Lopburi Travel Guide: Monkeys, Temples, and Ancient Ruins in Thailand’s Historic City

November 1, 2024

Lopburi, one of Thailand’s oldest cities, is a destination where history and nature meet. Known for its playful macaque monkeys and ancient Khmer temples, Lopburi offers a glimpse into Thailand’s past and a unique charm that sets it apart from other provinces. Situated in central Thailand, Lopburi is famous not just for its historical sites, but also for its stunning sunflower fields and intriguing festivals. Let’s explore what makes Lopburi a fascinating destination in this 2025 travel guide!

A Glimpse into Lopburi’s History

Lopburi’s history stretches back over a thousand years, with its origins linked to the Dvaravati, Khmer, and Ayutthaya Kingdoms. The city rose to prominence during the Khmer period and became an important regional centre during the reign of King Narai the Great in the 17th century. He transformed Lopburi into a second capital to strengthen relations with European powers and bolster defence against potential invaders.

Fun Fact: Lopburi is known as the “Monkey City” due to the large population of macaques that roam freely around the city’s temples and old town.

Top Tourist Destinations in Lopburi

1. Phra Prang Sam Yot

The iconic Phra Prang Sam Yot is a 13th-century Khmer temple and the most famous landmark in Lopburi. The temple is distinguished by its three stone prangs (towers), which symbolize the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Today, it’s also known as the “Monkey Temple” because of the hundreds of macaques that have made it their home. Visitors can feed the monkeys, but be cautious, as they can be quite mischievous!

2. King Narai’s Palace

Built during the reign of King Narai the Great in the 17th century, King Narai’s Palace (Phra Narai Ratchaniwet) is an impressive palace complex that showcases the blend of Thai and French architecture. The palace grounds include the royal residence, audience halls, and a museum with exhibits on Lopburi’s history and the life of King Narai.

3. Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat

One of the city’s oldest temples, Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat dates back to the 12th century and features a tall central prang surrounded by smaller stupas. The temple was an important religious and cultural centre during the Khmer and Ayutthaya periods, and today, visitors can explore the ancient ruins and admire the intricate stone carvings.

Fun Fact: Lopburi is sometimes referred to as the “Little Rome of Thailand” due to the influence of European architecture introduced during the reign of King Narai.

Experiencing Local Muay Thai in Lopburi

Lopburi is known for its strong Muay Thai culture, with several local gyms training aspiring fighters. Lopburi Muay Thai Camp offers classes for beginners and enthusiasts, with experienced trainers teaching traditional techniques. The province occasionally hosts local matches, where visitors can watch and cheer on young fighters in an authentic Thai setting.

Fun Fact: Lopburi has produced some well-known Muay Thai fighters over the years, earning a reputation for its disciplined and technical fighting style.

Accommodation Options for Every Budget

Low Budget: Noom Guesthouse

For budget travellers, Noom Guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms in a central location near Lopburi’s main attractions. Prices start at around AUD 20 per night, making it a popular choice for backpackers exploring the historical sites.

Medium Budget: Lopburi Inn Resort

Lopburi Inn Resort provides a mid-range option with modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a large outdoor pool. Rooms average around AUD 60 per night, and the resort is located near King Narai’s Palace and other key sites.

High Budget: Nett Hotel Lopburi

For those seeking a more luxurious stay, Nett Hotel Lopburi offers stylish accommodations with elegant decor and premium amenities. Rooms start at AUD 120 per night, and the hotel features a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city’s historic landmarks.

Local Nightlife: Bars, Night Markets, and Cultural Events

Local Bars

Lopburi’s nightlife is laid-back, with a focus on enjoying local culture and hospitality. Ban U Thong Bar & Restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere with Thai dishes, live music, and a selection of beers and cocktails. It’s a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing and mingle with locals.

