Chakri Day is celebrated each year on April 6 in Thailand. If April 6 falls on the weekend, the day is observed on the following Monday. Chakri Day is a national holiday in Thailand where citizens honor the royal family and celebrate their contributions to the country. On this day, the special focus is on the Chakri royal family and how they became a beloved clan to the Thai people. Most businesses, schools, and workplaces remain close on the day to participate in the celebrations. Chakri Day is also a day for Thai citizens to express their patriotism.
History of Chakri Day
The first Chakri king began his rule in 1782 and since then Thailand has been graced with five Chakri monarchs. The Thai people have deep love and respect for the royal family and rightly so. The Chakri royal family has strengthened Thailand’s diplomatic ties to the world and have been patrons of the arts, cultures, sciences, and technology. They have also constructed some of the most important educational and public institutions in Thailand.
The first king of the Chakri dynasty was King Rama I (1782 to 1809). A renowned military leader, he was known as Chaophraya Chakri. He built the Grand Palace and founded the Chakri Dynasty. Another significant king of the dynasty was King Rama IV (1851 to 1868) who became a monarch after being a monk for 27 years. He was a driving force behind modernization and introduced Western science to the country. After him came King Rama V (1868 to 1910). He ruled for 42 years and is still beloved among the Thais. He abolished slavery, set up modern systems of administration and law, and modernized the educational and financial sectors. His diplomatic skills ensured that Thailand was the only country in the region that was never colonized!
A revolution in 1932 resulted in King Rama VII being Thailand’s last absolute monarch. He accepted the proposal of a constitutional regime and since then the monarchy has become a titular position in Thai politics. Then came King Rama IX who has been accorded the honor of being called King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great. The present king is King Rama X who lives in Bangkok. His sons are not in the line to succeed to the throne.
Chakri Day timeline
The Thai monarchy begins.
The Chakri Dynasty is founded by King Rama I.
Critics of the monarchy are jailed for as long as 43 years.
King Rama X ascends to the throne.
Chakri Day FAQs
What is Chakri Day Thailand?
The people of Thailand observe Chakri Day on April 6 to celebrate the founding of the still-reigning Chakri royal dynasty back in 1782.
How is Chakri Day celebrated?
To commemorate this day, Thais show their respect for the great monarch by placing wreaths and flowers at the feet of Rama V’s statues.
Who founded the Chakri Kingdom?
Phra Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke founded the Chakri dynasty and established Bangkok as the capital of Thailand in 1782.
How to Observe Chakri Day
Visit Thailand
Chakri Day celebrations or not, Thailand is always a beautiful place to visit. The weather is especially pleasant in April and the festivities of Chakri Day celebrations can be fun to witness.
Eat Thai food
Among Asian cuisines, Thai cuisine is one of the most popular and delicious. Celebrate Chakri Day by treating yourself to your favorite Thai food. Khao soi, Pad thai, and Yam Nua are some dishes you can try,
Read about the Chakri dynasty
Interested in knowing more about the Chakri dynasty? Pull out the books, documentaries, and scholarly works on the lives of the Chakri royals on Chakri Day.
5 Interesting Facts About Thailand
The Thai alphabet is extensive
It has 76 letters.
Bangkok’s full name is a mouthful
The full name of the capital city is “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom.”
Known as the “Venice of the East”
This is due to the many waterways in Bangkok city.
Buddhism is the official religion
95% of Thais are Buddhists.
Thailand has some unusual snacks
Deep-fried cockroaches are considered a delicacy in Thailand.
Why Chakri Day is Important
It’s a celebration of Thailand
Celebrating Chakri Day means celebrating Thailand. The Thais have a deep respect for the royal family and take immense pride in them. Chakri Day honors the unique cultures of Thailand.
It shows respect for different cultures
When we celebrate Chakri Day, we also celebrate the different cultures that make the world such a wonderful place to live. Celebrations like these are reminders of unity in diversity.
It’s a celebration of the monarchy
Although the monarchy is in sharp decline, the monarchs and kings of yesteryear have had a deep and lasting influence on Thai history and culture. Chakri Day celebrates monarchs known for their generosity and innovations.
Chakri Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 6 | Sunday |
| 2026 | April 6 | Monday |
| 2027 | April 6 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | April 6 | Thursday |
| 2029 | April 6 | Friday |
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