Erawan Shrine, Bangkok

Built incongruously in one of Bangkok's hubs of consumerism, this very popular shrine is devoted to Brahma and Erawan, his elephant. Erected by the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, the shrine was beset by a series of accidents during its construction in the 1950s. Squeeze past the vendors selling garlands and wooden elephants for a glimpse of the glittering open-air pavilion where worshipers gather before the shrine, often barely visible beneath the offerings made. Traditional Thai dancing can often be seen here. Admission is free.