Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit passed away in October of this year, and the nation entered a period of mourning. For the Thai people, she was not only a beloved member of the royal family but also a vital symbol of education and traditional crafts. While order and safety remain throughout Thailand during this period, travelers should be mindful of several precautions during their travels.
In the past, when King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away, major Bangkok shopping districts like Central World, Siam, and Asiatique suspended large-scale celebrations and musical events, replacing the festive atmosphere with the royal "gold and blue" illuminations. While the impact of the Queen Mother's passing is more muted, the Thai government still urges foreign visitors to maintain a low profile and proper protocol as a sign of respect.
About the State Funeral of the Queen Mother of Thailand
Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit passed away in October 2025 at the age of 93. According to a Thai royal announcement, her state funeral and cremation will be held at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, following traditional royal protocol and lasting several days.
The Grand Palace's official website announced that the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew will be closed from October 26 to November 8, 2025, to allow for the funeral of Queen Sirikit. Admission will be limited to the public for the purpose of paying respects and mourning. Travelers visiting Bangkok during this time are advised to avoid the area surrounding the Grand Palace and plan their itinerary for other attractions. They should also be aware of potential temporary road closures and crowd control measures.
The Queen Mother is a beloved and symbolic figure among the Thai people, having dedicated her life to traditional crafts, education, and environmental conservation. During the ceremony, Thais will wear black or dark clothing as a sign of mourning, and the streets will be solemn and quiet.
When visiting these locations, please dress modestly (no sleeveless shirts, short skirts, or shorts). Men are recommended to wear shirts and long pants, while women can choose long skirts or loose trousers. If you are unsure about appropriate attire, bring a light shawl or jacket for covering up. At memorial sites or royal ceremonies, please remain silent, refrain from making noise, and refrain from taking selfies as a sign of respect.
Overall, the Thai people have deep feelings for the royal family. As long as tourists travel with an attitude of understanding and respect, they can still feel the gentleness and orderly beauty of Thailand during this special period.
▲ Thailand has designated the Queen Mother’s birthday as Mother’s Day, meaning that the Queen Mother protects the Thai people.
▲ The venue for the state funeral ceremony is the Grand Palace in Bangkok.
2016 Thai King Rama IX National Funeral Information
Following the passing of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, some traffic restrictions and information have been released, but they mainly focus on the transfer of the coffin and the impact of the mourning period. Specific long-term or large-scale free public transportation information will not be released until further announcements from the government or the ceremony is confirmed. The following is "Information during the 2016 National Mourning Period"For reference to the novice village:
Traffic control around the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha
During the state funeral and cremation ceremony of King Rama IX in 2016, public transportation in Bangkok was free to use.
[10/25～10/27 (all day free)]
- BTS On Nut-Samrong section
- BTS Wongwian Yai-Ban Wa section
- Airport MRT
- MRT Purple Line
- transport boat
‧ Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem Line
‧ Khlong Pasicharoen Line - Chao Phraya Express Boat:
‧ Sathon Pier to Phran Nok Pier
‧ Phran Nok Pier to Nonthburi Pier
‧ Phran Nok Pier to Tha Chang Pier
-Non-air-conditioned bus to Jade Buddha Temple and Royal Field
[10/26 (free for all day)]
- BTS On Nut-Mo Chit and National Stadium-Wongwian Yai sections
- MRT Blue Line
Aftermath of the Ninth King's State Funeral
King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away in 2016 at Bangkok's Siriraj Hospital, and his remains were also placed at the Grand Palace for the public to mourn. The country entered a year-long period of national mourning. When we took our family to the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in February 2017, only Wat Phra Kaew was open to the public, while the Grand Palace was opened to tourists as a museum. The planned route allowed people to dress in black formal attire and line up to pay their respects to the body.
During the National Mourning Period for King Rama IX, which attractions, businesses, or stores will suspend services?
Several travel fan groups in Taiwan or Hong Kong provide real-time reports and updates. It is recommended that you check multiple sources before departure to avoid disappointment when visiting tourist attractions.
