Bangkok to Ayutthaya Lopburi Monkey Temple, Largest Buddha Tour

Traveling through Thailand often means encountering a blend of ancient temples, lively markets, and fascinating local customs. This well-reviewed tour offers a deep dive into some of the country’s most iconic sights—Lopburi’s playful monkeys, a colossal Buddha at Wat Muang, and the majestic ruins of Ayutthaya. With a 5.0 rating from 35 travelers, it’s clear this experience leaves many feeling it’s worth every baht.

What we love about this tour is how it combines fun and culture, offers meaningful guided insights, and visits less touristy spots alongside famous temples. Plus, the relatively affordable price of around $54 per person covers multiple highlights in a day. The only thing to consider might be the long day’s duration — expect about 10 hours of travel and exploration, which may be tiring for some. This tour suits those eager to see Thailand’s historic marvels with a knowledgeable guide and who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and cultural stories.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Lopburi, Wiset Chaichan, and Ayutthaya
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of each site
• Comfortable transport included, saving hassle and time
• Admission fees are not included but are manageable
• Authentic experiences with monkeys, towering Buddha, and ruins
• Value for money considering multiple sites and expert guiding

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This tour is a fantastic way to connect with Thailand’s historic roots while enjoying some lighter moments with playful monkeys and awe-inspiring monuments. It’s designed for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing without the stress of planning transportation or figuring out logistics. From start to finish, the experience offers a blend of culture, wildlife, and architecture that gives a genuine feel for the country’s diverse heritage.

The tour has earned glowing reviews, with travelers praising the friendly guides, comfortable transportation, and the variety of sights. As one reviewer shared, “The temples are amazing and monkeys are cute,” highlighting the delightful wildlife encounter at Lopburi. Another noted how their guide, Patsayuit, was attentive and friendly—making the day more engaging and personal.

The main thing to keep in mind is that it’s a long day, so packing a water bottle, some snacks, and comfortable shoes is recommended. If you’re someone who enjoys learning about history but prefers a relaxed, guided experience, this tour may suit you perfectly.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya

We start at Wat Mahathat, one of the most photogenic ruins in Ayutthaya. Known for the iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots, it’s a haunting scene that symbolizes resilience through time. Built in the 14th century, this site was once a thriving religious center and royal monastery. The complex’s towering prang and relic chambers give visitors a sense of the grandeur once held here.

Travelers often comment on the evocative atmosphere. One reviewer described it as “a haunting yet mesmerizing sight,” which perfectly captures the feeling of witnessing such enduring relics. Expect about an hour here—enough time to take photos, wander around, and appreciate the scale of the ruins. Entry fees are extra, with a small charge of 50 THB.

Stop 2: Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Next, we visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, a site that highlights Ayutthaya’s royal power. Built in the 14th century, it was used mainly for royal ceremonies and once housed the revered Emerald Buddha. The highlight for many visitors is its three large chedis, which dominate the landscape—each decorated with intricate details and filled with relics of former kings.

The ruins are well-preserved, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to imagine Thailand’s regal past. Again, expect about an hour for exploration, with a 50 THB entry fee. Visitors often appreciate the combination of history and architecture, noting how the site feels both majestic and peaceful.

Stop 3: Wat Muang in Wiset Chaichan

After lunch, the tour heads to Wat Muang, home to one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world—over 92 meters (around 300 feet) tall. Completed in 2008, the colossal seated Buddha is a stunning piece of modern religious artistry. The serene expression on the Buddha’s face draws pilgrims and travelers alike, offering a moment of tranquility amidst beautifully landscaped gardens.

This stop is about two hours long, giving enough time to walk around, admire the craftsmanship, and take plenty of photos. The best part? The statue is free to admire, making this a highly value-packed experience. Its scale and craftsmanship evoke awe, especially considering how recent the construction is.

