Erawan Museum, Bangkok - a building that has a tower in the middle of it
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Erawan Museum Bangkok

4.5
·12k reviews·Tambon Bang Muang Mai, Thailand

A breathtaking cultural landmark in Samut Prakan, famous for its colossal three-headed elephant statue and intricate Thai artistry.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Erawan Museum, Bangkok - a building that has a tower in the middle of it

Erawan Museum Bangkok

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking cultural landmark in Samut Prakan, famous for its colossal three-headed elephant statue and intricate Thai artistry.

4.5
(12k reviews)

"The Erawan Museum is a 'hidden gem' and 'definitely worth a visit' for its unique architecture and stunning details."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Take the BTS to Chang Erawan

It's the most convenient way to get there. A short walk or Grab from the station gets you to the museum.

💰 Check for Discounts

Foreigners pay 400 THB, but if you have a Thai work permit, you might get a discount. Ask at the ticket counter!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three-Headed Elephant

The Three-Headed Elephant

Exterior

An awe-inspiring, hand-carved masterpiece that dominates the skyline. A true symbol of the museum.

Inside the Elephant's Head

Inside the Elephant's Head

Interior

Ascend via stairs or lift to a breathtaking chapel adorned with celestial murals and intricate details.

The Museum Grounds

The Museum Grounds

Exterior

Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and smaller structures that complement the main elephant statue.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Plan Your Journey

The Erawan Museum is a bit outside central Bangkok, so factor in travel time. BTS Skytrain to Chang Erawan station is your best bet, followed by a short walk or Grab ride. Don't underestimate the Bangkok sun – hydrate and consider timing your visit to avoid the midday heat.

Tickets & What to Expect

Entry fee is 400 THB for foreigners, but there are discounts for those with work permits. The museum is known for its stunning architecture and the massive three-headed elephant. Inside, you'll find intricate details and religious artifacts.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, less heat
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Erawan Museum is definitely worth a visit 🙌 #erawanmuseum #cinematic #streetstories
@kosnio
169K likes • 2.3M views

🎯 Take the BTS to Chang Erawan

It's the most convenient way to get there. A short walk or Grab from the station gets you to the museum.

💰 Check for Discounts

Foreigners pay 400 THB, but if you have a Thai work permit, you might get a discount. Ask at the ticket counter!

The most beautiful museum in Bangkok #bangkoktravel #bangkokguide #thingstodoinbangkok #erawanmuseum #museumtok #bangkokjastip #travelthailand #hiddengem
@victoriachmel
79.2K likes • 1.1M views
Best Hidden Gem in Bangkok. If you’re looking to add a unique spot to your Bangkok tour, the Erawan Museum should definitely make your list. It’s a bit out of the way compared to other temples, but ...
lifeinthailandnow
4.3K likes • 199.3K views

⬆️ Climb to the Chapel

The chapel inside the elephant's head is stunning. Take the staircase for a more fun experience!

☀️ Beat the Heat

Bangkok sun can be intense. Go early or late, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing.

A guide on visiting the stunning Erawan Museum in Bangkok 🐘✨ 📍 What is it? The Erawan Museum is a breathtaking cultural landmark, best known for its massive three-headed elephant statue. Inside, you’...
thechaosdiaries
200.7K likes • 2.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Take the BTS to Chang Erawan

It's the most convenient way to get there. A short walk or Grab from the station gets you to the museum.

💰 Check for Discounts

Foreigners pay 400 THB, but if you have a Thai work permit, you might get a discount. Ask at the ticket counter!

⬆️ Climb to the Chapel

The chapel inside the elephant's head is stunning. Take the staircase for a more fun experience!

☀️ Beat the Heat

Bangkok sun can be intense. Go early or late, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing.

📸 Capture the Pink

The entire museum is a vibrant pink. It's a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(12k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Erawan Museum is consistently praised as a unique and breathtaking 'hidden gem' in Bangkok, largely due to its iconic three-headed elephant sculpture. Visitors are captivated by its intricate design, vibrant pink exterior, and the serene chapel within. While it requires a bit of travel from the city center, the experience is widely considered well worth the journey.

"A lovely restful place to visit. Spectacular building so nicely decorated inside with stairs a to the top floor and a lift from the middle to the top.
The gardens are well laid out with lots of art.
A worthwhile visit. There is a car park right next door with a free shuttle bus."

Michael Thomas

"Absolutely beautiful gardens an temple such a peaceful place to visit. The temple is full of history and you can choose to explore with the aid of a headphone narrative or choose just to take in the peacefulness without like we did.
The cost is a little on the high side being B500 for foreigners but I still found it worthwhile personally."

Andrew Walker

"The park is lovely, lots of greens and unique statues. You also have to be mindful of the dress code when entering the temple. It has a beautiful interior. There are museums located on the basement and attic.

The cafe and restaurant also served good food. The gift shop has affordable items and are not too overpriced."

Frances Bengwayan

What People Like

Massive three-headed elephant sculpture
Intricate hand-carved details
Beautiful pink architecture

What People Dislike

Entrance fee can be high for some
Location is outside central Bangkok
Can get hot during midday

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is to take the BTS Skytrain to the Chang Erawan station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk or a quick Grab ride to the museum. Some travelers have mentioned taking the Yellow line to Samrong and then transferring to the Sukhumvit line to Chang Erawan as an alternative route.

It takes about 30 minutes on the BTS from Asok to Chang Erawan station. After that, you'll have a short walk or can grab a ride.

