Old Town Lop Buri
Explore ancient Khmer ruins and encounter playful monkeys at Phra Prang Sam Yot, a unique historical site in Lopburi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light, pleasant temps
Old Town Lop Buri
Best Time
Golden hour light, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Khmer ruins and encounter playful monkeys at Phra Prang Sam Yot, a unique historical site in Lopburi.
"A wonderful stop to admire ancient Khmer architecture, history, and serenity — especially at sunset."
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Monkeys can be curious! Keep phones, glasses, and shiny items tucked away to avoid them being snatched.
💰 Foreigner Entrance Fee
Expect to pay 80 THB for entry as a foreigner. Locals often pay a lower fee.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Khmer-Style Prangs
Central temple complex
Admire the ancient Khmer architecture, representing the Hindu Trimurti, later transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary.
Monkey Encounters
Temple grounds
Observe the province's famous monkeys in their natural habitat amidst the ruins. Be mindful and keep belongings secure.
Sunset Serenity
Temple grounds
Experience the stunning golden light of sunset illuminating the ancient ruins, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Monkey Etiquette is Key
Timing for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Monkeys can be curious! Keep phones, glasses, and shiny items tucked away to avoid them being snatched.
💰 Foreigner Entrance Fee
Expect to pay 80 THB for entry as a foreigner. Locals often pay a lower fee.
🚶♀️ Quick Exploration
The ruins are relatively small; allow about 30 minutes to explore and take photos.
📸 Instagrammable Views
The temple ruins offer a popular backdrop for photos, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Secure Your Valuables
Monkeys can be curious! Keep phones, glasses, and shiny items tucked away to avoid them being snatched.
💰 Foreigner Entrance Fee
Expect to pay 80 THB for entry as a foreigner. Locals often pay a lower fee.
🚶♀️ Quick Exploration
The ruins are relatively small; allow about 30 minutes to explore and take photos.
📸 Instagrammable Views
The temple ruins offer a popular backdrop for photos, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the unique blend of ancient Khmer architecture and the presence of monkeys, especially during the serene late afternoon light. While some note fewer monkeys than in the past, the historical significance and picturesque setting remain a draw. Some find the ruins small, but the overall experience is considered a worthwhile stop for history and wildlife enthusiasts.
"An ancient Khmer-style temple and one of Lopburi’s most iconic landmarks. The three connected prangs represent the Hindu Trimurti — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — and were later transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary.
Not as many monkeys as before, since most of them have been relocated by the municipality, but you can still see some around the area. It’s now much calmer and easier to walk around without worrying about mischievous monkeys.
We visited around 4:30 PM, and the temple looked stunning in the soft golden light. The weather was pleasant and not too hot — it gave the place such a cozy, peaceful feeling.
The entrance fee for foreigners is 80 THB. Parking is available nearby, and the site is easy to explore. Take less than 30 mins to stroll around and take a bunch of photos.
A wonderful stop to admire ancient Khmer architecture, history, and serenity — especially at sunset. 🌅"
Thanaporn Chotemanee
"One of the famous landmark in Lopburi province. It was a special place for me to visit. The weather was awesome no crowd at all.
They take care of the place in a good way. The ticket price is 80THB for foreigners.
A good place to visit if you love history."
Shahid Khan
"Cool ancient ruins of a Buddhist temple. Popular IG spot for both visitors and locals of Lopburi. Not necessary to pay the entrance fee as you can see it from the road, unless you want to pay 5x the price as locals to have a closer experience with the monkeys."
Nick Robison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Town Lopburi is accessible by car or public transport from Bangkok. Buses and trains run regularly to Lopburi town. From the town, you can take a local songthaew (shared taxi) or a tuk-tuk to reach the main temple sites.
Yes, parking is available near the temple sites, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The main temple ruins are relatively compact and can be explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreigners is 80 THB. Locals typically pay a lower fee.
While specific hours can vary, the site is generally accessible during daylight hours. Late afternoon visits are recommended for the best light and fewer crowds.
No, tickets can usually be purchased on-site. It's advisable to check for any specific booking requirements closer to your travel date.
You can see some of the temple ruins from the road, but to explore the main complex and get closer to the historical structures, the entrance fee is required.
🎫 🐒 Monkey Encounters
While many monkeys have been relocated, some still inhabit the temple grounds. Visitors can observe them, but it's important to be cautious and follow official advice.
Keep your distance, secure all belongings, and avoid direct interaction. Do not feed the monkeys and be aware of your surroundings. Listen to the guidance provided by park officials.
Experiences vary; some visitors report monkeys being shy, while others advise caution due to their potential to snatch items. It's best to err on the side of caution and keep valuables out of sight.
Remain calm, do not make sudden movements, and slowly back away. Ensure any food or shiny objects are secured in your bag.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, especially around sunset, offers beautiful golden light that enhances the ancient architecture. This time also tends to have fewer crowds.
The central prangs and the areas where monkeys are visible provide iconic photo opportunities. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and history of the ruins.
While you can photograph the monkeys from a safe distance, direct interaction or posing with them is not recommended due to safety concerns.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical ruins offer an educational element, the main attraction for younger visitors will likely be the monkeys. The site is relatively compact, making it manageable for short visits. Consider visiting during the late afternoon when the weather is more pleasant for little ones. Remember to pack snacks and water, as facilities might be limited.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The monkeys add an element of dynamic action to your shots. Capturing them interacting with the ruins or with each other can result in captivating and memorable images. However, remember to prioritize safety and avoid getting too close. Wide-angle lenses can be effective for capturing the grandeur of the temple complex, while telephoto lenses are useful for wildlife shots of the monkeys from a distance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors can explore the central temple area, marveling at the detailed stonework and imagining the historical significance of this sacred site. While the ruins themselves are not extensive, their historical and architectural value is immense. The site offers a tangible connection to Thailand's past, providing a glimpse into the cultural exchanges and religious practices that shaped the region centuries ago.
The transformation from a Hindu to a Buddhist site is particularly noteworthy, highlighting the adaptability and syncretism often found in Southeast Asian religious traditions. It's a place where history whispers through the stones, inviting contemplation and appreciation for the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.
Navigating the Monkey Metropolis
Interacting with the monkeys requires a degree of caution and respect. Travelers are advised to secure all personal belongings, especially shiny items like glasses, jewelry, and phones, as the monkeys are known to be opportunistic and quick. Visitors might be offered sticks at the entrance, but it's crucial to use them only for defense if absolutely necessary and to avoid any aggressive behavior towards the animals. The general consensus from visitors is to observe from a safe distance and avoid direct engagement to ensure a peaceful coexistence.
Respecting the monkeys' space is paramount. While they are a major draw, they are wild animals. By following the guidance of local officials and maintaining a respectful distance, visitors can enjoy observing these fascinating creatures in their unique environment without incident. The experience offers a memorable encounter with wildlife in a historical setting.
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