If one day you are traveling by taxi through Bangkok and your driver suddenly takes his hands of the wheels, turns sideways, prays, and pats down his hair, don’t worry – it’s not dangerous. You’ve probably just passed the Erawan Shrine. The Erawan Shrine (or San Phra Phrom as it is known locally) was initially meant to be a ‘spirit house’ during the construction of the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in 1953. During construction builders faced a number of problems and under the advice of a spiritual advisor an image of ‘Brahma’ (or ‘Phra Phrom’ – a four-headed god) replaced the spirit house. Construction problems ceased and visitors to the shrine experienced good fortune. The shrine is now visited on a daily basis by hundreds of people who make very specific prayers and offer to service Brahma if their prayer is granted. Such service might include offering garlands of flowers or purchasing Lotus flowers and candles for the temple. Thai classical dance and music is performed every few minutes. Despite what many people think, this is not paid for by the Tourist Authority of Thailand or put on for the sake of tourists. Service to Brahma can include sponsoring the dancers and musicians and so this is very much the real deal. Erawn Shrine looks, sounds and smells great. With its central location and convenience to shopping centres and restaurants, this is very much a ‘must see’ destination.
Details: The Erawan Shrine is centrally located next to the Erawan Hotel on Rajadamri Road, diagonally opposite the World Trade Centre. There is no entrance fee, but you will be encouraged to purchase flowers and incense, etc. from the vendors around the shrine and you should make a donation if you can.
How to get there: The nearest BTS is Rajadamri station and it’s about a 10-15 minute walk from there. A taxi will cost around 45 Baht from place in central Bangkok.
Hotels in the Erawan Shrine locality 
Restaurants and bars in the Erawan Shrine locality 
