On 12 December, 52 meticulously crafted river barges will be traveling along the Chao Phraya River, from Vasukri Pier to The Grand Palace from 15:30 to 18:00. The royal barge procession marks the final event of King Vajiralongkorn’s coronation, with His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Her Majesty Queen Suthida, and the royal family on board.
If you want to be a part of the historic event, the government has set up official viewing points on the Old Town, which are:
Bangkok side
- Wat Rachathiwat Pier
- Sam Phraya Park
- Maharaj Road
- Rama VIII Bridge Pier
- Santi Chai Prakarn Park
- Santichai Prakarn Riverside Walk
- Somdet Phra Pinklao Pier
- Thammasat University
- Nagaraphirom Park
Thonburi side
- Soi Charan Sanitwong 52
- Rama VII Bridge Park
- Siriraj Hospital
- King Bhumibol’s 72nd Birthday Anniversary Park
- Wat Rakhang Temple
Participants are encouraged to wear yellow—the King's color—and refrain from wearing dark clothes. Make sure you have your ID card and passport at the ready.
Motorists should be aware of the road closure throughout the day, for example, King Rama VIII Bridge and Somdet Phra Pinklao Bridge will be closed throughout the ceremony. Once the royal barge reaches Ratchaworadit Pier and Their Majesties proceed to the Grand Palace by the land procession, certain roads, such as Rajini, Na Prathat, Chan, Na Phra Lan, Maharat, Tai Wang, Ratchadamneun Nai, and Sanam Chai will be closed to the public from 15:30-17:00.
All water transportation will come to a halt from Krungthon Bridge (Saphan Sunghee) to Memorial Bridge (Saphan Phut) from 6:00-19:30; and from Khungthon Bridge to Royal Thai Navy Convention Center from 6:00-19:30. King Rama VII Bridge Pier is closed from 1:00-19:30.
Throughout 12 December, Airport Rail Link, MRT and BTS will offer free rides with station staff handing tickets to commuters.