Thousands of Thais gathered at Sanam Luang on Sunday to pay their respects to Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, on the first day the Royal Household Bureau opened public access for mourners to offer tribute before her portrait and sign condolence books.
The atmosphere throughout the morning was solemn as people from Bangkok and provinces across the country arrived steadily to take part in the commemorative ceremonies. Many wore black and carried portraits of the princess, expressing their gratitude for her lifelong service to the nation.
Visitors queued quietly, some overcome by emotion as they stood before the royal portrait and signed the condolence register. Officials coordinated the flow of visitors through designated waiting areas near the entrance tunnel leading to the Grand Palace complex.
Public announcements gave guidance on procedures and routes, while security screening and baggage inspections were carried out before mourners proceeded to Sahathai Samakhom Pavilion inside the Grand Palace grounds.
The Royal Household Bureau has designated June 14-16 for public tributes, with visiting hours from 8.30am to 4pm daily.
To ease travel, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority has introduced six free shuttle bus routes connecting major transport hubs with Sanam Luang.
They run from Tha Phra Station, Sanam Chai Station, Victory Monument, Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal, the Southern Bus Terminal and Thewarat Kanchanaphisek Gate throughout the period.
