Lopburi Province
Encyclopedia
Lop Buri is one of the central provinces
(changwat) of Thailand
. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phetchabun
, Chaiyaphum
, Nakhon Ratchasima
, Saraburi
, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
, Ang Thong
, Sing Buri
and Nakhon Sawan
.
and Pa Sak
Rivers. 30% of the area of the province, including most of Tha Wung district
, the southwestern parts of Mueang Lopburi and Ban Mi
districts are a very low alluvial plain
. The rest 70% is intermixed between plains and hills, with the Phetchabun Mountains
form the eastern boundary of the province towards the Khorat Plateau
.
during much of its history, Lopburi probably dates to prehistoric times. The name Lavo originated in the Dvaravati
period (6th to 11th century C.E.). The conquering Khmer
would build many impressive temples in the city during its rule. Lopburi may even have liberated itself for a time, as it sent independent embassies to China in 1115 and 1155. In 1289 it sent another embassy to China, but soon became part of the Thai kingdom of Sukhothai
and later Ayutthaya
.
During the Ayutthaya period, King Ramathibodi I
sent Phra Ramesuan
(later King Ramesuan) as the Uparaja
to reign in Lopburi. In 1665 King Narai
the Great ordered a new palace
built on the east bank of the Lopburi River
and made Lop Buri the second capital of the country, as Ayutthaya was threatened by the Dutch
. After King Narai died, the city was almost abandoned and fell into ruin.
In 1856 King Mongkut
of the Chakri dynasty ordered King Narai's Palace to be renovated. The city finally regained its importance in 1938, when Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram chose Lop Buri to be the largest military base in Thailand.
in front of the Khmer temple Phra Prang Sam Yod.
The provincial tree as well as the provincial flower is the Bullet Wood (Mimusops elengi
).
The slogan of the province is National Treasures of King Narai’s Palace and Phra Kan Shrine, Famous Prang Sam Yot, City of Din So Phong Marl, well-known Pa Sak Jolasid Dam and Golden Land of King Narai the Great.
The province is subdivided into 11 districts (amphoe
). The districts are further subdivided into 124 subdistricts (tambon
) and 1110 villages (muban
).
Office Building of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Central Region Office: Region 7 (อาคารสำนักงานการท่องเที่ยวแห่งประเทศไทย (ททท.) ภาคกลางเขต 7) It is a hip-roof building, constructed in 1930 by Than Phrakhru Lop Buri Khanachan, the abbot of Wat Sao Thong Thong to be a school building, replacing the Khorosan one which was located within Wat Sao Thong Thong. This new school was called Phra Narai School which had been a provincial school for boys.
Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (พระนารายณ์ราชนิเวศน์) King Narai the Great had this palace constructed in 1666 to be his royal residence in Lop Buri. The structures within the compound can be divided into 2 groups in accordance with the period of construction as follows:
Structures during the reign of King Narai the Great include:
Dusit Sawan Thanya Maha Prasat Hall (พระที่นั่งดุสิตสวรรค์ธัญญมหาปราสาท) is a throne hall whose style of fine art is a mixture of Thai and French architecture. Originally, it was an audience hall with a pointed top in the Mondop shape. This was also the place where King Narai the Great received Chevalier de Chaumont and the French envoys in 1685.
Chanthara Phisan Hall (พระที่นั่งจันทรพิศาล) was used as an audience hall, similar to what was stated in the record by the French. At present, the hall is an exhibition venue, presenting the biography of King Narai the Great and the fine arts of Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin.
Suttha Sawan Hall (พระที่นั่งสุทธาสวรรค์) was a private residence of King Narai the Great, located at the inner section of the royal palace. King Narai the Great passed away at this hall on 11 July 1688.
Phrachao Hao Building (ตึกพระเจ้าเหา) This building clearly presents the architectural characteristics of King Narai the Great’s period. It is a Thai-style brick building with a laterite base. However, at present, all that remains are only the walls, windows and doors of the Ruean Kaeo arch with the Simha or lion base whose patterns can still be seen.
Reception Hall for Foreign Visitors (ตึกรับรองแขกเมือง) It reflects the French architectural style. In accordance with the French chronicle, this building was at the centre of the park, which was divided into a grid, while around the building was a moat.
Phra Khlang Supharat (The Twelve Royal Storage Buildings) (พระคลังศุภรัตน์ (หมู่ตึกสิบสองท้องพระคลัง)) is situated between the water tank and the Reception Hall for Foreign Visitors. It is believed to have been a place to store royal goods and treasures for official use.
Water Tank (อ่างเก็บน้ำหรือถังเก็บน้ำประปา) was constructed of brick with a specially-thick wall at its edge. Underground lies a baked-clay pipe to distribute water from Thale Chup Son and Sap Lek Reservoir to the buildings and halls.
Elephant Stables (โรงช้างหลวง) Most of them have already been ruined with only 10 bases remaining. Elephants living in these stables were the royal or important ones ridden by King Narai the Great, royal family members, or high-ranking aristocrats.
Structures built during the reign of King Rama IV include:
Phiman Mongkut Pavilion (หมู่พระที่นั่งพิมานมงกุฎ) was constructed after the royal command of King Rama IV in 1862 as his private residence when he came to renovate Lop Buri.
Phra Prathiap Buildings (หมู่ตึกพระประเทียบ) They comprise 2 single storey buildings and a group of 8 two-storey brick buildings, constructed for being residential quarters for inner court officials who followed King Rama V when the latter visited Lop Buri.
Thim Dap or Royal Guards Residence (ทิมดาบ หรือที่พักของทหารรักษาการณ์) Passing through the entrance to the middle court, the buildings on both sides of the lawn were the residences of the royal guards of the palace.
Somdet Phra Narai National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติสมเด็จพระนารายณ์) was established in 1923 and was divided into 4 buildings for antique displays as follows:
Wat Sao Thong Thong (วัดเสาธงทอง) The ancient remain that should be visited is Phra Wihan, believed to have originally been constructed as a religious site of another religion because in accordance with the map written by a French craftsman, the area was a residence of the Persians.
Wichayen House (บ้านหลวงรับราชทูต หรือ บ้านหลวงวิชาเยนทร์) It served as the residence for the envoys paying a courtesy call on King Narai the Great in Lop Buri. The important thing is the Christian church, whose plan and design is in a European style but with the entrance and window facades in the Ruean Kaeo style. It is considered as the first Christian church, decorated in the Buddhist temple style.
The City Pillar Shrine or Lukson Shrine (ศาลหลักเมือง หรือ ศาลลูกศร) It is an ancient city pillar shrine, called Lukson Shrine. Prince Damrong Rajanupab wrote about this shrine in the legend of Lop Buri that “it has been assumed that the city pillar was the arrow of Phra Ram that has become stone, while the soil mound that formed the city wall was the work of Hanuman – Rama’s monkey warrior”.
Prang Khaek (เทวสถานปรางค์แขก) It is the oldest monument of Lop Buri. It comprises 3 prangs, made of bricks with no adjoining corridors as Prang Sam Yot.
Phra Prang Sam Yot (พระปรางค์สามยอด) The compound comprises 3 prangs linked to one another by a corridor. In the reign of King Narai the Great, Phra Prang Sam Yot was renovated as a Buddhist temple. Inside is enshrined a sandstone Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture, presenting the early Ayutthaya style of art. At present, the image is located outdoors.
San Phra Kan (ศาลพระกาฬ) It is an ancient Khmer sanctuary, constructed of laterite with a high base. Therefore, it was also called “San Sung” (a high shrine). It has been told that at this same location in former times, there were many gigantic fig or Krang trees, where monkeys had lived. Later, people brought food and fruits to make a votive offering to the shrine.
Wat Nakhon Kosa (วัดนครโกษา) Within the compound of the temple are ancient remains of a grand chedi of the Dvaravati period with a prang of the Lop Buri period around the 12th century at the front. Moreover, two large images of god adjusted into Buddha images were discovered and are now kept in the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum.
