A colorful South Indian temple! A cross-cultural worship experience at Wat Phra Si Maha Uma Thewi

[Overview] Wat Phra Sri Maha Uma Thewi, located on Silom Road, is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Bangkok, which still retains South Indian Dravidian architecture. Built by a Tamil merchant in 1879, the temple's colorful gopuram and elaborate statues set it apart from Thai Buddhist temples. When I visited at 9am in late January 2025, the temple was quietly bustling with local worshippers holding incense and jasmine. [Highlights] 📍The gopuram's sculptures span 19 floors, featuring multiple gods such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Lakshmi. The goddess Mahamariamman, who sits in the center, is particularly revered as a guardian deity who wards off epidemics. 📍The goddess statue in the center of the main hall has 12 arms with different weapons, and is a figure that combines strength and motherhood. After sunset, the LED lighting illuminates the temple in golden red, creating a fantastic look. 📍The sub-shrine in the precincts features a golden mosaic and a Ganesha statue. There is a unique way of offering coconuts and bananas for prayers. 📍Historical information boards are installed in both Thai and English, and you can learn about the background of the temple's founding and the Navaratri festival held every October. [Visiting Information] 📍Opening hours 06:00–20:00, free admission 📍Please remove your shoes and hat when entering (see the entrance sign) 📍Flash photography is prohibited inside the main hall, and do not take photos of the monks from the front 📍About a 13-minute walk from the nearest BTS Chong Nonsi Station, or take a taxi to "Wat Khaek" [Nearby Stopover Spots] After visiting the temple, enjoy South Indian curry at a Tamil restaurant a 3-minute walk away, and on the way back, enjoy a takeaway chai-flavored croissant at a popular bakery to complete your cross-cultural stroll. #Bangkok #Wat Phra Sri Maha Uma Thewi #Sri Maha Mariamman Temple #Hindu Temple #Walking around Silom #Cross-cultural experience #Bangkok Tour