History of Wat Khaek

The Bangkok Mariamman temple, widely known as Wat Khaek, has a fascinating history rooted in migration and cultural preservation. It was founded in 1879 during the reign of King Rama V by Vaithi Padayatchi, a Tamil migrant and gemstone trader from Tamil Nadu.

At the time, India was under British colonial rule, prompting many to leave their homeland in search of new opportunities, and Vaithi chose Bangkok as his home. To honor his heritage and express his devotion, he built the temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman.

Locals came to call it “Wat Khaek,” as the Thai word “Khaek” traditionally refers to people of South Asian appearance, reflecting the temple’s cultural identity, but Thai and Chinese devotees also come in large numbers.

Goddess Mariamman

At the heart of the Sri Mariamman temple Bangkok is the worship of Goddess Mariamman, revered as a powerful motherly deity who blesses her devotees with rain, fertility, health, and protection of life and wealth. Her name means “mother of rain,” reflecting her divine role in nourishing the land and healing communities. In Thailand, she is affectionately called Uma Devi, recognized as the wife of Lord Shiva, the God of Destruction, and the mother of Ganesha, the God of Wisdom, and Kartikeya, the God of War.

Mariamman is traditionally depicted as a beautiful woman with a radiant complexion, adorned with flowers and intricate jewelry. She holds a trident (trishul) symbolizing divine power, and a bowl of neem leaves, considered sacred for their medicinal properties. Her image embodies grace, strength, and nurturing protection, making her one of the most venerated Hindu deities in Thailand.

Magnificent Tamil Nadu (South Indian) Architecture

Wat Khaek on Silom Road stands out in Bangkok for its magnificent Tamil Nadu (South Indian) architectural style, a vibrant display of faith and artistry. The temple’s facade is adorned with colorful mosaic artwork and intricate carvings that depict a pantheon of Hindu deities. Multiple vividly detailed sculptures of gods and goddesses cover the walls, roofs, and pillars in varying shapes and sizes, creating a stunning, florid composition that captures the essence of South Indian temple design.

Inside, the temple houses three sacred shrines. The main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, the powerful motherly deity worshipped for protection, health, and prosperity. Two smaller shrines honor her sons—Ganesha, the God of Wisdom, and Kartikeya, the God of War. Together, the architecture and shrines at Wat Khaek Silom create a deeply spiritual and visually striking sanctuary that reflects Tamil heritage in the heart of Bangkok.

Navaratri, Thailand's largest Hindu Festival at What Khaek

Navaratri, celebrated with gusto at the Maha Mariamman temple Bangkok, is the largest Hindu festival in Thailand and a vibrant expression of devotion and culture. Meaning “nine nights” in Sanskrit, Navaratri honors Goddess Durga, the embodiment of Shakti — the power and energy that creates the whole universe. Over nine nights, devotees gather for rituals, prayers, and traditional dances, creating an atmosphere of joy and spiritual intensity.

At the temple, worshippers perform aarti (prayer ceremonies), offer flowers, and light incense sticks in reverence to the goddess. The highlight is a grand procession where statues of Durga are carried through Silom’s bustling streets, accompanied by music, dancing, and colorful displays. With Bangkok’s largest Hindu community located in Silom, the festival has become a cherished cultural and spiritual celebration, uniting people in devotion while showcasing the richness of Hindu traditions in Thailand.

Stay at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection by IHG to explore Wat Khaek and experience Navarati Festival


 

Stay at Sindhorn Midtown Hotel Bangkok, Vignette Collection by IHG for the perfect base to explore Wat Khaek Bangkok and experience the colorful Navaratri Festival. Located just 3.4 kilometers (a 15-minute drive) from the temple, our 5-star hotel offers convenience and luxury in every detail.

Choose from meticulously curated suites and studios featuring a fully-equipped kitchenette, 2-in-1 washer dryer, refrigerator, kitchenware, dining table, and Karl Lagerfeld bath amenities. After a day of festivities, unwind in the outdoor infinity pool on the 18th floor or savor scrumptious dining at our rooftop restaurant and bar on the 31st floor.

With BTS Chit Lom and BTS Ratchadamri only 5 minutes away, and easy transit to BTS Surasak for Wat Khaek, your Bangkok adventure is seamless and stylish.

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