WAT KHAEK
Tucked away in the bustling heart of Bangkok’s Silom district lies Wat Khaek (วัดแขก), officially known as Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, a vivid, multi-sensory journey into South Indian culture, devotion, and history, all right in the middle of Thailand’s capital.
Built in the 19th century by Tamil immigrants, this vibrant and colorful temple stands out with its ornate gopuram (tower), decorated with intricately carved deities and vibrant murals. Dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, the temple serves as a major center for Hindu worship in Bangkok, particularly for the Indian community, but it also attracts Thai Buddhists who come to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.
It’s important to notice that no photo’s/videos are allowed inside the temple! Upon entering, kindly take off your shoes.
Turning the corner onto Pan Road, the scent of jasmine and incense hit your senses like a warm embrace. Ahead, you can see the towering gopuram (gateway tower) of Wat Khaek, ornately carved and adorned with hundreds of vibrantly painted deities, each representing a piece of Hindu mythology.
Inside, the murmur of prayers, rhythmic bell ringing, and the soft chanting of mantras filled the air. The walls were alive with sculptures of gods and goddesses—Vishnu, Ganesha, Lakshmi, and above all, the fierce yet protective Goddess Mariamman, to whom the temple is dedicated. Both Thai and Indian devotees lit candles and offered garlands of marigolds as the scent of burning camphor mingled with the vibrant hues of flowers, giving the temple an otherworldly atmosphere.
For the Thai locals, Wat Khaek had long become more than a Hindu temple—it was a spiritual haven, a place to seek blessings for prosperity, love, and good fortune. Many believed that the goddess Mariamman could grant miracles, and they often came seeking help with challenges in their personal or professional lives. The legend of Mariamman’s power had transcended borders and religions, making Wat Khaek a center of faith for all.
The temple is especially magical during Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, when its vibrant decorations are illuminated even more brightly. The streets outside become a scene of celebration, where Thai vendors sell Indian sweets and the air is filled with joyous laughter and music. Firecrackers crackle in the distance, and children run through the streets with sparklers, their faces lit up with the excitement of the festival.
You can marvel at how seamlessly the cultures blended. Thai Buddhists performed Hindu rituals with grace and reverence, while Indian devotees prayed in their traditional saris and dhotis. It was a symbol of unity—proof that in the heart of Bangkok, diversity wasn’t just accepted, it was celebrated.
Just like a group of office workers, still in their suits and ties, standing next to a sari-clad woman reciting Sanskrit prayers. It was a beautiful mosaic of people from different walks of life, all coming together under the divine gaze of the goddess. The fusion of faiths and nationalities wasn’t just something that happened—it was alive, breathing within the very walls of Wat Khaek.
Wat Khaek, or the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, is a hidden gem that reflects Bangkok’s multicultural identity. With its vibrant architecture, fascinating rituals, and lively festivals, it offers a captivating experience that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions in the city. Whether you’re interested in Hindu culture, architecture, or simply want to explore a different side of Bangkok, Wat Khaek is a destination worth adding to your itinerary.
WAT KHAEK
Monday – 06:00-20:00
Tuesday – 06:00-20:00
Wednesday – 06:00-20:00
Thursday – 06:00-20:00
Friday – 06:00-20:00
Saturday – 06:00-20:00
Sunday – 06:00-20:00