Travel like the wind — Suchart Choolee
“In the heart of Lopburi on an afternoon, sunlight bathes the prang towers. The sky — blue with clouds drifting in the breeze — frames a tranquil atmosphere. Houses seem deserted, and only street art and paintings of the ‘Jaohor’ monkeys remind visitors that this place belongs to Lopburi’s troop of monkeys.
Before you stands Prang Sam Yot, an ancient monument enduring the test of time. Recognized as one of the most valuable Khmer architectural heritages in Thailand, construction dates back to around the 17th Buddhist century during the height of the Khmer Empire. Originally built as a Hindu shrine dedicated to Shiva, following the Shaivism tradition, the site later transformed into a Mahayana Buddhist sanctuary during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, reflecting a significant cultural and religious shift in Southeast Asia.
The prangs rise from local sandstone, a durable material, adorned with intricate stucco and sandstone carvings in the Bayon period style. This artistic style is characterized by soft lines, natural details, and statues with smiling faces — hallmarks of art from King Jayavarman VII’s era. The three prangs symbolize the Hindu Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Despite the passing centuries, a sacred aura of faith continues to linger over every stone.
Monkeys living at this site have become another emblem, adding unique charm and color. Playful and mischievous, these creatures show familiarity with tourists — swinging from temple nooks or snatching snacks from the unwary. Each year, Lopburi hosts the famous “Monkey Buffet Festival” on the last Sunday of November at the front of Prang Sam Yot. Tables laden with fruits, sweets, and various dishes invite the monkeys to celebrate in abundance. This grand event attracts visitors from around the world, showcasing the long-standing bond between humans and monkeys.
Another landmark affirming the value of Prang Sam Yot appears on the reverse side of the 500-baht banknote, 11th series, first issued in 1975 by the Bank of Thailand. The front features the portrait of King Rama IX, while the back elegantly displays Prang Sam Yot — a tribute to historical beauty captured on currency used daily.
Images of foreign tourists following local guides mix with scenes of monkeys freely climbing around. Although one prang stands surrounded by scaffolding and fences for restoration, solemn grandeur remains undiminished. On the street ahead, cars weave past each other. Slowly crossing the old railway tracks running behind the monument, the whistle of a passing train and the sight of the stone temple under the fading sun become a memory etched behind me… and in my heart.
Additional Information
- Location: Wichayen Road, Tha Hin Subdistrict, Mueang District, Lopburi Province
- Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Thai nationals 10 Baht / Foreigners 50 Baht
- Managed by: Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture
- More info: Tourism Thailand
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