Wat San Paulo (วัดสันเปาโล) It was a Jesuit church, constructed in the reign of King Narai the Great. At present, the remains are only a side of the wall and an observatory.
Wat Mani Chonlakhan (วัดมณีชลขัณฑ์) An interesting ancient remain is the strange-looking square and tall shape of the chedi, similar to those of the Chiang Saen (Lanna) style. Besides, within the compound of the temple stands a Bodhi tree, planted by King Rama V.
Wat Tong Pu (วัดตองปุ) In the past, it was a gathering place of the Thai army. There is an ancient object which is the only one remaining in Thailand which is a traditional shower or bathing device for monks and Buddha images, called the bathing fountain.
Wat Kawitsararam Ratchaworawihan (วัดกวิศรารามราชวรวิหาร) It has been told that this temple was the venue of the ceremony to drink an oath of allegiance. The principal Buddha image is in the posture of subduing Mara in the U Thong style of art, while the mural paintings are in a floral design.
Wat Choeng Tha (วัดเชิงท่า) It was originally called Wat Tha Kwian because it was a terminal for product-transport carts – Kwian - to the pier in front of the temple. Inside the compound of the temple lie significant buildings which had been constructed from the end of the Ayutthaya until Rattanakosin periods.
Sophon Sin Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์หอโสภณศิลป์) displays the background of the Buddhist monks, the Dhamma and the Buddha, as well as, the background of the temple itself in an exhibition on the knowledge of Buddhism.
Lop Buri Zoo (สวนสัตว์ลพบุรี) The Special Warfare Unit, who took charge of the place, cooperated with other authorities such as various clubs, traders and the public to renovate the zoo to be a place for relaxation and source of knowledge on animals and plants.
Sa Kaeo (สระแก้ว) At the middle of the pond stands a structure similar to a gigantic candle on a large footed tray where symbols of each ministry were decorated around its edge.
Wat Chi Pa Sitaram (วัดชีป่าสิตาราม) Within the compound of the temple is situated a chedi in a bell shape representing the Ayutthaya art. There is also an herbal steam treatment and a traditional Thai massage facilities.
Kraison Siharat Hall (พระที่นั่งไกรสรสีหราช) is commonly known as Phra Thinang Yen or Thale Chup Son Hall. This hall is another residence of King Narai the Great. The hall is located on an island surrounded by Thale Chup Son, which was once a large reservoir surrounded with a dam made of stone and cement.
Wat Yang Na Rangsi and Lop Buri Boat Museum (วัดยาง ณ รังสี และพิพิธภัณฑ์เรือพื้นบ้าน) Lop Buri Boat Museum is at the temple sermon hall, constructed in 1927 on the bank of the Lop Buri River. The hall was granted the award for Best Architectural Preservation in 1993. It reflects the rural Thai temple hall’s architectural style in central Thailand.
Siri Chanthara Nimit Worawihan (Wat Khao Phra Ngam) (วัดสิริจันทรนิมิตวรวิหาร (วัดเขาพระงาม)) In 1912, Phra Ubali Khunupamachan (Chan Sirichantho), an abbot of Wat Borom Niwat in Bangkok and another monk conducted an ascetic practice to this temple. They realised that it had nice geography and thus constructed a Buddha image on this mountain.
Tha Khae Scripture Hall (หอไตรวัดท่าแค) It is the Dharma Scripture hall of the “Lao Lom” community. Normally, a scripture hall is constructed on high columns in a pond. However, the one at this temple is a wooden house with a cruciform plan located on high columns.
Ang Sap Lek (อ่างซับเหล็ก) is a natural ancient reservoir. In 1977, Lop Buri improved the Ang Sap Lek to be a natural tourist attraction by building roads around the reservoir, planting trees, as well as, erecting a summer relaxation pavilion.
Wat Lai (วัดไลย์) There are beautiful remaining ancient stucco relief on the Jakata stories and the Buddha’s life. Maitreya Bodhisattva’s image is another object that has been highly respected by the people from the past. Besides, there are other interesting objects such as an old wihan with slit windows, which is the architecture reflecting the early Ayutthaya style.
Khao Samo Khon (เขาสมอคอน) It is a mountain range which has been important historically. There are overall 4 important temples on this mountain range as follows: Wat Bandai Sam Saen, Wat Tham Tako Phutthasopha, Wat Tham Chang Phueak , and Wat Khao Samo Khon.
Amphoe Ban Mi (อำเภอบ้านหมี่) is famous for Mudmi silk. Most of the locals are Thai Phuan who migrated from Lao PDR. 130 years ago. They named their new settlement as “Ban Mi” after their former Laotian village.
Wat Thammikaram or Wat Khangkhao (วัดธรรมิการาม หรือ วัดค้างคาว) The admirable things of this temple are mural paintings at the 4 sides of the ubosot, depicting the life of the Buddha. The paintings present a slight combination of the Western style of arts such as the shading method on trees, and other facets. .
Wat Thong Khung (วัดท้องคุ้ง) Interesting objects are the ubosot on a junk, floating in the Bang Kham River. Besides, there is a funeral hall called Sala Thammasangwet, applied into the shape of a public bus.
Wat Thong Khung Tha Lao (วัดท้องคุ้งท่าเลา) An interesting aspect of this place is the entrance of the temple in the shape of Hanuman with its mouth wide open, decorated with glass in distinctive colours.
Wat Nong Tao (Wat Phanit Thammikaram) (วัดหนองเต่า หรือ วัดพาณิชธรรมมิการาม) The interesting point is the ubosot on the back of a turtle – Tao - considered as the symbol of the sub-district.
Wat Khao Wongkot (วัดเขาวงกต) The interesting point of this place is the bat cave on the shoulder of the mountain above the ubosot. It is considered as the largest bat cave in Lop Buri. Inside live millions of bats. This cave generates income into the temple from bat’s droppings of more than ten thousand baht a year.
Khao Wong Phrachan (เขาวงพระจันทร์) At the summit of Khao Wong Phrachan, visitors can see the panoramic scenery below. Khao Wong Phrachan is considered as the highest mountain of Lop Buri and is a place that has brought popularity to the province for a long time.
The Sunflower Field (ทุ่งทานตะวัน) Lop Buri is a province where people grow sunflowers the most in Thailand, around 200,000 – 300,000 rai. The sunflowers are usually in full bloom during November – January. Sunflower Fields: are scattered in Mueang District, Phatthana Nikhom District and Chai Badan District.
Wat Phrom Rangsi (วัดพรหมรังษี)
This temple has an ubosot with four porches. The bell-shape chedi is similar to the Phra Borommathat – a chedi containing a Buddha’s relic - in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Other structures within the well-cared compound are also beautiful surrounded with abundant big and small trees.
Pa Sak Jolasid Dam (เขื่อนป่าสักชลสิทธิ์) It is the longest dam whose core is made of clay in Thailand, with the length of 4,860 metres and 36.50 metres high. The distinctive points of the dam are the sightseeing point on its ridge, Pa Sak River Basin Museum, presenting the knowledge of nature and culture.
Oasis Agro-Farm (โอเอซิสฟาร์ม) It is a full-cycle ostrich farm within a safari-like grass field at the foot of a mountain. Enjoy the activities such as feeding the ostriches and taking a close picture with them in the middle of the sunflower blossom field (during November – February every year)
Bee Farm (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ผึ้ง) It is a training and knowledge centre on bees in Thailand.
Rian Thong Garden (สวนเหรียญทอง) is an agro-tourism farm, popular in the process of mango’s “entrust” grafting to multiply its productivity (20 mangoes a branch).
Ban Pong Manao Site Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์เปิดบ้านโป่งมะนาว) It is a pre-historic archaeological site dated around 2,500 – 3,000 years or “the late Ban Chiang Period”. Thirteen ancient human skeletons were found within the same pit.
