Remembering a Visionary King: Commemorating Chulalongkorn Day 2025

October 23rd, 2025, marks Chulalongkorn Day, a significant national public holiday in Thailand. This day is dedicated to commemorating the passing of King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V), who died on this date in 1910. Widely revered as one of Siam’s most visionary monarchs, King Rama V is credited with modernizing the country and implementing crucial social and political reforms. His 42-year reign saw the complete abolition of slavery, the establishment of a modern civil administration, and the introduction of a contemporary education system. Crucially, King Chulalongkorn’s astute diplomacy ensured Siam’s independence during a period of intense Western colonial expansion.

Across Thailand, citizens honor King Chulalongkorn by placing wreaths and flowers at his statues. Provincial governments are tasked with organizing official ceremonies to pay respect. The most prominent commemorations occur in Bangkok, particularly at the Royal Plaza, in front of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Here, at the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V, government officials, military leaders, and the public gather to lay elaborate memorial wreaths and floral garlands, often accompanied by speeches and moments of solemn remembrance. Many Thais also visit temples to make merit, offering food and flowers to monks.

As a national holiday, Chulalongkorn Day impacts public services and businesses. Government offices, schools, and the main branches of banks typically close, though bank branches located within shopping malls may remain open. Post offices and immigration offices will also be closed, but immigration checkpoints at airports and land borders will operate as usual. Bars and entertainment venues generally remain open, as this is a Memorial Day rather than a Buddhist holiday with alcohol restrictions. Travelers should anticipate heavy traffic, especially around major monuments and ceremonial sites in Bangkok, where roads connected to the Royal Plaza and Sanam Luang may experience temporary closures.

Photo link by yonosukesan