Stop 4: Phra Prang Sam Yot in Lopburi

The highlight for many here is Phra Prang Sam Yot, a Khmer-style temple with three imposing towers, originally built in the 13th century. Originally a Hindu site dedicated to Shiva, it was later converted into a Buddhist monastery. Its architectural style and ancient carvings reflect a fascinating blend of Khmer and Lopburi influences.

One of the most distinctive aspects is the monkey population—these mischievous residents are part of the charm. They’re friendly but curious, so keep an eye on your belongings. This visit usually lasts about two hours, and while the entrance fee is not included (around 50 THB), many find the lively atmosphere and historical architecture worth the small extra cost.

Stop 5: Lopburi Province and Local Towns

Beyond the temples, the tour offers a glimpse into local life in Lopburi. You can explore streets filled with traditional markets, see more Khmer-style remnants, and experience the vibrant Thai hospitality. The area isn’t just about the monkeys; it’s about discovering an authentic, bustling town layered with history.

Reviewers mention how exploring the old town streets feels like stepping back in time, with their vibrant markets and local temples. The group typically spends around two hours here, enough to soak in the local vibe and get some souvenirs.

Stop 6: Wat Khun Inthapramun in Ang Thong

The tour concludes with a visit to Wat Khun Inthapramun, known for its massive reclining Buddha, over 50 meters long and believed to be over 500 years old. This peaceful spot is a significant pilgrimage site, with intricate details on the statue and a serene atmosphere that invites reflection.

This part of the tour also takes around two hours, giving travelers time to meditate or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and cultural insights.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day much more comfortable. The tour starts early at 8:00 am from Sanam Chai, with the journey wrapping up back at the starting point. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience—many reviewers mention how helpful their guides, like Patsayuit, were in making the day memorable.

Travel time between sites is well managed, allowing enough time to explore each location without feeling rushed. The overall day spans approximately 10 hours, which is a lot but also a good value considering the number of sights covered.

Guide and Experience

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. “Mr. Gang and the driver are both nice,” one review notes, emphasizing how they made the experience enjoyable and comfortable. The guides often share interesting stories and historical facts that you might not find in guidebooks, making the visit more meaningful.

Pricing and Value

At $54.49 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the multiple sites visited, professional guiding, and comfortable transportation. Entrance fees are extra, but they are modest—around 50 THB at each major temple—and are easily covered by the overall cost. Many travelers feel that the price reflects the quality of the experience, especially with the added benefit of a small group size and expert guidance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and those who enjoy a mix of wildlife and architecture. It’s also perfect if you want a convenient, hassle-free way to see diverse sights without the stress of planning logistics. Since it’s a full-day tour, those with limited time in Thailand will appreciate the efficient itinerary that maximizes sightseeing.

It suits travelers who enjoy engaging guides, authentic experiences, and wildlife encounters — especially with the monkeys in Lopburi. If you’re looking for a well-rounded introduction to central Thailand’s historic and spiritual sites, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transport from start to finish, making the long day much more comfortable.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Sanam Chai in Bangkok, with pick-up arrangements typically at this central location.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, beginning at 8:00 am and returning to the starting point in the evening.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Phra Prang Sam Yot are not included but are small (around 50 THB each).

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a snack — although bottled water is provided.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around ruins and uneven surfaces, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What language is the guided commentary in?
The guide speaks English, providing insightful commentary throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy to meet fellow travelers and share the experience.

How much free time is there at each site?
Typically around an hour at each major site, enough to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a comprehensive, engaging look at some of Thailand’s most iconic sites within a single day. Its well-balanced mix of history, wildlife, and spirituality makes it ideal for travelers eager to see a variety of attractions without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and authentic experiences make it a value-packed option for those with limited time.

If you’re interested in exploring Thailand beyond the usual tourist spots and want an insider’s perspective, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and anyone who appreciates cultural storytelling in a small-group setting. For a memorable day that covers ancient ruins, giant Buddhas, and playful monkeys, this tour is hard to beat.