Namtok Wang Kan Lueang Arboretum (สวนรุกขชาติน้ำตกวังก้านเหลือง) This waterfall is full of water throughout the year due to the fact that its origin is a large natural underground spring in the east, 1.5 kilometres from the waterfall.
Khao Somphot Non-hunting Area (เขตห้ามล่าสัตว์ป่าเขาสมโภชน์) It is a high and steep limestone mountain range stretching along the southwestern direction, full of caves and cliffs. There are 2 plains in the valley and a plateau, with many spots of water seepage around the area, making it a significant watershed. The Khao Somphot Non-hunting Area consists of forest and wildlife in a perfect condition.
Wat Pa Si Mahapho Wipatsana (วัดป่าศรีมหาโพธิ์วิปัสสนา) It is a meditation venue for Thais and foreigners. It is also a temple which cures ailments created by Luangpho Khong Chatamalo.
Chai Narai Farm (ไร่ชัยนารายณ์) is located in Chai Narai Sub-district. It is an ecotourism attraction, covering an area of 1,096 rai.
Prang Nang Phom Hom (ปรางค์นางผมหอม) It is a single brick prang with no cement covered, similar to Prang Khaek. From an archaeological excavation of this ancient remain in 1987, additional pieces of evidence found were sandstone fragments of the prang in the shape of a lady dressed up in the Bayon style of Khmer art.
Sap Langka Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าซับลังกา) The significance of the area is that it is in perfect condition and is the source of the Lam Sonthi River, as well as, the source of food for wildlife. At present, there are still goat antelopes which are preserved animals living in this sanctuary area.
Lopburi's Military Development
Lop Buri is a strategically important city of the country from the past. Therefore, it has been chosen as the second stronghold of the country since the Ayutthaya period. The military development of Lop Buri has clearly appeared during Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram’s government. During that period, the military business of Lop Buri became the second most important matter after Bangkok. Activities within various departments of the military area are as follows:
Special Warfare Command (หน่วยบัญชาการสงครามพิเศษ) (Mueang District) are a demonstration of how to survive in the forest, a 34-foot tower jump, parachute from a balloon, shooting, cliff climbing, military jungle tour and the Special Force Museum, displaying photos, equipment, background, evolution and pictures of various activities of the Special Force from the start until the present time.
Military Camp A03 (หารค่าย A03) in Mueang District, at the entrance of the Sap Lek Reservoir, Khok Tum Sub-district. It is a complex activity centre, testing the spirit and military way of living such as jumping from the 34-foot tower, artificial cliff climbing, shooting, rope bridge climbing and canoeing.
Artillery Centre (ศูนย์การทหารปืนใหญ่), in Mueang District, are architecture created during the period of Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram such as the Chato Building (Khao Nam Chon Command Headquarters), Pibulsongkram Building and Museum, Artillery Museum, the General Phraya Phahon Phonphayuhasena Museum, and the Botanical Garden.
Military Circle 13 (มณฑลทหารบกที่ 13), in Mueang District, is the18-hole Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram Golf Course open for the public.
Ananda Mahidol Hospital (โรงพยาบาลอานันทมหิดล), in Mueang District, is an exhibition hall displaying the biography of King Rama VIII at the Operation Building of the Ananda Mahidol Hospital. There are photos of the opening ceremony of the hospital on 6 January 1938.
Khai Khem Din So Phong (Marl Salted Egg) (ไข่เค็มดินสอพอง) is a famous souvenir of Lop Buri. To produce this salted egg, a mixture of marl, water and salt is coated on an egg. The egg is preserved for a certain period of time. The egg is not too salty and can be cooked as Khai Wan - an egg poached in syrup, fried eggs, boiled eggs and other dishes. The most well-known dish cooked with this egg is stir fried salted egg with various spices, kaffir lime and string beans.
Metal Casting (Brass) (การหล่อโลหะ (ทองเหลือง)) is at Ban Tha Krayang Community. It is a gathering place of skilled brass founders whose occupation has been passed on for a long period of time. There are a cast of the brass Buddha images in various shapes and replicas of antiques. At present, there is a gathering as the Ban Tha Krayang Brass Founders Club.
Khao Phra Ngam Diamond (เพชรเขาพระงาม) is the famous gemstone of Lop Buri. It is a kind of mineral called Hin Khiao Hanuman (quartz crystal). It is a kind of semi-precious stone with clear transparent crystals, while some are in various colours and have different patterns. It can be polished for jewellery, similarly to other gems but with more reasonable prices.
Khachonwit Mushroom Farm (ฟาร์มเห็ดขจรวิทย์) is the biggest mushroom growing promotion farm in Lop Buri, producing various kinds of nutritious mushrooms such as shiitake mushroom, termite mushroom, Sajor-caju mushroom, abalone mushroom, oyster mushroom, etc.
Mudmi Fabric Weaving Village (หมู่บ้านทอผ้ามัดหมี่) is a source of local tie-dyed fabric weaving in a unique design of the Thai Phuan people called Mudmi. At present, there has been a development of its patterns and colours to be more modern. It is considered as the weaving location of the best quality Mudmi fabric of the country.
Som Fak (ส้มฟัก) is a type of preserved food. It is a combination of fish, salt, ground cooked rice and pickled garlic, kneaded into one texture and left to slightly ferment in a similar way as Naem (fermented pork in banana leaf). The fish used should have delicate white flesh such as Pla Krai - spotted feather back, Pla Salat - grey feather back, Pla Yi Sok - Jullien’s golden-price carp. The fermentation period is 3 days. It is eaten as a kind of savoury.
Pla som (ปลาส้ม) is one of the famous kinds of preserved food made from Pla thapian – barb - whose scales will be scraped off and its stomach cleaned. Then, salt is applied all over the fish, while cooked rice mixed with garlic is put into its stomach and left to ferment for quite some time. It will be fried before eating, creating a mouth-watering smell and a slightly sour taste.
Coconut Jelly (วุ้นน้ำมะพร้าว) is a well-known souvenir of Lop Buri, produced as a dessert to be eaten with ice. The jelly is produced by fermenting coconut juice with the acetic acid microbe similar to that used in the vinegar preserving process. In the fermentation process, white fungi will float on the surface and gradually assemble into a group of mushroom-like jelly, which will enlarge due to its fermentation period. This jelly is called “Coconut Juice Jelly Mushroom” or “Coconut Jelly”. Then, the jelly will be combined with various flavours of syrup and put into a bottle.
Sandstone Engraving Village (หมู่บ้านแกะสลักหินทราย) is where products are produced in nearly every house at Nong Laeng Village, Phaniat Sub-district, by using sandstone from the foot of the mountain. Many shapes are engraved into replicas of antiques, garden decoration materials, Buddha images, stone boundary markers and consecration marking balls for temples, etc.
Products from Corn Husk (ผลิตภัณฑ์จากเปลือกข้าวโพด) are produced in Phatthana Nikhom District, where a large amount of corn is planted. After the harvest, the corn husk will be dried in the sun, dyed with many colours and created as handicrafts in various styles such as flowers, dolls, key chains, etc.
There are various activities in the fair such as light and sound presentation, a demonstration of Thai lifestyle, Wang Narai Night, Thai games by Thai kids (Chuk, Klae, Ko, Pia), local entertainment, and booths offering local products.
Lop Buri Monkey Banquet
(งานเลี้ยงโต๊ะจีนลิง) is organised on Sunday during the last week of November at San Phra Kan and Phra Prang Sam Yot where a large number of monkeys stay. Tourists who come to pay respect to Chaopho Phra Kan usually bring food and fruit for the monkeys, making them more tame and familiar with people. In this event, there are various activities such as party offering food in especially beautiful decoration for monkeys and local performances, etc.
