Situation Update in Thailand – Travel & tourism uninterrupted as Thailand begins a period of national mourning

Travel agents and partners assured Thailand remains open, safe, and welcoming travellers as normal during national mourning.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) wishes to inform and reassure travel industry partners and travel agents that Thailand remains open and fully operational following the announcement of a national mourning period to honour the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, and joins the Thai people in paying tribute to her enduring legacy of service, compassion, and devotion to the Kingdom.

“Her Majesty Queen Sirikit was deeply revered as a mother figure to the Thai people. During this time of remembrance, we thank visiting travellers for their understanding and sensitivity toward the feelings of the Thai nation” said Ms. Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director of TAT UK & Ireland. “Thailand remains as welcoming as ever, and we encourage travel agents to continue selling Thailand, and reassure current and future clients, when booking Thailand, that their visit will not be disrupted. Hotels, hospitality venues, attractions and experiences across the country continue to operate with the warmth and hospitality for which Thailand is known.”

Thailand has also just recently launched a new campaign entitled ‘Always Warm’ which highlights the stunning country as a winter sun destination with a real value for money angle

The Royal Thai Government has declared a period of national mourning in recognition of Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication and contributions to the Thai nation and its people. The national flag will be flown at half-mast for 30 days. Government officials and civil servants are requested to wear mourning attire for one year, and the general public and visitors are encouraged to wear subdued colours for 90 days as a gesture of remembrance and respect.

During this time all tourism services, transportation, hotels, attractions, hospitality venues across Thailand continue to operate as normal. The Cabinet has not issued any directive to suspend public activities, business operations, or entertainment events.

Changes to Events During the Mourning Period

In observance of the mourning period, certain public events and festivals will proceed with modified formats that reflect the national atmosphere of respect and remembrance.

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaeo) will be temporarily closed from 26 October to 8 November 2025 to facilitate the Royal Merit-Making Ceremony in honour of the Royal Funeral of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother.
The Vijit Chao Phraya 2025 event in Bangkok, initially scheduled from 1 November to 15 December 2025, has been postponed in observance of the mourning period and will now commence on 1 December 2025.
The Sukhothai Loi Krathong and Candle Festival 2025 will go ahead as scheduled from 27 October to 5 November 2025 at Sukhothai Historical Park. Activities will be adapted to align with the mourning period, including a nightly candle-lighting tribute at 21.21 hrs and traditional Sukhothai-style fireworks.
The Loi Krathong Festival in Ayutthaya will also proceed as planned, with celebrations adjusted in tone. Candle-lighting ceremonies will be held in remembrance of Her Majesty The Queen Mother.

Jacinta Mc Glynn continues her exclusive reports from the Thailand Travel Market for Travelbiz

Advice for Travellers

Visitors travelling to Thailand during this period are kindly requested to behave respectfully, particularly when visiting temples, royal sites, or government offices. While there is no requirement to wear black, subdued colours are encouraged.

Thailand remains safe, open, and fully welcoming to international travellers, with all tourism infrastructure and hospitality services continuing without interruption. Travel agents and trade partners are encouraged to reassure clients that their bookings can proceed as planned, and forward bookings are warmly welcomed.

For further updates and details, please visit: https://fanclubthailand.co.uk/

Agents and industry partners can contact the TAT UK & Ireland office directly via marketing@tourismthailand.co.uk with any specific questions or concerns they may have.

Travellers in Thailand can contact the TAT Contact Center 1672 Travel Buddy for real-time assistance and travel information.

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