A visitor would usually expect a Buddhist or Hindu god or spirit to be the most prominent attraction at a place of worship. However, many people are either disturbed or are happy when they come away after a visit to the site; disturbed by the unexpected rituals that can be seen, happy because they have the hope of contributing to the miracle of life.
The Tuptim Shrine is also known as the Lingam Shrine and this holy place of worship has phallic sculptures placed over the sacred ground. Some may consider this quite unholy and undone. Placed far behind of the Nai Lert Park Hotel disrespectfully hidden away is a Thai Spirit House bedecked with wreaths and offerings. Nothing up to this point of the walk is unusual up until you see the large dark pillar that stands to the side of the spirit house. The shrine of Mae Tuptim is covered with fresh drinks and foods that are placed along with a phallic sculpture.
Research has not yet brought out a clear origin for the site and most of the legends that exist are vague but worshippers and folklore suggests that it has been an area for fertility. Other stories say that it may also be a shrine of good luck. Particularly women are said to come to the shrine to pray to conceive. One of the myths supports the impression that a woman once visited the shrine and wished she would become pregnant. Later she realized that her wish was granted and as a mark of respect and celebration she returned to the shrine and offered a lingam. News spread, and other women in the village areas came to the shrine to pray and left these offerings at the shrine.
A scripture at the shrine site holds a quote that states the idea that out of the offerings that Chao Mae Tuptim was offered, she received another very unusual gift in a phallic shape. Throughout the years it is believed that thousands who came to visit the shrine brought one each along with them. Because it resulted in such a strange exhibit it was agreed on that the shrine was devoted to fertility.
Settle yourself in a boutique hotel Bangkokand treat yourself to classical Bangkok hotel accommodation experience while you take an inquisitive walk through to visit the shrine. Bangkok President Solitaire offers exclusive service and lodging during your stay wrapped in Thai legend and folklore. p>