Royal Etiquette

Origins & Historical Foundations

Thai royal protocol did not emerge from a single decree or a fixed moment in history. It grew over centuries, shaped by successive kingdoms, foreign influences and the evolving relationship between the Thai people and their monarchs. To understand the etiquette practised today, one must first appreciate the historical layers from which it was formed, each era contributing customs, vocabulary and ceremonies that remain visible in the modern court.

Royal Hierarchy & Precedence

Every element of behaviour in the royal presence, from the depth of one's greeting to the position of one's chair, is determined by rank. The Thai royal hierarchy is a precise system of titles and precedence that governs all formal interactions. Misunderstanding this hierarchy, or failing to observe its distinctions, can cause embarrassment not only to oneself but to the royal household and fellow guests. A working knowledge of the principal ranks and their associated protocols is therefore essential.

The Sovereign

The King, Phra Maha Kasat, occupies the apex of the Thai social order. As head of state, supreme patron of Buddhism and custodian of the nation's spiritual welfare, the reigning monarch commands a level of reverence that has no equivalent in Western societies. All protocol flows from the sovereign's position. At any gathering where the King is present, he is greeted first, seated highest, served first and addressed before all others. No person may stand above the King, walk in front of him without express permission or initiate physical contact. The King's words carry the weight of royal command (phra boromma ratcha ongkan), and the correct response to any instruction or observation from the monarch is immediate, respectful acknowledgement.

The Queen & Royal Consort

The Queen, Phra Borommarachininat, holds the second position in the order of precedence. She receives the same forms of physical deference as the King, including the highest form of the royal wai, and is addressed using the most distinguished tier of Rachasap. It is important to understand the distinction between the Queen and a Royal Consort (Phra Ratcha Thewi), as the two ranks carry different protocols. The Queen is the formal consort who has been raised through a ceremony of investiture, while the Royal Consort holds a separate title and receives a slightly modified form of address and greeting. When both are present at a function, the Queen takes precedence, and guests should greet her first before acknowledging the Royal Consort.

Senior Members of the Royal Family

Below the sovereign and his consorts, the Royal Family is organised into clearly defined tiers. The rank of Chao Fa, held by children of the King born to the Queen, carries the highest level of princely precedence. Members of this rank receive a wai that is nearly identical to that offered to the King himself, and they are addressed with the most advanced Rachasap pronouns. The rank of Phra Ong Chao applies to children of the King born to consorts of lower rank, and carries slightly reduced protocols. Below this sits the rank of Mom Chao, which applies to grandchildren of the King. Mom Chao are addressed as "Than" and receive a wai at a high but not supreme level. At formal events, the order in which these individuals are greeted, seated and served follows their rank precisely, and any departure from this order is considered a serious breach of decorum.

Extended Royal Lineage

Beyond the immediate Royal Family, two further ranks bridge the gap between royalty and the broader Thai aristocracy. Mom Rajawongse (M.R.) is a title held by great-grandchildren of a king. Though no longer classified as members of the Royal Family in the formal sense, M.R. titleholders occupy a distinguished place in society and are accorded courtesies that reflect their lineage. They are addressed with the prefix "Than" and receive a wai that is appropriate to their standing. The rank of Mom Luang (M.L.) applies to the next generation and represents the final tier of the royal descent system. After Mom Luang, descendants carry the surname of their royal ancestor but hold no title. Many of Thailand's most prominent Hi-So families trace their lineage through these ranks, and an awareness of who carries which title remains a quietly observed social skill among the elite.

Order of Precedence at Formal Events

At state banquets, royal ceremonies and formal receptions, the order of precedence determines virtually every practical arrangement. Seating charts are drawn up by the Royal Household Bureau in strict accordance with rank. The most senior royal present occupies the position of honour, typically at the head of the table or the central seat of the front row. Guests are seated in descending order of rank, with spouses placed according to the precedence of their partners. In processions, the most junior members walk first, with the most senior entering last. When greeting a line of Royal Family members, one begins with the most senior and proceeds downward. If uncertain of the correct order, the wisest course is to observe which direction other experienced guests are moving and to follow their lead. The royal household aides and event liaisons are also available to offer discreet guidance, and there is no shame in seeking their assistance; indeed, doing so demonstrates both humility and a genuine desire to observe the correct forms.

Rachasap: The Royal Language

Few cultures in the world maintain as elaborate a system of linguistic deference as Thailand. Rachasap, the royal vocabulary, is a parallel lexicon of hundreds of specialised words that replace their common Thai equivalents whenever the conversation touches upon royalty. This is not merely a collection of polite expressions; it is a complete register of the language, with its own pronouns, verbs, nouns and sentence structures. Fluency in Rachasap marks the speaker as a person of education and refinement, while errors, particularly in formal or public settings, can cause significant embarrassment.

