ThailandTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Erawan Shrine, Bangkok

1. How do I get to Erawan Shrine from the airport?


There are a few different options for getting to Erawan Shrine from the airport, depending on your preferred mode of transportation and budget:

1. By taxi: The most convenient option is to take a taxi directly from the airport to Erawan Shrine. This should take around 45 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost approximately 400-500 baht.
2. By BTS (Skytrain): You can also take the Airport Rail Link from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Phaya Thai Station, then transfer to the BTS Skytrain at Phaya Thai Station and take it to Chit Lom Station. From there, it is just a short walk to Erawan Shrine.
3. By bus: You can take Bus No. 550 or Bus No. 556 from Suvarnabhumi Airport and get off at Ratchaprasong intersection, which is right in front of Erawan Shrine.
4. By airport express bus: If you are arriving at Don Mueang International Airport, you can take the Airport Express Bus AE3 or AE4 and get off at Sribumphen Intersection, which is also within walking distance of Erawan Shrine.

2. How much does it cost to visit Erawan Shrine?

Erawan Shrine itself is free to visit. However, if you would like to make an offering such as flowers or incense at the shrine, these items can be purchased from nearby vendors for a few hundred baht.

3. What are the opening hours for Erawan Shrine?

Erawan Shrine is open daily from 6am-12am.

4. Is there a dress code for visiting Erawan Shrine?

There is no official dress code for visiting Er

2. Is there public transportation available to reach Erawan Shrine?

Yes, there are several options for public transportation to reach Erawan Shrine. The shrine is located near Chit Lom BTS Station, so taking the BTS Skytrain is a popular and convenient option. It is also possible to take a taxi or a tuk-tuk to the shrine.

3. What is the best time of day to visit Erawan Shrine?
The best time of day to visit Erawan Shrine is either early in the morning or in the evening. During these times, the weather will be cooler and there will be fewer crowds.

4. What should I wear when visiting Erawan Shrine?
As it is a sacred location, visitors should dress modestly when visiting Erawan Shrine out of respect for Thai culture and beliefs. This means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding clothing that is too revealing or provocative.

5. Are there any special rules or customs I should follow when visiting Erawan Shrine?
Yes, visitors should keep in mind that this is a place of worship and show respect accordingly. This includes removing shoes before entering the shrine area, refraining from loud conversations or actions that may disturb others, and following any specific rituals observed by locals.

6. Are there any entrance fees to visit Erawan Shrine?
No, there are no entrance fees to visit Erawan Shrine.

7. Can I take photos at Erawan Shrine?
Yes, you can take photos at Erawan Shrine but be mindful of other worshippers and refrain from using flash photography out of respect for their religious practices.

8. Is it safe to leave offerings at Erawan Shrine?
While leaving offerings at the shrine is a common practice among visitors, it is generally not recommended as they may attract wildlife such as birds or monkeys which can cause safety concerns for both visitors and worshippers.

9. Can I make a wish or pray at Erawan Shrine?
Yes, visitors are welcome to make a wish or say a prayer at Erawan Shrine. It is important to show respect by following local customs and observing proper etiquette while doing so.

10. Are there any nearby attractions or activities near Erawan Shrine?
Yes, Erawan Shrine is located in the heart of Bangkok’s shopping district, so there are plenty of nearby attractions and activities such as high-end shopping malls, street markets, cultural landmarks, and restaurants. Other popular nearby attractions include Siam Paragon, CentralWorld Plaza, and Lumphini Park.

3. Can I take a taxi or ride-sharing service to Erawan Shrine?


Yes, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service like Grab to Erawan Shrine. The closest drop-off point is located on Ratchadamri Road, near the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel. From there, it is just a short walk to the shrine. Be sure to ask your driver to turn on the meter or agree on a price before starting the journey.

4. Are there any designated parking areas near the shrine?


Yes, there are designated parking areas near the shrine. They may be located within the shrine’s premises or in nearby public parking lots. It is best to check with the shrine or local authorities for specific information on designated parking areas and their availability.

5. What is the best time of day to visit Erawan Shrine?


The best time of day to visit Erawan Shrine is either in the morning when it first opens (around 6:00 or 7:00 AM) or in the evening after sunset. This is when the shrine is less crowded and you can fully appreciate its beauty and serenity. Weekday mornings may be slightly less crowded than weekends. It is also a good idea to avoid visiting during rush hour times (8:00-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:00 PM) as the area tends to get very congested with commuters.

6. Are there any restrictions on what clothing I can wear at the shrine?


Yes, there are certain restrictions on clothing that is deemed inappropriate for a shrine. These include:

1. Revealing or tight-fitting clothing: Clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting is considered disrespectful and may be restricted at the shrine.

2. Shorts or skirts above the knee: In many shrines, shorts and skirts above the knee are not allowed, as they may be seen as too revealing.

3. Tank tops or sleeveless shirts: Similar to shorts and skirts, tank tops and sleeveless shirts may be considered too revealing and therefore restricted at some shrines.

4. Clothing with offensive symbols or slogans: Any clothing with offensive symbols, graphics, or slogans that go against the values of the shrine may not be allowed.

5. Footwear: In most cases, shoes must be removed before entering a shrine’s main hall or inner sanctum. However, it is important to check beforehand if this rule applies to a specific shrine as some do allow footwear inside.

Overall, it is best to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting a shrine. If in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and cover up more than you think necessary.

