Did you know there is an interesting story behind the establishment of Erawan Shrine, formaerlly The Thao Maha Brahma? Yes, actually the workers were working on building the Erawan Hotel in 1954 and the project was owned by the government. However, the construction faced many obstacles and delays. To fix this the government sought advice from a navy officer and astrologer named Luang Suwichanphaet. He advised building a shrine to Brahma, a Hindu god to bring blessings and good luck. So this is why a shrine was set up with a statue of Brahma.
The Thao Maha Brahma is also known as the Erawan Shrine which was built in the year 1956. It is a famous Hindu shrine in Bangkok, Thailand. It is situated opposite the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel. The shrine has a golden statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of Brahma. Thais and international tourists both come here to worship.
If you are planning a trip, then make sure to add Erawan Shrine in your Thailand tour package. You will surely not want to miss this cultural heritage site.
Erawan Shrine in Bangkok enforces a strict dress code to respect traditions. You must cover shoulders and knees. Men need long pants and sleeved shirts while women require long skirts/pants with sleeved tops. Avoid shorts, sleeveless, tight, or revealing attire. Sarongs available but bringing your own is advisable.
To reach the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, take the BTS Sukhumvit Line, and get off at Chit Lom Station. And then take exit 2 and walk via the skywalk for about 5 minutes and you’ll reach, formally, the Thao Maha Phrom Shrine.
Opening and Closing Hours for Erawan Shrine
The Thao Maha Brahma Shrine is open every day from 6 am to 11 pm. The best time to visit this place would be in the morning and the evening time. It would be best to avoid visiting the place during the afternoon as it will be very hot and can lead to burnout.
Entry Fee for visiting Thao Maha Brahma Shrine
There is no entrance fee involved in visiting the Thao Maha Brahma Shrine. It is free of charge. However, if you wish to make offerings or hire traditional Thai dancers then that might involve a certain cost. Apart from this, there will be transportation costs.
More Temples to Visit in Bangkok, Thailand
| The Grand Palace | Wat Arun Ratchawararam |
| Wat Pho | Wat Phra Kaew |
| Wat Traimit | Wat Saket |
| Wat Benchamabophit | Wat Suthat |
| Wat Saman Ratanaram | Wat Rakhangkhositaram |
Places to Visit Nearby Erawan Shrine
There are many places to visit near Thao Maha Brahma Shrine but the most popular places among them are:
1. Gaysom Shopping Centre
It is one of the luxurious shopping malls located in the heart of Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong district. It has all high premium brands across 5 floors which has the perfect blend of international and Thai brands. Some of the premium brands are Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Omega and Tag Heuer.
2. Lakshmi Shrine
This shrine is also located on the fourth floor of the Gaysom Village shopping mall. It is well known for its scenic atmosphere and is a perfect tourist spot for Hindu worshippers who want to seek the blessing of the goddess Lakshmi who is associated with wealth, beauty and fortune. One can reach this place directly by taking the BTS Skytrain to Chidlom Station, existing at exit 6.
3. Truefitt & Hill – Gaysorn Village
It is located on the 1st floor, Gaysorn Village 999 Phloen Chit Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, Thailand. It is a luxurious and high-end salon for men which combines both British style grooming with modern comfort and services. To reach this place one can take the BTS Skytrain to the nearest metro station i.e. Chit Lom (BTS Sukhumvit Line) and then take exit 6.
4. PANPURI Wellness
It provides several wellness programs, ranging from spa treatments to organic cuisine and wellness activities. Furthermore, it provides a holistic approach that takes care of your mind, body, and soul. To that end, it offers 12 peaceful treatment rooms and boasts top-notch facilities like a hot spring bath, Akasuri scrub room, steam bath room, Himalayan salt sauna, wellness bar, wellness studio, and relaxation rooms.
5. Jatulokbal Shrine
Jatulokbal Shrine is an another important religious site that one can visit near Thao Maha Brahma Shrine. It is located on the 4th-floor outdoor terrace of Gaysorn Village Mall in Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong district. It houses the magnificent blue and gold statue of Jatulokbal also known as the “God of four directions”. This temple has the protective power of four deities Vesuwan, Kuvera, Thao, and Todtarode. It is open every day from 10 am to 10 pm.
6. Wat Arun
You can also visit Wat Arun its around 10.1 km away from Thao Maha Brahma Shrine and take 20 minutes by taking taxi, depending upon the traffic , take taxi is the most convenient option as you can choose boat but then you need to change it so it will difficult to you if you visit first time, this temple is widely populer for its architecture and riverside location on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok.
Conclusion
Erawan Shrine is not just architecture; rather, it is a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and spirituality. Indeed, it is a must-visit if you want peace and relaxation. Therefore, whether you are seeking blessings or exploring the luxury malls and spas nearby, this spot will definitely add a meaningful experience. Finally, if you are planning a trip to Thailand, do not forget to add Erawan Shrine to your Thailand tour package for a wonderful experience.
Thao Maha Brahma Shrine is located in front of the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel at the Ratchaprasong intersection on Ratchadamri Road, Bangkok.
No, there is no entry fee to enter the shrine. It is free of charge.
Yes, it is performed almost every day but the Thai dancers are usually hired by the worshippers as part of their offerings.
You should wear respectful and modest clothing. Wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders. Avoid wearing revealing clothes.