Lopburi Travel Guide

Lopburi is a town in central Thailand, approximately 150kms north of Bangkok. It is famous for its two ‘gangs’ of monkeys, which live on the streets and at the site of a ruined temple.

It is popular with visitors from all around the world, who come to see the unique sight of monkeys freely wandering all over the city. There is a reasonable tourist infrastructure here as people visit for both the monkeys and the culture. Lopburi is one of the oldest cities in Thailand, with a history that stretches back over 1,000 years. It boasts many impressive temples, palaces and museums, all of which can be fully explored.

Popular tourist attractions include the Phra Kahn Shrine (which is home to dozens of monkeys), King Narai’s Palace (built in the 17th century) and Wat Phra Sri Rattanamahathat. While there are plenty of sightseeing options, evening entertainment is limited, with the town becoming quiet after dark. Even the monkeys take it easy at night.

Getting There & Away

From Ayutthaya, local buses run every 20 minutes, with journeys taking approximately 2 hours. Fares are cheap but buses can get overcrowded and become uncomfortable. Air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok’s main bus station every 30 minutes and take between 2 hours, 30 minutes and 3 hours. Trains from Bangkok’s main Hualamphong Station take 3 hours while they take just 1 hour from Ayutthaya.

Lop Buri attractions

• Phra Kahn Shrine: an important historic and religious shrine which is also home to dozens of monkeys.