Origins & Structure

Rachasap draws primarily from Pali and Sanskrit, the sacred languages of Theravada Buddhism and Brahmanical tradition, with additional borrowings from Khmer, which served as the court language of Angkor and shaped the Ayutthayan court decisively. The system was codified during the Ayutthaya period as part of the broader effort to raise the monarch to divine status through language. Common Thai words for everyday actions, body parts and personal states were replaced with Pali or Sanskrit alternatives whenever the king was the subject or audience. Over time, this created a layered system in which different tiers of vocabulary are used depending on the rank of the royal personage being discussed. The highest tier is reserved exclusively for the King and Queen, a middle tier applies to senior princes and princesses, and a lower tier is used for extended members of the Royal Family. Understanding which tier to apply in a given context is one of the most subtle skills of Thai social life.

Pronouns & Terms of Address

The pronoun system of Rachasap is among its most immediately important features for anyone who may find themselves speaking to or about royalty. When addressing the King directly, the first-person pronoun used by a male speaker is "Kha Phrabat" (literally, "beneath your feet"), while a female speaker uses "Kha Phraphutthi Chao." The second-person pronoun for the King is "Tai Fah La-Ong Thuli Phrabat," an elaborate construction that translates roughly as "beneath the dust below the soles of the royal feet." For senior members of the Royal Family at the Chao Fa rank, modified forms apply. When referring to the King in the third person, speakers use "Phrabat Somdet Phra Chao Yu Hua." For the Queen, the corresponding third-person reference is "Somdet Phra Nang Chao... Phra Borommarachininat." These forms may appear daunting in print, but with practice they become second nature. The crucial point is that ordinary Thai pronouns such as "khun," "chan" or "phom" must never be used when speaking to or about royalty.

Essential Royal Vocabulary

Beyond pronouns, Rachasap replaces common verbs and nouns with royal equivalents across a wide range of daily activities. To eat in common Thai is "kin khao" or "than khao," but in Rachasap the King "sawoei" (召เสวย). To sleep is normally "non lap," but for the King it becomes "banthom" (บรรทม). To speak is ordinarily "phut," but the King "mee phra ratcha damrat" (มีพระราชดำรัส) when making a formal address, or "rapsang" (รับสั่ง) in less formal speech. Illness in common Thai is "mai sabai," but for the King it is "phra prathuan mai sabaai" (พระประชวรไม่สบาย). The King does not "walk" (doen); he "sadet phraratchadamnoen" (เสด็จพระราชดำเนิน). He does not "give" (hai); he "phraracha than" (พระราชทาน). Even the royal body has its own vocabulary: the head is "phra siirsa" (พระเศียร), the hand is "phra haat" (พระหัตถ์) and the face is "phra phak" (พระพักตร์). Mastery of even the most frequently used terms demonstrates a level of cultural literacy that is noticed and respected in elite company.

Written & Formal Communication

The conventions of written Rachasap are observed in all formal documents, correspondence and public statements that mention the Royal Family. Letters addressed to the King open with a prescribed salutation, "Khor Phrabat Somdet Phra Paramin Maha Phumiphon Adulyadej..." (or the equivalent for the current reign), and close with an equally formulaic expression of devotion. Congratulatory messages, condolence letters and formal invitations involving royalty all follow established patterns that are taught in Thai schools and refined through practice. In public broadcasting, newsreaders use Rachasap whenever reading items concerning the Royal Family, shifting fluently between royal and common registers within a single bulletin. Written Rachasap also governs the captions used beneath royal photographs in newspapers and official publications, the wording of plaques at royally opened buildings and the text of royal decrees and proclamations. Errors in these contexts attract public attention and can reflect poorly upon the organisation responsible.

Common Errors & How to Avoid Them

Even well-educated Thais occasionally stumble in their use of Rachasap, particularly when caught off guard or when dealing with less commonly encountered terms. Among the most frequent errors is the application of common verbs to royal subjects, such as saying the King "phut" (speaks) rather than "rapsang" or "mee phra ratcha damrat." Another common mistake is the use of incorrect pronouns, particularly mixing the tiers of deference so that a term appropriate for a Mom Chao is used for a Chao Fa, or vice versa. Foreign residents and visitors sometimes attempt Rachasap with admirable intent but poor execution; in such cases, Thais are generally forgiving, recognising the effort behind the mistake. The most reliable strategy for non-native speakers is to learn a handful of essential terms thoroughly rather than attempting the full range of vocabulary. For Thai speakers, regular study and attentive listening to royal news broadcasts remain the best means of maintaining fluency. Several excellent reference guides are published by the Royal Institute, and consulting these before any occasion involving royalty is a habit shared by many of the Kingdom's most socially accomplished individuals.

Physical Conduct & the Royal Wai

In Thai culture, the body communicates as eloquently as words, and nowhere is this principle more critical than in the presence of royalty. Every posture, every movement and every physical choice carries meaning. The principles governing physical conduct in the royal presence are rooted in the Buddhist concept of hierarchical respect and the ancient belief that the head is the most sacred part of the body while the feet are the lowest. Mastering these principles is essential for anyone who may find themselves within proximity of the Royal Family.