Yes, it's about a half-mile walk from the Chang Erawan BTS station to the museum. However, given the Bangkok heat, many opt for a short Grab ride.

From Livotel at Hua Mak, you can take the BTS to Chang Erawan station. Alternatively, you could explore routes involving the Yellow line and then transferring to the Sukhumvit line.

Yes, Grab is readily available in Bangkok. You might experience a short wait for a Grab, especially during peak times or if you're arriving at a less busy hour.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The standard entry fee for foreigners is 400 THB. However, if you have a Thai work permit, you can often get a discounted rate. It's always a good idea to inquire at the ticket counter.

Yes, discounts are typically offered to individuals holding a Thai work permit. Be sure to have your permit with you when purchasing tickets.

While online booking options might exist, many visitors purchase tickets directly at the museum. The entry fee is clearly displayed, and staff can assist with any queries.

Your ticket grants you access to the entire museum complex, including the grounds and the interior of the three-headed elephant, which houses a chapel.

The museum is generally open daily from morning until early evening. It's advisable to check the official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

It's most famous for its colossal, three-headed elephant statue, which is the largest hand-carved sculpture of its kind in the world. The museum also houses a significant collection of Thai art, culture, and religious artifacts.

Inside the elephant, you'll find a stunning, exquisite chapel. It's accessed via a beautiful curving staircase or a lift, offering a unique spiritual and artistic experience.

While it has strong cultural and religious significance, it's technically a museum. It's a breathtaking cultural landmark that showcases Thai heritage and artistry, rather than a traditional active temple.

Absolutely! Travelers consistently describe it as a 'hidden gem' and 'definitely worth a visit.' Its unique architecture and intricate details make it a standout attraction in Bangkok.

Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum and its grounds. This allows ample time to admire the elephant, explore the interior chapel, and appreciate the surrounding gardens.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in most areas of the museum, including the exterior of the elephant and the grounds. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions inside the chapel or exhibition rooms.

The late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful lighting that enhances the pink hues of the museum and the elephant. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and softer light.

The entire museum is incredibly photogenic! The massive three-headed elephant is the main subject, but the intricate details of the architecture and the vibrant pink color provide endless photo opportunities.

The exterior of the elephant, especially from different angles, is a must. The interior chapel with its celestial murals and the beautifully landscaped gardens also make for stunning shots.

For casual visitor photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan on conducting a professional photoshoot, it's advisable to contact the museum administration in advance to inquire about their policies.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Photography Enthusiasts

The Erawan Museum is a dream for photographers, offering a unique and vibrant subject. The entire structure is painted in a striking pink, making it incredibly photogenic. The three-headed elephant itself provides endless angles and details to capture, especially during the golden hour when the light casts a magical glow.Instagram+1 Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the intricate celestial murals inside the elephant's head chapel. Remember to check for any specific photography restrictions within the interior spaces.

Culture & Art Lovers

For those interested in Thai culture and art, the Erawan Museum is a must-visit. It showcases a remarkable blend of traditional Thai beliefs and artistic expression. The museum houses a collection of religious artifacts and intricate artwork, all set within the context of the magnificent elephant structure.TikTok The detailed craftsmanship throughout the museum offers a deep dive into the region's heritage and artistic traditions.

Day-Trippers from Bangkok

The Erawan Museum makes for an excellent half-day trip from central Bangkok. Its unique appeal sets it apart from the more common temple visits. Plan your journey using the BTS to Chang Erawan station to make the most of your time. Combine it with a visit to nearby attractions or simply enjoy a leisurely exploration of the museum and its grounds. It’s a refreshing change of pace and a chance to see something truly distinctive.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majestic Erawan Elephant: A Symbol of Wonder

The Erawan Museum's centerpiece is its colossal, three-headed elephant statue, a truly awe-inspiring sight. This magnificent structure is not just a visual spectacle; it's recognized as the world's largest hand-carved sculpture of its kind. Its sheer scale and intricate detailing are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship involved in its creation. Many visitors are captivated by its presence, with TikTok and Instagram videos frequently showcasing its grandeur from various angles.TikTokInstagram+1 The vibrant pink hue of the elephant adds to its unique and almost surreal appearance, making it a standout landmark in Bangkok.

Journey Inside the Elephant: A Spiritual Sanctuary

Beyond its impressive exterior, the Erawan Museum offers a profound experience within the elephant's belly. Accessible via a gracefully winding staircase or a convenient lift, the interior reveals a breathtaking chapel. This sacred space is adorned with celestial murals and intricate decorative elements that create an atmosphere of peace and reverence.Reddit Travelers often describe this part of the visit as a highlight, a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the grandeur of the museum. The contrast between the external might of the elephant and the delicate beauty of the chapel within is a key part of its charm.

Navigating to the Erawan Museum: Tips from Travelers

Reaching the Erawan Museum requires a bit of planning as it's located in Samut Prakan, a province adjacent to Bangkok. The most recommended method of transport is the BTS Skytrain, specifically alighting at the Chang Erawan station.Reddit From the station, it's a manageable walk of about 10 minutes, or you can easily hail a Grab for a quicker, albeit slightly more expensive, journey. Some Reddit users have shared alternative routes involving the Yellow Line BTS, suggesting transfers to reach Chang Erawan.Reddit Be prepared for the Bangkok heat; staying hydrated and timing your visit to avoid the peak midday sun is crucial for a comfortable experience.

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