Thailand declares a year of mourning after the death of Queen Mother Sirikit. What this means for tourists and how travel in the country will change in 2025-2026

Thailand has officially entered a year-long period of national mourning following the death of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. The event is deeply meaningful to the Thai people, as the Queen was considered the “Mother of the Nation” and played a huge role in the development of the country’s culture, crafts and welfare.

Despite the mourning, Thailand remains open to tourists, and most events, attractions and services are operating as usual. However, travelers should be aware of a few important nuances regarding behavior and organization of a trip to Thailand in 2026.

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Who was Queen Sirikit?

Sirikit Kitiyakara was born on August 12, 1932 in Bangkok. She was the wife of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), Thailand's longest-reigning monarch.

During her lifetime, Sirikit became a true symbol of caring for the people: she supported the development of rural areas, preserved crafts, and popularized Thai silk and traditions. She retired from public life due to a stroke in 2012, and died on October 24, 2025 at the age of 93 from a blood infection.

Her body will lie in state at the Grand Palace for a year, and a cremation ceremony will take place in 2026.

How long will the mourning period in Thailand last?

According to the royal decree, the annual mourning period will last until October 2026, in addition to:

- National flags will be flown at half-mast for 30 days, starting on October 25.

- Civil servants must wear black for 1 year.

- Citizens and visitors are encouraged to wear subdued colors for the first 90 days of mourning (until January 25), although this is not mandatory.

How will Thailand’s annual mourning period affect tourists?

Despite the mourning, Thailand remains open and fully operational.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand confirmed that all tourist attractions, hotels, transportation, restaurants and shops are operating as usual.

However, some royal sites may be temporarily closed for special ceremonies, including the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok, which will be closed until November 8, 2025.

Other closures may occur during official ceremonies or national days of remembrance.

Travel advice: Travelers are advised to check the latest opening hours of attractions before traveling.

Changes to celebrations and festival dates due to mourning in Thailand

Some public events have been postponed or will take place in an adjusted format:

- Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 Light Festival in Bangkok has been postponed from November 1 to December 1.

- Loy Krathong Festival (November 5) in most cities - will take place, but in a more subdued atmosphere: fewer fireworks, more candlelight ceremonies.

- In Sukhothai, the celebration will include a nightly memorial service at 9:21 p.m.

- In Chiang Mai, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival will also take place, but with an emphasis on cultural performances instead of large-scale parties.

These changes are designed to maintain a balance between respecting national mourning and continuing tourism.

These are changes to upcoming events in Thailand, and other adjustments to the schedule of mass events are possible throughout the year.

How should tourists behave during the annual mourning period in Thailand?

Although there are no strict requirements for travelers, locals expect respect, the main recommendations are:

- Dress in restrained colors - black, white, gray or dark blue.

- Avoid bright colors, loud talking and laughter in temples, royal places and near memorials.

- If desired, you can attach a black ribbon to your clothes.

- In public places, especially near portraits of the Queen, it is worth lowering your voice and stopping for a moment if others pay their respects.

- On beaches and resorts, follow the general rules of decency - do not enter cafes or shops in a swimsuit or without a shirt.

Alcohol sales, restaurant operations and nightlife are not restricted, but excessive noise is not approved outside entertainment areas.

Can tourists visit Thailand during the annual mourning period?

Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia. In 2025 alone, more than 26 million tourists visited the country. The authorities confirm that all travelers remain welcome guests, especially if they show respect for culture and traditions during this sensitive period.

The annual mourning period in Thailand is a period of deep respect for the memory of Queen Mother Sirikit, but it is not a reason to refuse to travel. Tourists only need to observe basic respect and attentiveness to local customs.

Sunny beaches, ancient temples and Thai hospitality remain as open as ever.

Planning a trip to Thailand? Download the “Travel Guide” from Visit World - your reliable assistant in preparing for your trip. In the guide you will find:

- Step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa - from the application form to the interview;

- Information about the visa fee and application processing time;

- An example of a completed application form and photo of a tourist visa;

- A complete list of required documents;

- Tips and life hacks for a comfortable stay.

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Reminder! Thailand has announced shocking new travel rules to the country. We have already told you what new travel rules to Thailand will come into effect in 2026: a tourist fee, a digital arrival card TDAC, changes in visa policy, the “New Thailand” strategy and even the Tomorrowland festival.

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