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Tourists in Thailand urged to follow new rules during period of mourning

Tourists in Thailand urged to follow new rules during period of mourning

Travellers heading to Thailand over the coming months are being urged to follow new cultural and tourism guidelines as the country enters a period of mourning following the death of Queen Mother Sirikit.

The former queen - who was the mother of Thailand’s current monarch, King Vajiralongkorn - died on 24 October at the age of 93, nine years after the death of her husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned for seven decades.

The Thai government has entered a year-long period of mourning, while the public is expected to observe 90 days, lasting until late January 2026. During this time, visitors are being advised to be respectful of Thai customs, dress modestly and prepare for some changes to travel plans.

A travel expert based in Thailand, named Tia, shared in a TikTok video that several attractions linked to the royal family may be closed during the mourning period. These include the Grand Palace and a number of temples, which could be shut for funeral rites and related ceremonies.

Tia said: "As a tourist, it is not expected for you to wear black and white for your entire trip. But it is expected for you to tone down your dress and wear muted colours."

She added that during this time Thai citizens will largely be dressed in black and white, and visitors should avoid bright colours which could be seen as disrespectful.

But Tia also advised business travellers to follow the more formal black and white dress code as a “show of respect”.

Large-scale entertainment events, including festivals and concerts, may be postponed or cancelled in the coming months, and those that go ahead are expected to take on a more subdued tone.

Tia said: "Please remember that you are visiting a country that has experienced a great loss, and that everybody will be in mourning. Please be kind and respectful to all the Thai people during your interactions."

A statement from the Thai Royal Household Bureau confirmed that Queen Sirikit died "peacefully" and that she had "suffered several illnesses" since being admitted to hospital in 2019, including a blood infection earlier this month.

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