Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ion there are sculptures and art from the Lopburi, Khmer, Dvaravati, U Thong and Ay-
uthaya periods.
The Chantara Phisan Throne Hall contains paintings and artefacts in memory of King
Narai, while the European-style Phra Pratiab Building has a small display of traditional
handicraft and hunting tools. Built between 1665 and 1677, with help from French and
Italian engineers, the palace was used to welcome foreign dignitaries. The main entry
point is through Pratu Phayakkha gate, off Th Sorasak. To your left are the remains of the
palace reservoir and former reception hall. Ahead of these are the elephant stables and to-
wards the rear of the compound is the Suttha Sawan throne hall, where King Narai died. A
150B one-day pass to the main ruins can be bought here.
Prang Sam Yot
MONUMENT
(Th Wichayen; admission 50B; 6am-6pm)
Prang Sam Yot and its resident troop of monkeys are
the most famous attraction in Lopburi. The three linked towers originally symbolised the
Hindu Trimurti of Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Now two of them contain ruined Lopburi-
style Buddha images. The towers are accessible and offer relief from the heat and mon-
keys.
Young guides show visitors around for a small donation and, while their English is min-
imal, their catapults keep the monkeys at bay. The monument is the best example of
Khmer-Lopburi architecture, and looks especially good at night when illuminated.
Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat
RUIN
(Th Na Phra Kan; admission 50B; 7am-5pm)
. Once the town's largest monastery, this 13th-cen-
tury Khmer wát has been heavily renovated and makes for a great photo opportunity. The
central Phra Prang has bas-relief depicting the life of the Buddha while its arched gate has
images in the style of the Lawo period.
The northwestern prang has U Thong-style angels; their oblong faces and unusual
halos are rare.
Ban Wichayen
HISTORICAL BUILDING
(Chao Phraya Wichayen; Th Wichayen; admission 50B; 9am-4pm)
King Narai built this Thai-European
palace as a residence for foreign ambassadors. Greek diplomat and trader Constantine