Night Markets

Lopburi’s Indra Night Market is the go-to place for evening entertainment and shopping. The market features a variety of stalls selling street food, clothing, accessories, and local crafts. It’s a vibrant spot to try traditional dishes and shop for souvenirs.

Lopburi’s Festivals and Traditions

1. Lopburi Monkey Festival

One of Lopburi’s most famous events is the annual Lopburi Monkey Festival (also known as the Monkey Buffet Festival), held in November at Phra Prang Sam Yot. During the festival, locals prepare a grand buffet of fruits and treats for the city’s macaques as a gesture of gratitude and goodwill. The event attracts tourists from around the world and features traditional performances, parades, and, of course, a lot of playful monkeys!

2. King Narai Reign Fair

The King Narai Reign Fair is an annual event held in February to commemorate the reign of King Narai the Great. The festival takes place at King Narai’s Palace and includes historical reenactments, cultural performances, traditional music, and a market selling local products and crafts. Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional Thai attire to immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere.

Fun Fact: During the King Narai Reign Fair, visitors can experience Lopburi’s rich heritage by taking part in traditional games and activities that date back to the Ayutthaya period.

Must-Try Local Foods in Lopburi

1. Kuay Jub Lopburi

Kuay Jub is a noodle soup dish made with rolled rice noodles in a clear broth, often served with crispy pork belly and hard-boiled eggs. Lopburi is known for its unique take on this dish, which is both comforting and flavourful.

2. Khao Lam

A traditional Thai dessert, khao lam is made from sticky rice, coconut milk, and black beans, all cooked inside a bamboo tube. It’s a popular snack in Lopburi and is often sold at local markets and festivals.

Must-Visit Restaurants

1. Dara Seafood

Located near the Lopburi River, Dara Seafood is a favourite among locals for its fresh river fish and seafood dishes. Signature dishes include pla sam rod (deep-fried fish with sweet and sour sauce) and tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup).

2. Khum Sabai Sabai

For an authentic dining experience in a traditional Thai setting, visit Khum Sabai Sabai. The restaurant serves a variety of Thai and Isaan dishes, including som tam (papaya salad) and larb moo (spicy minced pork salad). The restaurant’s wooden decor and garden setting create a relaxing atmosphere.

Transportation Options in Lopburi

Lopburi is easy to navigate, with several transport options available:

• Bicycles: Renting a bicycle is a popular way to explore Lopburi’s historic sites and temples at a leisurely pace. Several guesthouses and shops offer affordable rentals.

• Tuk-tuks and Songthaews: Tuk-tuks and shared songthaews are convenient for short trips within the city and between major attractions. Negotiate the fare with tuk-tuk drivers before your ride.

• Trains and Buses: Lopburi is well-connected to Bangkok and other provinces by train and bus, making it an accessible destination for travellers coming from the capital.

Final Tips for Travellers

• Weather: The best time to visit Lopburi is from November to February, during the cool season. This period is ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and attending festivals without the heat.

• Local Customs: Lopburi’s residents are known for their hospitality, but be mindful of the macaques around the temples. While they’re accustomed to human interaction, it’s essential to keep a safe distance and avoid carrying food or shiny items that might attract their attention.

Fun Fact: Lopburi’s macaques are considered a symbol of good luck, and locals believe that the monkeys bring prosperity to the city.

Conclusion: Share Your Experience

Lopburi offers a unique blend of ancient history, cultural festivals, and charming traditions that make it a fascinating destination for travellers. From exploring ancient Khmer temples and palaces to experiencing lively festivals and feeding the playful macaques, Lopburi invites you to discover its rich heritage and welcoming spirit.

We hope you enjoyed this guide to Lopburi! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share this article on your social media. Like and subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly videos on the most popular blogs. Stay tuned for more in our Provinces of Thailand: Complete Travel Guide series!

References

• Updates from the Lopburi Provincial Tourism Office, 2024-2025

• Insights from local residents and businesses

• Visitor reviews and feedback from travel communities