The Royal Wai

The wai, Thailand's signature greeting, takes its most superior form when directed toward the King and Queen. For a royal wai, the palms are pressed together with fingers extended and joined, the thumbs placed at the bridge of the nose and the fingertips touching the hairline or slightly above. The head bows forward to meet the hands, and the gesture is held for a perceptible moment before the hands are slowly lowered. This is markedly different from the social wai exchanged between friends, where the hands rest at chest level. For senior members of the Royal Family at the Chao Fa rank, the wai is performed with thumbs at the nose and fingertips at the forehead, slightly lower than for the sovereign. For Phra Ong Chao and Mom Chao, the hands are brought to nose level. The depth of the bow and the duration of the hold decrease correspondingly with each tier. In all cases, the wai should be performed with a straight back and an unhurried rhythm; a rushed or shallow wai suggests carelessness rather than confidence.

The Kraab

Although King Chulalongkorn abolished compulsory prostration in 1873, the kraab remains an important element of certain ceremonial contexts. Male and female forms differ. For men, the kraab involves kneeling with both legs folded to one side (traditionally the left), placing the palms flat on the floor and bringing the forehead down to touch the space between the hands. This is performed three times in succession during formal ceremonies. Women perform a similar prostration but with both legs folded to one side in a more compact posture, the upper body lowering gracefully with the palms together. The kraab is most commonly seen during royal audiences of a traditional nature, at temple ceremonies presided over by royalty and during the formal presentation of gifts or royal decorations. Those who may be called upon to perform the kraab are advised to practise beforehand, as the movement requires a suppleness and control that can be difficult to achieve under the pressure of the moment. Ladies wearing fitted dresses should ensure their attire permits the required range of movement.

Height & Spatial Awareness

The principle that one must never position oneself higher than royalty governs countless practical situations. If a royal personage is seated, those nearby should either sit or adopt a lowered posture when moving through the area. On stages or raised platforms, care must be taken to ensure that the royal seat is the highest point; event organisers routinely adjust platform heights to guarantee this. When ascending or descending stairs in the presence of royalty, one should wait until the royal personage has passed before proceeding, or take an alternative route. Passing directly in front of a member of the Royal Family is to be avoided; if it becomes unavoidable, the correct approach is to lower one's body slightly, bow the head and move past as swiftly and unobtrusively as possible. When walking alongside a royal personage, whether as an attendant or as part of a tour, one should remain slightly behind and to the side, never advancing ahead of the royal figure unless specifically directed to lead the way.

Seated Conduct

When seated in a room where royalty is present, the positioning of the body carries particular significance. On the floor, which remains common at temple ceremonies and traditional audiences, the correct posture is to sit with legs tucked beneath and to one side, feet pointing away from the royal personage. Men typically sit with legs folded to the left; women fold their legs to the right. The soles of the feet must never be visible to royalty under any circumstances, as pointing one's feet toward another person is considered deeply disrespectful in Thai culture, and this prohibition is absolute in the royal context. When seated in chairs, one should sit upright without crossing the legs, particularly in a manner that would point the sole of the shoe toward the royal seat. Rising from a seated position should be done with controlled grace; when leaving a floor-seated audience, one rises to a crouch, performs a parting wai and retreats in the lowered position before standing fully only once a respectful distance has been reached.

Touch & Physical Proximity

Physical contact with a member of the Royal Family is strictly governed by protocol. No person may touch a royal personage without explicit invitation or prior arrangement. If the King or a senior royal extends a hand for a handshake, a practice that occurs primarily in diplomatic settings, it is permissible to accept, but one should never initiate such contact. The head of a royal personage is considered especially sacred, and any inadvertent gesture toward it, such as reaching over or brushing past, would be a grave breach of propriety. Medical professionals, tailors, hairdressers and other individuals whose roles require physical proximity undergo specific briefings from the royal household before their appointments. Photographers and camera operators are instructed to maintain a prescribed distance and to avoid any position that would place them above the royal subject. In social settings, maintaining a respectful physical buffer is both expected and appreciated; crowding a royal personage, even in a moment of enthusiasm, is considered a serious lapse in conduct.

The Royal Audience

To be granted an audience with a member of the Thai Royal Family is among the highest honours available in the Kingdom. Whether the occasion is a formal investiture, a private briefing or a semi-official reception, the audience carries a gravity that demands careful preparation and disciplined conduct from first approach to final departure.

Preparation & Briefing

All audiences are coordinated through the Royal Household Bureau, known in Thai as Samnak Phraratcha Wang. The Bureau manages scheduling, issues invitations and provides attendees with detailed guidance on protocol. In most cases, an aide-de-camp or lady-in-waiting will conduct a pre-audience briefing, covering the expected order of proceedings, the form of greeting to be used, the topics likely to be raised and any specific instructions from the royal household. Attendees are expected to arrive well before the appointed time, typically thirty to forty-five minutes early, to allow for security screening, final briefings and the arrangement of seating or standing positions. Punctuality is not merely appreciated; it is a non-negotiable requirement. To arrive late for a royal audience would be an offence of considerable seriousness.

