Thailand is in a Period of Mourning
On October 24, 2025, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, passed away at the age of 93. The Thai government has officially declared a national mourning period to honor her legacy and contributions to the country.
According to government announcements:
• Flags at government offices, schools, and state enterprises will be flown at half-mast for 30 days starting from October 25, 2025.
• Government officials and civil servants are required to wear black or dark clothing for one year.
• The public is encouraged to wear subdued colors, especially black, gray, or dark blue, for about 90 days.
• Public activities and tourist attractions remain open, but certain events or celebrations may be adjusted to reflect the somber national mood.
Even though daily life continues, visitors are encouraged to show respect and awareness during this sensitive time. If you are planning to visit Thailand within the next year, here are the key things you should do and keep in mind:
1. Dress and Behave Respectfully
- When visiting temples, royal sites, government buildings, or participating in formal/memorial events: wear black or dark/subdued colours. White, grey or dark blue are acceptable alternatives. Bright or flashy colours (neon, bold prints) are best avoided.
- While you as a tourist aren’t strictly mandated to follow every protocol, showing respect goes a long way and is highly appreciated by locals.
- Nightlife and entertainment still exist, but expect things to be more toned-down than usual. Big parties or highly celebratory events might be fewer or modified, especially in the earlier phase of the mourning period.
2. Check Event Schedules and Site Closures
- Some major events have been postponed or scaled back. For example, the light-and-sound spectacle Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 was postponed due to the mourning period.
- Some prominent sites (for example the Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok) are temporarily closed for formal royal-merit making ceremonies (e.g., 26 Oct–8 Nov, 2025) during the early mourning phase.
- Before planning to attend a festival or event, check for updates, the format may be adjusted (less fireworks, no big beauty contests, more candle-lighting tributes) to align with the country’s respectful mood.
3. Travel Remains Open and Safe
• All major tourist destinations, hotels, and restaurants are open as usual.
• Transportation services such as flights, trains, and ferries continue to operate normally.
• Tourists are welcome, and the Thai people continue to be warm and hospitable to visitors.
4. Suggested Itinerary Modifications / Tips
Here are some practical tips you might want to build into your next-year Thailand trip:
- Pack some dark/neutral clothing: At least a few outfits in black or subdued colours. Useful if you’re visiting temples, paying respects, or going to formal settings.
- Temple etiquette extra mindful: Cover shoulders and knees, remove shoes when required, remain quiet & respectful.
- Check event/festival status: If you were planning around a big festival (light show, beauty pageant, fireworks), check for modifications or postponements ahead of time.
- Consider the tone of your plans: If you enjoy nightlife, go ahead. But maybe expect less flamboyance. If you’re booking big celebratory events, double-check they’re still on and see how they’re being presented.
- Show respect at royal/official sites: While tourists aren’t expected to observe every protocol that government employees must, showing awareness goes a long way.
- Be culturally aware: The country is in a solemn period; even if things run “normally,” treating the stay with a touch of cultural sensitivity will make your trip both smoother and more meaningful.
Prepare Your Internet Connection with Eskimo eSIM
During the current mourning period, some SIM card stores might be closed due to the situation. You can prepare by using an eSIM that’s already installed on your phone and buy data plans directly from your device without visiting any store. Eskimo eSIM covers Thailand data plans starting from just $2.3/GB.
FAQs
Are there any changes to religious ceremonies or temple visits during the mourning period?
Temples remain open, but many may hold special prayer sessions or remembrance ceremonies for the late Queen Mother. Visitors are welcome to observe quietly, but should avoid interrupting ongoing rituals or entering restricted areas during ceremonies.
Is it appropriate for tourists to give flowers or offerings in memory of the Queen Mother?
Yes, but it is optional. If you wish to pay respects, you may offer white or yellow flowers at designated tribute areas, often found near temples or royal memorial sites.
Will music and entertainment on television or public areas be affected?
Yes, national TV and radio channels may broadcast more formal or subdued programming, especially during the first 30 days.