Lop Buri Sunflower Blooming Festival (งานทุ่งทานตะวันบานที่ลพบุรี) takes place around December of every year because it is the period when the sunflowers are in full bloom. At present, Lop Buri possesses hundred of thousands of rai of sunflowers. Before the harvest, the sunflowers will create a yellow field, being another splendid tourist attraction of Lop Buri.
Kam Fa Tradition (ประเพณีกำฟ้า) is a local merit making tradition of the Thai Phuan people, taken place in many villages in Mueang District, and Ban Mi District. It is organised to request for a blessing from gods who protect the sky so that it will rain during the rainy season. The 2nd day of the waxing moon in the 3rd lunar month is considered the eve and the next day is the Kam Fa Day. In the morning, people will give alms with Khao Lam - glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk in bamboo, and Khao Chi - roasted glutinous rice, while in the afternoon, there will be local games such as Mon Son Pha, Chuang Chai, Ma Bia, and Ma Kan Han.
Sai Krachat Tradition (ประเพณีใส่กระจาด) or called Suea Krachat tradition or “Soe Krachat” in Phuan language is a tradition of the Thai Phuan people that has been conducted in Ban Mi District. It takes place during the sermon on the Great Birth story. It is mostly organised during the End of Buddhist Lent (the 11th month) in the waning moon period. One day prior to the Sai Krachat Day, people will wrap Khao Tom – seasoned sticky rice in banana leaf - and grind rice for the Khao Pun – rice noodle. The next day is the Sai Krachat Day when people will bring things such as bananas, sugar cane, oranges, candles and joss sticks or other items to put into the bamboo baskets at the houses of the people they know, while the hosts will bring the prepared food to welcome their guests. When the visitors would like to go home, the host will give Khao Tom Mat as a souvenir in return called “Khuen Krachat”. The next day will be the day of the Great Birth sermon. It is considered as a grand annual merit making event of the year.
Chak Phra Si An Tradition of Wat Lai or the Tradition of the Maitreya Bodhisattva Procession (ประเพณีชักพระศรีอาริย์ วัดไลย์ หรือประเพณีแห่พระศรีอาริย์) has been conducted for a long period of time on the 14th day of the waxing moon during the 6th lunar month every year. The temple will arrange the image of the Maitreya Bodhisattva to be enshrined on the Takhe – handcart - and let the people pull the image to the north. The starting point is Wat Lai to the end at Wat Thong Khung and back to Wat Lai. There are many people joining the procession. The procession will stop at some points for the faithful people to pour water onto and to pay respect to the image. There are also a dozen almshouses providing free food for the participants in the procession.
Provinces of Thailand
Thailand is divided into 76 provinces , which are geographically grouped into 6 regions. The capital Bangkok is not a province but a special administrative area and is included as the 77th province since it is administered at the same level as the other 76 provinces. The name of the provinces are...
(changwat) of Thailand
Thailand
Thailand , officially the Kingdom of Thailand , formerly known as Siam , is a country located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the...
. Neighboring provinces are (from north clockwise) Phetchabun
Phetchabun Province
Phetchabun is one of the northern provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Loei, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Lopburi, Nakhon Sawan, Phichit and Phitsanulok.- Geography :...
, Chaiyaphum
Chaiyaphum Province
Chaiyaphum is one of the north-eastern provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Lopburi and Phetchabun.- Etymology :...
, Nakhon Ratchasima
Nakhon Ratchasima Province
Nakhon Ratchasima or , often shortened to Korat or Khorat , is one of the north-eastern provinces of Thailand...
, Saraburi
Saraburi Province
Saraburi is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Lopburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Nayok, Pathum Thani and Ayutthaya. Saraburi has been an important town since ancient times...
, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya Province
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Ang Thong, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Pathum Thani, Nonthaburi, Nakhon Pathom and Suphan Buri....
, Ang Thong
Ang Thong Province
Ang Thong is one of the central provinces of Thailand. The name means "golden bowl" which refer to Angthong as a central for prosperity as it has a lot of rice fields....
, Sing Buri
Sing Buri Province
Sing Buri is one of the central provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Nakhon Sawan, Lop Buri, Ang Thong, Suphan Buri and Chai Nat....
and Nakhon Sawan
Nakhon Sawan Province
Nakhon Sawan is one of the provinces of Thailand. Neighboring provinces are Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phetchabun, Lop Buri, Sing Buri, Chai Nat, Uthai Thani and Tak.- Etymology :...
.
Geography
Lop Buri is located on the east side of the Chao Phraya river valley, between the Lopburi RiverLopburi River
The Lopburi River is a tributary of the Chao Phraya River in central Thailand. It splits from the Chao Phraya river at Tambon Bang Phutsa, Singburi. Passing through Tha Wung district and the town of Lopburi, it enters the Chao Phraya together with the Pa Sak River at the town of Ayutthaya. It is...
and Pa Sak
Pa Sak River
The Pa Sak River is a river in central Thailand. The river originates in Dan Sai District, Loei Province, passes through Phetchabun Province as the backbone of the Province...
Rivers. 30% of the area of the province, including most of Tha Wung district
Amphoe Tha Wung
Tha Wung is a district in western part of Lopburi Province, central Thailand.-Geography:The main water resource of Tha Wung is the Lopburi and Bang Kham rivers...
, the southwestern parts of Mueang Lopburi and Ban Mi
Amphoe Ban Mi
Ban Mi is a district in the western part Lopburi Province, central Thailand.-History:The district was created in 1883, then named Sanam Chaeng. When the district office was moved to Ban Huay Kaew, the district name was changed to Huay Kaew as well...
districts are a very low alluvial plain
Alluvial plain
An alluvial plain is a relatively flat landform created by the deposition of sediment over a long period of time by one or more rivers coming from highland regions, from which alluvial soil forms...
. The rest 70% is intermixed between plains and hills, with the Phetchabun Mountains
Phetchabun Mountains
The Phetchabun mountains are a mountain range in Thailand.-Geography:It extends in a roughly north-south direction, and separates the broad Chao Phraya river valley of central Thailand from the Khorat Plateau of northeast Thailand...
form the eastern boundary of the province towards the Khorat Plateau
Khorat Plateau
The Khorat Plateau also Korat Plateau, is a plateau in the northeastern region of Thailand, named for the short form of Nakhon Ratchasima, an historical stronghold controlling access to and from the plateau.-Geography:...
.
History
Known as LavoLavo
Known as Lavo during most of its history, Lopburi province is one of the most important cities in the history of Thailand. The city has a long history, dating back into the prehistory period since the bronze age of more than 3,500 years ago....
during much of its history, Lopburi probably dates to prehistoric times. The name Lavo originated in the Dvaravati
Dvaravati
The Dvaravati period lasted from the 6th to the 13th centuries. Dvaravati refers to both a culture and a disparate conglomerate of principalities.- History :...
period (6th to 11th century C.E.). The conquering Khmer
Khmer Empire
The Khmer Empire was one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia. The empire, which grew out of the former kingdom of Chenla, at times ruled over and/or vassalized parts of modern-day Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Burma, and Malaysia. Its greatest legacy is Angkor, the site of the capital city...
would build many impressive temples in the city during its rule. Lopburi may even have liberated itself for a time, as it sent independent embassies to China in 1115 and 1155. In 1289 it sent another embassy to China, but soon became part of the Thai kingdom of Sukhothai
Sukhothai kingdom
The Sukhothai Kingdom ) was an early kingdom in the area around the city Sukhothai, in north central Thailand. The Kingdom existed from 1238 till 1438...
and later Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya kingdom
Ayutthaya was a Siamese kingdom that existed from 1350 to 1767. Ayutthaya was friendly towards foreign traders, including the Chinese, Vietnamese , Indians, Japanese and Persians, and later the Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch and French, permitting them to set up villages outside the walls of the...
