The Queen Mother Sirikit’s death plunges Thailand into a period of national mourning. This historic event has direct implications for travelers and expatriates. This guide addresses its impact and helps you navigate your stay with respect and understanding.
Key information for travelers
- Dress Code: It is recommended to wear somber colors (black, white, gray) out of respect.
- Entertainment: Bars and clubs remain open but with a subdued atmosphere. Major festivals like Loy Krathong took place in a traditional, more solemn manner.
- Tourist Sites: Most sites are open. The Grand Palace in Bangkok is closed to tourists until November 8, 2025, inclusive.
- Behavior: Be discreet and respectful. Never criticize the monarchy.
Latest Information (October 28)
The Thai government has clarified the guidelines for the 30-day public mourning period:
- Loy Krathong proceeded as planned, but subdued: The Festival of Lights on November 6 took place as scheduled, but without entertainment aspects like fireworks and concerts to maintain a respectful tone.
- Bars and Restaurants Open: There is no government-mandated closure. Entertainment venues have been asked to “tone down” festivities and act with discretion.
- Grand Palace Closed: The Royal Household Bureau confirms the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are closed to visitors until November 8, 2025, inclusive.
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 has been announced, during which public entertainment will be adapted. The Queen Mother’s body will then lie in state at the Grand Palace for one year before the royal cremation. During this time, flags are flown at half-mast, and a somber atmosphere is expected throughout the kingdom.
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, as evidenced by the numerous condolences from world leaders following her death.
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. The most important information for travelers was that the Loy Krathong festival, with its main evening on Thursday, November 6, 2025, was not canceled. Celebrations focused on the traditional and spiritual aspects (floating krathongs) but without fireworks, concerts, or beauty pageants. Other purely festive events, like the “Vijit Chao Phraya” light festival in Bangkok, have been postponed and are now scheduled to start on December 1, 2025.
How to Dress Respectfully?
It is highly recommended to adopt a respectful dress code. Opt for dark and sober-colored clothing, ideally black, white, or grey. Avoid brightly colored outfits, especially in public places, temples, and government buildings.
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 have been officially asked to respect the mourning period by lowering music volume and avoiding an exuberant atmosphere for 30 days. You will find bars open, but the ambiance will be much quieter than usual.
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, it is not necessary. The country continues to function. However, your experience will be different, more focused on culture and tranquility than on partying. It is an opportunity to see another side of Thailand.
What is the exact duration of public mourning?
The official public mourning period, during which flags are flown at half-mast, is for 30 days starting from October 25. However, the most noticeable adjustments for travelers (subdued atmosphere, event modifications) are mainly concentrated in the first 15 days of this period.
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 main exception is the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, which are officially closed to tourists from October 26 to November 8, 2025, inclusive, to accommodate royal funeral rites. Starting November 9, the public (including tourists) will be allowed to pay their respects before the Royal Urn in the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall.
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 November 6, 2025
