The short answer
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple: what visitors should know first
Yes, if you would like a Hindu temple visit and a familiar atmosphere in the middle of Bangkok. It is small, easy to reach by BTS and open to worshippers of all faiths. Allow 30 minutes.
History and context
The story behind Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
The temple was built in 1879 by Vaithi Padayatchi, a Tamil Hindu immigrant. It is in the South Indian Dravidian style, with a gopuram about 6 metres tall and a main shrine with a gilded copper dome. It is also known locally as Wat Khaek, though that name is increasingly seen as offensive.
Useful facts
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple facts at a glance
- Location
- Silom Road at Pan Road, Bang Rak
- Faith
- Hindu
- Deity/dedication
- Sri Maha Mariamman; shrines to Ganesh and Murugan
- Visitor note
- Remove shoes; offerings sold on Pan Road
- Built
- 1879
Why it matters
Why Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is worth your time
The temple was built in 1879 by Vaithi Padayatchi, a Tamil Hindu immigrant and leader of the Tamil community in Bangkok. It shows the long history of Indian migration to Thailand, and it still serves the Indian community.
It is also a place where Thai Buddhists and Chinese visitors come to pray, which shows the overlap between faiths in Thai religious life. Indian visitors will find the architecture and rituals familiar, while Thai visitors treat the goddess as a source of help for business and fertility.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The gopuram
An entrance tower covered with carved deities, in South Indian style.
- 02
The three main shrines
Ganesh, Murugan and Sri Maha Mariamman, visited in that order.
- 03
Navaratri procession
A festival procession partly closes Silom Road in September or October.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Walk from the BTS to the temple at the corner of Silom and Pan roads. The entrance tower, the gopuram, is covered with carved deities. Inside, follow the usual order: Ganesh, then Murugan, then the main shrine of Sri Maha Mariamman.
Buy a marigold garland from one of the kiosks on Pan Road if you want to make an offering. Oil lamp rituals with blessed food take place on most midday and Friday sessions, so ask a priest about the timing. Many of the worshippers are Thai Buddhists and Chinese visitors, which is part of what makes the temple unusual.
During Navaratri in September or October, a procession partly closes Silom Road. Deepavali also brings extra lighting. After the visit, you can walk to Lumphini Park or eat at an Indian restaurant in Silom. Keep a respectful distance during prayers and ask before taking photographs.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Remove shoes at the door
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Ask before taking photographs of worshippers
- Buy garlands on Pan Road if you want to make an offering
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Silom Road at Pan Road, Bang Rak
- Time needed
- About 30 to 45 minutes
- Best time
- Morning or midday session
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Level ground, a short walk from Surasak or Sala Daeng BTS stations, with a covered shrine area and shoes removed at the door. It is compact and easy for older visitors, though the streets outside are crowded.
- Tickets and access
- Entry is free. Remove shoes, cover shoulders and knees, and check the current opening hours and any festival closures. Flower garlands are sold on Pan Road.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Level ground, a short walk from Surasak or Sala Daeng BTS stations, with a covered shrine area and shoes removed at the door. It is compact and easy for older visitors, though the streets outside are crowded.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is the temple open to all?
Yes, it is open to worshippers and visitors; follow the dress and shoe rules.
When is Navaratri?
Usually in September or October, with a procession that partly closes Silom Road.
Is there an Indian restaurant nearby?
Silom has several Indian restaurants; verify current opening hours before you go.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
