Phra Kan Shrine is one of the most important sacred sites in Lopburi Province, located in the heart of the old city area that once served as the ancient center of Lavo. The most distinctive feature of the shrine is its laterite prang structure, built in multiple stacked tiers in the style of ancient Khmer architecture, locally known as the “High Shrine.” Archaeologists believe it was constructed around the 16th Buddhist century, during a period when Khmer civilization exerted strong influence over this region.

Enshrined within the shrine is Chao Pho Phra Kan, an ancient black stone deity who is deeply revered by the people of Lopburi and visitors from across Thailand. The deity is believed to possess great spiritual power, granting blessings related to peace, protection, safety, and success in one’s career. As a result, the shrine remains a major destination for worshippers throughout the year.

The feature that has made San Phra Kan internationally famous is its large population of monkeys living around the gardens and the ancient prang structure. These monkeys are protected by the local community, based on the belief that they are attendants of Chao Pho Phra Kan. The atmosphere around the shrine is therefore lively and unique, allowing visitors to observe the natural behavior of monkeys coexisting harmoniously with ancient architecture and urban life.

The present shrine building was constructed over the original ancient foundation in 1951 to strengthen the structure and accommodate the growing number of devotees. The interior is carefully organized to facilitate orderly worship. Visitors can experience the essence of local belief through offerings such as fruits and sweets, which are presented to the deity and also shared with the monkeys nearby, reflecting the close relationship between spiritual faith and community lifestyle.

Phra Kan Shrine is often regarded as the “reception hall of Lopburi,” as it is located opposite Phra Prang Sam Yot and near Lopburi Railway Station. Almost every visitor to the city stops here to seek blessings and good fortune. Beyond its spiritual significance, the shrine also serves as an important site for studying Khmer architecture and the layering of historical periods, offering deep insight into the origins and development of the ancient city of Lavo.

Phra Kan Shrine is therefore not only a sacred place, but also a living space where people, animals, and history are seamlessly intertwined, continuing to thrive vibrantly into the present day.

Private Car:

• Travel into Lopburi city center; the shrine is located at the main roundabout of the old town, near the railway station and Phra Prang Sam Yod.

Train:

• Get off at Lopburi Railway Station and walk about 300 meters to reach the shrine roundabout.

Public Transport:

• Almost all local songthaews entering the city pass in front of Phra Kan Shrine.

Best Visiting Season:

• Can be visited year-round, but early morning (08:00 - 09:00 AM) is best for pleasant weather and less active monkeys.

Monkey Caution:

• Keep a close watch on valuables like glasses, cameras, and phones. Avoid carrying open bags or plastic bags, as monkeys may mistake them for food and snatch them.

Photography:

• A popular spot is the stairs leading up to the shrine, offering a view of the laterite structure often with monkeys in the frame for a lively shot.

Offerings:

• If you wish to feed the monkeys, please buy food from designated areas provided by the shrine to maintain cleanliness.

Planning:

• Phra Kan Shrine is directly opposite Phra Prang Sam Yod, separated only by the railway track. You can easily plan to visit both sites consecutively.

Admission Fee

• Thai Visitors: Free Entry

• Foreign Visitors: Free Entry

Opening Hours

• Open Daily: 06:00 – 18:00