.
During the Ayutthaya period, King Ramathibodi I
Ramathibodi I
Uthong or Ramathibodi I was the first king of the kingdom Ayutthaya , reigning from 1351 to 1369. He was known as Prince U Thong before he ascended to the throne on March 4, 1351...
sent Phra Ramesuan
Ramesuan
King Ramesuan , son of king Ramathibodi I, reigned as the second and fifth king of the kingdom of Ayutthaya. When King Ramathibodi ascended to the throne of Ayuthaya, he sent King Ramesuan to reign in Lopburi...
(later King Ramesuan) as the Uparaja
Uparaja
Uparaja or Ouparath, also Ouparaja , was a royal title reserved for the vice royal in the Buddhist dynasties in Burma, Cambodia, and Laos and Thailand as well as some of their minor tributary kingdoms.-Burma:...
to reign in Lopburi. In 1665 King Narai
Narai
Somdet Phra Narai or Somdet Phra Ramathibodi III was the king of Ayutthaya from 1656 to 1688 and arguably the most famous Ayutthayan king. His reign was the most prosperous during the Ayutthaya period and saw the great commercial and diplomatic activities with foreign nations including the...
the Great ordered a new palace
King Narai's Palace
The King Narai's Palace in Lopburi was built by King Narai the Great, the king who ruled Ayutthaya from 1656 to 1688. He ordered to build the palace in 1666 in the same area of King Ramesuan's Palace. King Narai stayed here for about 8-9 months a year, except rainy season...
built on the east bank of the Lopburi River
Lopburi River
The Lopburi River is a tributary of the Chao Phraya River in central Thailand. It splits from the Chao Phraya river at Tambon Bang Phutsa, Singburi. Passing through Tha Wung district and the town of Lopburi, it enters the Chao Phraya together with the Pa Sak River at the town of Ayutthaya. It is...
and made Lop Buri the second capital of the country, as Ayutthaya was threatened by the Dutch
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located mainly in North-West Europe and with several islands in the Caribbean. Mainland Netherlands borders the North Sea to the north and west, Belgium to the south, and Germany to the east, and shares maritime borders...
. After King Narai died, the city was almost abandoned and fell into ruin.
In 1856 King Mongkut
Mongkut
Phra Bat Somdet Phra Poramenthramaha Mongkut Phra Chom Klao Chao Yu Hua , or Rama IV, known in foreign countries as King Mongkut , was the fourth monarch of Siam under the House of Chakri, ruling from 1851-1868...
of the Chakri dynasty ordered King Narai's Palace to be renovated. The city finally regained its importance in 1938, when Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram chose Lop Buri to be the largest military base in Thailand.
Symbols
The provincial seal shows VishnuVishnu
Vishnu is the Supreme god in the Vaishnavite tradition of Hinduism. Smarta followers of Adi Shankara, among others, venerate Vishnu as one of the five primary forms of God....
in front of the Khmer temple Phra Prang Sam Yod.
The provincial tree as well as the provincial flower is the Bullet Wood (Mimusops elengi
Mimusops elengi
Mimusops elengi is a medium-sized evergreen tree found in tropical forests in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Northern Australia. English common names include Spanish cherry,, Medlar, and Bullet wood...
).
The slogan of the province is National Treasures of King Narai’s Palace and Phra Kan Shrine, Famous Prang Sam Yot, City of Din So Phong Marl, well-known Pa Sak Jolasid Dam and Golden Land of King Narai the Great.
Administrative divisions
Amphoe
An amphoe is the second level administrative subdivision of Thailand. Usually translated as district, amphoe make up the provinces, and are analogous to a county seat...
). The districts are further subdivided into 124 subdistricts (tambon
Tambon
Tambon is a local government unit in Thailand. Below district and province , they form the third administrative subdivision level. As of the 2009 there are 7255 tambon, not including the 169 khwaeng of Bangkok, which are set at the same administrative level, thus every district contains 8-10 tambon...
) and 1110 villages (muban
Muban
Muban is the lowest administrative subdivision of Thailand. Usually translated as village, they are the subdivision of tambon. As of 2008, there are 74944 administrative villages in Thailand. As of the 1990 census, the average village consisted of 144 households or 746 persons.A muban does not...
).
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Education
- Thepsatri Rajabhat University
- Kasetsart UniversityKasetsart UniversityKasetsart University is a public university in Thailand and a top-ranked Public University in Thailand. It is ranked No.401-500 in the world by QS. It was also the first agricultural university and the third oldest university in Thailand...
, Lopburi Campus - Ramkhamhaeng UniversityRamkhamhaeng UniversityRamkhamhaeng University is one of two open universities in Thailand. The university was named in honor of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great of Sukhothai, who traditionally is credited for creating the Thai alphabet....
, Lopburi Campus
Sights
Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat (วัดพระศรีรัตนมหาธาตุ) Inside the wihan enshrines a Buddha image on a masonry base known as Chukkachi. Another item that should be mentioned is about one of the “Prang Rai” – satellite Prangs - on the northwestern side. At every corner of its star-fruit shape, there is a stucco relief of Thep Phanom – angel in adoration - turning their faces to every direction.Office Building of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Central Region Office: Region 7 (อาคารสำนักงานการท่องเที่ยวแห่งประเทศไทย (ททท.) ภาคกลางเขต 7) It is a hip-roof building, constructed in 1930 by Than Phrakhru Lop Buri Khanachan, the abbot of Wat Sao Thong Thong to be a school building, replacing the Khorosan one which was located within Wat Sao Thong Thong. This new school was called Phra Narai School which had been a provincial school for boys.
Phra Narai Ratchaniwet (พระนารายณ์ราชนิเวศน์) King Narai the Great had this palace constructed in 1666 to be his royal residence in Lop Buri. The structures within the compound can be divided into 2 groups in accordance with the period of construction as follows:
Structures during the reign of King Narai the Great include:
Dusit Sawan Thanya Maha Prasat Hall (พระที่นั่งดุสิตสวรรค์ธัญญมหาปราสาท) is a throne hall whose style of fine art is a mixture of Thai and French architecture. Originally, it was an audience hall with a pointed top in the Mondop shape. This was also the place where King Narai the Great received Chevalier de Chaumont and the French envoys in 1685.
Chanthara Phisan Hall (พระที่นั่งจันทรพิศาล) was used as an audience hall, similar to what was stated in the record by the French. At present, the hall is an exhibition venue, presenting the biography of King Narai the Great and the fine arts of Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin.
Suttha Sawan Hall (พระที่นั่งสุทธาสวรรค์) was a private residence of King Narai the Great, located at the inner section of the royal palace. King Narai the Great passed away at this hall on 11 July 1688.
Phrachao Hao Building (ตึกพระเจ้าเหา) This building clearly presents the architectural characteristics of King Narai the Great’s period. It is a Thai-style brick building with a laterite base. However, at present, all that remains are only the walls, windows and doors of the Ruean Kaeo arch with the Simha or lion base whose patterns can still be seen.
Reception Hall for Foreign Visitors (ตึกรับรองแขกเมือง) It reflects the French architectural style. In accordance with the French chronicle, this building was at the centre of the park, which was divided into a grid, while around the building was a moat.
Phra Khlang Supharat (The Twelve Royal Storage Buildings) (พระคลังศุภรัตน์ (หมู่ตึกสิบสองท้องพระคลัง)) is situated between the water tank and the Reception Hall for Foreign Visitors. It is believed to have been a place to store royal goods and treasures for official use.
Water Tank (อ่างเก็บน้ำหรือถังเก็บน้ำประปา) was constructed of brick with a specially-thick wall at its edge. Underground lies a baked-clay pipe to distribute water from Thale Chup Son and Sap Lek Reservoir to the buildings and halls.
