LOPBURI
Lopburi is a historic city in Thailand known for its ancient Khmer ruins, free-roaming monkeys, and vibrant sunflower fields. It offers a laid-back atmosphere contrasting with Thailand’s bustling tourist centers, providing a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Key attractions include Phra Prang Sam Yot, a temple famous for its resident monkeys, and the surrounding countryside’s natural beauty, making it a worthwhile day trip from Bangkok.
POPULAR ATTRACTIONS:
Wat Dharmikarama (The Bat Temple)
Khao Som Phot Wildlife Sanctuary
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat
Phra Narai Ratchaniwet
Pasak Chonlasit Dam
Khao Phraya Doenthong Viewpoint
Khao Wong Phrachan
Narai Hill Golf Resort and Country Club
Ban Suan Kwan Learning Centre
Wanlapa Farm Community Enterprise Agrotourism
Wang Kan Lueang Arboretum
Phra Prang Sam Yot
King Narai National Museum
Ban Chaophraya Wichayen
Khao Chin Lae Sunflower Field
Wat Khao Wong Phrachan
Sub Lek Reservoir
Phu Sap Lek
Floating Train at Pa Sak Jolasid Dam
Sublangka Wildlife Sanctuary
POPULAR MARKETS:
Bon Mueang Market: Offers a wide range of products, including street food, clothing, accessories, souvenirs, fresh produce, and knick-knacks. Notable for local vendors and the popular Mae Khan Thong Dessert Shop, known for sticky rice with custard.
Weekly Night Market: Features a variety of street food, clothing, toys, drinks, and other goods. In the evenings, the market transforms an otherwise quiet street into a bustling hub for locals, even selling fresh fish.
Farmers Markets: Located near the sunflower fields in the surrounding countryside. Farmers sell locally grown produce, including sunflower seeds, and traditional Thai snacks.
CULTURAL & CULINARY EXPERIENCES:
Monkey Temple & Phra Prang Sam Yot: Explore the iconic Khmer-style temple famous for its hundreds of monkeys, offering a mix of cultural and historical interest.
King Narai’s Palace: Visit the impressive palace ruins, showcasing a blend of Thai and European architectural styles.
Wat Phra Sri Rattana Maha That: A significant religious site often associated with the Monkey Temple area.
Wat Sao Thong Thong: Admire intricate mural paintings that depict the Ramayana epic.
Ban Khok Salung – Cultural Experiences:
Dessert Making: Learn to prepare sweet and aromatic Thai Beng desserts.
Traditional Crafts: Create palm leaf toys and Phoang Ma-Hotra paper crafts, which have ceremonial significance.
Regional Dip: Discover the unique Khok Salung style of chili and salt dipping, a signature local flavor.
Sunflower Fields: From November to January, the countryside comes alive with spectacular blooming sunflower fields.
Ban Khok Salung Culinary Activities: Taste traditional sweet desserts and sample the signature chili and salt dip central to Thai Beng cuisine.
Regional Flavors: Local ingredients and flavors are emphasized throughout the crafts, cooking classes, and culinary experiences, providing an authentic taste of the area.
WHY VISIT:
Lopburi for its unique population of free-roaming monkeys, historic sites like King Narai’s Palace and Phra Prang Sam Yot, and the beautiful sunflower fields that bloom from November to January. The annual Monkey Buffet Festival in November offers a vibrant cultural spectacle, and Lopburi provides a glimpse into ancient history, a relaxed atmosphere, and opportunities for exploring nature.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Bangkok to Nonthaburi you can take a Car, Bus, MRT. (About 01 hours)
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
November to February: The best time to visit, with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. This period also marks the beginning of the sunflower season and features the popular Monkey Festival, making it especially lively.
June to October: Marks the end of the sunflower bloom. If your main goal is to see the sunflowers, it’s best to avoid visiting during this period.