The Erawan Museum: A Handmade Giant Elephant Constructing a Pink Palace

To visit the Erawan Museum, you can take the BTS to Samrong Station (E15) or Chang Erawan Station (E17) and then transfer to a bus. Though the museum complex is relatively small, its pink exterior and the colossal bronze three-headed elephant statue make it a spectacular sight.

Upon entering the complex, visitors are greeted by the spectacular sight of the Erawan Museum.

Nine Years to Build: A 14-Story Marvel

Constructed in 1994, the Erawan Museum faced numerous challenges. Built by Thai businessman Lek Viriyaphant, the project was taken over by his brother after his passing, leading to additional design enhancements. It took nine years to complete and officially opened in 2003.

The all-bronze three-headed elephant is handcrafted, with every detail shaped by renowned artisans. The 150-ton body and 100-ton head took a year to complete, each head displaying a unique expression.

The three-headed elephant, a mount of a Brahman deity, symbolizes the connection between heaven and earth. Originally depicted as 33 elephants, it was simplified to three heads for ease of expression. This impressive sculpture was handcrafted by ten renowned artisans. The museum reaches a height of about 43.6 meters (equivalent to 14 stories), with the elephant body measuring 39 meters and weighing 150 tons, while its head weighs 100 tons. Visitors can enter the museum through the elephant's hind legs and ascend to the third-floor exhibit.

The pink walls of the museum have become a popular photo spot for influencers.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are captivated by its striking pink interior. The first level represents the human world, featuring a staircase leading to a small shrine dedicated to the Bodhisattva Guanyin, adorned with a hand-painted stained-glass ceiling depicting the concept of the world. Four massive cast tin pillars represent religious stories from Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam, symbolizing peace and harmony, with religion underpinning the world.

Stepping inside the Erawan Museum, visitors are continually amazed by its unique design and cultural connections. The massive tin pillars are intricately carved with religious stories, representing Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam, which support the world.

Entering the Belly of the Three-Headed Elephant: Admiring Cosmic Art by a German Artist

On either side of the spiral staircase, intricate carvings can be seen—one side in pink and the other in white, creating a beautiful contrast. The top level features another spiral staircase leading to the heavenly realm of the museum.

The European-style ceiling is adorned with hand-painted stained glass depicting the concept of the world.

Located in the belly of the elephant, the heavenly layer showcases large paintings by a renowned German artist that tell the story of the universe. Surrounding this area are various Buddha statues from different eras, attracting many devotees for worship.

The base of the Guanyin shrine features exquisite carvings.

The bottom of the museum houses a treasure trove known as the underground layer, which contains the personal antique collection of Lek Viriyaphant, including cups, vases, plates, and historical artifacts. There are also exhibits detailing Siam's history, but photography is not permitted in this section, so visitors should take note.

Numerous elephant sculptures surround the area. The heavenly layer is located in the elephant's belly, featuring large paintings by a renowned German artist.

Beyond the museum, the surrounding garden features numerous elephant sculptures and large golden Buddha statues for visitors to pay their respects. In the evening, the garden is beautifully illuminated, creating a different atmosphere altogether. The museum's design reflects the Thai people's devotion to religion and their acceptance of different faiths, combining various artistic elements to showcase their connection to the world. The striking pink exterior and interior design make this a must-visit photo spot.

The garden is adorned with numerous elephant sculptures and various Buddha statues for worship, providing convenience for visitors.

The Erawan Museum

Address : 99/9 M.1 Muang Samut Prakan, Samut Prakan Province, Bangkok, Thailand

Phone : +66-2371-3135

Opening Hours : 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM(Ticket close 5:00PM)

Admission Fee : 500 baht(Adult),250 baht(Children)

Transportation : Take the BTS to Samrong Station (E15) or Chang Erawan Station (E17), then transfer to a bus directly to the entrance.

Website: https://www.erawanmuseum.com/en/#erawanmuseum