Bangkok - Thailand's revered but ageing King Bhumibol Adulyadej Sunday left a Bangkok hospital where he has been recuperating since October for his coastal palace, as hundreds of well-wishers cheered him on his journey.
The 87-year-old king, the world's longest-serving monarch, is treated as a near-deity by many Thais and his health is a subject of public concern in the politically turbulent country.
The convoy carrying Bhumibol left Siriraj Hospital for his home in the southern town of Hua Hin shortly after 2 pm, with Queen Sirikit, 82, and their daughter Princess Sirindhorn, 60, travelling behind the monarch, all three in separate vehicles.
Hundreds of Thais, many dressed in the royal colour yellow, waved flags and held up photos of Bhumibol as some cheered "Long Live the King!", an AFP photographer at the scene said.
Bhumibol, formally known as King Rama IX, has spent most of the past few months in hospital after undergoing an operation to remove his gall bladder in October.
He made a rare public appearance last week at a ceremony to mark his official coronation in 1950 at the sprawling Grand Palace in the heart of the capital's old quarter.
Before that in the past two months the monarch had made two brief trips from his hospital bed, one in early May to a nearby palace and one last month to view the Chao Praya river that runs through Bangkok.
He had been expected to appear publicly for his birthday in December, a time when the monarch traditionally addresses his people. But the audience was cancelled at the last minute on the advice of his doctors.
No official statements were issued about the king's health on Sunday.
AFP
