Lopburi Monkey Temple & Ayutthaya Old City Tour From Bangkok

This tour through Lopburi and Ayutthaya offers an immersive journey into Thailand’s captivating past. Visitors will explore the historic ruins of the former capital, Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and encounter the legendary Monkey Temple in Lopburi, one of the oldest cities in the country. With a licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees included, this comprehensive experience provides a unique window into the region’s rich cultural heritage. As you explore the stories that echo through these ancient sites, you’ll be left with a deeper appreciation for the ebb and flow of Thailand’s dynamic history.

Key Points

• This tour combines the historic and cultural highlights of Lopburi and Ayutthaya, allowing exploration of Thailand’s past kingdoms.
• The tour includes UNESCO-listed ruins of the former capital Ayutthaya and visits the Monkey Temple, one of the oldest cities in Thailand.
• The tour provides an English-speaking licensed guide, air-conditioned transportation, and entrance fees to key temples.
• Visitors are advised to observe monkeys from a safe distance and avoid direct contact, as they can be unpredictable and potentially aggressive.
• The tour offers a rundown of the region’s history and culture, providing a glimpse into Thailand’s captivating past.

Tour Overview

This tour combines the historic and cultural highlights of Lopburi and Ayutthaya, allowing visitors to explore the remnants of Thailand’s past kingdoms.

In Ayutthaya, you’ll discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of this former capital, which thrived from 1350 to 1767. Admire the intricate architecture of temples like Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet.

In Lopburi, you’ll visit the Monkey Temple, one of the oldest cities in Thailand with a rich heritage.

The tour provides a rundown of the region’s history and culture, offering a unique opportunity to learn about Thailand’s past. With an expert guide and transportation included, this tour ensures a seamless and informative experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking licensed guide who accompanies visitors throughout the experience.

An air-conditioned vehicle provides transportation from the pickup locations to the historical sites in Lopburi and Ayutthaya.

Bottled drinking water is provided for participants, and entrance fees are covered for the key temples visited, including Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Phra Prang Sam Yot.

Hotel pickup and drop-off from the Khao San Road and Siam Square areas are also included, ensuring a seamless and convenient tour experience.

The tour’s inclusive nature allows visitors to focus on exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of these remarkable destinations without worrying about additional expenses.

Exclusions

While the tour includes several key elements, there are also some exclusions for participants. This allows travelers flexibility in choosing their own meals and provides them the option to reward the staff should they wish to do so.

Food and personal expenses aren’t covered as part of the package. Plus, gratuities for the driver and guide, though not mandatory, are also excluded from the tour’s cost.

The tour focuses on providing a comprehensive historical and cultural experience, with the understanding that incidentals and personal spending are the responsibility of each individual traveler. By outlining these exclusions upfront, the tour organizers ensure transparency and set appropriate expectations for those joining the excursion.

Meeting and Pickup

Conveniently, the tour offers pickup services from hotels situated in the Khao San Road and Siam Square areas, or participants can opt to meet at the WanderSiam office located on Chao Khamrop Road.

Departure times are set between 7:30-8:00 AM, depending on the number of participants on the day.

The tour ensures a smooth experience by arranging comfortable air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking licensed guide.

Throughout the journey, bottled drinking water is provided to keep travelers hydrated.

With a maximum group size of 10 persons, the tour maintains an intimate and personalized atmosphere, allowing for a more immersive cultural exploration of Lopburi and Ayutthaya.

Monkey Interactions

Although the Monkey Temple in Lopburi is a popular attraction, visitors must exercise caution when interacting with the wild monkeys, as they can be unpredictable and potentially aggressive.

Monkeys are known to steal food, snatch belongings, and even bite if they feel threatened, so it’s crucial for travelers to observe them from a safe distance and avoid direct contact.

Tour guides typically advise participants to refrain from feeding the monkeys, as this can encourage undesirable behavior and disrupt the natural ecosystem.

By being mindful of the monkeys’ wild nature, visitors can safely enjoy the unique experience of observing these primates in their natural habitat.

The tour guide will likely provide the following tips for interacting with the monkeys:

• Avoid making direct eye contact with the monkeys
• Don’t approach or try to touch the monkeys
• Keep food and valuables secure and away from the monkeys
• Stay on designated paths and avoid wandering off on your own
• Listen to the guide’s instructions and follow their directions

Historical Highlights

The tour explores the historical highlights of two significant sites in Thailand’s past – the ancient city of Ayutthaya and the historic Monkey Temple in Lopburi.

In Ayutthaya, visitors can admire the majestic ruins of temples like Wat Mahathat, Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, which were part of the thriving kingdom that existed from 1350 to 1767.

The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Phra Prang Sam Yot, known as the Monkey Temple, in Lopburi. This temple dates back centuries and is famous for the resident population of mischievous monkeys that have become part of the site’s rich heritage.

Exploring these historical landmarks provides a fascinating glimpse into Thailand’s captivating past.

Ayutthaya Exploration

Exploring the ancient city of Ayutthaya, visitors marvel at the majestic ruins of temples that once thrived as part of a powerful kingdom from 1350 to 1767.

The tour highlights several must-see sites, including:

• Wat Mahathat, known for its iconic Buddha head entwined in tree roots
• Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, an impressive temple complex with massive reclining Buddha statues
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple featuring three towering chedis
• Phra Prang Sam Yot, the iconic three-headed Khmer-style prang (tower) that exemplifies the city’s diverse architectural influences

Through these remarkable historical landmarks, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Ayutthaya’s captivating past as the second capital of the Siamese kingdom.

Additional Information

Typically, confirmation of the tour booking is received immediately after the purchase.

The tour is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain at some of the historical sites.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 10 participants to provide a more personalized experience.

Visitors are advised to exercise caution when interacting with the monkeys at the Monkey Temple, as they’re wild animals.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from the Khao San Road and Siam Square areas, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and entrance fees to the specified historical sites.

However, the cost of food and gratuities for the driver and guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Food for the Monkeys?

While interacting with wild monkeys can be tempting, it’s generally not recommended to feed them. Monkeys have specialized diets, and human food may harm them. The tour guides can provide guidance on safely observing the monkeys during the visit.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children due to potential interactions with wild monkeys and the focus on historical temples. Parents should consider their child’s age and comfort level before booking. Careful supervision is advised if bringing young children on this tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in Ayutthaya?

Yes, visitors can extend their stay in Ayutthaya. The tour provides transportation to and from the destination, allowing guests to explore Ayutthaya’s historical sites and attractions at their own pace after the guided portion of the tour.

Are There Any Photography Restrictions at the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the historical sites, but visitors should avoid using flash and tripods. Some areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the tour guide or local authorities before taking photos.

Will the Tour Guide Speak Other Languages Besides English?

The tour guide is fluent in English, but may not speak other languages. Guests requiring translation services in other languages should inquire about availability when booking the tour. The guide give you a comprehensive experience for all participants.

Recap

This guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Lopburi’s Monkey Temple and the historical sites of Ayutthaya.

Visitors will gain insights into Thailand’s storied past, from the ancient capital to the unique relationship between humans and monkeys.

With transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide included, this tour provides a seamless and enriching experience for those seeking to enjoy the region’s cultural and architectural heritage.