His Majesty The King received the news of the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand with immense sorrow.

His Majesty, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, members of the Royal Family led a group of clergy, senior government officials and the Thai community in Bhutan, in offering a thousand butter lamps and prayers in memory of the Thai King at the Kuenra of the Tashichhodzong.

His Majesty Commanded that special prayers be held, and butter lamps be lit in sacred temples across Bhutan, dedicated to the memory of His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Tomorrow, the 14th of October, will be observed as a day of mourning in Bhutan. The National Flag will fly at half mast to honour the memory of His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol, and offices and schools will remain closed to enable the people to visit temples and offer prayers.

His Majesty will visit the National Memorial Chorten tomorrow and lead prayers. Prayers at the Tashichhodzong will be led by Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother.

For the next seven days, butter lamps will be lit and special prayers offered at Thimphu Tashichhodzong, Thimphu National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Thai Pavilion, Centennial Park, Punakha Dzong, Trongsa Dzong, Trashigang Dzong, Paro Taktsang, Paro Kyichu Lhakhang, Tali Dratsang, Samtse Shiv Mandir, and Phuentsholing Zangtopelri.

His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol has been an exceptional leader, a comforting presence in the lives of every Thai citizen. His Majesty’s enduring service for the welfare and wellbeing of his people will be remembered with honour and respect.

The Royal Families of Bhutan and Thailand have shared exceptionally warm relations over the years, which have be mirrored by strong bonds of friendship between the two countries.

His Majesty King Bhumibol’s passing brings profound grief to the people of Bhutan. His Majesty The King and the people of Bhutan offer sincere and heartfelt condolences to the grieving people of Thailand.