7. Can I bring a camera or take photos at Erawan Shrine?


Yes, you are allowed to bring a camera and take photos at Erawan Shrine. However, please be respectful of the sacredness of the shrine and avoid using flash or making loud noises. It is also advised to ask for permission from any worshippers before taking their photos.

8. Are there any entrance fees for visiting the shrine?


It depends on the specific shrine you are visiting. Some shrines may have an entrance fee, while others are free to enter. It is best to research and check the individual shrine’s website or ask a local for more information.

9. Is it customary to leave an offering or donation at Erawan Shrine?


Yes, it is customary to leave an offering or donation at Erawan Shrine. Many visitors will purchase a garland of flowers and place it at the shrine as an offering. Others may also leave money or other small items as a gesture of respect and for good luck. It is not required, but it is a common practice at the shrine.

10. What kind of offerings can I leave at the shrine?


Offerings can vary depending on the deity or spiritual tradition. Some common offerings include food, flowers, incense, candles, coins or monetary donations, and prayers. In some traditions, specific items may be preferred by certain deities, so it is important to do research beforehand. Offerings should always be made with sincerity and respect.

11. How long should I plan to spend at Erawan Shrine?


It is recommended to spend at least an hour at Erawan Shrine. This will allow you enough time to explore the shrine, take photos, and observe the religious rituals taking place. However, if you want to participate in the full ceremony of offering flowers and incense, it may take longer.

12. Is there a specific ritual or prayer that visitors should perform at the shrine?


There is no specific ritual or prayer that visitors are required to perform at the shrine. Some may choose to offer a small donation, light incense, or say a silent prayer. It is also important to respect the beliefs and customs of others who may be present at the shrine.

13. Can I hire a guide to show me around the area and explain the significance of Erawan Shrine?


Yes, you can hire a guide to show you around the area and explain the significance of Erawan Shrine. Many tour companies and local guides offer guided tours of the shrine and its surroundings, providing cultural and historical information about the site. You can also book a tour through your hotel or online before your visit.

14. Are there any nearby restaurants or food stalls for a quick meal before or after visiting the shrine?

There are several restaurants and food stalls located near the Myeong-dong Shrine. Some popular options include:
1. Myeong-dong Kyoja – a famous restaurant known for its handmade noodles
2. Nolboo Budae Jjigae – specializing in a popular Korean stew known as budae jjigae
3. Miso – a Japanese-style curry chain with various locations in Myeong-dong
4. Lotteria – a popular fast food chain offering burgers, fries, and other quick bites
5. Pojangmacha (street food stalls) – numerous stalls throughout Myeong-dong offering a variety of Korean street foods like tteokbokki, chicken skewers, and more.

15. What other attractions are within walking distance from Erawan Shrine?

Some other attractions within walking distance from Erawan Shrine include:

– CentralWorld shopping mall
– Pratunam Market
– Gaysorn Village shopping complex
– Big C Supercenter Ratchadamri
– Siam Paragon shopping mall
– Four Face Buddha statue in Trimurti Shrine
– Ammata Lanta Resort and Spa
– Amarin Plaza shopping mall
– Central Chidlom department store
– Jim Thompson House museum

16. Is it safe to walk around this area, especially after dark?


The safety of walking around this area, especially after dark, depends on various factors. It is always advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, regardless of the neighborhood you are in.

Some areas may have higher crime rates and may not be safe for walking alone at night. It is always a good idea to research the specific area you plan on walking through and take precautions such as staying in well-lit areas, avoiding isolated streets or alleys, and being vigilant of your surroundings.

It is also recommended to walk with a companion or group if possible and avoid carrying valuable items that could make you a target for theft. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe while walking in this area, it is best to trust your instincts and find an alternative method of transportation.

17). Do people usually visit Erawan Shrine by themselves or in groups?


It depends. Some people may visit Erawan Shrine alone, while others may come in groups with friends or family members. It is a popular tourist attraction, so there are often many visitors at once regardless of whether they are alone or in a group. Some people may also visit as part of a tour group.

18). Is this a popular tourist destination, and if so, what is the best time of year to avoid crowds?


Niagara Falls is a very popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. Therefore, it can get quite crowded throughout the year, but some times are more popular than others.

The peak season for tourism at Niagara Falls is during the summer months from June to August. This is when school is out and families are on vacation, so the crowds tend to be at their highest during this time. If you are looking to avoid crowds, it would be best to avoid visiting in the summer.

The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) still see a fair amount of tourists but tend to be less crowded compared to the summer months. The weather during these seasons is also pleasant, making it a good time to visit if you want to avoid large crowds.

Winter is considered the off-season at Niagara Falls, and therefore sees fewer tourists. However, this can also be a picturesque time to visit as the falls may be frozen over and there are several winter activities available such as ice skating and snowshoeing.

Overall, if you want to avoid crowds, it would be best to visit Niagara Falls during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. Alternatively, if you don’t mind colder temperatures and fewer attractions being open, visiting in the winter can also provide a more peaceful experience with smaller crowds.

19). Will I be able to see traditional Thai dance performances at or near Erawan Shine?


Yes, you can see traditional Thai dance performances at or near the Erawan Shrine. The shrine is located in the heart of Bangkok and is a popular spot for cultural performances. You may be able to catch free performances on weekends and holidays, or you can visit nearby cultural centers such as the Siam Niramit theatre or the Aksra Theatre for traditional dance shows.

20). Does this area have accessible routes for individuals with disabilities?


It is not specified which area is being referred to, so it is difficult to answer this question. It would be best to contact the specific location in question to inquire about their accessibility accommodations for individuals with disabilities.