Being Presented

The formal presentation follows a prescribed sequence. Attendees wait in an anteroom until summoned. Upon entering the audience chamber, one walks at a measured pace toward the designated position, pausing at the correct distance to perform the wai or kraab as appropriate. In group presentations, individuals are introduced in order of seniority or, in diplomatic contexts, by rank and title. The presenting official, usually a senior aide-de-camp, announces each person by name and title. Upon hearing one's name, one steps forward, performs the greeting and remains in position until acknowledged by the royal personage. In individual presentations, the approach and greeting are identical, though the atmosphere may feel more intimate and the pressure correspondingly greater. Eye contact should be maintained at a respectful level; one looks toward the royal figure without staring directly, keeping the gaze softly lowered.

Conduct During the Audience

The cardinal rule of a royal audience is to speak only when spoken to. If the King or a senior royal addresses a question or remark to an attendee, the response should be clear, concise and delivered in a respectful tone. Rachasap should be used if the speaker is capable; if not, polite formal Thai is acceptable, and a foreign guest may speak in English, which is widely understood at court. The pace of speech should be calm and measured, avoiding any impression of haste or agitation. Gestures should be minimal and controlled. Documents, presentations or materials may be offered only when invited to do so, and they should be presented with both hands, held at a respectful height. Throughout the audience, one's posture should remain alert and composed, with feet positioned away from the royal figure and hands resting naturally when not engaged in greeting or presentation.

Receiving Royal Items

When a royal personage bestows an item upon an attendee, whether a decoration, a certificate, a gift or any other object, the recipient should step forward, perform a wai and then extend both hands, palms upward, to receive the item at chest height. The item should be held respectfully close to the body, never swung loosely or tucked casually under an arm. Royal decorations and medals are received with particular solemnity, as they represent personal recognition from the sovereign. Upon receiving the item, a final wai of gratitude is performed before stepping back to one's position. Items received from the monarch's hand carry an especially deep significance and are traditionally treated as treasured possessions, displayed with honour in the recipient's home or office.

Departing the Royal Presence

The departure from a royal audience is as carefully choreographed as the arrival. When the audience is concluded, typically signalled by a word or gesture from the royal personage or an aide, attendees perform a final wai and then withdraw by walking backward, maintaining a lowered posture and keeping the face toward the royal figure. Three to five backward steps are customary before one may turn to the side and walk normally toward the exit. In group audiences, the most junior attendees withdraw first, with the most senior departing last. The retreating movement should be smooth and unhurried; stumbling or rushing conveys an unfortunate impression. Event liaisons and aides are positioned near the exit to offer discreet guidance, and attendees should not feel self-conscious about glancing toward them for directional cues.

Dress Code & Appearance

Attire in the royal context is an act of respect rather than a vehicle for personal expression. The dress codes that govern royal occasions have been refined over more than a century, blending traditional Thai garments with elements of Western formal wear to create a system that is both distinctly Thai and internationally recognisable. Understanding what to wear, and equally what not to wear, is an essential component of royal etiquette.

Formal Court Attire: Gentlemen

The pinnacle of Thai male formal dress is the Chut Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom, a suite of royally endorsed national costumes formalised during the reign of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. For the most formal occasions, gentlemen wear the Raj pattern jacket, a high-collared, five-button tunic in white or cream silk, paired with a pha nung (wrapped lower garment) or formal trousers. The Raj pattern is reserved for state banquets, coronation events and the most enhanced royal ceremonies. For occasions of slightly lesser formality, the Suea Phra Ratchathan, a collarless long-sleeved shirt in Thai silk, is appropriate. Western alternatives are also accepted at most royal functions: white tie and tails for state banquets, morning dress for daytime ceremonies and a dark lounge suit for receptions. Invitations typically specify the expected dress code, and this instruction should be followed precisely. When in doubt, it is always safer to err on the side of greater formality.

Formal Court Attire: Ladies

Queen Sirikit played a defining role in establishing the eight styles of Chut Thai Phra Ratcha Niyom for women, each suited to a particular level of formality. The most formal is Chut Thai Boromphiman, a full-length brocade gown with a fitted bodice and a sweeping skirt, worn with a sabai (shoulder cloth) draped across one shoulder. Chut Thai Chakkaphat is similarly grand, featuring a long train and elaborate embroidery, reserved for the most solemn state ceremonies. For evening functions of high formality, Chut Thai Dusit, a strapless gown with a Thai silk skirt, is widely chosen. Chut Thai Amarin, with its round neckline and three-quarter-length sleeves, suits formal daytime occasions. Chut Thai Siwalai, featuring a long-sleeved jacket over a pha sin (tube skirt), is appropriate for semi-formal events and is perhaps the most commonly seen at royally patronised functions. Chut Thai Chittralada, a simpler ensemble with a blouse and pha sin, is suitable for less formal royal occasions and official visits. Western evening gowns are acceptable at most royal functions, provided they are modest in cut, with covered shoulders and a hemline at or below the knee. Excessively revealing attire is never appropriate in the royal presence.

