Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LOPBURI PROVINCE
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Lopburi
Temple ruins and mischievous monkeys - these are the headline attractions in laid-back
Lopburi. Beyond this, though, Lopburi hides several natural marvels that are worth explor-
ing and often detain visitors for a few days before they journey north.
Lopburi played a part in the Dvaravati, Khmer, Sukhothai and Ayuthaya empires and the
ruins, all within the old part of town, reflect this.
As one of Thailand's oldest cities, Lopburi was first developed during the Dvaravati
period (6th to 10th centuries), when it was known as Lavo. The enormous influence of the
Khmer empire can still be seen in the architecture and artwork. During the Ayuthaya peri-
od, Lopburi was a second capital and hosted many foreign dignitaries, which led to ad-
vances in architecture, astronomy and literature.
Today, the monkeys are the main draw as they make their homes among some of the ma-
jor ruins. These macaques frequently leave their base to zip-line along overhead wires and
leap from pole to pole in search of food, so don't be shocked to wake up and see a monkey
staring at you through your guesthouse window.
Lopburi, which is 150km north of Bangkok, is renowned for its vast sunflower fields,
coconut jelly and rattan furniture, while sugar cane and rice are the main crops.