Elephant Stables (โรงช้างหลวง) Most of them have already been ruined with only 10 bases remaining. Elephants living in these stables were the royal or important ones ridden by King Narai the Great, royal family members, or high-ranking aristocrats.
Structures built during the reign of King Rama IV include:
- A group of structures in the Phiman Mongkut Pavilion complex and other buildings which are currently in the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum.
Phiman Mongkut Pavilion (หมู่พระที่นั่งพิมานมงกุฎ) was constructed after the royal command of King Rama IV in 1862 as his private residence when he came to renovate Lop Buri.
Phra Prathiap Buildings (หมู่ตึกพระประเทียบ) They comprise 2 single storey buildings and a group of 8 two-storey brick buildings, constructed for being residential quarters for inner court officials who followed King Rama V when the latter visited Lop Buri.
Thim Dap or Royal Guards Residence (ทิมดาบ หรือที่พักของทหารรักษาการณ์) Passing through the entrance to the middle court, the buildings on both sides of the lawn were the residences of the royal guards of the palace.
Somdet Phra Narai National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติสมเด็จพระนารายณ์) was established in 1923 and was divided into 4 buildings for antique displays as follows:
- Phiman Mongkut Pavilion (พระที่นั่งพิมานมงกุฎ) displays pre-historic artefacts discovered in archaeological sites along the Chao Phraya River, in the central part of Thailand and in Lop Buri.
- Chanthara Phisan Hall (พระที่นั่งจันทรพิศาล) is a form of architecture in a traditional Thai style displaying the history, politics, society, culture, and biography of King Narai the Great.
- Phra Prathiap Buildings or the Central Thai Lifestyle Buildings (หมู่ตึกพระประเทียบ (อาคารชีวิตไทยภาคกลาง)) There are exhibitions on the Central Thai lifestyle, ways of life, houses, tools, fishing and farming utensils, and local handicrafts of the central Thai people, especially in Lop Buri from the past to the present time.
- Nang Yai Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์หนังใหญ่) presents the performances of shadow play on the Ramakian story of Nang Yai from Wat Takhian, Thai Talat Sub-district, Mueang Lop Buri District.
Wat Sao Thong Thong (วัดเสาธงทอง) The ancient remain that should be visited is Phra Wihan, believed to have originally been constructed as a religious site of another religion because in accordance with the map written by a French craftsman, the area was a residence of the Persians.
Wichayen House (บ้านหลวงรับราชทูต หรือ บ้านหลวงวิชาเยนทร์) It served as the residence for the envoys paying a courtesy call on King Narai the Great in Lop Buri. The important thing is the Christian church, whose plan and design is in a European style but with the entrance and window facades in the Ruean Kaeo style. It is considered as the first Christian church, decorated in the Buddhist temple style.
The City Pillar Shrine or Lukson Shrine (ศาลหลักเมือง หรือ ศาลลูกศร) It is an ancient city pillar shrine, called Lukson Shrine. Prince Damrong Rajanupab wrote about this shrine in the legend of Lop Buri that “it has been assumed that the city pillar was the arrow of Phra Ram that has become stone, while the soil mound that formed the city wall was the work of Hanuman – Rama’s monkey warrior”.
Prang Khaek (เทวสถานปรางค์แขก) It is the oldest monument of Lop Buri. It comprises 3 prangs, made of bricks with no adjoining corridors as Prang Sam Yot.
Phra Prang Sam Yot (พระปรางค์สามยอด) The compound comprises 3 prangs linked to one another by a corridor. In the reign of King Narai the Great, Phra Prang Sam Yot was renovated as a Buddhist temple. Inside is enshrined a sandstone Buddha image in the subduing Mara posture, presenting the early Ayutthaya style of art. At present, the image is located outdoors.
San Phra Kan (ศาลพระกาฬ) It is an ancient Khmer sanctuary, constructed of laterite with a high base. Therefore, it was also called “San Sung” (a high shrine). It has been told that at this same location in former times, there were many gigantic fig or Krang trees, where monkeys had lived. Later, people brought food and fruits to make a votive offering to the shrine.
Wat Nakhon Kosa (วัดนครโกษา) Within the compound of the temple are ancient remains of a grand chedi of the Dvaravati period with a prang of the Lop Buri period around the 12th century at the front. Moreover, two large images of god adjusted into Buddha images were discovered and are now kept in the Somdet Phra Narai National Museum.
Wat San Paulo (วัดสันเปาโล) It was a Jesuit church, constructed in the reign of King Narai the Great. At present, the remains are only a side of the wall and an observatory.
Wat Mani Chonlakhan (วัดมณีชลขัณฑ์) An interesting ancient remain is the strange-looking square and tall shape of the chedi, similar to those of the Chiang Saen (Lanna) style. Besides, within the compound of the temple stands a Bodhi tree, planted by King Rama V.
Wat Tong Pu (วัดตองปุ) In the past, it was a gathering place of the Thai army. There is an ancient object which is the only one remaining in Thailand which is a traditional shower or bathing device for monks and Buddha images, called the bathing fountain.
Wat Kawitsararam Ratchaworawihan (วัดกวิศรารามราชวรวิหาร) It has been told that this temple was the venue of the ceremony to drink an oath of allegiance. The principal Buddha image is in the posture of subduing Mara in the U Thong style of art, while the mural paintings are in a floral design.
Wat Choeng Tha (วัดเชิงท่า) It was originally called Wat Tha Kwian because it was a terminal for product-transport carts – Kwian - to the pier in front of the temple. Inside the compound of the temple lie significant buildings which had been constructed from the end of the Ayutthaya until Rattanakosin periods.
Sophon Sin Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์หอโสภณศิลป์) displays the background of the Buddhist monks, the Dhamma and the Buddha, as well as, the background of the temple itself in an exhibition on the knowledge of Buddhism.
Lop Buri Zoo (สวนสัตว์ลพบุรี) The Special Warfare Unit, who took charge of the place, cooperated with other authorities such as various clubs, traders and the public to renovate the zoo to be a place for relaxation and source of knowledge on animals and plants.
Sa Kaeo (สระแก้ว) At the middle of the pond stands a structure similar to a gigantic candle on a large footed tray where symbols of each ministry were decorated around its edge.
Wat Chi Pa Sitaram (วัดชีป่าสิตาราม) Within the compound of the temple is situated a chedi in a bell shape representing the Ayutthaya art. There is also an herbal steam treatment and a traditional Thai massage facilities.
Kraison Siharat Hall (พระที่นั่งไกรสรสีหราช) is commonly known as Phra Thinang Yen or Thale Chup Son Hall. This hall is another residence of King Narai the Great. The hall is located on an island surrounded by Thale Chup Son, which was once a large reservoir surrounded with a dam made of stone and cement.
Wat Yang Na Rangsi and Lop Buri Boat Museum (วัดยาง ณ รังสี และพิพิธภัณฑ์เรือพื้นบ้าน) Lop Buri Boat Museum is at the temple sermon hall, constructed in 1927 on the bank of the Lop Buri River. The hall was granted the award for Best Architectural Preservation in 1993. It reflects the rural Thai temple hall’s architectural style in central Thailand.
Siri Chanthara Nimit Worawihan (Wat Khao Phra Ngam) (วัดสิริจันทรนิมิตวรวิหาร (วัดเขาพระงาม)) In 1912, Phra Ubali Khunupamachan (Chan Sirichantho), an abbot of Wat Borom Niwat in Bangkok and another monk conducted an ascetic practice to this temple. They realised that it had nice geography and thus constructed a Buddha image on this mountain.
Tha Khae Scripture Hall (หอไตรวัดท่าแค) It is the Dharma Scripture hall of the “Lao Lom” community. Normally, a scripture hall is constructed on high columns in a pond. However, the one at this temple is a wooden house with a cruciform plan located on high columns.
