The Elephant Shrine (Honouring Brahma) at Promthep Cape in Phuket [Thailand]

Situated at the southernmost point of Phuket Island, Promthep Cape was said to be a must-go but sadly, i didn't find it as fascinating as the shrine i chanced upon (as above) in its vicinity.

There were literally hundreds of elephant statues surrounding the small shrine which would have caught your immediate attention from far, as it did for us! 

The shrine didn't appear any different from the famous Erawan shrine in Bangkok (四面佛) and upon further checks, the deity honoured within is the same Hindu God of Creation; Brahma. Just a little trivia here; the cape was named after Brahma too (Phra Phrom is the Thai name of Brahma).

Even though there were statues of elephant in varying sizes, one of the biggest would be the above; which i probably think would be about the size of a baby elephant. 

Nonetheless, signs were put up to determine visitors to sit on top of the statue. Aside from disrespect to the culturally revered animal, it's a safety issue since the statues are not built to withstand the weight of humans. 

From the biggest to the smallest; these statues placed around the shrine were about palm-sized. From my understanding (according to this webpage), you can buy and bring the carved elephants as offerings to the deity. 

Flower garlands were hung over the bigger elephants, together with sugar canes; said to be a favourite among the gigantic animals. Despite the supposed respect given, i find it strange to read and hear of stories about elephant abuse in Thailand. 

That's why i didn't plan for any tours to the elephant sanctuaries in Phuket since i can't be too sure if it's just a front for profitable enterprises. Anyway, entry to sanctuaries doesn't come cheap. 

Last few pictures of the elephant statues; lined up in circles around the shrine, all of them faced outwards as if to proclaim to the public, the arrival of the deity! Imagine the racket if they were real. 

=====

Location

Within the vicinity of Promthep Cape,

Rawai, Phuket Island, Thailand

Map

As above. 

Do click here for my 5-day Phuket itinerary!