Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine

Journey back to the early 20th century. A Thai businessman, Nai Lert, discovered a spirit house floating in the Khlong Saen Saep canal. He rescued it, placing it on the bank of his property. This act of reverence birthed the Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine. The Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine, nestled in Bangkok near the Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort, isn’t your average shrine. It’s a vibrant testament to fertility, a place where hopes blossom and wishes take curious forms. The shrine honors Chao Mae Tuptim, a pre-Buddhist tree spirit believed to bless those seeking her favor, particularly in matters of conception. Over time, the shrine has become a unique spectacle. Hundreds of wooden and stone phalluses, ranging from doughnut-sized to canoe-sized, fill the space. Some are humorously painted pink, others draped in cloth, all standing as offerings and symbols of fertility. Women from across Thailand and other East Asian countries visit the Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine, leaving offerings of candles, jasmine, lotus flowers, and incense. They whisper their prayers to Chao Mae Tuptim, hoping for her blessing. A plaque at the shrine acknowledges this unusual tradition. It reads, “Chao Mae Tuptim has received yet another rather less conventional kind of gift, phallic in shape, both small and large, stylized and highly realistic. Over the years, they have been brought by the thousands.” The sheer number and variety of phalluses create a striking visual, a testament to the enduring power of belief and the human desire for progeny. The Chao Mae Tuptim Shrine is more than just a collection of curious statues. It’s a vibrant expression of Thai culture. It’s a blend of ancient beliefs and modern hopes. It’s a place where the spiritual and the earthly intertwine in a unique and unforgettable way.