エラワン博物館： バンコクの文化財

A bit off the beaten path and a fantastic experience. Incredible building with a fabulous staircase. Lovely grounds full of model elephants.

While Thailand offers vibrant nightlife and comfortable hotels, don't miss the chance to explore its cultural gems during the day. Grab a taxi or the Skytrain to one of Thailand captivating sights - Erawan Museum in Samut Prakan Province. This architectural masterpiece transcends the definition of a museum. It's a visual symphony of art, culture, and spirituality. The centerpiece that stops visitors in their tracks is a colossal, three-headed elephant crafted entirely from copper. Towering at a staggering 43.6 meters, this magnificent beast serves as both the museum's structure and its most impressive exhibit. Its meticulously detailed scales, intricate adornments, and majestic presence leave you speechless. Stepping inside the elephant reveals a world of wonder. Each of the three floors embodies a distinct realm from Thai Buddhist cosmology. The underworld, the human realm, and the celestial heavens are brought to life through a captivating blend of sculptures, artifacts, and murals. Beyond its stunning exterior and thematic displays, The Erawan Museum houses a collection of priceless treasures. Ancient religious objects, meticulously crafted statues from various eras, and mesmerizing paintings adorn the museum's interior. Every corner whispers tales of Thailand's rich cultural heritage. But the magic extends far beyond the elephant. This place also has a breathtakingly beautiful garden, a serene oasis that complements the museum's grandeur. A visit to The Erawan Museum is more than just an art appreciation experience; it's a journey into the heart of Thai mythology and artistry. Here, the magnificence of a mythical creature blends seamlessly with the intricacies of ancient beliefs. So, if you find yourself in Thailand, don't miss the chance to be captivated by The Erawan Museum. Prepare to be awestruck by its architectural marvel, transported by its thematic displays, and enriched by its cultural treasures.

There were 2 places to visit. The 1st was the museum of pottery with historical facts and legends. This museum was dark, gloomy, musty, low ceiling which I didn’t quite fancy and wished I didn’t go in. If you’re alone, skip it. The 2nd was within the huge elephant statue you see as you walk in. That was cool. You are required to remove your footwear to go in. Once you reach the main door, you will see a beautiful and intricately crafted staircase to the top. At the top, you will find another mini spiral staircase to your left and a lift to your right. Both will take you up to a beautiful shrine/worship area. If you’re not into confined spiral staircases, use the lift. Once you’re done with the museum, you can sit by the gardens by the fountains and enjoy some greenery and serenity or head to the restaurants for food/drinks. It was a nice experience except for that gloomy bit.

For what is offered there, admission is simply too expensive. Hundreds of Chinese are carted there by tourist buses. Taking sensible photos is almost impossible.

a photo does not show you the shear size of it you got to see it to beleave it its just amazing to see

This museum is open until 19:00, so if you have time in the afternoon it's a good chance to see something beautiful. Take the BTS, not to waste time in traffic jams (quite cold inside the train due to air conditioners, be ready to the contrast with the temperature outside). The adult entrance tickets are 400 bhat, which is higher, than indicated at trip advisor. The place is surrounded by the beautiful garden with statues and gives you the feeling of tranquility in the evening, when there are almost no visitors. No short and open clothes are allowed inside (and take off shoes). The museum is lighted inside, so even when it gets dark you are still able to see the beauty of the decorations inside.

The biggest draw (literally) is the massive three-headed elephant that is the image of this place. This place is small, but the history behind it is pretty neat (read it online not at the place). It also is surrounded by elephants that have motion sensors to trumpet call when you walk through their legs. At the top of the museum is a small temple-esk area with many Buddha statues, some of which they don't allow pictures to be taken because of the damage it can cause the statues. Really neat place, but biggest draw is really the GIGANTIC elephant that can be seen from afar just as easily as up close.