First mourners along route Bhumibol

bangkok - Despite the steadily descending rain, robbers in the Thai capital of Bangkok found a spot along the route of the stud with the deceased king Bhumibol.

The five-day funeral ceremony begins Wednesday, but Tuesday the first tents in downtown Bangkok were put down by people who want to be sure of a good spot.

Public life in Thailand is expected to be largely quiet during the ceremonies. The Thai king died on October 13 last year after seven decades on the throne. A few million people are expected for the ceremonies.