Planning Your Trip to Lopburi
Lopburi is just a few hours from Bangkok, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. Here’s how to plan your visit.Getting to Lopburi
- By Train: The easiest and most scenic option. Regular trains run from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong and Don Mueang stations. The journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours and the station is centrally located, within walking distance of the main sites.
- By Van: Minivans from Bangkok’s Victory Monument offer a budget-friendly way to reach Lopburi in about 2.5 to 3 hours (around 120 baht).
- By Bus: Buses depart from Mo Chit Bus Terminal in Bangkok, but note they don’t stop directly in the old city center.
- By Car: Renting a car provides the most flexibility, allowing you to also visit nearby attractions like the sunflower fields (in season).
Where to Stay in Lopburi
Lopburi offers a range of accommodation. Remember to always secure your belongings, as the local monkeys are notoriously curious!- KP Place: A cozy and affordable option with a warm atmosphere.
- NooM Guesthouse: A popular backpacker-friendly spot with a laid-back vibe.
- The Little Lopburi Village: A traditional-style guesthouse for an authentic experience.
- Windsor Resort: Offers modern comfort for families or couples.
- Privacy Residence: Ideal for travelers seeking a quieter stay.
- Ruanmai Resort & Spa: A relaxing retreat with wellness facilities.
What to See: The Main Temples and Monkey Hotspots
Lopburi is a treasure trove of ancient architecture, where history and wildlife collide.
Phra Prang Sam Yod
The city’s most iconic landmark, this majestic Khmer temple features three stone towers. It is the primary gathering place for the city’s monkeys. Visitors can explore its elaborate carvings while observing mischievous macaques leaping between the ruins.San Phra Kan Shrine
Just across the street, this small but revered shrine also serves as a monkey playground. The monkeys here are especially bold, so be prepared for close encounters.Wat Mahathat
One of Lopburi’s oldest temples, its crumbling prangs offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient Buddhist roots. It is generally less overrun by monkeys, making it an atmospheric place for reflection.
King Narai’s Palace & National Museum
The restored Phra Narai Ratchaniwet palace once hosted royalty and foreign ambassadors. The complex also houses the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum, perfect for understanding Lopburi’s royal history. Nearby, Ban Wichayen, a former French residence, highlights the historic diplomatic ties between Siam and Europe.⚠️ Staying Safe in the Monkey City: Essential Tips
The monkeys are wild animals. While mostly accustomed to humans, they can be unpredictable. Follow these rules for a safe and respectful visit.- Do NOT feed the monkeys. Feeding encourages dependency and aggression.
- Secure your belongings. Keep bags closed and wear your backpack on your front. Avoid carrying plastic bags, which monkeys associate with food.
- Avoid direct eye contact. This can be interpreted as a sign of aggression.
- Keep your distance. Do not try to touch or pet the monkeys, especially mothers with babies.
- Stay calm. If a monkey jumps on you, stay still and don’t panic. It will usually lose interest and move on.
The Story of Lopburi: From Royal Capital to Monkey Kingdom
To truly understand Lopburi, one must look beyond the monkeys to its rich and complex history.
A Royal Past
In the 17th century, Lopburi reached its peak under the reign of King Narai the Great. The city became a secondary capital during the Ayutthaya Kingdom and was known for its diplomatic relations and international influence.Sacred Protectors
Local belief holds that the monkeys are descendants of Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god. This cultural reverence has allowed them to flourish, turning them into sacred protectors of the city in the eyes of many locals. This unique harmony between people and animals in Lopburi echoes other wildlife encounters in Thailand — like with the Malay monitor lizards of Bangkok, giant reptiles that peacefully share space with humans in parks and riversides.When Tourism Meets Chaos
While the monkeys attract tourists, their booming population (estimated at 6,000) has created daily challenges for the city’s 27,000 residents. Monkeys are known to steal food, damage property, and occasionally become aggressive. To manage this, local authorities have launched mass sterilization campaigns to control the population growth, creating a delicate balance between economic benefits and urban disruption.Lopburi: An Unforgettable Lesson in Coexistence
FAQ about Lopburi
1. What is Lopburi known for?
Lopburi is a historic city in central Thailand, famous for its large population of monkeys that freely roam its streets and ancient ruins, particularly near sites like Phra Prang Sam Yod.2. Why is it called the Monkey City?
The nickname comes from the thousands of long-tailed macaques that live in the city. Their close interaction with both locals and tourists makes Lopburi a unique case of human-wildlife coexistence.3. Are the monkeys dangerous?
While most monkeys are used to humans, they can become aggressive if provoked or if they see food. Avoid feeding them and keep your distance.4. Is Lopburi worth visiting?
Absolutely. Beyond the monkeys, Lopburi is rich in royal history and ancient temples. It’s an ideal day trip from Bangkok.5. When is the best time to visit?
The cooler months between November and February are ideal. November also hosts the King Narai Festival, which brings the city’s history to life.🔄 Last updated on October 6, 2025
