Lopburi Monkey Temple & Ayutthaya Old City Tour From Bangkok

If you’re looking to combine history, culture, and a bit of animal fun in a single day, this tour from Bangkok checks all those boxes. It’s a well-rounded experience that promises stunning temple ruins, vibrant stories from your guide, and plenty of playful monkeys in Lopburi. With a 5-star rating and hundreds of glowing reviews, it’s clear that travelers find this trip both educational and entertaining.

What we love about this tour is how it packs so much into one day without feeling rushed. You get to explore the UNESCO-listed temples of Ayutthaya, walk through the bustling streets of Lopburi, and encounter the famous monkey residents—all with the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and an expert guide. The downside? It’s a full day, so be prepared for some early starts and a lot of walking. But if you’re curious about Thai history and love animals, this tour offers a fantastic value for the price.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Thailand’s ancient sites combined with some lighthearted animal encounters. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and learning from knowledgeable guides. Just remember, the monkey interactions are best enjoyed from a respectful distance—these are wild animals, after all.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip combining Ayutthaya’s temples and Lopburi’s monkeys
• Expert guides bring history alive with engaging stories and insider tips
• Good value for the price, with transportation, bottled water, and pickup included
• Wildlife experience with cheeky, free-roaming monkeys in Lopburi
• Visit iconic temples like Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, plus Khmer-style ruins
• Flexible itinerary with well-timed stops and knowledgeable commentary

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a seamless blend of culture, history, and animal fun, all wrapped up in a 10-hour package. You’ll start early at 8:00am, with pickup from select central Bangkok locations like Khao San and Siam Square. The small group size—up to 30 travelers—keeps the experience intimate and engaging, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long day.

Exploring Ayutthaya’s Temples

Your first stop is Wat Mahathat, believed to be one of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya. Here, you’ll see the famous sandstone Buddha head intertwined with tree roots, a scene that captures the mystique of the site. You’ll also explore various pagodas, royal halls, and smaller temples, soaking in the grandeur of a city that once rivaled the largest civilizations in Southeast Asia.

A highlight for many travelers is Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, situated within the UNESCO World Heritage Park. Its three restored chedis, which contain the ashes of Ayutthaya’s kings, evoke a profound sense of history and reverence. The guide will share stories of the kingdom’s rise and fall, making the ruins feel alive with purpose.

Next, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol offers a panoramic view from its imposing prang. Founded during King U Thong’s reign, it’s known for its expansive grounds and giant reclining Buddha statues. Despite being damaged in the Burmese invasion of 1767, the site remains a powerful relic of Thai resilience.

Moving to Lopburi’s Khmer and Monkey Marvels

After exploring Ayutthaya, the journey continues to Lopburi by road, about three hours away. The highlight here is Phra Prang Sam Yot, an ancient Khmer-style monument built during the control of the Angkor empire. The temple is now famous for the large troop of monkeys that roam freely, often hopping around the ruins and scavenging for food.

Reviewers frequently mention how the monkeys seem surprisingly tame and friendly, but always emphasize keeping a safe distance. “The monkeys were friendly though,” notes one traveler, “but they are wild animals, so you should never try to feed or approach them too closely.” To enhance safety, guides often manage the monkeys and encourage respectful viewing.

In Lopburi itself, you’ll stroll the streets, discovering more temples, Buddhist statues, and local Thai atmosphere. The city offers a glimpse into a place where history and modern life collide, with ancient Khmer ruins standing next to busy streets filled with vendors and locals.

The Practical Details

The tour duration of around 10 hours makes it a full, immersive experience. The journey from Bangkok is included in the time, and the vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus given the heat often faced in Thailand. The small group size and personalized service mean you won’t feel lost or rushed, and the expert guide will keep the commentary lively and informative.

Cost-wise, at approximately $59.18 per person, this trip offers excellent value considering the transportation, bottled water, and guided experience. The entrance fees for temples—such as THB 50 for Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, and THB 20 for Wat Yai Chai Mongkol—are paid cash on-site, so travelers should carry some small bills. Food isn’t included, but the tour stops at a good restaurant, often praised for its quality and reasonable prices.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Surina and Piya, who keep the trip engaging with stories and helpful tips. One guest recalls that Surina made sure everyone had a chance to see the monkeys and explained the significance of each temple, making the visit more meaningful.

The monkeys at Lopburi often steal the show, with visitors mentioning how entertaining they found the antics of these wild animals. Several reviews note that it’s just as fun to watch them from a distance, and that no food should be brought along to avoid encouraging aggressive behavior.

Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring uneven ruins.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Carry some cash for entrance fees and snacks.
• Respect the wildlife—observe the monkeys from afar, don’t feed or harass them.
• Be prepared for a long day, but know that the guide’s storytelling and the stunning sights make it worthwhile.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience is ideal for those interested in Thailand’s history and culture but also enjoy a touch of animal interaction. It works well for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided tour without the hassle of planning transportation and logistics independently.

If you love photography, the temples and the playful monkeys offer endless opportunities for memorable shots. The small group format also means you’ll get more personalized attention and the ability to ask questions about Thailand’s past and present.

For families, history buffs, or animal lovers, this tour ticks multiple boxes. The balance of cultural sites and lively wildlife encounters guarantees a variety of experiences that will keep everyone engaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from the Khao San area and Siam Square. The tour starts at 8:00 am, so be ready on time.

How long does the trip take?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel time from Bangkok to the sites and back.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for temples like Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol, and Phra Prang Sam Yot are paid cash on-site, around THB 20-50 each.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, cash for entrance fees, and your camera. No food is provided, but there will be stops for meals.

Are the monkeys dangerous?
They are wild animals; it’s safest to observe them from a distance. No food should be brought to avoid encouraging aggressive behavior.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers find it enjoyable, especially if they’re interested in history and animals, but keep in mind the full-day schedule.

What is the group size?
Up to 30 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere and personalized guide interaction.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is there a lunch stop?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at a reputable restaurant, but meals are not included in the price.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced look at Thailand’s past and present with the bonus of playful monkey encounters. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully curated itinerary make it a standout choice for those wanting a full day of exploration without the fuss of planning.

Whether you’re a history buff, an animal lover, or simply looking for a memorable adventure, you’ll appreciate the value and authenticity of this experience. It’s a chance to walk among ancient ruins, watch cheeky monkeys in their natural habitat, and gain insights from guides who truly know their stuff.

If you’re seeking a day filled with culture, fun, and stunning sights in Thailand, this tour is a solid pick. Just prepare for a busy, energetic day, and you’re set for a memorable journey through some of the country’s most iconic sites.