Erawan Shrine

The Erawan Shrine is a Hindu shrine that houses a statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the Hindu god Brahma. It is located at the Ratchaprasong intersection next to the Grand Hyatt Erawan hotel in central Bangkok. It is a popular tourist spot always buzzing with both locals and foreigners either worshipping or observing.

Offerings and Prayers

Phra Phrom

History

The shrine was built in 1956 during construction of the adjoining hotel to appease workers who endured a series of mishaps during the construction. After consulting an astrologer, the shrine was installed and work progressed smoothly. The Brahma image has four faces representing kindness, mercy, sympathy, and impartiality.

Elephants at the Erawan Shrine

How to pay respects

worshippers place offerings such as flower garlands, fruit, and wooden elephants at the shrine as they pray for good fortune. These items can be bought from a stall inside the shrine.

Worshippers at the Erawan Shrine

Praying for good fortune

The traditional Thai dancers that you see are hired by worshippers if their prayers at the shrine are answered. The worshipper in question will sit in front of the dancers to pray during the performance.

Shrine Dancers

Shrine Dancers

The shrine is especially popular with visitors from India, Taiwan, and other Asian countries. A great viewpoint for observing the shrine and its worshippers is from the elevated walkway connecting the BTS stations of Siam and Chit Lom.

Phra Phrom with David Beckham in the background

Where is it?

Location: Corner of Ratchadamri and Rama I road.

District: Ratchaprasong

Opening Hours: 06.00-24.00

Admission: Free

Golden Elephant Statues

How to get to Erawan Shrine

BTS: Chitlom station. Take exit 2.

Bus: 15, 25, 54, 73, 77, 79, 204, 505, 514

Map: https://goo.gl/maps/BmqXUQZTgtw