Thailand prepares for $91 million funeral

The Kingdom of Thailand will begin the five-day royal cremation ceremony next month for King Bhumibol Adulyadej, whose reign lasted seven decades.

The country’s military government has budgeted 3 billion-baht ($91 million) for the funeral.

Huge crowds are expected near a vast crematorium being constructed at Sanam Luang, a park in the heart of Bangkok close to the Grand Palace. The cremation itself is scheduled for October 26. Thais believe the deceased monarch will ascend to heaven.

An ornate palanquin is being prepared for the royal funeral. Bhumibol died on October 13, 2016 at age 88. The monarch, who took the throne in