Tucked amidst luxury malls and five-star hotels in Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong area lies the Erawan Shrine, a radiant and revered spiritual site. Despite the fast-paced urban surroundings, this golden sanctuary offers a space of serenity and prayer. Rich in Hindu mythology and Thai cultural beliefs, the shrine attracts thousands of worshippers each day—from devoted locals to curious travelers—seeking blessings, protection, and miracles.
🕉️ History & Mythology Behind Erawan Shrine
The Erawan Shrine, also known as Phra Phrom Shrine, was constructed in 1956 during the building of the original Erawan Hotel (now the Grand Hyatt Erawan). Construction setbacks and accidents plagued the project until an astrologer recommended building a shrine to honor Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of Brahma, the four-faced Hindu god of creation.
According to Hindu mythology:
- Brahma is one of the Trimurti (alongside Vishnu and Shiva), symbolizing creation and benevolence.
- His four faces represent the four virtues: Kindness, Mercy, Sympathy, and Impartiality.
After the shrine was built, the troubles ceased—cementing its spiritual reputation.
🙏 Cultural Belief & Praying Process
What Believers Pray For:
- Removal of bad karma
- Good fortune in business
- Safe travels
- Health and recovery
- Fertility and love
How to Pray at Erawan Shrine:
- Buy offerings (incense sticks, candles, jasmine garlands, wooden elephants) from stalls nearby.
- Circle clockwise starting from the front face of Brahma.
- Offer 9 incense sticks—3 per face (some light all 9 at once).
- Place garlands and candles at designated areas.
- Optional: Donate for a classical Thai dance performed in gratitude or prayer fulfillment.
Tip: Avoid pointing your feet at the shrine, a major sign of disrespect in Thai culture.
⏰ Opening Hours & Location of Erawan Shrine
- Open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Best time to visit: early morning or evening to avoid the crowd and heat
Location: Corner of Ratchadamri Road and Ploenchit Road, Bangkok (in front of Grand Hyatt Erawan)
BTS Skytrain:
- Get off at Chidlom Station or Ratchadamri Station
- Follow the Skywalk signs to Ratchaprasong Intersection
🏛️ Famous Surrounding Attractions
- CentralWorld – One of Thailand’s biggest shopping malls (just across the road)
- Gaysorn Village – Luxury boutique mall nearby
- Amarin Plaza – Shopping and food court within walking distance
- Big C Supercenter – Great for souvenirs and local snacks
- Pratunam Market – Popular for cheap clothes and accessories
- Four-Faced Buddha Skywalk – A stunning elevated path offering shrine views
📸 Visitors & Global Attraction for Erawan Shrine
The Erawan Shrine attracts millions of visitors each year:
- Locals come regularly for prayers and rituals.
- Tourists seek spiritual experience or cultural connection.
- Chinese and East Asian devotees strongly believe in the shrine’s power—many travel exclusively to pray here.
- Celebrities and business leaders often perform thanksgiving rituals after success.
💡 Pro Tips for Visitors to visit Erawan Shrine in Bangkok
- Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered)
- Avoid loud conversations or phone use near the shrine
- Carry cash for offerings and dance donations
- If fulfilled, consider revisiting with a thank-you prayer or donation