Bangkok to Ayutthaya Lopburi Monkey Temple, Largest Buddha Tour

Experience the Best of Thailand’s Historic Treasures with the Bangkok to Ayutthaya and Lopburi Monkey Temple Tour

If you’re craving a full-day adventure that mixes ancient ruins, giant Buddha statues, and playful monkeys, this tour offers a compelling package. While I haven’t personally taken it, the consistently glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a seamless way to explore some of Thailand’s most iconic cultural sites.

What I love about this experience is how it combines an abundance of temples, a chance to see two of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, and the quirky monkey-filled ruins of Lopburi. Each stop promises striking architecture and fascinating history, all wrapped into a manageable 10-hour day. Plus, with a guide who is praised for their knowledge and humor, you’re likely to enjoy engaging stories and insider tips.

One consideration is the extra cost for entrance fees, which are not included in the base price — so budgeting a little extra for tickets is wise. Also, this tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and a bit of nature’s randomness (the monkeys). If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth exploration or have specific dietary needs, you might want to plan accordingly.

All in all, this tour appeals most to travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized glimpse into Thailand’s historic sites and unique local quirks, all without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive coverage: Visits to Ayutthaya’s top temples, Lopburi’s monkey ruins, and a colossal Buddha statue.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor.
• Affordable value: At $54.49 per person, including transportation and water, it’s a great way to see multiple sites efficiently.
• Flexible itinerary: Includes stops at UNESCO-listed ruins, lively monkey territory, and awe-inspiring Buddha sculptures.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed ride between sites.
• Extra costs: Entrance fees are not included, so plan for around 50-80 THB per site, depending on the location.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins at 8:00 am from Museum Siam, a central and accessible location in Bangkok. This early start lets you beat the midday heat and crowds, especially at popular spots like Ayutthaya and Lopburi. The group caps at 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and opportunities for questions, photos, and conversations.

Transport and Comfort

A key selling point is the air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more comfortable. Our reviews highlight that the van is consistently described as clean and comfortable, which is crucial for a trip that involves several hours of travel. The journey between sites, approximately 10 hours in total, is managed smoothly, leaving you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Guided Tours: Knowledgeable and Entertaining

The guides receive high praise for their depth of knowledge and engaging personalities. One reviewer mentioned that Geng, their guide, was not only friendly but also excellent at storytelling and taking memorable pictures. Another reviewer called their guide “perfect,” highlighting how he shared local legends and the history behind each site, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya (1 hour)
This temple is famous for its iconic Buddha head entwined in Bodhi tree roots. Travelers often comment on the impressive ruins and the photogenic temple layout. While entrance fees aren’t included (approx. 50 THB), the site’s grandeur makes it worth a quick visit. The guide’s storytelling brings the ruins to life, making it easier to envision the temple in its prime.

2. Wat Phra Si Sanphet (1 hour)
This royal temple was once part of the Siamese king’s palace complex, built in the 14th century. Its impressive stupa and remaining structures evoke a sense of past splendor. The entrance fee is about 50 THB, but many find the site’s historical significance and visual impact to justify the cost.

3. Wat Muang (2 hours)
Here’s where things get truly grand — the over 92-meter-tall seated Buddha statue is a sight that leaves visitors awe-struck. It’s one of the tallest in the world, and standing in front of it, you can’t help but feel a sense of scale. The serene surroundings contrast with the bustling city, providing a peaceful moment amidst the busy schedule.

4. Phra Prang Sam Yot in Lopburi (2 hours)
This Khmer-style temple is famous for its playful monkey population. The ruins are a fascinating blend of Khmer and Lopburi architecture, and it’s the perfect spot for some fun photos with the monkeys—some reviewers even mention how the monkeys are “cute,” and how they add a lively, unpredictable element to the visit. Be cautious with food and belongings!

5. Lopburi Province Exploration (2 hours)
Beyond the temple, the city offers a glimpse into local life and history. Wandering the old town streets, you’ll encounter remnants of Khmer influence and local markets. Reviewers note that the city is steeped in history, making it a rewarding cultural stop.

6. Wat Khun Inthapramun (Optional, 2 hours)
Located in Ang Thong Province, this temple features an enormous reclining Buddha over 50 meters long. While not part of the core itinerary (or perhaps an optional or extra stop), this site is another highlight for lovers of large-scale Buddha statues.

Cost and Value

The tour costs $54.49 per person, which includes licensed guide, transportation, bottled water, and insurance. While entrance fees are extra, the total additional cost for tickets (around 50-80 THB per site) is modest and well worth it for the access to these top landmarks.

Given the inclusion of transport, guide expertise, and water, the price feels reasonable for a full-day, expertly curated cultural experience. Reviewers emphasize that their guides made the long day enjoyable, with jokes, stories, and helpful tips, adding and value that pure self-guided trips might lack.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Most reviews focus on the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides, often highlighted for their friendly, approachable demeanor and storytelling skills. The monkey encounter at Lopburi is frequently described as a memorable, fun highlight — a unique experience that you can’t easily replicate alone.

Travelers also appreciate how the comfortable transport allows for a laid-back experience, especially after walking around ruins in the hot sun. The timing is well-thought-out, allowing visits to key sites with minimal rush, and the early start helps avoid crowds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, architecture, and cultural sites, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially attractive for travelers who want to see the most iconic temples without the hassle of planning transport and tickets themselves. The guided commentary ensures you’re not just wandering around but learning and understanding the significance of each site.

Monkey lovers and photo enthusiasts, in particular, will enjoy Lopburi’s lively monkey population and the fun photo opportunities. The visit to the largest Buddha statue is a highlight for those seeking awe-inspiring sights.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, have specific dietary needs, or want to explore sites at your own pace, this tour might feel somewhat rushed. Also, budget-conscious travelers should remember that entrance fees are not included, so expect to pay a little extra on-site.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a well-rounded, culturally immersive experience at a reasonable price. It combines the stunning ruins of Ayutthaya with the playful chaos of Lopburi, all guided by knowledgeable and personable guides. The comfortable transportation and well-planned itinerary make it an excellent choice for anyone eager to explore Thailand’s historic landmarks efficiently.

It’s especially suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a fun day filled with both awe-inspiring sights and lively monkeys. If you’re after a hassle-free, engaging, and value-packed tour that hits the highlights of central Thailand, this experience is a clear winner.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, especially since it includes fun monkey encounters and accessible sites. Just keep an eye on children around the monkeys and large statues.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Wat Mahathat, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Phra Prang Sam Yot are not included. Expect to pay around 50 THB per site.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), bottled water, and possibly a camera for capturing the impressive sights.

Is this tour available for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed for small groups (max. 10 travelers), making it perfect for solo adventurers who want a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is fixed, but guides are known to be friendly and helpful—feel free to ask questions or request additional photos or insights.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and stairs, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provided booking platform, with confirmation sent immediately after booking.

This Bangkok to Ayutthaya and Lopburi Monkey Temple Tour offers a rich, entertaining dive into Thai history, architecture, and local life. Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances education, fun, and cultural discovery.