Bangkok to Ayutthaya Lopburi Monkey Temple, Largest Buddha Tour

Discovering Thailand’s Hidden Gems: A Tour of Ayutthaya, Lopburi Monkeys, and the Largest Buddha

If you’re looking for a day packed with history, vibrant culture, and a dash of playful animal encounters, this Bangkok to Ayutthaya and Lopburi tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded adventure, combining iconic sights with local charm.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences—visiting ancient temples, witnessing the towering Buddha statues, and hanging out with the cheeky monkeys in Lopburi. The fact that it’s led by knowledgeable guides who keep the atmosphere lively adds to its appeal. Plus, for just around $54, you get a full day of exploration with convenient transportation, making it a great value.

One consideration is the site entrance fees, which are not included in the listed price. Budgeting for these small additional costs (around 50-80 THB per site) ensures a smooth experience. This tour suits history buffs, animal lovers, and travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural sights and fun surprises in a manageable day trip from Bangkok.

Good To Know

• Authentic culture with visits to iconic temples and historic ruins
• Fun monkey encounters in Lopburi’s lively monkey temple area
• Impressive giant Buddha at Wat Muang — one of the tallest in the world
• Guided insights from a friendly, knowledgeable local guide
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Affordable price that offers a diverse, full-day sightseeing experience

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya

Starting your day at Wat Mahathat, one of the most recognizable ruins in Ayutthaya, you’ll see the famous Buddha head entwined in tree roots—an image that often appears on postcards. Constructed in the 14th century, this site encapsulates the grandeur of the ancient Siamese capital. The towering ruins and intricate carvings tell stories of a bygone era, and even without entrance fees included, the exterior alone makes it worth the visit. Reviewers note that the site’s majestic atmosphere leaves a lasting impression, with some mentioning that the history is made more engaging thanks to the guide’s narration.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Next, you’ll visit Wat Phra Si Sanphet, once the holiest temple within the royal palace complex. Built in the 14th century, it served as a royal chapel and now offers impressive views of its royal stupas. With its open, expansive layout and the preserved ruins, it’s easy to imagine how majestic this site once was. The entrance fee (around 50 THB) is a small additional cost but adds to the experience of walking through a site that’s deeply connected to Thailand’s royal past. Several travelers mention the guide’s storytelling bringing the history to life, making the visit here both educational and inspiring.

Wat Muang and the Giant Buddha

In Wiset Chaichan, the highlight is Wat Muang with its colossal Buddha statue towering over 92 meters (about 300 feet). This enormous figure, built to inspire serenity and faith, is a sight to behold. Visitors can spend about two hours here, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and marveling at the scale of the statue. The best part? Entrance is free, which enhances the overall value of the trip. Reviewers regularly mention how this site left them in awe—”very impressive and peaceful,” as one noted.

Phra Prang Sam Yot in Lopburi

Moving on to Phra Prang Sam Yot, an architectural marvel where Khmer and Lopburi styles intertwine. Constructed during the Khmer Empire, this temple is famous for its prangs (towers) decorated with intricate carvings. It’s also where mischievous monkeys roam freely, often stealing snacks and climbing on visitors. Expect to spend around two hours exploring, taking photos, and observing the lively monkey antics. Some reviews highlight the lively monkey population as a fun, memorable aspect, though it’s wise to watch your belongings.

Lopburi – The Monkey Capital

Lopburi itself is a quirky town with a history dating back centuries. Aside from the monkey temple, wandering through the old town streets reveals remnants of Khmer influence and traditional Thai architecture. While some travelers mention the city’s lively, somewhat chaotic atmosphere, most agree it’s worth the visit for the unique experience of sharing space with playful monkeys and exploring lesser-known historical sites.

Wat Khun Inthapramun in Ang Thong

The final stop is Wat Khun Inthapramun, famous for its enormous reclining Buddha, over 50 meters long. Though slightly outside the main loop, it offers a peaceful end to the day, giving travelers a chance to reflect on the spiritual side of Thai culture. The entrance is free, and visitors often comment on the serene ambiance and impressive size of the reclining Buddha—an ideal setting for some contemplative moments after a busy day.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Experience

The tour features air-conditioned vehicle transport that keeps everyone comfortable as you hop from site to site. Starting early at 8:00 am, it totals roughly 10 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The group size is capped at 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging. Several reviews praise the driver and guide for their friendliness and professionalism, making the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Cost and Value

At $54.49 per person, this tour offers significant value considering the number of sites visited and the depth of insights provided. However, entrance fees (generally 50-80 THB per site) are not included, adding a small extra cost. This is typical for similar tours, but it’s worth budgeting for these to avoid surprises. The inclusion of bottled water, a knowledgeable guide, and insurance adds further comfort.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The true strength of this experience lies in the guides’ expertise and friendly approach. Reviewers consistently mention guides like Geng and Patsayuit, who share not just facts but engaging stories and local tips. Their enthusiasm helps bring the ruins and temples to life, transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural journey.

The monkey encounters at Lopburi are a highlight for many, with playful primates adding a lively, unpredictable element. Meanwhile, the impressive size of Wat Muang and the romantic ruins of Ayutthaya provide picture-perfect moments and a tangible sense of Thailand’s heritage.

Final Thoughts

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an all-in-one experience of Thailand’s historical sites, spiritual landmarks, and quirky animal encounters. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning from passionate guides, seeing iconic sights without the hassle of planning, and experiencing local culture in a relaxed setting.

The value proposition is solid—covering a full day of exploration for a reasonable price, with the flexibility to include or skip some entrance fees. The intimate group size and comfortable transportation ensure a smooth, personalized experience.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just seeking fun moments with monkeys, this tour offers an engaging way to see some of Thailand’s most memorable sights in one go. Just remember to bring some small change for entrance fees, your camera, and an adventurous spirit!

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can enjoy this tour. It involves walking around outdoor sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended, but there are no strenuous activities.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. A small bag for your belongings is helpful, especially with the playful monkeys around. Also, a camera or smartphone to capture the sights.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Phra Prang Sam Yot are not included in the price. Budget around 50-80 THB per site for these.

How long is the drive from Bangkok?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, but exact driving times aren’t specified. Expect several hours on the road, considering stops and site visits.

Is there enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary allocates about 1-2 hours per site, which is enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The pace is relaxed for maximum enjoyment.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific sites?
The tour is pre-arranged with a set itinerary. However, the small group size and guided nature make it flexible enough for personalized questions and interactions.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Starting at 8:00 am, the tour avoids the midday heat and crowds, making it ideal for comfortable sightseeing and photography.

This full-day adventure offers an engaging mix of Thailand’s ancient architecture, spiritual icons, and lively monkey antics—great for those who want a balanced, authentic taste of the country’s heritage without the hassle of planning every detail.