Colour Protocol

Colour carries particular weight at royal occasions. The traditional Thai system assigns a colour to each day of the week, and the colour associated with the day of the King's birth holds special significance. King Bhumibol was born on a Monday, making yellow the colour of his reign; King Vajiralongkorn was also born on a Monday, and yellow continues to hold its place of royal importance. Wearing yellow on the King's birthday or during events celebrating the monarchy is both customary and expected. During periods of national mourning, black or white is worn, with the specific shade and duration dictated by the Royal Household Bureau. At certain ceremonies, the invitation will specify a particular colour, and this should be observed without exception. Bright, attention-seeking colours are generally to be avoided at events where royalty will be present, as the purpose of one's attire is to complement the occasion rather than to compete with it.

Jewellery & Decorations

Jewellery at royal events should reflect elegance and restraint. For women, a single set of fine pieces, matching earrings, a necklace and perhaps a bracelet, is preferable to an extravagant display. The guiding principle is that one's jewellery should enhance one's appearance without drawing disproportionate attention. Tiaras are worn only at white-tie state banquets and only by those entitled to wear them; their height should never exceed that of any tiara worn by a royal personage present. For men, cufflinks and a fine watch are appropriate. The wearing of royal decorations and medals follows strict rules of precedence. Decorations are worn on the left breast in descending order of seniority, with the most senior decoration closest to the centre. Miniature medals replace full-sized decorations at evening functions. If one has been awarded a royal decoration, it should be worn at all appropriate occasions; failure to wear a decoration bestowed by the sovereign can be perceived as a mark of disrespect.

Grooming & Personal Presentation

Beyond clothing and jewellery, the standard of personal grooming expected at royal occasions is exacting. Hair should be neatly styled; for women, an upswept style is traditional at the most formal events, though well-groomed hair worn down is acceptable at lesser occasions. Men should be clean-shaven or have facial hair neatly trimmed. Fragrance should be subtle and understated; a heavy perfume or cologne can be both distracting and, in the close quarters of a receiving line, overwhelming. Nails should be clean and well-maintained. Shoes must be polished and in excellent condition. The overall impression should be one of quiet, considered care rather than conspicuous luxury. In Thai culture, the attention one gives to one's appearance before a royal occasion is understood as a direct reflection of the respect one feels for the institution being honoured.

Royal Ceremonies & State Occasions

The Thai royal calendar is filled with ceremonies that blend Brahmanical ritual, Buddhist devotion and dynastic tradition into occasions of deep cultural significance. Some are ancient rites performed largely as they were centuries ago; others have been adapted to suit the modern age. For those who receive the privilege of an invitation, understanding the nature and protocol of each occasion is both a social necessity and a mark of cultural literacy.

The Royal Ploughing Ceremony

Phra Ratcha Phithi Phuetcha Mongkhon, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, is held each May at Sanam Luang, the ceremonial ground in front of the Grand Palace. This Brahmanical rite marks the beginning of the rice-planting season and serves as a symbolic blessing upon the year's harvest. The ceremony is presided over by the Phraya Raek Na, the Lord of the Festival, typically the Minister of Agriculture, who guides a pair of sacred oxen through ceremonial furrows. At a key moment, the oxen are offered a selection of foods and liquids; their choices are interpreted as a prophecy for the coming agricultural year. The King or his representative observes from a pavilion, and the event is attended by senior government officials, diplomats, members of the court and invited guests. Attendees are expected to dress in formal daytime attire, to remain standing and respectfully attentive throughout the ceremony and to refrain from crossing in front of the ceremonial area. The event holds deep emotional significance for the Thai agricultural community, and the atmosphere is one of genuine reverence.

Royal Coronation Rites

The Thai coronation is among the most elaborate royal ceremonies in the world, a multi-day series of rituals drawn from both Hindu and Buddhist tradition. The core sequence includes the ritual purification of the sovereign with sacred waters drawn from rivers and springs across the Kingdom, the anointment upon the octagonal Bhadrapitha Throne, the receiving of the royal regalia (including the Great Crown of Victory, the Sword of Victory, the Royal Staff, the Royal Fan, the Royal Flywhisk and the Royal Slippers) and a circumambulation of the city. The most recent coronation, that of King Vajiralongkorn in May 2019, followed this ancient pattern while incorporating certain modern elements. Guests invited to any portion of the coronation events receive detailed instructions from the Royal Household Bureau regarding dress, arrival times, positioning and conduct. Given the sacred character of these rites, the expected level of solemnity and physical stillness is exceptionally high; attendees should be prepared to stand or sit for extended periods without movement or conversation.

Royal Birthday Celebrations

The birthdays of the King and Queen are observed as national holidays marked by a series of public and private ceremonies. On the King's birthday, the day begins with an alms-giving ceremony in which saffron-robed monks receive offerings from members of the public and officials. A formal audience is held at the Grand Palace or Dusit Palace, at which senior figures offer congratulations to the sovereign. Government buildings and major thoroughfares are illuminated with lights and royal portraits, and many organisations hold their own commemorative functions. For the public, wearing yellow (or the colour associated with the monarch's birth day) is customary and expected. At private functions organised by Hi-So families or corporate hosts, the tone is celebratory but dignified; excessive revelry would be inappropriate on an occasion that is understood as an expression of national gratitude and affection toward the Crown.

