Bangkok, Thailand-Prayers Amidst A Shopping Mecca-The Erawan Shrine

For me a visit to Bangkok is not complete without a trip to see the Erawan Shrine, in the heart of Pratunam and the shopping district. The contrast between modern shopping, elevated trains, and the 4 headed Brahma shrine is sharp and unlike any city in the west.

Unfortunately the shrine gained international attention in August 2015 when a bomb was set off there killing 20 people and injuring 125. Today there is still no conclusive evidence of who or why the bomb was detonated at the shrine.

The Erawan Shrine was actually placed on this site because of bad luck believed to have been caused by laying the foundation for the Erawan Hotel on the wrong date. The builders consulted an astrologer who advised them to put the shrine on the site to counter the bad karma. In 1987 the Erawan Hotel was demolished making room for the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel.

Thai traditional dancers sing and perform for worshippers who pay a fee. You can order the full deck of dancers-8, or just 2 who will sing and dance while you pray. A live band accompanies the singers.

The music, singing, and intense smell of incense against the backdrop of the biggest shopping district in Southeast Asia is intoxicating and addictive. I’ll always visit the Erawan Shrine!