Lopburi Thailand – Lop Buri ancient ruins
Located approximately 154kms north of Bangkok, Lopburi Province (sometimes spelt Lop Buri) is home to amazing historical sites that truly allow visitors to gain a better understanding of Thailand’s past. Formerly known as Lawo, Lop Buri in Thailand has fallen under the control of several kingdoms over the centuries and, because of its strategic importance, always proved a notable scalp for a conquering army.
Remains of city life which date back over 1,200 years have been found within the region. Along with relics from the Bronze Age to the current Ratanakosin period, the area is a mecca for those interested in the past. Mixed with the modern, calm atmosphere that pervades today, Lopburi is a very interesting place to visit.
Lop Buri first became a notable area during the Dvaravati Kingdom that existed between the 6th and 11th centuries. The name Lawo is believed to have derived from the ethnic group that first settled the area. Known as the Lawa, this group is believed to be related to the Mons of China. During the 10th century, the town came under the command of the Khmers, whose distinctive style of architecture is still visible today.
In the 13th century, Thai people who had come from the north fought a great battle against the Khmers and Lopburi fell into the hands of the Thai kings. It was during the reign of King U-Tong that Lop Buri really became notable. The King, who had established the Ayutthaya Kingdom, sent his son Ramesua to govern the city. The Prince oversaw the building of fortifications, moats and towers. The city reached its zenith in 1664, when King Narai the Great named Lopburi as Thailand’s second capital city and even resided there. He utilized both Thai and European architects, which led to an amazing mixture of styles.
There are many ruins and sites scattered about the area, however some of the main ones worth seeking out include Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, the palace of the former king, dating from the 17th century and restored in the 19th century. The grounds are fairly extensive and interesting to wander around. Wat Phra Ratana Mahathat is directly across from the railway station and was once the largest temple in the city; today all that remains are some towers, the wihaan and a few chedis. Wat Kakhon Kosa is nearby and although much older (dating from the 12th century) there isn’t much left of it. The Prang Khaek is one of the most obvious Khmer structures, and has been recently restored. Another of these distinctive ‘prangs’ is Prang Sam Yot, which is one of the better preserved set of towers. They originally represented the Hindu gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, but today have Buddha images set into them. There are a number of other temple ruins dotted about this historic site that tell more about Lopburi’s auspicious past. Unfortunately the growing modern city around the ruins has all by obscured them from decent photographic views.
As well as all the architectural wonders that permeate the city, Lop Buri is also notable for its Sap Lanka Wildlife Sanctuary in the north of the city. Another notable attraction in Lopburi is the monkeys. The food offerings that took place in San Phra Kan drew the monkeys from the forests and these cheeky simians have almost taken over popular attractions like the Phra Prang SamYoy. The sunflower blooming is an added attraction that makes Lop Buri famous and the fields can bee seen on highway 21 about 45kms from Lopburi and are best between November and January.
Getting to Lop Buri is a relatively simple affair. The trip by car from Bangkok takes around two hours and drivers can use the highways the entire time. Air-conditioned coaches leave Bangkok’s North Bus Terminal every 20 minutes from 05:30 to 20:30 and tickets cost 85 baht for an air-conditioned coach. Trains leave Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Railway Station at 07:05 and 08:30 and are only available in Third Class.
Once you arrive in modern Lopburi you need to find you way west and you can catch one of the regular songtaew minibuses that ply the route.
Where to stay:
Asian Lop Buri hotel (tel: + 66 (0) 3 661 8893) is conveniently close to the Phra Narai Ratchaniwet and has decent rooms as well as two Chinese restaurants. Rooms from 200 – 350 baht with a/c and TV.
Taipei Hotel Lopburi (tel: +66 (0) 3 641 1524) is nearby and also has decent rooms. Rooms 170 – 350 baht incl. a/c).
Indra Hotel Lop Buri (tel: +66 (0) 3 641 1261) is near Wat Nakhon Kosa and has large clean rooms. Rooms 140 – 250 baht with a/c.