[10/26 suspension of service]
– Bangkok
‧ Calypso Cabaret
‧ Chao Phraya Princess Dinner Cruise (service suspended from 10/25~10/29)
‧Dinosaur Planet
‧Dream World
‧Grand Pearl Amazing Dinner Cruise
‧ Muay Thai Live
‧Nanta Show
‧Safari World
‧Siam Park City
‧Siam Niramit
‧Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
‧ Wonderful Pearl (Suspended from 10/13~10/29)
– Pattaya
‧ Alcazar Cabaret Show Pattaya
‧Frost Magical Ice of Siam
‧ Kaan Show (10/23~10/31 suspension of service)
‧ The Sanctuary of Truth
‧Tiffany Show
‧One day tour of the island
– Hua Hin: Vananava Hua Hin, a tropical water jungle park
– Regarding nightclubs, bars, and entertainment activities: Alcohol sales were suspended or prohibited, and a solemn and respectful atmosphere was maintained during the national funeral. The suspension of all entertainment activities lasted for 30 days, from October 13, 2016, to around November 13 or 14, 2016. Afterwards, although the national mourning period lasted a year, entertainment venues and nightlife activities gradually resumed normal operations, but the country maintained a solemn and respectful atmosphere.
While the 2025 guidelines are less stringent than those in 2016, Bangkok's nightlife and entertainment scene will be very low-key and restrained in the short term. Visitors should be prepared for major entertainment venues to remain quiet during the period of national mourning.
Update reports in real time:That Year We Were in Bangkok – Bangkok Gang ︱ Thai Fan Base Camp ︱ Starway Travel Thailand
Bangkok currency exchange business hours announcement
During major festivals such as New Year's Eve, Songkran, and Loy Krathong, Thailand also has local holidays. At that time, club members reported that Superrich Orange Label announced that it would be closed on October 26th. Therefore, it is recommended to check the official websites and social media platforms of various currency exchange offices for closing times before departure.
Bangkok Exchange:Super rich ︱ VASU Exchange ︱ Siam Exchange
From the "Golden Mourning" of King Rama IX to the "Simple Tribute" of the Queen Mother
Thai people have a deep-rooted love for the royal family, and this sentiment is reflected in the layout of public spaces during major national mourning periods.
Looking back at the passing of King Rama IX of Thailand in 2016, Central World's large-scale outdoor Christmas celebration departed from the vibrant and lively tradition of previous years. Instead, the main color palette was golden, representing royalty, nobility, and a symbol of longing. This showcased the solemnity and creativity of a nation mourning. The dazzling sea of golden lights conveyed both festive warmth and a profound remembrance of the King.
Looking ahead to Christmas in 2025 after the death of Queen Sirikit, the government has declared a national mourning period and called on the public to avoid wearing brightly colored clothing for 90 days. Although festive activities in large shopping malls will most likely be held as usual, their themes and tones are also expected to be adjusted moderately to respect the country's mourning atmosphere.
This year's Central World Christmas display will be an artistic display that strikes a balance between solemn mourning and heartwarming festivities, creating a uniquely Thai "understated tribute" to culture. Travelers planning a trip to Bangkok at the end of the year will appreciate the unique festive atmosphere.
▲ In front of Central World Plaza, it was replaced with a golden yellow one.
▲ Everywhere, the king's representative color is used to cherish the memory of the ninth emperor to the Thai people.
▲ Cancel the New Year's Eve activities in front of the square and illuminate the hearts of everyone with lights.
▲ The ninth emperor and other members of the royal family promoted some plans to take care of remote villages and ethnic groups with national power.
▲ They came all for King Rama IX.
▲ This year, Central World turned those flowers at that time into a decoration to commemorate the Ninth Emperor.
Conclusion and Latest Reminders
We've compiled information on current travel restrictions and important information regarding the Queen Mother's passing, in response to numerous inquiries. We'll continue to update with more details, including the latest operating hours for major attractions and closures for businesses like money exchange offices.
In terms of travel itinerary:
- For one-day or multi-day tours outside Bangkok, such as Amphawa, Ayutthaya, Khao Yai, etc., it seems that the impact is relatively small and most activities can proceed normally.
- If you are still worried, you may want to contact local travel agencies or operators in Bangkok that specialize in day tours directly. They can provide the most timely and accurate information.
About subsequent festivals:
- The mourning period following the transfer of the Queen Mother's coffin to the Grand Palace will continue for some time, and visitors should be aware of the local mourning atmosphere. This may impact the conduct of major Thai festivals, such as Loi Krathong in November and Songkran Festival in April 2026.
- Based on past experience, authorities will cancel or adjust activities with a heavy entertainment component and encourage celebrations in a more static and solemn manner. For example, the "Vijit Chao Phraya Light Art Festival" originally scheduled for November has been postponed and celebrations have been suspended.
- We will closely monitor the latest announcements from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and local governments, and will promptly compile an updated information and travel guide on future festivals for your reference.
Central World Commercial Center. Central World Beer Festival
- Business Address: 4,4/1-2,4/4, Ratchadamri Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330
- Phone: 62 264 07000
- Fax: 62 276 35555
- Official website:http://www.central.co.th/en/
- Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/CentralWorld
- Business hours: 10:00–22:00
