Lopburi: How to Get There and Back

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Lopburi: How to Get There and Back

Ming
Originally from Thailand, Ming is a 25-year-old student currently pursuing her studies in England. Passionate about travel, she enjoys sharing the rich culture of her home country with others.
Ming

Everything you need to know about getting to and from Lopburi, the famous city of monkeys. Timetables, journey durations, prices, and practical advice to make your trip easier.

Lopburi train station

Why Visit Lopburi?

Many people like to stop off in Lopburi to visit the Khmer ruins, but above all to see a town completely overrun by monkeys. The town is ideally situated for a one- or two-day stopover (maximum) for travellers heading north.
Lopburi is not far from Ayutthaya. Only 144 km separate the two towns. This makes for a pleasant stopover before heading to either Chiang Mai or Phitsanulok (and then on to Sukhothai).
The other big advantage of Lopburi is that it has a railway station (northern line linking Bangkok and Chiang Mai). So there are several ways to get to the north of the country from Lopburi.

Getting to Lopburi

Bangkok to Lopburi by Train

Trains in Thailand are rarely on time. Trains often arrive dozens of minutes late. The further away you are from the departure station (Bangkok or Chiang Mai), the greater the likelihood of a delay. Patience is the watchword.

Note: Tickets for Bangkok to Lopburi trains are usually available only one or two days in advance. Be prepared to buy your ticket on the day or the day before your trip.

Lopburi Train Station:

  • Address: Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000
  • Google Maps

Bangkok to Lopburi by Bus or Van

Buses and vans to Lopburi depart from Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Station. They are frequent and affordable, offering another convenient way to reach the city.

Ayutthaya to Lopburi

Ayutthaya is only 144 km from Lopburi. Getting between the two cities is straightforward:

  • By Train: Less than 1 hour.
  • By Bus or Van: Departures every hour or more, no booking required. Journey time: ~1 hour 10 minutes.

From Northern Thailand to Lopburi

Traveling from Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, or Phitsanulok? You can take buses, vans, or trains to Lopburi.

Leaving Lopburi

To Ayutthaya

Lopburi Train Station Lopburi Train Station

  • By Train: Tickets available on the day or the day before.
  • By Bus/Van: Departures every hour or more. No booking required.

To Nakhon Sawan

Frequent buses and vans are available. Just head to the bus station.

To Chiang Mai or Phitsanulok

There are no direct buses from Lopburi to Phitsanulok or Sukhothai. You will need to transfer at Nakhon Sawan.

Tip: For Chiang Mai-bound trains, book your tickets several days or weeks in advance.

Departure and arrival timesDurationBooking
09:44 Lopburi 21:10 Chiang Mai11h 26 mnReservation
10:28 Lopburi 19:30 Chiang Mai9hRéservation
20:40 Lopburi 07:15 Chiang Mai10h 35mnReservation
21:58 Lopburi 08:40 Chiang Mai10h 42mReservation

Warning:
It is strongly recommended that you book the Chiang Mai - Bangkok train several days or weeks in advance.

Train departure and arrival times at Lopburi station

Transport Options to Lopburi: Pros and Cons

Mode of TransportDurationCostAdvantagesDisadvantages
Train2-3 hours20-250 THBScenic, affordable, comfortable optionsFrequent delays, limited booking window
Bus2 hours100-150 THBFrequent departures, reliable, fastMay encounter traffic jams
Van2 hours100-150 THBConvenient, direct routes, fasterLess legroom, potential overcrowding
Car (Private)~2 hours~500-800 THB (fuel)Flexible schedule, direct routeHigher cost, need to navigate traffic

Notes:

  • For short distances, buses and vans are often the fastest and most convenient.
  • Trains are recommended for those who prefer scenic views and a relaxed pace.
  • Private cars offer the most flexibility but are less economical for solo travelers.

More information about Lopburi

For a comprehensive overview of the city, from its culture to its past history, not forgetting all the practical aspects for easy travel in the region:

The famous monkeys of Lopburi