BANGKOK — With solemn faces and outright tears, black-clad Thais said farewell to their king and longtime father figure Thursday on Bangkok’s streets and at viewing areas around the nation, capping a year of mourning with funeral ceremonies steeped in centuries of tradition.

Three processions involving the royal family, thousands of troops, a golden palanquin, a gilded chariot, and a royal gun carriage transported a ceremonial urn representing King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s remains from the Dusit Maha Prasad Throne Hall to a spectacular newly built crematorium.

The urn, placed under a nine-tiered white umbrella , was then hoisted into the main chamber of the golden-spired crematorium as monks chanted, instruments wailed, and artillery fired. New King Maha Vajiralongkorn then climbed the red-carpeted steps to light candles and incense in honor of his father.

Bhumibol’s cremation was scheduled for late Thursday in the crematorium representing mystical Mount Meru, where Buddhist and Hindu gods are believed to dwell.

ASSOCIATED PRESS