Flowing through the heart of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is the Chao Phraya River. Also known as the Royal River, or River of Kings, it holds great symbolic importance, as its name represents the highest royal title that a king can confer upon his subjects—a title historically reserved for viceroys and other esteemed officials. Along a side canal of the river is a hangar that houses Thailand's royal barges, majestic and ornately decorated vessels designed for ceremonial use on the Chao Phraya. Crafted from large pieces of teak wood, these barges are adorned with intricate carvings, gilded details, and vibrant colors, symbolizing the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Thai artisans. Each barge features figureheads inspired by mythological creatures predominantly characters from the Ramakien, the Thai rendition of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, embodying  royal authority and spiritual devotion. They date back to the Sukhothai period, carried on through the Ayutthaya period, and were initially used for both military and ceremonial purposes. Today, they serve primarily ceremonial functions and are showcased during significant events, most notably in the Royal Barge Procession—a rare and prestigious occasion held to honor the monarchy and celebrate important religious and national milestones. In preparation for the procession, the Royal Thai Navy collaborates closely with police and harbor authorities to ensure the safety and smooth execution of the ceremony. This cooperation includes temporarily halting all traffic on the Chao Phraya River to create a clear path for the royal barges. In this video, we will witness the Royal Barge Procession as part of the Royal Kathin Ceremony, an annual Buddhist tradition where the king or a royal representative presents new robes and offerings to monks at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. This ceremony, which dates back centuries, reflects the king’s support for Buddhism and his role as a patron of Thai religious life. The Royal Barge Procession is not held every year but is reserved for highly significant occasions, including royal anniversaries and major Kathin ceremonies. The first Royal Barge Procession under King Rama X was held on December 12, 2019, to mark his coronation. This year’s procession, held on October 27, 2024, celebrates both the Royal Kathin robe offering ceremony at Wat Arun and the King’s 72nd birthday—his 7th zodiac cycle, a milestone traditionally observed as a special occasion. Today’s procession features 52 royal barges arranged in five grand formations, with 2,200 personnel manning the vessels. 回