Bangkok Royal Barge Procession 2026: Rehearsal Schedule and Best Viewing Spots (6 Nov Ceremony)
Bangkok Royal Barge Procession 2026: Rehearsal Schedule and Best Viewing Spots
The spectacular Royal Barge Procession (krabuan phayuhayattra thang chonlamak) will take place on Friday 6 November 2026, held to mark the fourth-cycle (48th) birthday of Her Majesty the Queen and featuring the royal kathin robe offering at Wat Arun. Before the main ceremony, visitors and locals can watch the rehearsals for free along the Chao Phraya River from August to October.
Procession Scale: 52 Barges and 2,200 Naval Personnel
The procession is a grand affair, drawing more than 2,200 personnel from the Royal Thai Navy, with 52 royal barges arranged in a 5-row, 3-column formation. The flotilla stretches roughly 1,280 metres long and 90 metres wide.
The Central Royal Barges
The central line features several key royal barges, including the Suphannahong, the Narai Song Suban (of Rama IX), the Anekchatphuchong, and the Anantanakkharat, which carries the royal kathin robe. The full fleet of 52 barges showcases Thailand's enduring artistry and craftsmanship.

Rehearsal Schedule (10 Minor + 2 Full Rehearsals)
Rehearsals run from August to October 2026 as follows:
August: 17, 20, 27
September: 3, 8, 17, 23
October: 2, 8, 15
Full rehearsals: 21 and 28 October
The route runs along the Chao Phraya River from Rama VIII Bridge to Wat Arun, with the procession starting from around 3pm on rehearsal days. Watching is free along the riverbanks.
Best Viewing Spots on Both Banks
Thonburi side: beneath Rama VIII Bridge (near the King Rama VIII monument), 72nd Anniversary Park, beside Siriraj Hospital, Wat Rakhang pier, and Wat Arun.
Phra Nakhon side: Santichaiprakan Park (near Phra Sumen Fort), Tha Maharaj, and Tha Chang.
Source: TrueID Travel, "Royal Barge Procession schedule: dates and viewing spots" (18 August 2026)



