Thailand's Royal Coronation: Key Information for Visitors to Bangkok

Thailand will hold its first royal coronation in almost 70 years from May 4 to 6 in Bangkok, as King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun officially ascends the throne.

Travelers in Bangkok this weekend will have the rare opportunity to witness a historic moment in Thai history.

At 66, King Vajiralongkorn succeeded his late father, King Rama IX, in 2016, becoming the 10th monarch of the Chakri dynasty, which has ruled Thailand since 1782 under King Rama I.

The coronation will feature a blend of ancient Hindu and Buddhist ceremonies that have been passed down through the centuries.

Gathering at Sanam Luang

While much of the royal coronation will unfold behind the walls of Bangkok’s Grand Palace, the event will be broadcast live, offering various opportunities for the public to engage in the celebrations.

For many Thai citizens, this will be the first coronation they have ever witnessed. King Rama IX ascended the throne in 1950 and held the title of the world's longest-reigning monarch until his passing in 2016.

Thousands of people are expected to gather at Sanam Luang, a historic public square next to the Grand Palace, throughout the May 4-6 coronation festivities.

Since May 2, Bangkok's Mass Transit Authority has been offering free public transport for those visiting the area. Free train and ferry services will also be available from May 4 to 6. Additional details on services can be found here.

Officials have announced that free food and water will be distributed, and rest areas along with mobile toilets have been set up to accommodate the large crowds expected at Sanam Luang.

During the coronation period, the public is encouraged to wear yellow, the color symbolizing the king’s birth day—Monday.

Thailand's Tourism Authority (TAT) has advised visitors to wear respectful attire and be mindful that transportation may be affected in some areas during the historic events.

Event Schedule

May 4 – The Royal Coronation Day

This marks the official coronation day, during which the most significant ceremonies will unfold at the Grand Palace. While typically open to the public, the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha will be closed during the coronation. Check below for other attraction closures.

Though these ceremonies will take place privately, they will be broadcast live on Thai television and available online for public viewing.

On this day, the King will undergo the Royal Purification Ceremony, a ritual where he is anointed with sacred waters gathered from all 76 provinces of Thailand.

The King will then be seated beneath the nine-tiered Umbrella of State, symbolizing complete sovereignty, and will be presented with a variety of royal regalia.

Thailand's Ministry of Culture has released a detailed English-language PDF outlining the various aspects of the Royal Coronation Ceremony, including the significance of the royal regalia.

Later that day, the King will hold an audience with members of the royal family and senior Thai officials.

May 5 – Public Procession

Around 4:30 p.m., King Rama X will make a ceremonial tour around the Grand Palace in an ornate royal palanquin, stopping at three key temples: Wat Bovoranives, Wat Rajabopidh, and Wat Phra Chetuphon.

As per official reports, King Vajiralongkorn will pay respects to the main Buddha statues at each temple before returning to the Grand Palace.

Massive crowds are anticipated to line the seven-kilometer procession route, ready to greet the King as he passes.

May 6 – Light and Sound Show

Monday, May 6, has been declared a public holiday, meaning that government offices and certain banks will be closed.

At 4:30 p.m., the King is expected to address the public from a balcony at the Suddhaisavarya Prasad Hall within the Grand Palace.

The celebratory events at Sanam Luang will begin in the late afternoon, featuring a stunning drone light and sound show around 7 p.m. – check out the video above for a preview of the rehearsal.

Impact on Local Travel

All coronation-related activities will be centered around the Rattanakosin area of Bangkok.

Known as 'Old Town,' this area is a favorite among tourists due to its abundance of historical landmarks, along with vibrant neighborhoods like Khao San Road and Phra Arthit Road, which are home to many hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Aside from the Grand Palace, which will reopen on May 7, several other attractions will be closed during the coronation, including the National Museum of Bangkok, the Queen’s Gallery, National Gallery, City Pillar Shrine, Museum Siam, Pipit Banglamphu Museum, Coin Museum, King Prajadhipok Museum, Wat Saket (Golden Mount), and Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium.

Wat Pho and Wat Bowonniwet Vihara will only be closed on May 5, while the Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall will be closed from May 5-6.

Over 30 roads in the area will be closed to traffic at various times from May 2-6, including Ratchadamnoen, Sanam Chai, and Maharat. Travelers should expect significant traffic disruptions and are advised to use public transportation when possible.

Outside of the Rattanakosin area, Bangkok will continue normal operations during the coronation period, with bars, restaurants, and malls remaining open as usual.

Royal Barge Procession

Not able to make it to Bangkok for the Royal Coronation this weekend?

There will be another opportunity to witness the celebrations later this year. Although the exact date is yet to be confirmed, a Royal Barge Procession will be held in honor of King Rama X on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok in October 2019.

If previous processions are any guide, this will be an extraordinary event featuring around 2,300 oarsmen rowing over 50 ornate barges from the Wasukri pier to the majestic Wat Arun, covering a distance of four kilometers. The spectacle is further enhanced by the rhythmic chants of the rowers.

In the meantime, travelers can get a closer look at the magnificent royal boats by visiting the National Museum of Royal Barges at 80/1 Arun Amarin Khet, Bangkok.