With all the chaos in the world lately—from natural disasters to unsettling global news—it’s no wonder so many of us are seeking peace of mind wherever we can find it. That’s why I want to take you to a special little corner of Bangkok that even locals might not know about: Pek Leng Keng Shrine, the only one of its kind in Thailand and a spiritual gem tucked away near Penang Market in Khlong Toei.
Mark your calendar: Thursday, April 24 is the birthday of Pek Leng Keng, also known as the God of Peace—and even more fondly by some as the Green Dragon Deity. The shrine has been part of the community for over 100 years, standing as a quiet protector of the neighborhood through generations of change.
To celebrate, the shrine is hosting two nights of traditional Chinese opera on April 22 and 23. Even if you’re not religious, this is a cultural experience worth seeing. The colors, the music, the spirit—it’s beautiful.
So who is Pek Leng Keng?
His story goes way back to China’s Three Kingdoms era. A righteous magistrate named Heng Kang defended his town from countless invasions, earning respect from none other than Zhuge Liang himself. His legacy of peace lived on, and he was later honored as a deity. Over time, his influence spread, and incredible stories followed—from saving people from death to guiding lost soldiers and performing quiet miracles.
One of the most fascinating legends? A man wrongly sentenced to die survived three days without food or shade—because an old man in traditional robes shielded him with a white umbrella. That man turned out to be Heng Kang. From that moment, the rescued man devoted his life to building a shrine in his honor. And that’s how the God of Peace found his way into the hearts of many.
Locals have their own tales too—of green snakes bearing sacred markings, cakes mysteriously turning two-toned, and divine interventions that protected entire communities from war and corruption. These aren’t just stories—they’re a part of the spiritual fabric of Khlong Toei.
Today, Pek Leng Keng Shrine continues to be a place of quiet power. Business owners, local residents, and visitors—especially those born in the year of the Dragon or Snake—come here to pray for prosperity, success, and peace in their lives.
If you’re looking for a spiritual refresh or just curious to explore something unique and heartfelt, this little shrine might just surprise you. And hey, Chinese opera under the Bangkok sky? That’s a vibe.
Catch the performances on April 22 and 23, and don’t miss the chance to experience a different side of Bangkok.
Story shared by: Nai Mu – Spiritual storyteller and God’s City guide at Ticy City
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