Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha passed away on the evening of June 11 at the age of 47. The princess had been in a coma due to heart complications since December 2022. The eldest daughter of HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn was known fondly in Thailand by her nickname ‘Princess Pa’ (or ‘Patty’). The princess was respected for her royal duties as well as for her professional accomplishments in diplomacy, law, and public service.
Mourning period
Government agencies, state enterprises and educational institutions nationwide are to observe a 15-day mourning period. This will include flags flying at half-mast and employees wearing muted colours or a black ribbon as a mark of respect. There will be a longer mourning period for Thai royals.
There are no specific requirements for the general public, who have been asked to observe mourning as they deem appropriate. A Thai government spokesperson said, “We hope everyone will be able to express their respects and remembrance of Her Royal Highness, while continuing their daily lives as usual.”
What is open or closed?
From a tourist perspective, there are no changes to daily life. The Thai government has not ordered any changes to public activities or entertainment venues. Tourist attractions are open, and transport is running normally. Entertainment venues, bars and pubs remain open as usual with no extra restrictions on alcohol sales or live music. Events and festivals will still go ahead as planned.
In Bangkok, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo are temporarily closed to the public from June 13-19 for royal ceremonies. There will be other days after this when the venues are also closed to the public. But check with your hotel in Bangkok or check for yourself in person; don’t take the word of scammers who may approach tourists saying the Grand Palace is closed and then conveniently have a friend with a tuk-tuk.
If you are planning to visit the Grand Palace when it reopens, many Thai people will be wearing a plain black or white top as a mark of respect. Wearing a simple black ribbon on your sleeve is another way to show respect when visiting the Grand Palace. Although there is no obligation for tourists to do the same, it is a gesture that would be appreciated when visiting the Grand Palace. Even more so because there is still a royal mourning period for the Queen Mother who passed away in October 2025.
Away from the Grand Palace or royal sites, there is no obligation for the Thai public or tourists to wear black or muted colours.
Books of condolences will be available for the public to sign at some temples, venues and attractions in Bangkok and around the country.
Events & festivals
There are no plans to cancel any events or festivals. Organisers may pay respects before events by playing the royal anthem or asking for a moment of silence.
When will the funeral take place?
The Bureau of the Royal Household will organise the royal funeral ceremonies with the highest honours, in accordance with royal tradition. To allow for the various Buddhist merit-making ceremonies, it is unlikely that the funeral will take place in the near future. It could be several months before the event is held.
