Ultimate Guide to Erawan Shrine in Bangkok

494 Thanon Ratchadamri, Khwaeng Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330, Thailand

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Phone +66 2 252 8750

The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, known in Thai as Saan Phra Phrom or Saan Thao Maha Phrom, may be small, but its legacy is significant. Tourists love the free traditional dance performances often seen there. Locals stop on their way to work to pray or give thanks for favors.

Unlike temples that require more time to appreciate, the Erawan Shrine is located on one of Bangkok’s busiest sidewalks. The sweet scents of flower garland and burning joss sticks fill the air.

The statue of Phra Phrom—an interpretation of the Hindu god Brahma—may not be very old. The original statue was vandalized beyond repair in 2006 and quickly replaced. Nevertheless, the Erawan Shrine remains popular with Buddhists, Hindus, and the Sikh community in Bangkok.

1. The History of the Erawan Shrine

This shrine has its roots in an old animist custom in Thailand, where “spirit houses” are constructed next to buildings to appease spirits potentially displaced by construction. The larger the construction, the more extravagant the spirit house should be. The Erawan Shrine began as a spirit house for the state-owned Erawan Hotel, constructed in 1956. That hotel was later replaced by the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in 1987.

According to local lore, the construction of the Erawan Hotel faced numerous setbacks, injuries, and even fatalities. Astrologers determined that the hotel was not built in an auspicious manner, necessitating a statue of Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, to rectify the issues. This solution seemingly worked as the Erawan Hotel later flourished.

A shrine to Brahma was established outside the hotel on November 9, 1956; it has evolved in beauty and function over the years. Beginning with humble origins as a troubled hotel’s spirit house, the Erawan Shrine has become one of the most visited shrines in the city!

The naming, “Erawan,” refers to the Thai name for Airavata, the three-headed elephant that Brahma was said to have ridden.

2. Where Is the Erawan Shrine?

You won’t need to venture far or explore obscure neighborhoods to visit the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok. The famous shrine is situated in the Pathum Wan District, the bustling commercial hub for serious shopping in Thailand’s capital!

The Erawan Shrine can be found at the northwest corner of the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, positioned at the prominent Ratchaprasong intersection where Ratchadamri Road, Rama I Road, and Phloen Chit Road converge. Numerous malls and shopping complexes are within easy walking distance.

The nearest BTS Skytrain station is Chit Lom, although it is also possible to walk from Siam Station (the busiest and largest Skytrain station) in about 10 minutes. Chit Lom is part of the Sukhumvit Line.

The sprawling CentralWorld shopping complex lies just across the busy intersection from the shrine. The MBK mall, well-known to budget travelers for its bargains, is approximately a 15-minute walk away.

3. Visiting the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok

Though the shrine has become a quick stop for locals, tourists on shopping missions, and guided groups, it does not typically require extensive itinerary time. Many tourists often snap a photo or two and continue on their way.

Do not expect a tranquil temple atmosphere; the Erawan Shrine is frequently crowded and chaotic. Unlike ancient temples in locations such as Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai, it is not a place for deep contemplation in peace. Nevertheless, consider lingering long enough to observe a dance performance and witness how the shrine is woven into the daily lives of many locals.

For a more authentic experience, visit the Erawan Shrine during morning rush hour (between 7 and 8 a.m.) when locals stop to pray on their way to work. Ensure to respect worshipers who have limited time. The elevated walkway from the Chit Lom station offers excellent opportunities for overhead photography.

The traditional dancers seen near the shrine are not there solely for tourist attraction—although they certainly do draw interest. They are hired by worshipers seeking to gain merit or express gratitude for answered prayers. Occasionally, you may also catch Chinese lion dance troupes performing in the vicinity.

Remember to be respectful! While the Erawan Shrine has drawn many tourists, it remains one of the most significant Hindu shrines in Bangkok. Some might argue it is among the most important shrines to Brahma in Asia. It is important to maintain decorum during your visit.

4. Safety Tips for Visiting the Shrine

Despite incidents in the past, the Erawan Shrine is just as safe to visit as other areas in the city.

The increased police presence around the shrine can give rise to tourist-targeted scams rather than deter them. A long-standing scam involves officers observing tourists for any violations, such as smoking or jaywalking. An officer may point to an existing cigarette butt on the ground and claim you discarded it, resulting in a fine for littering.

Often, locals and drivers may smoke in close proximity, yet travelers sometimes become the focus of hefty fines on the spot.