Kathin & Royal Temple Ceremonies

The royal Kathin ceremony, held annually at the close of the Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa), involves the presentation of monastic robes and other requisites to monks at a royally patronised temple. The ceremony is one of the most important merit-making occasions in the Thai Buddhist calendar, and the King either presides personally or sends a representative to present the royal Kathin robes. Invited guests attend in formal attire and observe Buddhist temple etiquette: shoes are removed before entering the ordination hall, women ensure their clothing covers the shoulders and knees, and all attendees sit in the correct posture with feet tucked away from the altar and the monks. The relationship between Buddhist protocol and royal protocol can be subtle; as a general rule, deference to the monks takes precedence within the temple itself, while deference to royalty governs behaviour in the surrounding grounds and reception areas. When in doubt, follow the lead of the senior royal household officials present.

State Banquets & Diplomatic Functions

State banquets hosted by the Thai crown follow a format that blends Thai ceremony with international diplomatic protocol. Guests arrive through a formal reception line, greeting the host royal personage with the appropriate wai before proceeding to the banquet hall. Seating is arranged according to the order of precedence, and place cards are set by the Royal Household Bureau. The meal typically begins with a loyal toast to the King, during which all guests rise, raise their glasses and remain standing until the toast is concluded. Conversation follows the pattern common to state dinners worldwide, with guests expected to speak to the person on either side during alternating courses. Thai and international cuisine may both be served, and the use of cutlery follows the Thai convention of fork and spoon (the spoon being the primary utensil) unless Western silverware is provided for courses that require it. The banquet concludes when the royal host rises, signalling that guests may begin their departure.

Royal Funerary Rites

The passing of a senior member of the Royal Family initiates a period of mourning governed by centuries of tradition. The most elaborate rites are reserved for the sovereign. When King Bhumibol passed away in October 2016, the nation entered a year-long mourning period during which government officials and many members of the public wore black daily. The royal cremation ceremony, held at the Phra Meru Mas (a specially constructed cremation pavilion on Sanam Luang), followed ancient Brahmanical and Buddhist rites spanning several days. During the mourning period, the public paid respects at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace, filing past the royal urn in a continuous procession that lasted for months. The correct mourning attire for such occasions is entirely black or entirely white, with no bright accessories, patterned fabrics or visible jewellery beyond a simple watch. The atmosphere is one of quiet solemnity, and behaviour should reflect the weight of the occasion: voices lowered, movements measured and facial expressions composed.

Dining in the Royal Presence

Formal dining at royal events advances every gesture, from lifting a glass to setting down a spoon, to a matter of protocol. The conventions governing the royal table draw upon both Thai dining tradition and the Western state dinner format introduced during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, creating a distinctive hybrid that rewards preparation and attentiveness.

Seating & Precedence at Table

Seating at a royal dinner is never left to chance. The Royal Household Bureau prepares a detailed seating chart based on the order of precedence, with the royal host occupying the position of honour at the centre or head of the principal table. The most senior guests are placed closest to the royal seat, with precedence decreasing outward. Spouses are seated according to the rank of their partners, and diplomatic guests are placed in accordance with international convention. Upon entering the dining room, guests should locate their place card and proceed directly to their assigned seat without rearranging the seating. Standing behind one's chair until the royal personage is seated is customary, and one does not sit until the host has done so or until a signal is given by the master of ceremonies.

The Loyal Toast

The loyal toast is a centrepiece of any formal royal dinner. It is typically proposed by the most senior official present, or by the host if the event is non-governmental. At the appointed moment, all guests rise. The proposer raises a glass and says, "Long live the King" (or the appropriate equivalent in Thai: "Song Phra Charoen"). All guests raise their glasses, echo the words and take a sip before remaining standing for a brief, respectful silence. Glasses should be raised to shoulder height, not above the head. Following the loyal toast, it is customary for the royal host or the senior guest to offer a second toast, often to the health of the nation or to the purpose of the gathering. Guests should not drink or taste the wine before the loyal toast has been completed.

Table Manners & Service Protocol

The fundamental rule of the royal table is that no guest begins eating before the royal personage. When the host lifts a fork or spoon, this signals that guests may commence. The standard Thai place setting uses a fork and spoon, with the spoon held in the right hand as the primary eating utensil and the fork in the left hand used to guide food onto the spoon. Knives are rarely used in Thai cuisine, as dishes are prepared in pieces that do not require cutting at the table. Western silverware may be provided for courses that call for it, and guests should use whichever implements are appropriate to the dish being served. The pace of eating should match that of the royal host; finishing conspicuously early or lagging behind is equally undesirable. When a course is cleared, cutlery should be placed together on the plate in the "finished" position. Napkins remain on the lap throughout the meal and are placed loosely beside the plate upon departure.

Conversation at the Royal Table

Conversation at royal dinners follows an established rhythm. During the first course, guests typically speak to the person seated to their right; during the second, they turn to the person on their left. This rotation ensures that no guest is left without a conversation partner. The volume of one's voice should be moderate, sufficient to be heard by one's neighbour but not so loud as to carry across the table. Appropriate topics include the arts, cultural events, travel, philanthropy and the purpose of the gathering. Politics, commercial matters, gossip and any subject that might prove controversial or divisive are to be avoided. If the royal host addresses a remark to the table at large, all other conversation should cease immediately until the royal personage has finished speaking. Responding to a direct question from royalty should be done clearly and without excessive deference in tone; sincerity and composure are valued more than elaborate formality in personal exchange.