Ang Sap Lek (อ่างซับเหล็ก) is a natural ancient reservoir. In 1977, Lop Buri improved the Ang Sap Lek to be a natural tourist attraction by building roads around the reservoir, planting trees, as well as, erecting a summer relaxation pavilion.
Wat Lai (วัดไลย์) There are beautiful remaining ancient stucco relief on the Jakata stories and the Buddha’s life. Maitreya Bodhisattva’s image is another object that has been highly respected by the people from the past. Besides, there are other interesting objects such as an old wihan with slit windows, which is the architecture reflecting the early Ayutthaya style.
Khao Samo Khon (เขาสมอคอน) It is a mountain range which has been important historically. There are overall 4 important temples on this mountain range as follows: Wat Bandai Sam Saen, Wat Tham Tako Phutthasopha, Wat Tham Chang Phueak , and Wat Khao Samo Khon.
Amphoe Ban Mi (อำเภอบ้านหมี่) is famous for Mudmi silk. Most of the locals are Thai Phuan who migrated from Lao PDR. 130 years ago. They named their new settlement as “Ban Mi” after their former Laotian village.
Wat Thammikaram or Wat Khangkhao (วัดธรรมิการาม หรือ วัดค้างคาว) The admirable things of this temple are mural paintings at the 4 sides of the ubosot, depicting the life of the Buddha. The paintings present a slight combination of the Western style of arts such as the shading method on trees, and other facets. .
Wat Thong Khung (วัดท้องคุ้ง) Interesting objects are the ubosot on a junk, floating in the Bang Kham River. Besides, there is a funeral hall called Sala Thammasangwet, applied into the shape of a public bus.
Wat Thong Khung Tha Lao (วัดท้องคุ้งท่าเลา) An interesting aspect of this place is the entrance of the temple in the shape of Hanuman with its mouth wide open, decorated with glass in distinctive colours.
Wat Nong Tao (Wat Phanit Thammikaram) (วัดหนองเต่า หรือ วัดพาณิชธรรมมิการาม) The interesting point is the ubosot on the back of a turtle – Tao - considered as the symbol of the sub-district.
Wat Khao Wongkot (วัดเขาวงกต) The interesting point of this place is the bat cave on the shoulder of the mountain above the ubosot. It is considered as the largest bat cave in Lop Buri. Inside live millions of bats. This cave generates income into the temple from bat’s droppings of more than ten thousand baht a year.
Khao Wong Phrachan (เขาวงพระจันทร์) At the summit of Khao Wong Phrachan, visitors can see the panoramic scenery below. Khao Wong Phrachan is considered as the highest mountain of Lop Buri and is a place that has brought popularity to the province for a long time.
The Sunflower Field (ทุ่งทานตะวัน) Lop Buri is a province where people grow sunflowers the most in Thailand, around 200,000 – 300,000 rai. The sunflowers are usually in full bloom during November – January. Sunflower Fields: are scattered in Mueang District, Phatthana Nikhom District and Chai Badan District.
Wat Phrom Rangsi (วัดพรหมรังษี)
This temple has an ubosot with four porches. The bell-shape chedi is similar to the Phra Borommathat – a chedi containing a Buddha’s relic - in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Other structures within the well-cared compound are also beautiful surrounded with abundant big and small trees.
Pa Sak Jolasid Dam (เขื่อนป่าสักชลสิทธิ์) It is the longest dam whose core is made of clay in Thailand, with the length of 4,860 metres and 36.50 metres high. The distinctive points of the dam are the sightseeing point on its ridge, Pa Sak River Basin Museum, presenting the knowledge of nature and culture.
Oasis Agro-Farm (โอเอซิสฟาร์ม) It is a full-cycle ostrich farm within a safari-like grass field at the foot of a mountain. Enjoy the activities such as feeding the ostriches and taking a close picture with them in the middle of the sunflower blossom field (during November – February every year)
Bee Farm (ศูนย์อนุรักษ์ผึ้ง) It is a training and knowledge centre on bees in Thailand.
Rian Thong Garden (สวนเหรียญทอง) is an agro-tourism farm, popular in the process of mango’s “entrust” grafting to multiply its productivity (20 mangoes a branch).
Ban Pong Manao Site Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์เปิดบ้านโป่งมะนาว) It is a pre-historic archaeological site dated around 2,500 – 3,000 years or “the late Ban Chiang Period”. Thirteen ancient human skeletons were found within the same pit.
Namtok Wang Kan Lueang Arboretum (สวนรุกขชาติน้ำตกวังก้านเหลือง) This waterfall is full of water throughout the year due to the fact that its origin is a large natural underground spring in the east, 1.5 kilometres from the waterfall.
Khao Somphot Non-hunting Area (เขตห้ามล่าสัตว์ป่าเขาสมโภชน์) It is a high and steep limestone mountain range stretching along the southwestern direction, full of caves and cliffs. There are 2 plains in the valley and a plateau, with many spots of water seepage around the area, making it a significant watershed. The Khao Somphot Non-hunting Area consists of forest and wildlife in a perfect condition.
Wat Pa Si Mahapho Wipatsana (วัดป่าศรีมหาโพธิ์วิปัสสนา) It is a meditation venue for Thais and foreigners. It is also a temple which cures ailments created by Luangpho Khong Chatamalo.
Chai Narai Farm (ไร่ชัยนารายณ์) is located in Chai Narai Sub-district. It is an ecotourism attraction, covering an area of 1,096 rai.
Prang Nang Phom Hom (ปรางค์นางผมหอม) It is a single brick prang with no cement covered, similar to Prang Khaek. From an archaeological excavation of this ancient remain in 1987, additional pieces of evidence found were sandstone fragments of the prang in the shape of a lady dressed up in the Bayon style of Khmer art.
Sap Langka Wildlife Sanctuary (เขตรักษาพันธุ์สัตว์ป่าซับลังกา) The significance of the area is that it is in perfect condition and is the source of the Lam Sonthi River, as well as, the source of food for wildlife. At present, there are still goat antelopes which are preserved animals living in this sanctuary area.
Lopburi's Military Development
Lop Buri is a strategically important city of the country from the past. Therefore, it has been chosen as the second stronghold of the country since the Ayutthaya period. The military development of Lop Buri has clearly appeared during Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram’s government. During that period, the military business of Lop Buri became the second most important matter after Bangkok. Activities within various departments of the military area are as follows:
Special Warfare Command (หน่วยบัญชาการสงครามพิเศษ) (Mueang District) are a demonstration of how to survive in the forest, a 34-foot tower jump, parachute from a balloon, shooting, cliff climbing, military jungle tour and the Special Force Museum, displaying photos, equipment, background, evolution and pictures of various activities of the Special Force from the start until the present time.
Military Camp A03 (หารค่าย A03) in Mueang District, at the entrance of the Sap Lek Reservoir, Khok Tum Sub-district. It is a complex activity centre, testing the spirit and military way of living such as jumping from the 34-foot tower, artificial cliff climbing, shooting, rope bridge climbing and canoeing.
Artillery Centre (ศูนย์การทหารปืนใหญ่), in Mueang District, are architecture created during the period of Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram such as the Chato Building (Khao Nam Chon Command Headquarters), Pibulsongkram Building and Museum, Artillery Museum, the General Phraya Phahon Phonphayuhasena Museum, and the Botanical Garden.
Military Circle 13 (มณฑลทหารบกที่ 13), in Mueang District, is the18-hole Field Marshal Plaek Pibulsongkram Golf Course open for the public.
Ananda Mahidol Hospital (โรงพยาบาลอานันทมหิดล), in Mueang District, is an exhibition hall displaying the biography of King Rama VIII at the Operation Building of the Ananda Mahidol Hospital. There are photos of the opening ceremony of the hospital on 6 January 1938.
