DESTINATION OF THE DAY
Lopburi

Step beyond Bangkok’s bustle into Lopburi—a province where ancient temples wear monkey fur coats, sunflower fields glow like spilled sunlight, and layers of civilization whisper from every weathered stone. Once a powerhouse of empires, now a quirky open-air museum, this is where Thailand’s past dances with playful chaos.

A Glimpse into the History

A Crossroads of Civilizations
Long before Siam existed, Lopburi (then "Lavo") thrived as a Bronze Age settlement over 3,500 years ago. By the 6th-11th centuries, it became a strategic outpost of the Dvaravati Kingdom, blending Mon culture with emerging Khmer influences. The city’s golden era arrived under King Narai the Great (1656–1688), who transformed it into a cosmopolitan second capital, welcoming Persian, French, and Dutch envoys to its opulent courts.

Rise, Fall, and Reinvention
After Narai’s death, Lopburi faded as Ayutthaya rose, its palaces reclaimed by jungle. Yet it never vanished—19th-century King Mongkut revived its legacy, restoring ruins and cementing its status as a living archaeological treasure. Today, those stones tell stories of resilience: of a city that adapted through conquests, trade winds, and even monkey invasions, always finding new purpose.

Things To Do In Lopburi

Marvel at Khmer ruins swarmed by playful macaques

Walk through Persia-influenced halls of a 17th-century king

Stroll through 17th-century European ruins

Lose yourself in golden blooms

Discover artifacts from Lopburi’s cosmopolitan era

Other Attractions To Visit

• Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat – This historic temple complex blends Khmer, Ayutthayan, and French Gothic influences, anchored by its towering laterite prang adorned with intricate stucco reliefs. The Wihan Luang hall shelters a majestic 3-meter sandstone Buddha, protected by a seven-headed naga, embodying Lopburi’s spiritual legacy. Don’t miss the starfruit-shaped satellite prangs, their corners decorated with celestial Thep Phanom deities in classic U-Thong artistry.

• Bon Mueang Vintage Market is a walking street market bursts with authentic Thai energy, where vendors sell everything from sizzling street food to handcrafted souvenirs and fresh local produce. Don’t miss Mae Khan Thong Dessert Shop, famous for its irresistible sticky rice with custard and other traditional sweets. The market’s vibrant chaos offers a true taste of Lopburi’s everyday charm—no tourist gimmicks, just real local flavor.

• Pa Sak Jolasid Dam is Thailand's longest earthen dam, built under King Bhumibol's initiative to control flooding while offering surreal views of trains appearing to float across its waters. Visitors can ride a sightseeing locomotive along the dam's ridge or explore the Pa Sak Basin Museum detailing its royal development project. The site also features Chaloem Phrakiat Tower, riverside restaurants, and access to the revered Luangpu Yai Pa Sak Buddha image across the reservoir.

• Prang Khaek stands as Lopburi's oldest monument, featuring three distinctive brick prangs built in the ancient Khmer style without connecting corridors. Originally a Hindu shrine, it was later restored by King Narai the Great during the 17th century, blending Khmer heritage with Siamese influence. Recently revitalized by the Fine Arts Department, this compact archaeological site offers a quiet glimpse into Thailand's multicultural past near the grand Narai Ratchaniwet Palace.

• San Phra Kan Shrine blends ancient Khmer heritage with modern Thai spirituality, featuring a striking four-armed Vishnu statue crowned with a Buddha's head. The site's original laterite mound reveals its 12th-century Khmer roots, while the 1951 addition reflects ongoing religious fusion. Troops of resident monkeys add lively chaos to this sacred space near the railway tracks.

Best Places To Eat & Drink In Lopburi

1. Bua Luang Restaurant

   

   Bua Luang Restaurant serves reliably delicious Thai food in a simple, welcoming setting, with their Massaman Curry being a standout dish. The friendly service and satisfying meals make it a trusted local spot without any pretentiousness. It's the kind of place you'd return to for hearty, flavorful dishes like their signature curry paired perfectly with steamed rice.

   📍Mueang Lop Buri District, Lopburi

2. Ban Madame Thai Restaurant

Ban Madame Thai Restaurant serves exquisite traditional Thai cuisine with fresh vegetarian options in an elegant, air-conditioned space featuring mountain views and a spacious terrace. Guests rave about their perfectly cooked dishes, from filet américain to aromatic curries, all prepared with passion and high-quality ingredients. The serene garden atmosphere and impeccable service make it a must-visit dining destination in Lopburi.

📍Nikhom Sang Ton Eng, Lop Buri

3. Maad Mee

Maad Mee serves authentic Thai-Puan cuisine in a cozy house setting, featuring hard-to-find dishes like popping mushroom curry and crispy fried frog legs. The generous portions and complimentary kanom thuay make it a satisfying stop for adventurous eaters exploring Lopburi's local flavors. While the food is solidly tasty, some may find the flavors more traditional than extraordinary.

📍Phra Sri Mahosote Road, Lop Buri

4. Luan Noodle

Luan Noodle is a must-visit eatery in Lopburi, famous for its rich, flavorful meat noodles and Thai-style steaks served in a vibrant yellow two-story building. Locals flock here for hearty bowls of noodle soup and tasty sides like crispy fries, making evenings especially lively. Don’t miss their sweet treats—perfect for capping off a satisfying meal.

📍Thale Chup Son, เมือง, Lopburi

5. Paebanrimnam Restaurant

Perched on a floating raft along the Lopburi River, this charming spot offers a refreshing escape with cool breezes and serene views of water and swaying trees. The extensive menu shines with fresh seafood and Thai classics—think perfectly grilled fish and zesty curries, best enjoyed with an ice-cold coconut. Evenings here are blissfully uncrowded, making it ideal for a relaxed meal under the stars.

📍Petracha Rd., Lop Buri

Classifieds

Robin Hood, Pattaya - Enjoy the best food & drink Pattaya has to offer at the fully airconditioned restaurant on the 2nd road - View the Robin Hood HERE

Scruffy Murphys, Bangkok - A traditional Irish pub in the center of Bangkok, yes please, there’s always a warm welcome, great food & a fantastic menu. Take a look at Scruffy Murphys HERE 

Amber Sauna, Koh Samui - There’s something steamy going on just on the outskirts of Chaweng, enjoy a red hot sauna, healthy steam room or take the plubge in their ice plunge. PS did we mention their delicious menu? See what you’re missing out on HERE

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.