Dietary Considerations & Discretion

Guests with dietary restrictions face a particular challenge at royal dinners, where the menu is set by the royal household and courses are served uniformly. The most discreet approach is to notify the event liaison or aide-de-camp well in advance, ideally at the time of accepting the invitation, so that suitable alternatives can be arranged without disruption. If no advance notice has been given, the correct response is to accept each course graciously, eating what one can and leaving the remainder without comment or apology. Drawing attention to one's dietary preferences, requesting substitutions during the meal or visibly refusing a dish would be considered a breach of decorum. The expectation is one of gracious accommodation; one does not impose one's personal requirements upon a royal occasion but rather adapts to the occasion with good humour and flexibility.

Royal Patronage & Philanthropy

The Thai Royal Family's commitment to the welfare of the nation is not a symbolic gesture but a practical reality, expressed through thousands of development projects, charitable foundations and patronised institutions. For Thailand's Hi-So community, engagement with this philanthropic tradition is both a privilege and an expectation. Those who move within the highest circles are measured not solely by their wealth or social standing but by the seriousness of their contribution to the causes the Crown holds dear.

The Tradition of Royal Projects

King Bhumibol Adulyadej initiated more than 4,000 royal development projects during his seven-decade reign, spanning agriculture, irrigation, public health, education and environmental conservation. His Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (Sethakit Phophiang), which advocates a balanced, self-reliant approach to development, was adopted as a guiding framework for national policy and has gained recognition from the United Nations as a model for sustainable growth. The current reign has maintained and expanded this tradition. King Vajiralongkorn has placed particular emphasis on educational opportunity, water management and disaster relief, continuing the work of his father while adding his own priorities to the royal agenda. Understanding the scope and philosophy of these projects is essential for anyone who wishes to contribute meaningfully; royal patronage is not a matter of writing a cheque but of aligning one's efforts with a coherent vision of national development.

Royally Patronised Foundations

Several major foundations operate under direct royal patronage and serve as the primary vehicles for channelling elite philanthropic energy. The Chaipattana Foundation, established by King Bhumibol in 1988, supports agricultural innovation, water resource management and rural livelihoods. The Mae Fah Luang Foundation, created by the Princess Mother (Somdet Ya), focuses on sustainable development in the highlands of northern Thailand, particularly among ethnic minority communities. The Rajaprajanugroh Foundation provides disaster relief and rehabilitation support across the country. The Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Foundation supports education and cultural preservation. Involvement with these organisations takes many forms, from financial donations and board membership to hands-on volunteering at project sites. The etiquette of engagement is straightforward: contribute with sincerity, follow the foundation's governance structures and refrain from using one's involvement as a platform for self-promotion. The quiet, sustained contributor is valued far more highly than the conspicuous donor who seeks publicity.

Charity Galas & Fundraising Events

Royally patronised charity events represent some of the most prestigious gatherings on the Thai social calendar. When a member of the Royal Family serves as patron of a charity gala, the protocols described elsewhere in this guide apply in full: the royal wai, the dress code, the careful observance of precedence. Beyond these formal requirements, the etiquette of the charity function itself carries certain expectations. At charity auctions, bidding should be generous but not ostentatious; the purpose is to raise funds for the cause, not to engage in a public contest of wealth. Donations pledged at such events should be honoured promptly and in full. Conversations with fellow guests should reflect enthusiasm for the cause being supported. Those attending for the first time are advised to study the foundation's work beforehand, as a display of genuine knowledge about the cause is far more impressive than a large donation delivered without understanding its purpose.

Receiving Royal Recognition

Individuals and organisations that make sustained contributions to royally patronised causes may, in time, receive formal recognition from the Crown. This recognition can take several forms: a royal decoration, a letter of commendation, an invitation to a special audience or the bestowal of a royally granted title or honour. The process of selection is managed by the relevant foundation or government ministry, and nominations are reviewed by the Royal Household Bureau. Lobbying for recognition is not only inappropriate but likely to prove counterproductive; the honours system is intended to reward genuine, long-term service rather than calculated philanthropy. Upon receiving a royal decoration, the recipient is expected to wear it at appropriate occasions, to speak of it with humility and to recognise that the honour carries a continuing obligation to serve. The decoration is not a trophy to be displayed and forgotten but a covenant, a visible sign of a commitment that is expected to deepen rather than diminish over time.

Corporate & Social Responsibility

Thailand's leading business families have long understood that corporate social responsibility, when aligned with royal priorities, serves both the national interest and the reputation of the firm. Many of the Kingdom's most prominent companies direct their philanthropic efforts toward causes that resonate with the Crown's development philosophy: sustainable agriculture, rural healthcare, educational access for disadvantaged children and environmental restoration. The most effective corporate programmes are those that go beyond financial donations to involve the company's people, expertise and infrastructure in meaningful project work. Within Hi-So circles, the distinction between genuine corporate commitment and superficial gesture is well understood and closely observed. A family that quietly funds a school in a remote province over the course of a decade earns far more social respect than one that stages a single high-profile donation ceremony with maximum media coverage.

