Phra Prang Sam Yot

★★★★★ 4.4/5 (45,403 reviews) Very Good

About This Museum

People come to Phra Prang Sam Yot not just for the ancient stones, but for the living, chattering residents who have made this place their own. You'll find yourself navigating around troops of macaques lounging on 13th-century laterite prangs, their playful antics a stark contrast to the serene, weathered Buddha images still housed within. The air is thick with the sounds of their calls and the scent of history, creating an atmosphere that is both chaotic and deeply spiritual. It’s a place where the boundary between a historical site and a wild ecosystem beautifully blurs.

Collection Highlights

The three towering laterite spires (prangs) linked by corridors form the heart of the complex, originally a Mahayana Buddhist sanctuary before being adapted for Hindu use. Inside, you can still find original stucco decorations and a central shrine housing a revered Buddha image, often sharing quiet space with a curious monkey.

Visitor Information

Be prepared for the monkeys—they're clever and will go for loose items like bags and water bottles, so travel light and keep your belongings secure. The temple is easily accessible in Lopburi's old town, and visiting in the cooler morning or late afternoon hours is your best bet to avoid the peak heat.

Architecture & Building

A stunning example of classic Khmer-style architecture, characterized by its three corncob-shaped towers built from dark laterite stone, showcasing the artistic influence of the Angkor period.