Bangkok is set to host Thailand’s first royal coronation in almost seven decades from May 4-6, as King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun formally ascends the throne. This historic event provides a rare opportunity for travelers in Bangkok to witness a momentous occasion deeply rooted in Thai history.
King Vajiralongkorn, aged 66, assumed the crown following the passing of his father, King Rama IX, in 2016, becoming King Rama X. As the 10th member of the Chakri dynasty, which has ruled Thailand since 1782, this coronation holds significant cultural and historical importance.
The ceremonies surrounding the coronation will incorporate sacred Hindu and Buddhist rituals with a rich historical legacy. While many events will occur behind the closed doors of Bangkok’s Grand Palace, they will be broadcasted live, allowing the public to engage in the celebrations.
One of the focal points for the public gathering is Sanam Luang, a historic field adjacent to the Grand Palace. Authorities are making special arrangements, including free public transport services provided by the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority from May 2. Free train and ferry services to the area will also be available from May 4-6. Sanam Luang is expected to host thousands of attendees, and preparations include the distribution of free food and water, along with rest areas and mobile toilets.
The public has been encouraged to wear yellow during the coronation period, representing the color associated with the king’s birth day – Monday.
The schedule of events is as follows:
May 4 – Royal Coronation Day:
The official coronation day includes essential rituals at the Grand Palace, such as the Royal Purification Ceremony, where the king will be anointed with sacred waters from Thailand’s 76 provinces. The king will then be seated under the nine-tiered Umbrella of State, symbolizing full sovereignty, and presented with various royal regalia.
May 5 – Public Procession:
King Rama X will tour the area around the Grand Palace on a royal palanquin, stopping at three major temples – Wat Bovoranives, Wat Rajabopidh, and Wat Phra Chetuphon. The king will pay homage to the main Buddha images at each temple, and large crowds are expected to line the seven-kilometer procession route.
May 6 – Light and Sound Show:
Declared a public holiday, May 6 will see the king greeting the public on a balcony of the Suddhaisavarya Prasad Hall inside the Grand Palace. Celebratory shows, including a drone light and sound display, will kick off at Sanam Luang in the late afternoon.
The coronation activities will predominantly take place in Bangkok’s Rattanakosin area, often referred to as “Old Town,” known for its concentration of historic attractions, hotels, and restaurants.
Several attractions, including the Grand Palace, the National Museum of Bangkok, the Queen’s Gallery, National Gallery, and others, will close temporarily during the coronation period. Additionally, over 30 roads in the area will experience closures, causing potential traffic delays. Travelers are advised to use public transportation during this period.
While the coronation will have a significant impact on the Rattanakosin area, the rest of Bangkok is expected to operate normally, with bars, restaurants, and malls remaining open.
For those unable to witness the royal coronation in May, another opportunity awaits in October 2019. A Royal Barge Procession on the Chao Phraya River will honor King Rama X, featuring around 2,300 oarsmen rowing over 50 barges. This spectacle, marked by rhythmic barge-rowing songs, promises to be a mesmerizing event for both locals and visitors alike.