Erawan Shrine – Dedicated to the Hindu God Brahma

The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is dedicated to the Hindu god Brahma. Would you like to visit the landmark? You can find all the tips here.

In this article, we take you to one of the most fascinating and spiritually significant places in Bangkok.

The Erawan Shrine is located in the heart of the Thai capital, surrounded by modern skyscrapers and vibrant city life.

The shrine is both a place of faith and beautiful to look at – accordingly, it attracts both locals and tourists from all over the world.

Explore with us the architectural features of the Erawan Shrine and its famous statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai version of the Hindu god Brahma.

The latter is not only a symbol of happiness and prosperity but also a great example of the fusion of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs in Thailand.

What you should know about the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok

The Erawan Shrine is one of Bangkok’s most spiritual and fascinating landmarks.

It is nestled in the pulsating heart of the Thai capital and embodies a unique symbiosis of religious devotion, cultural richness, and urban dynamism.

Tip: Book a guided tour of Wat Pho and other important temples in Bangkok to learn more about Bangkok’s history.

The history of the Erawan Shrine

The Erawan Shrine was built in 1956, initially as a spiritual symbol to calm the restless spirits that were believed to have caused unrest during the construction of the Erawan Hotel.

The story goes that after the shrine was built, the problems with the construction of the hotel subsided.

This strengthened the credibility and sanctity of the place in the eyes of the locals and, later, also of tourists.

Phra Phrom: The central deity

At the center of the shrine is the golden statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai interpretation of the Hindu creator god Brahma.

Phra Phrom is considered the creator god in Hinduism and represents the creative power of the universe.

In Thai depictions, he is often depicted with four faces and four hands looking in different directions.

Each face symbolizes an aspect of his personality: goodness, mercy, justice, and neutrality.

These four faces also represent the four sacred Vedas, the fundamental scriptures of Hinduism.

Tip: On this tuk-tuk tour through Bangkok, you will explore the city’s most important sights

Symbolism and meaning of Phra Phrom

The symbolism of Phra Phrom is profound.

His four faces symbolize the all-encompassing presence and knowledge of the god, and his hands often hold objects such as a water bottle, a rosary, the scriptures, or sometimes a lotus flower, which represents purity and creation.

Phra Phrom is often prayed to for wisdom, luck, and protection and is known to listen to the prayers of the faithful and bless them.

Worship of Phra Phrom

The worship of Phra Phrom is widespread in Thailand. The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok, therefore, attracts thousands of worshippers and tourists every day.

Devotees bring offerings such as flowers, incense sticks, and fruit to show respect and devotion.

Traditional Thai dances, which are often performed next to the shrine, are also part of the worship and are organized to fulfill vows or to show gratitude.

Phra Phrom in the context of Thai culture

In Thailand, the worship of Phra Phrom goes beyond the religious boundaries of Hinduism and is integrated into Buddhist practice.

This shows the religious synthesis and tolerance in Thailand, where Hindu deities coexist harmoniously with Buddhist practices.

Tip: This private tour of the city’s most important temples takes you to Wat Arun and Wat Pho.

Tips for your visit to Erawan Shrine

Would you like to visit the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok? Then we have a few tips for you here:

Journey to the Erawan Shrine:

• The Erawan Shrine is located at the intersection of Ratchaprasong, near the BTS Skytrain station Chit Lom.
• The easiest way to get there is to take the BTS Skytrain to Chit Lom station and walk from there.
• Alternatively, you can take a cab or tuk-tuk, but be aware that traffic can quickly become heavy during rush hour.

Respectful behavior:

• The Erawan Shrine is a sacred place. Wear appropriate clothing – shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Be respectful and quiet so as not to disturb the atmosphere of the shrine and those praying.

Photography:

• Photography is permitted, but please do so without flash and without disturbing the worshippers.

Best time to visit:

• The shrine is less crowded in the early morning and later in the evening.
• It can get very crowded, especially during traditional festivals.

Refreshments and catering:

• There are many different restaurants and cafés around the shrine where you can fortify yourself.

FAQs about the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok

Finally, we answer a few frequently asked questions about the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok.