The Erawan Shrine is officially named Thao Maha Brahma and was built in 1956 to appease the supposed evil forces that were taking the lives of construction workers and causing other calamities in the construction what is now the Grand Hyatt Erawan. In Thai it represents the Hindu creation God Brahma. The Erawan Shrine is very popular for both locals and tourists. No visit to Thailand would be complete without a visit to the shrine in Bangkok.
Erawan Shrine
The Erawan Shrine’s located right next to the high-end hotel the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in the Pathum Wan district of Bangkok. It is located very near the BTS Chit Lom Station which has an elevated walkway overlooking the shrine. There are a number of shopping malls nearby, including Gaysorn, CentralWorld and Amarin Plaza as it is located in the shopping district of Bangkok. In the early hours of 21 March 2006 a mentally ill man took a hammer and destroyed the shrine. He was murdered by 2 street sweepers who saw him destroy the shrine. On 21 May 2006 a new statue was put in place and the shrine has now been fully restored.
You can buy candles and flowers inside at the shrine as the candles and flowers outside is very expensive. There is also a small show of dancers at the shrine but like everything else respect those how are coming to worship when taking photographs. The shrine is also not far from the Hansar Hotel, Swiss Embassy in Bangkok and also not very far from Pratunam Market and also the Erawan Hotel in Bangkok.
So within a serene atmosphere, this locale serves as a sanctuary where Thai locals gather in prayer. Likewise accompanied by the captivating presence of traditional dancers. Transitioning to the adjacent flower shop, a diverse array of floral sets awaits, each available at varying price points.
Prayer Procession
Stepping into this area, one is met with a harmonious blend of modern edifices and local eateries. Likewise enhanced by the blessings of favorable weather. As a prominent fixture in Bangkok, this shrine takes its place among the city’s illustrious landmarks. Positioned at the very heart of the urban expanse and conveniently close to a BTS station, it beckons both native Thai residents and curious foreigners seeking the benevolence of Lord Brahma, the deity boasting four countenances.
Navigating the art of prayer at this shrine is a straightforward process:
- Acquire a set comprising four garlands, incense sticks, and a candle.
- Approach any of the four designated praying spots, each marked by one of Lord Brahma’s faces.
- Beseech blessings and express your heartfelt desires.
- Following the prayer, bestow a garland upon each of the four praying spots.
A distinctive feature awaits those whose aspirations come to fruition—a supplementary prayer session accompanied by a troupe of traditional dancers. It’s worth noting that this additional performance requires a fee.
To fully grasp the intricacies of this spiritual process, a mere five-minute observation proves enlightening. The symbiotic dance of reverence and supplication unfolds, offering a window into a cherished practice that resonates with both Thai culture and spiritual seekers from afar. See also the Holiday Inn Bangkok and The Landmark Hotel Bangkok.
Erawan Shrine Map
Lastly also se the area around BTS Siam Station and the BTS Ratchadamri Station.
