Lopburi

ลพบุรี

Known as the city of monkeys, Lopburi is famed for its troops of macaques inhabiting ancient temples and streets, creating a unique and entertaining cultural experience. The town also boasts impressive Khmer and Thai architecture, including the striking Phra Prang Sam Yot.

Things to do

• Phra Prang Sam Yot — Explore this iconic three-spired Khmer temple surrounded by playful macaques, offering stunning architecture and photo opportunities from multiple levels.
• Monkey Watching Tour — Join a guided tour through Lopburi's streets and temples to observe troops of macaques in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and social structure.
• San Phra Kan Shrine — Visit this sacred outdoor shrine dedicated to King Narai where hundreds of monkeys gather, especially lively during feeding times and local festivals.
• Lopburi National Museum — Discover artifacts from the Dvaravati and Khmer periods, including Buddha images and historical pieces that illustrate the region's rich cultural heritage.
• Phra Narai Ratchanivet Palace — Tour the 17th-century royal palace built by King Narai with its well-preserved pavilions, gardens, and historical chambers showcasing Ayutthaya-era grandeur.
• Wang Sam Phraya Park — Stroll through this scenic riverside park with ancient ruins, peaceful walking paths, and occasional monkey sightings in a more relaxed setting than temple areas.

Food to try

• Khao Tom Lopburi — A savory rice porridge unique to Lopburi, served with various toppings like pork, shrimp, or vegetables, often eaten for breakfast.
• Sai Oua (Northern Sausage) — Spiced pork sausage grilled and served with sticky rice, a regional specialty reflecting northern Thai influences in Lopburi's cuisine.
• Larb Pla (Fish Salad) — A spicy and tangy minced fish salad tossed with lime juice, fish sauce, and fresh herbs, showcasing local river fish varieties.
• Mango Sticky Rice with Local Mangoes — Sweet sticky rice paired with the region's famously sweet mangoes, a beloved dessert during mango season from March to May.
• Grilled River Prawns — Fresh-caught prawns from the Lopburi River grilled simply with garlic and served with dipping sauce, highlighting local aquatic ingredients.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Monkey Boundaries — Keep a safe distance from macaques, avoid direct eye contact, and secure loose items like glasses and bags as monkeys are known to snatch them.
• Temple Etiquette — Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees when visiting temples, remove shoes before entering sacred areas, and always show respect to Buddha images.
• Monkey Festival Timing — Visit during November's Lopburi Monkey Festival for organized feasts and celebrations, but expect crowded conditions; quieter temple visits are better in other months.
• Local Photography Customs — Ask permission before photographing monks or at private shrines, and be mindful that some temple areas restrict photography to protect sacred spaces.