The Royal Barges in front of the Grand Palace, Bangkok (February)

"The King of Thailand" is a devout Buddhist, and is the main patron of all religions. The Royal Kathin, a merit making ceremony, has traditionally been carried out as part of his responsibilities towards the religion, This grand and spectacular ceremony features a procession of the Royal barges, each of which is magnificently crafted, to Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. Chanted boat songs and orchestrated paddling oarsmen mark the highlight of of the event.