The Modern Era

The principles of royal etiquette have remained strikingly constant across centuries, yet the contexts in which they must be applied have changed dramatically. The smartphone, the social media post and the twenty-four-hour news cycle have introduced new dimensions of conduct that earlier generations never faced. At the same time, the legal framework protecting the monarchy continues to shape public behaviour, and the growing presence of international visitors in Thailand creates fresh questions of cross-cultural understanding. This section addresses the realities of practising royal etiquette in contemporary life.

Social Media & Digital Conduct

The proliferation of social media has created an environment in which a single careless post can reach millions within hours, making digital conduct in relation to the monarchy a matter of considerable seriousness. The guiding principle is one of absolute respect: any content published online that mentions, depicts or alludes to the Royal Family should employ the correct Rachasap terminology, the most respectful available imagery and a tone of sincere deference. Casual, humourous or ironic commentary about the monarchy, even when intended affectionately, is deeply inappropriate in the Thai context and carries legal risk. When attending a royal event, guests should not post photographs or commentary on social media unless the event organisers have explicitly stated that such sharing is permitted. Even when permission is granted, caution remains essential: images should be flattering and respectful, captions should use correct titles and Rachasap, and no post should reveal private details of the occasion or the royal personage's remarks or movements.

Photography & Filming Protocol

Photography in the royal presence is governed by strict rules administered by the Royal Household Bureau and the event organisers. At most formal audiences and ceremonies, only accredited press photographers are permitted to operate cameras, and they do so from designated positions approved by the household. Private guests should never raise a camera or mobile phone to photograph a member of the Royal Family unless given express permission. In public settings where royalty makes an appearance, such as a temple visit or a national celebration, the rules are somewhat relaxed, but decorum remains essential: photographs should be taken from a respectful distance, never from an angle that places the photographer above the royal figure, and the images should not be altered, cropped in a disrespectful manner or used for commercial purposes without authorisation. Royal portraits displayed in public spaces, including the large images that adorn government buildings and major thoroughfares, should be treated with respect; standing beneath them in a disrespectful posture, pointing at them with the feet or handling printed images carelessly can cause significant offence.

Lèse-Majesté: Understanding the Law

Section 112 of the Thai Criminal Code makes it an offence to defame, insult or threaten the King, the Queen, the Heir Apparent or the Regent. The law carries a penalty of three to fifteen years' imprisonment per count. This legislation applies equally to Thai citizens and foreign nationals, and its scope has been interpreted by Thai courts to include online speech, private communications that subsequently become public and statements made outside Thailand where they are accessible within the Kingdom. The law is actively enforced, and a number of individuals have been prosecuted under its provisions in recent years. For those moving within elite Thai circles, the practical implication is clear: any statement, whether spoken, written or posted online, that could be construed as disrespectful toward the monarchy must be avoided absolutely. This is not merely a matter of legal caution but of cultural sensitivity; the vast majority of Thai people regard Section 112 as a necessary protection for an institution they hold sacred. Foreign visitors and business associates should be briefed on this law before any visit to Thailand, and particular care should be taken to ensure that informal or humourous remarks, which might be unremarkable in other cultural contexts, are not inadvertently made in settings where they could cause offence or legal liability.

International Visitors & Cross-Cultural Encounters

Thailand's position as a global business hub, a major tourist destination and a centre for international diplomacy means that members of the Thai elite frequently find themselves responsible for guiding foreign guests through the complexities of royal etiquette. This is a role that carries real importance, as the behaviour of one's guests reflects directly upon oneself. When hosting international visitors who may attend an event where royalty is present, it is advisable to provide a detailed written briefing covering the key protocols: the wai, the correct form of address, the dress code, the prohibition on physical contact and the importance of not pointing one's feet toward royalty. For Western guests, the concepts of lowering one's body, refraining from direct eye contact and speaking only when spoken to may feel unfamiliar, and a sensitive explanation of the cultural reasoning behind these customs is more effective than a bare recitation of rules. Many foreign visitors, once they understand the depth of meaning behind Thai royal etiquette, are not only willing but eager to participate respectfully, and their hosts should encourage this spirit of cultural engagement.

Evolving Traditions

Thai royal protocol, for all its deep roots, has never been static. Each reign brings subtle adjustments that reflect the personality and priorities of the reigning sovereign. Under King Vajiralongkorn, certain ceremonial formats have been updated, and the public presentation of the monarchy has evolved to suit the communication patterns of the current age. Younger members of the Royal Family maintain a presence that is visible to a broader audience than in previous generations, and the tone of royal engagement with public life has shifted in ways that reflect the Kingdom's contemporary character. Within Hi-So circles, the younger generation bears the responsibility of carrying forward the traditions they have inherited while adapting their practice to the realities of modern social life. This is not a contradiction but a continuation of the pattern that has defined Thai royal protocol from the very beginning: a tradition that endures precisely because it has always known how to change without losing its essential nature.