich history of Thailand, for generations of Thais.
A Life in Service to the Monarchy and the People
As the wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and mother of the current King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X), Queen Sirikit was a central figure in the stability and prestige of the monarchy for over 70 years. Regarded as the “Mother of the Nation,” her birthday on August 12 is celebrated as Mother’s Day and is one of the most important public holidays in Thailand. Beyond her institutional role, she also established herself as a global icon of elegance, notably through her collaboration with couturier Pierre Balmain, which helped forge a modern and sophisticated image of Thailand on the international stage.
The news of her passing was followed by numerous condolences from world leaders, testifying to her influence far beyond the kingdom’s borders.
The Enduring Legacy of Royal Projects
Her legacy extends far beyond her influence on fashion. She initiated countless royal projects for rural development, the preservation of local crafts (especially Thai silk), and environmental protection. Her work directly improved the lives of millions in the countryside.
Practical Guide: What is the Impact on Your Trip to Thailand?
In practical terms, here is what this mourning period means for travelers.
Will Events, Festivals, and Concerts Be Canceled?
No, most cultural festivals were held, but with their more festive aspects removed. For example, the Loy Krathong festival in November focused on tradition (floating krathongs) but without fireworks or beauty pageants. Past events, like the “Vijit Chao Phraya” light festival in Bangkok, were maintained but adapted. Now, in early 2026, events and festivals are proceeding as scheduled with normal programming.
How to Dress Respectfully?
It is recommended to adopt a respectful dress code when visiting cultural sites. Opt for sober-colored clothing, ideally black, white, or grey if visiting temples. While the strict requirement for black clothing has eased for general tourism, avoid brightly colored outfits especially in temples and government buildings out of respect for the ongoing royal mourning year.
Party Venues, Bars, and Alcohol: What to Expect?
The government has not ordered the closure of bars or restricted the sale of alcohol. However, entertainment venues were officially asked to respect the mourning period by lowering music volume during the initial period. Since late November 2025, the atmosphere in bars has fully returned to normal. Note that authorities are strictly enforcing the existing Thai law prohibiting alcohol sales after midnight in most venues.
Behaving Respectfully During the Mourning Period
Your attitude is the most important sign of respect you can show.
Appropriate Gestures and Attitudes
Be discreet and sober in public spaces. Speak quietly, avoid loud laughter and exuberant behavior. These recommendations are, of course, in addition to the rules of etiquette in Thailand that should always be followed.
Behaviors to Absolutely Avoid
Never criticize the monarchy, not even indirectly. This is an extremely sensitive subject, and the lèse-majesté law is very strict in Thailand. Refrain from any form of loud partying and excessive alcohol consumption in public.
Traveling in Thailand During Mourning: A Sign of Respect
The Queen Mother Sirikit’s death marks a historic and solemn moment for Thailand. As a visitor, observing this period with understanding is not just an obligation but also a unique opportunity to show your sympathy to the Thai people and to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s soul. Your journey, experienced with respect, will be all the more meaningful and authentic.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Mourning in Thailand
Should I cancel my trip to Thailand?
No, absolutely not. The country continues to function normally. While the initial mourning period was solemn, tourism and daily life have now returned to normal. It is a great time to visit and witness the deep respect the Thai people hold for their monarchy.
What is the exact duration of public mourning?
The strict mourning period (flags at half-mast) lasted 30 days and ended on November 24, 2025. Today, although the official royal mourning continues for one year (until October 2026), public life and tourism have resumed their normal course.
Do temples and tourist sites remain open?
Yes, all tourist sites, national parks, and temples throughout the country remain open with their regular hours. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok are open to the public. Be aware that the Grand Palace may have higher visitor numbers due to locals paying respects at the Dusit Maha Prasat Hall where the Royal remains lie in state.
Can I still go to the beach and swim?
Yes, daily activities like going to the beach are still possible. The important thing is to maintain a respectful and discreet attitude in public, even in resort areas.
🔄 Last updated on January 8, 2026