When you are ready to leave the shrine, avoid accepting a “tour” from a tuk-tuk driver. Instead, find a taxi driver willing to use the meter, or negotiate a fair price with a tuk-tuk driver who does not operate on a meter.

5. Giving a Gift

While visiting the Erawan Shrine is complimentary, some individuals opt to give a small gift. Donations collected from boxes are used to maintain the area and benefit various charities.

You will likely encounter sellers of flower garlands (Phuang Malai) at the shrine. These exquisite, jasmine-scented offerings are traditionally given by newlyweds, to thank high-ranking officials, or as adornments for sacred places. In Bangkok, it is not customary to wear these flowers around your neck; instead, place them with the others on the railing that encases the statue.

Candles and joss sticks (incense) are also available for purchase. If you buy them, light them simultaneously from one of the constantly burning oil lamps. Wait in line, approach the front, express thanks or request, holding the joss sticks with both hands, and place them in the designated receptacles.

Worshipers commonly make offerings—sometimes including fruit or drinking coconuts—to each of the four faces. If feasible, traverse around the statue in a clockwise manner.

Tip: Avoid supporting the practice of purchasing small caged birds often marketed at some temples. The idea is that releasing a bird earns merit; however, these birds often do not experience true freedom, as they are typically netted again and resold. Be a more responsible traveler by refraining from this support.

6. Places to Visit Near Erawan Shrine

While abundant dining and shopping options are available nearby, the Erawan Shrine is not conveniently located within walking distance of the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the usual sightseeing attractions in Bangkok.

You can combine your visit to Erawan Shrine with these intriguing sights in the vicinity:

• Jim Thompson House: The Jim Thompson House offers a profound cultural experience, short tours, and a lovely garden. The mysterious disappearance of Jim Thompson remains one of Southeast Asia’s best-kept secrets. His charming house is roughly a 20-minute stroll from Erawan Shrine, or you can take the Skytrain one stop past Siam Station to National Stadium Station and walk from there.
• Bangkok Art and Culture Centre: Also located near National Stadium Station, this center showcases local artists in a delightful space. With a bit of luck, you might catch a local designer fashion show!
• Lumphini Park: If the crowded streets become overwhelming, head to Lumphini Park, just a 15-minute walk south along Ratchadamri Road. The park features serene ponds, walking paths, and a Chinese pavilion, offering respite from Bangkok’s lively pace.

7. Cultural Insights

The Erawan Shrine illustrates a cultural microcosm showing how deeply religious practices intertwine with daily life, alongside luck, superstition, and animism—the belief in spirits residing within everything.

Although Thailand predominantly adheres to Theravada Buddhism, locals frequently pay respect to Brahma, a Hindu deity. You will often see individuals from varied social backgrounds nodding, briefly bowing, or offering a wai with their hands while passing the Erawan Shrine—even while riding the Skytrain!

Interestingly, there are relatively few temples dedicated solely to Brahma in India. The Hindu god appears to enjoy more significant following outside of India. Alongside the shrine in Bangkok, Angkor Wat in Cambodia is another renowned location honoring Brahma. Some believe Southeast Asia’s largest country, Burma, derives its name from Brahma.

The celebration of Brahma by non-Hindus in China is relatively common, especially given Thailand’s large ethnic Chinese community, explaining why Chinese lion dance performances can sometimes replace traditional Thai dance at the Erawan Shrine.

Incidents at Erawan Shrine

The centralized location of the Erawan Shrine has contributed to its tumultuous history, given its age and popularity.

• 2006: The original statue of Brahma was destroyed by a 27-year-old man wielding a hammer. Street sweepers apprehended the vandal, leading to his unfortunate death. The individual was later found to be mentally unstable.
• 2010: The CentralWorld complex across from the shrine was consumed by flames during anti-government protests.
• 2014: Significant clashes during anti-government protests leading to a military coup occurred near the shrine. Bullet holes and damages were later repaired.
• 2015: The shrine was the site of a terrorist bombing that resulted in 20 fatalities.
• 2016: A vehicle crashed into the shrine, injuring several worshipers. Terrorism was ruled out; the driver suffered a stroke.

The 2015 Erawan Shrine Bombing

The Erawan Shrine was targeted in a terrorist attack on August 17, 2015. A pipe bomb exploded at 6:55 p.m. as the shrine bustled with visitors. Tragically, 20 people lost their lives, with at least 125 sustaining injuries, the majority being Asian tourists.

Fortunately, the statue sustained minimal damage, and the shrine reopened within two days. However, the attack resulted in a decline in tourism, and an investigation remains ongoing.