Erawan Shrine • Four Face Buddha 📍 Bangkok 曼谷四面佛 • 伊拉旺神坛 ☎ +66 2 252 8750

Every time I am in Bangkok, which is at least once a year since decades ago, a stop at Erawan Shrine is inevitable.

I mean the Chidlom area is the heart of Bangkok's tourist belt and Erawan Shrine is the megapolis' spiritual core for many Bangkokians and tourists.

Officially known as Thao Maha Brahma, Erawan Shrine is located steps from Chit Lom BTS station, at the northwest edge of Grand Hyatt Erawan, and the intersection of Ratchadamri Road and Rama I / Phloen Chit Road.

Erawan Shrine was consecrated in 1956.

At that time, the construction of Erawan Hotel which began in 1951 met with many difficulties and delays including workplace accidents.

Astrologer Rear Admiral Luang Suvichan Paet said that the foundation of Erawan Hotel was laid at an inauspicious time, hence the obstacles.

To clear potential obstacles to the hotel's future success, Rear Admiral Luang Suvichan Paet adviced that a shrine dedicated to Phra Phrom (Lord Bhrama) be consecrated outside Erawan Hotel.

Erawan Shrine was consecrated in Nov 1956, just before Erawan Hotel opened its doors.

Phra Phrom, the four face deity can see in all directions of heaven and earth, and can clear the path of the faithful.

Phra Phrom is the Thai representation of Hindu god Lord Brahma.

Lord Brahma is the creator of everything - physical, knowledge, and teachings in the vedas (Hindu scriptures).

Erawan Hotel was demolished in 1987 and Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok Hotel which opened in 1991 was built on the site.

The Erawan Shrine was preserved.

Today, Erawan Shrine is one of Bangkok's most visited landmarks. Devotees and visitors pray for Phra Phrom's blessings for the future. Flower and incense offerings can be purchased at the shrine for a nominal price.