泰王普密蓬公开露面,庆祝登基65周年

Thailand's ailing King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-reigning monarch, has made a rare public appearance to celebrate the 65th anniversary of his coronation.

Television stations in Thailand broadcast live Tuesday as the widely revered 87-year-old king left the Bangkok hospital where he has spent the last several months.

Hundreds of people lining the streets cheered "Long Live the King" as the monarch's motorcade passed on its way to the Grand Palace for a Buddhist ceremony attended by top Thai officials.

The festivities are to mark Coronation Day, a public holiday in Thailand in remembrance of the king's official ascension to the throne on May 5, 1950, three years after his reign began following the death of his brother.

The king, who is now wheelchair-bound, has rarely left the hospital after having his gall bladder removed in October.