Thailand’s majestic Royal Barge Procession returns to Chao Phraya River

Bangkok – Their Majesties, the King and Queen, journeyed aboard the Royal Barge Suphannahong along the Chao Phraya River on Friday to present royal Kathin robes at Wat Arun, as thousands of spectators lined the riverbanks to witness one of Thailand's most elaborate royal traditions. The Royal Barge Procession featured 52 ceremonial vessels and 2,200 personnel, and was also held as part of the Queen's 48th birthday celebrations.

Their Majesties traveled aboard the Royal Barge Suphannahong, with Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, and Chao Khun Phra Sineenat Bilaskalayani accompanying the procession on the Royal Barge Anekchatphuchong. King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida were also present at Wat Arun Ratchawararam for the royal Kathin robe presentation ceremony.

The procession, comprising 52 vessels arranged in five ceremonial columns, stretched approximately 1,200 meters in length and 90 meters in width. A total of 2,200 personnel participated in the event, including oarsmen responsible for propelling the elaborately decorated barges along the river. Preparations for the ceremony included 10 preliminary rehearsals and two full-dress rehearsals to ensure precise coordination.

The Royal Barge Procession is a centuries-old royal tradition, dating back to the Ayutthaya period, and remains a distinctive royal ceremony in Thailand's cultural heritage.