Due to unfavourable water levels on Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River, and potentially dangerous weather conditions, Thailand’s monarchy has taken the decision to postpone the capital’s eagerly awaited royal barge procession. Initially scheduled to take place on 24th October, the event will now be celebrated on 12th December, according to a press conference held by Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam yesterday (22/10).
Mr Wissanu confirmed the King himself had made the decision, after a number of recent rehearsals were affected by currents, water levels and weather on the planned parade route. Organisers concluded that these factors could pose a problem for the procession, so forwarded their concerns to His Majesty for a decision, which has now been officially taken.
The celebrations will now take place from 3.30pm on Thursday, 12th December 2019.
An extension of the King’s coronation ceremonies that began in early May, the Royal Barge Procession is an event of both religious and regal significance that has taken place in Thailand for almost seven centuries.
The official royal barges showcase the nation’s finest craftsmanship and traditional Thai art. The Procession is seldom seen in Thailand, save only for the most significant cultural and religious events. During the long reign of Thailand’s previous monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which spanned more than 70 years, the procession only took place 16 times.
Visitors to Bangkok on 12th December 2019 will have a chance to witness one of Thailand’s most spectacular and significant events, as the whole nation joyously welcomes their new King to the throne in the heart of the capital.
The commander also confirmed there will be a total of ten rehearsals conducted on the Chao Phraya River in the build-up to the event. During this time, the river will be closed to the public. This means that
Travellers should be aware that some areas of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River will be closed to the public during the ceremony. This means that a number of boat tours and cycling packages usually offered by Panorama Destination will be temporarily unavailable.
