National
Chiang Rai’s Wat Rong Khun entrance fee implemented
National Artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, who created Wat Rong Khun, activated the entrance fee collection on October 1. Foreign visitors now pay 50 baht while Thais remain exempt.
Despite the fee collection, a big crowd of visitors, both Thai and foreign, have arrived at the temple, largely due to the fact that it was China’s National Day and Chinese tourists are here on holiday.
The fee collection has been implemented only for visits to the White Temple, while other areas, including the exhibition hall and the temple’s surrounding grounds, are open free of charge.
Mr. Chalermchai said that, in the 20 years since the temple was built, fee collection has only just begun and it has not deterred visitors.
He added that the temple bears monthly costs of 4.5 million to six million baht, which is for ongoing construction projects and utilities, while the sum gained from the entrance fee is intended to help the temple handle the arrival of visitors.
Some overseas visitors say that the fee of 50 baht remains low as it could be as high as 100 baht or even 200 baht.
National
National News Bureau Of Thailand
A former vice premier of the People’s Republic of China and his entourage on Tuesday signed a book to express his condolences on the passing of HM the late King at the Grand Palace. Another important person who paid respects to HM the late King is President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Jin Liqun. The president laid a wreath before the body of HM the late King and signed the condolence book.
Meanwhile, people from many provinces continuously traveled to the Grand Palace to pay respects before the body of HM the late King. HM King Maha Vajiralongkorn sponsored ancient Thai desserts to be given to the mourners.
National
National News Bureau Of Thailand
Addressing the press Wednesday, Deputy Education Minister M.L. Panadda Disakul said Thailand’s top production companies and China International Broadcasting Network have struck a deal to produce a TV series that features the teachings of His Majesty King Rama IX.
M.L. Panadda, who presided over the signing ceremony, said the program is aimed at inspiring the public to be more productive and successful through the promotion of favorite recreation activities of His Majesty.
The series will be aired in Thailand and China, said the Deputy Minister, remarking that it would play a vital role in promoting Thai culture abroad.
The Deputy Education Minister also disclosed that the love and respect for the revered monarch remain strong among Thai citizens and would be so for many years to come.
National
Nakhon Sawan holds exhibition “Still on my mind” commemorating King Bhumibol
The exhibition, taking place in front of Nakhon Sawan Municipality, features a model of a royal rainmaking aircraft and the Chai Pattana water turbine, both being outstanding projects undertaken by His Majesty for the benefit of the people of Thailand.
Also on display at the exhibition is a Chinese puppet lion traditionally used in the funeral ceremonies of respected elders and teachers. The puppet lion is the only piece of its kind in Thailand and will be included in the royal cremation ceremony for King Bhumibol. It will also be burned at the end of the ceremony.
In addition, the venue features an exhibition of 89 photographs telling the story of the lives of Nakhon Sawan residents and their personal impressions of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The exhibition in front of Nakhon Sawan Municipality continues until February 1st; there is no charge for entry.
Meanwhile at Somdet Phra Srinakarindra Park in Roi Et Province, Governor Sarit Witoon along with the local Red Cross Society, government officials, and the general public took part in a merit-making ceremony, giving alms to 200 monks from Wat Pa Kung, in dedication to King Bhumibol. Monks at the ceremony also gave special talks for the purpose of acknowledging the generosity of those in attendance and to lift their spirits.