Thailand posts list of closed tourist attractions, cancelled events during mourning period

BANGKOK - The Tourism Authority of Thailand has posted on its official website a list of closed tourist attractions and cancelled events during the mourning period for late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

According to the list, the Grand Palace and The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, where funeral rites is being held, are closed from Friday to October 20.

Two Thai boxing stadiums, Ratchadamnoen Boxing Stadium and Lumpini Boxing Stadium, are both closed. Ratchadamnoen's reopen waits for further notice, while the latter is closed for one month from Friday.

Muay Thai Live at Asiatique The Riverfront, a night market visited by many foreign tourists, is closed until October 17.

In the meantime, some events such as BIGBANG Made [V.I.P] Tour, Ghost Fair at Mega Bangna, Pattaya Loi Krathong Festival, Pattaya International Fireworks Festival and New Year Celebrations in Pattaya, have been cancelled.

Many local and international concerts and performances have also been cancelled, according to the list.

The tourism authority told Xinhua that the list will be updated on Monday.

They also recommended that any visitors with travel or tourism plans reconfirm with agents and check local media regularly as well as follow the advice of local authorities for announcements and updates.

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha earlier called on the public to refrain from festivities for 30 days from Friday while government personnel nationwide were told to mourn the monarch's death for a year.

The tourism authority also said earlier that black and white dresses are not required of visitors, but "if possible, visitors should wear sombre and respectful clothing when in public."

Entertainment venues such as bars and nightclubs have been asked by the Thai government to consider the opening of their business operations during this period, but the decision are made by individual owners.