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National mourning in Thailand: Queen Mother Sirikit dies
Bangkok mourns Queen Mother Sirikit. Public events adjusted, royal sites temporarily closed.
National mourning in Thailand: Queen Mother Sirikit dies
The news of the death of Queen Sirikit, the revered Queen Mother of Thailand, on October 24, 2025 caused great sadness in the country. She left this world at the age of 93, having been hospitalized since October 17 for blood poisoning. Despite all medical efforts, her condition worsened and her death was finally announced in Bangkok on Friday evening. Her legacy is treasured in Thailand as she was a symbol of grace and elegance for many years. The Thai government is now honoring this fact with a national period of mourning.
From October 25, 2025, Queen Sirikit will officially be mourned in Thailand. This period of mourning will last for 90 days and is intended to give Thais the opportunity to pay respect and celebrate her legacy. The government has issued clear guidelines on how officials and the public should dress and behave during this time. This is particularly important for tourists, who are also asked to appear appropriately dressed in respect for the Queen.
Mourning period and events
The mourning period honors the achievements of the monarch, who was the mother of the reigning King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Public buildings have been flying flags at half-mast since October 25, and government officials and civil servants have been required to wear mourning attire for a full year. In the coming weeks and months, people will be encouraged to wear black or muted colors. Even if everyday life and tourism should largely continue, respectful behavior at temples and royal complexes is recommended.
However, some cultural and public events will be adjusted. For example, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok are closed from October 26th to November 8th. The well-known Loi Krathong Festival, which was scheduled to take place in Sukhothai and Ayutthaya from October 27th to November 5th, will also be changed in its execution. Instead of large competitions and fireworks, silent candle ceremonies take place. The splendor and glory of the traditional celebrations will be noticeably reduced this year. The Vijit Chao Phraya light spectacle has also been postponed to December 1st.
The Importance of the Queen Mother
Queen Sirikit, known for her style and elegance, was married to King Bhumibol since April 1950 and had four children. Her birthday, August 12, was traditionally celebrated as a national holiday in Thailand. Despite her absence from the public eye in recent years, she has remained a central element in Thai culture. In the 1950s and 1960s, she was considered an icon of Asia's style and grace and was featured in numerous international fashion magazines.
While the mourning period is a period of reflection and respect for many people, the Tourism Authority of Thailand emphasizes that Thailand remains open during this time. Tourist attractions, transport services, restaurants and shops remain open. The authors of Touristik Aktuell report that international travel will not be significantly affected during these times, which does not diminish travelers' desire to visit Thailand.
The heartfelt thoughts and sadness of the Thai people are reflected in the many adjustments being made these days to quietly commemorate the Queen Mother and permanently honor her significant influence on Thailand.