Monkey Business & Old Ruins - the Main Draws of Lopburi
A funny guide to Lopburi, Thailand, home of monkeys, ruins, and questionable life choices involving both.
Lopburi: Thailand’s Monkey Kingdom (Yes, That’s a Warning)
If you’ve ever thought, “Hey, I’d love to visit ancient ruins while being harassed by furry anarchists,” then Lopburi is your place. Located just a couple hours north of Bangkok, it’s a historic city filled with Khmer temples, royal palaces, and one of the most aggressively confident monkey populations on Earth.
How to Get There
By Train
Trains from Bangkok's Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue stations cost 50–150 THB, depending on whether you want A/C or prefer the "authentic" open-window, sweat-based experience. The ride takes about 2.5–4 hours, which is just enough time to question your life decisions.
By Minivan
From Bangkok's Mo Chit terminal, you can catch a minivan for around 150-220 THB. Slightly faster, slightly more chaotic, infinitely more dangerous and likely involves being yelled at in Thai at least once.
By Car
If you have one or you’re brave enough to rent one, it's about a 2.5-hour drive. Parking is available, but be warned: monkeys don’t care about your car. They will sit on it.
Where to Stay
Budget
Simple guesthouses and hostels with Wi-Fi, fans, and staff who may or may not speak English. Expect to pay 400–700 THB/night and to share your breakfast space with a monkey or two.
Mid-Range
Clean rooms, possibly a pool, maybe even hot water if you’re lucky. Prices range from 1,000–1,500 THB/night. Bonus if the building has barred windows to keep out the primates.
Luxury
Why are you looking for luxury in Lopburi? You're here for chaos, not comfort. But if you insist, you’ll find a few business-style hotels for 2,000 THB/night and up, complete with air con and monkey-resistant windows.
What to See
Phra Prang Sam Yot (Monkey Temple)
Entry: 50 THB for foreigners
This is the monkey temple. Ancient Khmer-style prangs, and hundreds of macaques that treat the place like their personal jungle gym. They'll climb on your back, steal your water bottle, and possibly your soul. Also watch out for your phone, hat, purse and sunglasses. You’ve been warned.
Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (King Narai’s Palace)
Entry: 150 THB for the palace museum combo ticket
A surprisingly peaceful escape from the monkey apocalypse outside. Learn about King Narai, admire ancient architecture, and appreciate the lack of screaming primates.
Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat
Free or donation-based
Giant old temple ruins right near the train station. Very chill, very photogenic, and best of all — no monkeys.
Ban Wichayen
Free or part of the combo ticket
A 17th-century European-style residence built for French diplomats. Because even 300 years ago, people were already doing "influencer" travel.
What to Do
Take Photos of Monkeys (and Regret It Instantly)
They look cute until they’re stealing your glasses. Keep your distance unless you want to go home with a monkey bite and a story you’ll regret telling.
Wander the Old Town
Lots of old ruins and zero entrance fees. It's like Ayutthaya’s younger, slightly feral cousin. Bring sunscreen and don’t expect signs in English. Just vibe.
Eat Like a Local
Khao kha moo (braised pork leg), grilled meats, noodle soup and more. Meals cost 40–80 THB at street stalls. For dessert: roti, mango sticky rice, or just a bag of fruit you’ll guard from monkeys like it’s treasure.
Nightlife
Lopburi’s nightlife is about as wild as a cup of warm tea. Things shut down early, and your best option is usually:
Local bars or beer gardens: Beers from 60–90 THB, maybe a Thai cover band if you’re lucky.
7-Eleven: Because nothing says “nightlife” like drinking a Leo beer outside a convenience store at 9 PM while avoiding eye contact with a monkey on a power line.
Excursions
Pa Sak Cholasit Dam
A nice spot for a calm day by the water. There’s a scenic train that crosses the dam (operates seasonally). Day trips with food stalls, paddleboats, and zero monkeys. Pure bliss.
Sunflower Fields (Seasonal)
Visit between November–January to see giant fields of sunflowers. Great for Instagram. Less great if you have hay fever.
Local Markets
Morning and evening markets are full of snacks, weird fruits, knockoff clothes, and more fried things than your doctor would approve of. Budget 100–200 THB if you’re a grazer.
Final Thoughts
Lopburi is chaotic, crusty, and oddly charming. It’s not for everyone, especially if you’re afraid of monkeys, or sanity. But if you want a real-deal Thai city with history, ruins, and a solid chance of being mugged by a macaque, this is your jam.
Bring bug spray. Zip your bags. Don’t smile at the monkeys as they see that as a challenge.
And for the love of all things holy, don’t bring snacks to the temple. Unless you want to become a walking buffet.
Comments
Post a Comment