The royal crematorium of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej will be relocated to Pathum Thani to become part of an exhibition hall to honour the late monarch.
Culture minister Vira Rojpojchanarat said the ministry was working on a plan to remove the crematorium, or Phra Meru Mas, and its surrounding structures which will be implemented after Dec 31, the last day the public is allowed to visit.
The structures will be relocated from Sanam Luang to Pathum Thani for the construction of a permanent exhibition hall to commemorate the late King which will take about two years to complete.
The hall will be situated on a piece of land covering 10 rai at the back of the National Archives in honour of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in tambon Klong Ha of Klong Luang district, Mr Vira said.
The removal plan was revealed after the 4th meeting with a committee overseeing the royal funeral exhibition.
According to Mr Vira, part of several pavilions including the Phra Thinang Songtham (the pavilion for the royal family and VIP guests) and Thap Kaset will be taken down and moved to Pathum Thani.
The plan will be proposed to His Majesty the King for consideration before the relocation.
The committee was working on an exhibition hall plan which was expected to be tabled in a cabinet meeting for budget approval by early next year.
The place will serve as a learning centre about King Rama IX which comprises national archives and the Supreme Artist Hall featuring biographies and masterpieces of national artists under the patronage of the late King.
"All fine knowledge and expertise relevant to the royal funeral rites will be on display at the exhibition hall. Royal funeral ceremonies of neighbouring countries will be incorporated into the exhibition," Mr Vira said.
Speaking about the architectural style of the exhibition hall, Fine Arts Department director-general Anan Chuchote said the two-storey building will be built in compliance with the design of the Phra Thinang Songtham.
The first floor will feature a royal biography and projects of King Bhumibol throughout his 70-year reign, knowledge about the royal processions during his funeral rites as well as ancient royal ceremonies.
On the second floor, visitors will be able to find out about the architecture and construction of the crematorium.
The interior of the hall will be designed in accordance with its exterior which will be similar to the crematorium grounds at Sanam Luang, Mr Anan said.
