The Penis Shrine of Thailand

When I went to Thailand to "rescue Alan" in 1988, I didn't have a lot of time for sightseeing, so I missed the Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine.

 Businessman Lert Sreshthaputa or Nai Lert (1872-1945), developed Thailand's first bus service, modern hotel, retail establishments, and ice ("solid water" was an amazing novelty in the tropical country).

He wanted to honor Chao Mae Tuptim, a pre-Buddhist goddess who lived in a ficus tree on his property, so he developed the property that would become the British Embassy, he set aside a spirit park for her.



Her preferred offering was a phallus, so thousands were carted in over the years.  Over 100 remain, of all sizes and shapes, from 1 inch to 10 feet tall.


There are penises with penises, penises sprouting like mushrooms or stacked like logs.






Many wear silk cloths left by penitents.

Women rub the penises for fertility, and men for increased virility.  Or for good luck.

You can also pray in the spirit house.











The shrine is located behind the Nai Lert Park Swisshotel on Wireless Road, next to the British Embassy.  You don't have to be staying at the hotel to visit, but try the buffet in the Iso Restaurant afterwards.

See also: Alan Turns Gay in Pattaya; and the Naked Ghost Festival of Thailand.