Local Products
Din So Phong Village (หมู่บ้านดินสอพอง) Lop Buri is well-known for the production of the only best quality Din So Phong – marl - of Thailand. The source of production is at Hin Song Kon Village, Thale Chup Son Sub-district (by Khlong Chonlaprathan, around Saphan 6). It is the village where Din So Phong is produced in nearly every house. In that compound, there is white marl with a delicate and tight texture and thus, is not suitable for agriculture.Khai Khem Din So Phong (Marl Salted Egg) (ไข่เค็มดินสอพอง) is a famous souvenir of Lop Buri. To produce this salted egg, a mixture of marl, water and salt is coated on an egg. The egg is preserved for a certain period of time. The egg is not too salty and can be cooked as Khai Wan - an egg poached in syrup, fried eggs, boiled eggs and other dishes. The most well-known dish cooked with this egg is stir fried salted egg with various spices, kaffir lime and string beans.
Metal Casting (Brass) (การหล่อโลหะ (ทองเหลือง)) is at Ban Tha Krayang Community. It is a gathering place of skilled brass founders whose occupation has been passed on for a long period of time. There are a cast of the brass Buddha images in various shapes and replicas of antiques. At present, there is a gathering as the Ban Tha Krayang Brass Founders Club.
Khao Phra Ngam Diamond (เพชรเขาพระงาม) is the famous gemstone of Lop Buri. It is a kind of mineral called Hin Khiao Hanuman (quartz crystal). It is a kind of semi-precious stone with clear transparent crystals, while some are in various colours and have different patterns. It can be polished for jewellery, similarly to other gems but with more reasonable prices.
Khachonwit Mushroom Farm (ฟาร์มเห็ดขจรวิทย์) is the biggest mushroom growing promotion farm in Lop Buri, producing various kinds of nutritious mushrooms such as shiitake mushroom, termite mushroom, Sajor-caju mushroom, abalone mushroom, oyster mushroom, etc.
Mudmi Fabric Weaving Village (หมู่บ้านทอผ้ามัดหมี่) is a source of local tie-dyed fabric weaving in a unique design of the Thai Phuan people called Mudmi. At present, there has been a development of its patterns and colours to be more modern. It is considered as the weaving location of the best quality Mudmi fabric of the country.
Som Fak (ส้มฟัก) is a type of preserved food. It is a combination of fish, salt, ground cooked rice and pickled garlic, kneaded into one texture and left to slightly ferment in a similar way as Naem (fermented pork in banana leaf). The fish used should have delicate white flesh such as Pla Krai - spotted feather back, Pla Salat - grey feather back, Pla Yi Sok - Jullien’s golden-price carp. The fermentation period is 3 days. It is eaten as a kind of savoury.
Pla som (ปลาส้ม) is one of the famous kinds of preserved food made from Pla thapian – barb - whose scales will be scraped off and its stomach cleaned. Then, salt is applied all over the fish, while cooked rice mixed with garlic is put into its stomach and left to ferment for quite some time. It will be fried before eating, creating a mouth-watering smell and a slightly sour taste.
Coconut Jelly (วุ้นน้ำมะพร้าว) is a well-known souvenir of Lop Buri, produced as a dessert to be eaten with ice. The jelly is produced by fermenting coconut juice with the acetic acid microbe similar to that used in the vinegar preserving process. In the fermentation process, white fungi will float on the surface and gradually assemble into a group of mushroom-like jelly, which will enlarge due to its fermentation period. This jelly is called “Coconut Juice Jelly Mushroom” or “Coconut Jelly”. Then, the jelly will be combined with various flavours of syrup and put into a bottle.
Sandstone Engraving Village (หมู่บ้านแกะสลักหินทราย) is where products are produced in nearly every house at Nong Laeng Village, Phaniat Sub-district, by using sandstone from the foot of the mountain. Many shapes are engraved into replicas of antiques, garden decoration materials, Buddha images, stone boundary markers and consecration marking balls for temples, etc.
Products from Corn Husk (ผลิตภัณฑ์จากเปลือกข้าวโพด) are produced in Phatthana Nikhom District, where a large amount of corn is planted. After the harvest, the corn husk will be dried in the sun, dyed with many colours and created as handicrafts in various styles such as flowers, dolls, key chains, etc.
Festivals
King Narai the Great’s Reign Fair (งานแผ่นดินสมเด็จพระนารายณ์มหาราช) is organised in February every year to commemorate the good deeds of King Narai the Great to Lop Buri and the nation. Lop Buri was the second city during that period where the king preferred to stay for nearly throughout the year with an exception for the rainy season when he stayed in Ayutthaya.There are various activities in the fair such as light and sound presentation, a demonstration of Thai lifestyle, Wang Narai Night, Thai games by Thai kids (Chuk, Klae, Ko, Pia), local entertainment, and booths offering local products.
Lop Buri Monkey Banquet
Monkey Buffet Festival
The Monkey Buffet Festival is held annually in Thailand to promote tourism. In 2007, the festival included giving fruits and vegetables to the local monkey population of 2,000 in Lopburi province north of Bangkok....
(งานเลี้ยงโต๊ะจีนลิง) is organised on Sunday during the last week of November at San Phra Kan and Phra Prang Sam Yot where a large number of monkeys stay. Tourists who come to pay respect to Chaopho Phra Kan usually bring food and fruit for the monkeys, making them more tame and familiar with people. In this event, there are various activities such as party offering food in especially beautiful decoration for monkeys and local performances, etc.
Lop Buri Sunflower Blooming Festival (งานทุ่งทานตะวันบานที่ลพบุรี) takes place around December of every year because it is the period when the sunflowers are in full bloom. At present, Lop Buri possesses hundred of thousands of rai of sunflowers. Before the harvest, the sunflowers will create a yellow field, being another splendid tourist attraction of Lop Buri.
Kam Fa Tradition (ประเพณีกำฟ้า) is a local merit making tradition of the Thai Phuan people, taken place in many villages in Mueang District, and Ban Mi District. It is organised to request for a blessing from gods who protect the sky so that it will rain during the rainy season. The 2nd day of the waxing moon in the 3rd lunar month is considered the eve and the next day is the Kam Fa Day. In the morning, people will give alms with Khao Lam - glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk in bamboo, and Khao Chi - roasted glutinous rice, while in the afternoon, there will be local games such as Mon Son Pha, Chuang Chai, Ma Bia, and Ma Kan Han.
Sai Krachat Tradition (ประเพณีใส่กระจาด) or called Suea Krachat tradition or “Soe Krachat” in Phuan language is a tradition of the Thai Phuan people that has been conducted in Ban Mi District. It takes place during the sermon on the Great Birth story. It is mostly organised during the End of Buddhist Lent (the 11th month) in the waning moon period. One day prior to the Sai Krachat Day, people will wrap Khao Tom – seasoned sticky rice in banana leaf - and grind rice for the Khao Pun – rice noodle. The next day is the Sai Krachat Day when people will bring things such as bananas, sugar cane, oranges, candles and joss sticks or other items to put into the bamboo baskets at the houses of the people they know, while the hosts will bring the prepared food to welcome their guests. When the visitors would like to go home, the host will give Khao Tom Mat as a souvenir in return called “Khuen Krachat”. The next day will be the day of the Great Birth sermon. It is considered as a grand annual merit making event of the year.
Chak Phra Si An Tradition of Wat Lai or the Tradition of the Maitreya Bodhisattva Procession (ประเพณีชักพระศรีอาริย์ วัดไลย์ หรือประเพณีแห่พระศรีอาริย์) has been conducted for a long period of time on the 14th day of the waxing moon during the 6th lunar month every year. The temple will arrange the image of the Maitreya Bodhisattva to be enshrined on the Takhe – handcart - and let the people pull the image to the north. The starting point is Wat Lai to the end at Wat Thong Khung and back to Wat Lai. There are many people joining the procession. The procession will stop at some points for the faithful people to pour water onto and to pay respect to the image. There are also a dozen almshouses providing free food for the participants in the procession.