Royal Barge Procession – A Regal Event on the Chao Phraya River

An event that featured rich traditions and colourful festivity, the Royal Barge Procession took place this month in the Thai capital of Bangkok. This cultural event was held on the 9th of November and featured a lavish royal barge and a wide array of elaborate ceremonial boats that were manned by more than 2,000 oarsmen, each dressed in traditional attire. This procession which was held as part of the celebrations marking the 85th birthday of the King of Thailand saw the boats make their way along the Chao Phraya River beginning from Rama VIII Bridge and ending at Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn. While such processions were a common occurrence in the 17th and 18th centuries, the practice was later stopped before being revived by the present King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyadej. Travellers wishing to attend future Royal Barge Processions can consider staying at one of the city’s centrally located serviced apartments. Sukhumvit Road makes an ideal base in this regard and Somerset Sukhumvit Thonglor Bangkok is an option worth considering.