Top Attractions and Things to Do in Lopburi, Thailand

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Top Attractions and Things to Do in Lopburi, Thailand

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

Known for its monkeys, Lopburi also boasts a fascinating historical and cultural heritage. Discover the top attractions and hidden gems in this charming Thai town.

lopburi thailand top sightseeing

Somdet Phra Narai National Museum: Lopburi’s Historical Gem

Without doubt the most interesting visit. The National Museum is a haven of peace, far from the hysterical macaques and cut off from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is home to a museum. Housed in an old three-storey colonial building, it offers a comprehensive overview of the region’s history. On the ground floor, there are numerous exhibits dating back to the prehistoric and dvaravati periods. The first floor features remains and statues from the Rattanakosin period. On the top floor, objects from the daily life of the local population are on display, with a focus on the ethnological aspects of the region.

Next to the museum, you can stroll through the remains of King Narai’s former palace (Phra Narai Ratchaniwet) while enjoying the pleasant grounds.

Practical information about the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum

  • Address : ถนน สรศักดิ์ Tha Hin, อำเภอ เมืองลพบุรี Lopburi 15000 - Somdet Phra Narai National Museum Lopburi
  • Open Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm.
  • Admission fee: 150 baht per person

Lopburi Thailand Somdet Phra Narai National Museum Lopburi Thailand Somdet Phra Narai National Museum

Must-Visit Historical Sites in Lopburi

One of the main advantages of Lopburi is that the vast majority of the remains are in the town centre, just a few dozen metres from the station. No need for a bicycle. Here are the main ones.

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That: A Peaceful Escape in Lopburi

Located opposite the station, this is the temple or at least the most interesting remains, not from an architectural point of view, but above all because there are no monkeys. You can visit, come and go between the different buildings without stress. The Wat dates from the 13th century, the post-dvaravati period.

Informations pratiques sur le Wat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That :

  • Address: 12 Ratchadamnoen 1 Alley, Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000 - Wat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That
  • Open daily from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
  • Admission charge: 50 baht per person for single entry, 150 baht per person for multiple entries.

Wat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That Lopburi ThailandWat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That Lopburi Thailand

Wat Nakhon Kosa: Ancient Ruins Worth Exploring

Poorly preserved, it is well worth a stop. It is an ancient stupa with the remains of a few buildings. To get there, simply cross the railway.

Practical information about Wat Nakhon Kosa:

  • Address: 215 Narai Maharach Rd, Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000- Wat Nakhon Kosa
  • Open 24 hours a day.
  • Free admission. Monkeys occasionally present.

Phra Kala Shrine: Lopburi’s Spiritual and Cultural Heart

Right next to the previous one on a mound in the middle of a roundabout. The site is divided into two parts: in the centre is the place of worship, which is still in use, and around the corner are the ruins and other remains, which are currently being excavated. Symbolically, it is the heart of the city and a much-frequented place of prayer. In the 6th century, people came here to pray to Vishnu, and today the building, built in 1951, houses an image of Buddha.

Practical information about the Phra Kala Shrine:

  • Address: Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000- Phra Kala Shrine
  • Open daily from 08:00 to 18:00.
  • Free admission.
  • No monkeys (in theory).

Phra Kala Shrine Lopburi Thailand

Phra Prang Sam Yod: Where Monkeys and Khmer History Collide

It’s the place to be. There are two reasons for this. The first is that the temple is still in good condition despite its age. Built around the 13th-14th centuries, during the reign of King Narai, it is of Khmer influence. The building, with its three prangs, is a fine example of the craftsmanship of the period.

But if the public comes in large numbers, it’s not so much to admire the remains as to observe the monkeys that squat on the site. There are a lot of them. Curious, nosy and sometimes quarrelsome, the monkeys leave a strange impression on visitors. Between amusement and repulsion, the large number of monkeys leaves a mixed feeling. It has to be said that you are more preoccupied with the monkeys than with the ruins. You have to be careful with your bag, glasses, caps, cameras and so on.

Because of the presence of monkeys, very young children should not visit the temple.

Practical information about Phra Prang Sam Yod :

  • Address: Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000 - Phra Prang Sam Yod
  • Open every day from 8.30am to 6pm.
  • Admission charge: 50 baht per person for single entry, 150 baht per person for multiple entries…

Best sightseeing in Lopburi : Phra Prang Sam YodBest sightseeing in Lopburi : Phra Prang Sam Yod

Lopburi Night Market: A Taste of Local Flavor by the Tracks

It’s not the biggest night market in the city, but from 6.30pm a small number of stalls set up right next to the station. Here you can eat cheaply and enjoy a drink at the tables set up not far from the railway tracks. Pleasant.

Practical information about Lop Buri Night Market:

  • Address: Phraya Kamchat Alley, Tha Hin, Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi 15000 - Lop Buri Night Market
  • Free admission.
  • Few monkeys (in principle).

The surrounding area of Lopburi

Sunflower Fields Near Lopburi: Best Spots to Visit

Lopburi

The Lopburi region is also known as the sunflower region. Whole fields of sunflowers bloom from November to January. One of the best locations is the Khao Chin Lae region . Several farms offer sunflower products.

What is the best time to visit Lopburi for sunflowers?
The best time to visit Lopburi for sunflower viewing is from November to February, with the peak blooming period typically occurring in December. During this time, the sunflowers are at their tallest and most vibrant, creating stunning landscapes ideal for photography and enjoyment.Specifically, the Khao Chin Lae Sunflower Field is one of the most popular locations to witness these beautiful flowers in full bloom

Pasak Chonlasit Dam: A Scenic Railway Adventure

Lopburi

Pasak Chonlasit Dam
Another visit is to the Pasak Chonlasit Dam lake . A giant reservoir in the heart of the countryside. The added bonus is that a railway line crosses the lake. From Pasak Jolasid Dam station you can buy a ticket for 60 baht and join the crowd of Thai tourists. It’s really quite nice!

One of the many monkeys roaming the streets of Lopburi

Tips to Avoid Aggressive Monkeys in Lopburi

  • General Precautions:
    Avoid feeding monkeys, stay aware of their presence, and do not engage if approached.
  • Specific Strategies:
    Travel in groups, secure your belongings, and be cautious near schools or tourist hotspots.
  • Behavioral Tips:
    Stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and note that local deterrents may be used.

These steps help minimize negative encounters with monkeys in Lopburi.

Visiting Lopburi with a guide

Lopburi

Bangkok: Ayutthaya and Lopburi Monkey Temple Private day trip

  • Learn about the ancient capital of Siam from a local guide
  • See the highlights of Ayutthaya such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet
  • Meet and feed the monkeys at the Phra Prang Sam Yod located in Lopburi
  • Visit the largest bronze Buddhas in Thailand

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The essential guide to Lopburi, so you don’t miss a thing!

Best sightseeing in Lopburi : The Monkeys