Thailand: Thousands of mourners gather in Bangkok October 26 /update 4

Event

Hundreds of thousands of mourners gathered in Bangkok for the cremation and associated funeral rites of late King Bhumibol Adulyadej​ on Thursday, October 26​. Thai officials marched a symbolic urn from Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall to the royal crematorium at Sanam Luang at the beginning of Thursday's ceremonies. In total, over 300,000 people gathered near the cremation site and nearby areas in the city's historic quarter, according to officials in charge of the ceremony. Thai authorities declared Thursday a national holiday, and businesses were reported closed across the country.

Thai authorities have asked ceremony attendees to wear dark and somber clothing, to be respectful and silent (e.g. not to shout "long live the king"), and not to use cellphones for photographs (however, cameras are allowed without professional components such as lenses and tripods). The national mourning proceedings, which began Wednesday, are scheduled to last through Sunday, October 29, with significant transportation disruptions expected in areas near the official ceremonies, particularly near the Sanam Luang area and the Grand Palace. Public transportation in Bangkok is expected to be in extreme demand through October 29.​ The Grand Palace is closed to the public through October 29, and the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and Vimanmek Teak Mansion are closed until further notice.

Context

King Bhumibol Adulyadej was the world's longest-serving monarch, loved by his people and portrayed by the palace as a guiding light through decades of political turmoil, coups, and violent unrest. More than 12 million people, some of them repeat visitors, have visited the Grand Palace since it was first opened to mourners of October 28, 2016. On October 1, 2017, a record 90,300 mourners were present. An official mourning period of one year was announced in October 2016.

Advice

Individuals present in Bangkok should anticipate severe transportation disruptions and traffic congestion in the coming days and plan itineraries ahead of time to account for road closures and delays. Adhere to all instructions as issued by the local authorities. In addition, visitors should be particularly respectful during this sensitive time of mourning in Thailand. It is advised to wear dark-colored, somber, and modest clothing when in public areas in order to avoid drawing undue attention.