Thailand’s Mourning Period for Queen Sirikit: What It Means for Tourists, All You Need To Know

Published on October 27, 2025

Thailand is now observing a mourning period after the death of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, and there are guidelines set by the government to honour her memory. The Thai Government has stated that daily life and tourists are not affected. Still, it is advised for visitors and local residents to observe mourning practices, especially in the way they dress and behave. The country gives its respect to the Queen Mother, who served the people for life. Tourism is open, only some events and activities have changed due to the mood and time of the country.

Official Guidelines for Mourning Practices

The Royal Thai Government, through Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s announcement, has outlined the following measures to ensure the respectful observance of this mourning period:

• Government buildings, educational institutions, and state enterprises across the country are flying the national flag at half-mast for 30 days, starting from October 25, 2025.
• Government officials, state enterprise workers, and civil servants are to wear mourning attire for one year starting from this date.
• The general public is encouraged to dress in black or subdued colours for 90 days to reflect the national sentiment of remembrance.

Tourism and Public Life Unaffected by Mourning

Despite the period of mourning, Thailand’s tourism sector continues to function without major disruption. The Government has not mandated the suspension of public activities, including entertainment or business operations. However, organisers are encouraged to adjust events in line with the national atmosphere of mourning. Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)-organised events will be modified to reflect a respectful tone, with festive and celebratory elements being postponed until further notice.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has extended its condolences and confirmed that Thailand remains open for business, with tourist attractions, transport services, restaurants, and shops operating as usual. Visitors are kindly requested to be respectful when visiting royal sites, temples, and government buildings during this period.

Impact on Key Events and Festivals

Several significant events and festivals scheduled during the mourning period will be adjusted to ensure they remain in line with the tone of the country’s mourning. For instance:

• Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo Closure: From October 26 to November 8, 2025, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo) will be temporarily closed to facilitate the Royal Merit-Making Ceremony in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s Royal Funeral.
• Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2025: This popular event will continue as planned from October 27 to November 5, 2025, but with modifications to respect the mourning period. A nightly candle-lighting tribute will take place at 21.21 hrs, with traditional Sukhothai-style fireworks. However, the Noppamas beauty contest, a major event during the festival, has been cancelled out of respect.
• Loi Krathong Festival in Ayutthaya: This beloved festival will also proceed as scheduled, though event organisers will tone down the celebratory elements to align with the national mourning period. Candle-lighting ceremonies will be held as a tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.
• Vijit Chao Phraya 2025: This event, originally set to run from November 1 to December 15, 2025, has been postponed in observance of the mourning period and will now begin on December 1, 2025.

Respecting Local Customs and Etiquette

While daily life and tourism operations continue, visitors are encouraged to adopt a respectful attitude when travelling through Thailand during this time. This includes wearing appropriate clothing, especially when visiting sacred or royal sites, and adhering to local customs and practices during this period of national reflection. It’s important to note that most tourist attractions, transportation services, and hospitality services remain open, ensuring that travellers can continue to explore Thailand’s rich cultural offerings with minimal disruption.

Paying Tribute While Exploring Thailand

Thailand’s tourism remains vibrant and accessible, even as the country observes a period of mourning for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. As the nation comes together to honour her legacy, visitors to Thailand can still enjoy all the country has to offer while respecting the mourning guidelines in place. The adjustments to certain events and the public’s encouragement to dress appropriately reflect the country’s deep respect for the Queen Mother’s contributions.

Visiting Thailand in the next few months is a great chance to immerse yourself in the local way of life through their unique customs, festivals, and even the warmth of the natives, but keep the national feeling in mind. The government has skillfully managed to preserve the atmosphere of mourning and, at the same time, to promote tourism and thus, Thailand is still a very inviting place for those who want to offer their respects as well as for those who want to experience the country’s outstanding attractions.