Lopburi holidays deliver a refreshing mix of history, character, and quirks.
Known as Thailand’s ‘Monkey City’, Lopburi has been continually inhabited for thousands of years, making it one of the country’s oldest and most culturally rich towns. Today, it’s famously home to a mischievous troop of macaques who roam freely around its Khmer and Ayutthaya-era temple ruins, adding a playful edge to its ancient heritage. Don’t let the monkeys put you off – they’re part of the town’s appeal. Prang Sam Yot, the three-spired Khmer shrine, is the most iconic site, while King Narai’s Palace and the adjoining museum offer deeper insight into Lopburi’s royal legacy and arts. Compact and walkable, the town also hosts a vibrant night market on Wednesdays. While often used as a stopover between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Lopburi easily justifies a couple of nights for those seeking something a little different.
There’s more to Lopburi than temples and monkeys. The countryside surrounding the town is rich in natural beauty, dotted with limestone karsts and fields of sunflowers that bloom spectacularly from November to January. A short trip out takes you to Wat Khao Chin Lae, a hilltop temple with panoramic views, or the tranquil Ang Sap Lek reservoir where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch on bamboo piers stretching over the water. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the annual Monkey Festival in November, you’ll witness an eccentric celebration where locals lay out grand feasts for the macaques and host lively performances across the town. Accommodation here is simple but comfortable, with small local restaurants serving authentic Thai dishes. This isn’t a luxury destination – but it is a culturally rich and highly memorable one. Speak to our Thailand experts about adding Lopburi to your tailor-made adventure.
