Thailand Tourism – Lopburi Monkey Banquet
If you are looking for something unique to do, this is a highlight of Thailand tourism in November. We know at first read, the infamous monkey brain scene from Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is where your mind probably goes. But, this event isn’t even remotely morbid and actually quite adorable. Monkey is not what’s on the menu, but actually the honored guest to this feast held every year on the last Sunday of November in the capital of Lopburi, north of Bangkok. Thought to be good luck, the Lopburi monkey banquet is held for the 3,000+ long-tail macaque monkey residents.
Long tables covered with red tablecloths, over 2 tons of fresh fruits, rice and dessert are placed out for this all-out, monkey free-for-all. Starting at 10am at the Phra Prang Sam Yot temple, the monkeys begin their meal shy and surprisingly timid, but once they become comfortable, it escalates to be quite a spectacle and nothing short of a food fight. The Lopburi Monkey Banquet is a tradition which has a lot more to do with being thankful than just a monkey mess. The history of monkeys in Thailand has a lot to do with how they have co-existed together with people over the years. The monkeys are thought to bring good luck, and despite being a slight nuisance, they have become integrated into local society.
If for no reason other than November being an excellent time for Thailand tourism, this odd little festival can be a worthwhile venture for those looking to do something truly unique. Flying into Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, finding a nice place to stay in Bangkok and making the 150 km trek is one way to plan out your journey. Or, you can take a 3-hour train ride from Bangkok to Lopburi and stay in one of its hotels there. MDR Hotel is a nice option with modern rooms, air conditioning, en suite bathrooms and shower facilities.
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