Thailand Enters Period Of National Mourning Until January 2026; Here’s How It Will Affect Tourists & Upcoming Events

After Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, one of the nation’s most cherished and revered individuals, passed away, Thailand entered a period of intense mourning. Queen Sirikit, also referred to as the “Mother of the Land,” dedicated her life to promoting the well-being of the Thai people. Her death has caused a wave of grief to sweep the country, and in the coming months, Thailand will experience a quieter and respectful environment. However, what does this mean for tourists making travel plans during this time? Read on to find out more!

Understanding The Mourning Period

The Royal Thai Government officially began the national mourning period on 25 October 2025. For 30 days, government offices, schools, and state enterprises will fly the national flag at half-mast. Government officials will wear black for an entire year, and the public is being encouraged to wear black or neutral-colored clothes for 90 days to show their respect.

However, this mourning period doesn’t mean that Thailand is closing down. According to TAT News, the Prime Minister has clarified that there will be no suspension of entertainment, business, or tourism activities. 

If you plan to travel to Thailand in the near future, you can expect that daily activities will continue as usual; markets will continue to be busy, beaches will remain open, and temples will continue to welcome tourists. However, you will find a lot of people wearing darker colours out of respect, flags at half-mast, and a more sombre atmosphere.

Thailand’s famous festivals and celebrations are not cancelled, but they will be held in a more thoughtful and respectful manner. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew) in Bangkok will be closed to visitors from 26 October to 8 November 2025.

Festivals like Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival and Ayutthaya Loi Krathong Festival will take place in a simpler way. The famous Full Moon beach party at Koh Phangan’s Hat Rin Beach will be cancelled in November as a mark of respect. However, all restaurants, bars, and resorts on the island will remain open and continue operating.

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Tips For Tourists Visiting Thailand During Mourning

Since Thailand is still open to tourists, travel plans do not need to be changed. But since this is a sensitive time for locals, tourists are encouraged to be respectful and aware of the mood.

Here are some easy pointers to remember:

• Wear respectful, modest clothing. Black, white, grey, or neutral clothing is preferred, especially when visiting temples, royal sites, or government buildings.
• Pay attention to how you behave in public. Loud celebrations, public drinking, or insensitive jokes about the monarchy are considered disrespectful.
• Look for updates on the event. There may be minor adjustments to the schedule or structure of some festivals or performances. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is the source of the most recent information.

This is a rare opportunity for tourists to engage with Thai culture more deeply and emotionally. So, if you’re travelling to Thailand in the coming months, you may not see the usual loud festivals or fireworks, but what you’ll witness is a country united in love, respect, and remembrance.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/Bjoertvedt