Military Area Tourist Attractions

Rating: 3/5 (9 votes)

Open Days: Please contact the authority in advance

Opening Hours: Please contact the authority in advance

 

Military Area Tourist Attractions in Lopburi Province offer a distinctive dimension of travel that sets Lopburi apart from other destinations in Thailand. Beyond its famous historical landmarks and natural attractions, Lopburi is home to several military zones that allow visitors to explore specialized training activities, military history, modern-era architecture, and significant national heritage sites in their authentic settings.

 

When people think of Lopburi, they often picture Phra Narai Ratchaniwet Palace, Phra Prang Sam Yot, or the iconic sunflower fields. However, for those who want to truly understand Lopburi as a “military city,” visiting attractions within military areas reveals another side of the province—one defined by discipline, structure, history, and specialized training environments.

 

One of the most talked-about locations is the activity zone at Camp A03, located near the entrance of Sub Lek Reservoir in Khok Tum Subdistrict, Mueang Lopburi District. This area is recognized as an adventure-based training site where visitors can challenge both their physical and mental strength while experiencing aspects of military-style training. Activities include a 34-foot tower jump, rock climbing, shooting practice, rope bridges, and canoeing—each designed to build focus, courage, and discipline.

 

Beyond adrenaline-driven activities, the Special Warfare Command area also offers demonstrations of jungle survival skills. Visitors can learn essential field techniques such as navigation, sourcing food, avoiding natural hazards, and protecting themselves from wildlife. These experiences transform the visit from simple recreation into a meaningful learning opportunity.

 

Another highlight of this area is advanced training activities such as balloon parachute simulations, shooting exercises, rock climbing, water-based training, and guided military-style jungle tours. These experiences provide a rare opportunity to engage in immersive, hands-on activities not typically found in conventional tourist destinations. Visitors are advised to coordinate with the relevant authorities at least 7 days in advance.

 

A significant cultural and educational attraction within this group is the Special Warfare Museum. The museum showcases photographs, equipment, and detailed information about the evolution and operations of Thailand’s special forces from their origins to the present day. It provides valuable insight into how real military training forms the foundation of the activities experienced on-site.

 

Shifting from activity-based tourism to architectural and political-military history, the Artillery Center is another key destination. Within this area are important buildings from the era of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, including Chateau Building (Khao Nam Chon Command Building), Phibunsongkhram Building, and several museums dedicated to military history and notable figures such as General Phraya Phahonphonphayuhasena.

 

The Artillery Center highlights Lopburi’s role not only as a military hub but also as a foundation of Thailand’s modern state development. Seeing these historical buildings in their original context provides a deeper understanding than reading about them in textbooks alone.

 

In another dimension, the 13th Military Circle houses the Field Marshal P. Phibunsongkhram Golf Course, which is open to the public. This adds a recreational aspect to military tourism, offering a peaceful and well-maintained environment for leisure activities within a disciplined setting.

 

For those interested in modern history and military medical institutions, Ananda Mahidol Hospital features an exhibition room dedicated to King Rama VIII. It presents historical information about His Majesty’s visit to officially open the hospital on January 6, 1938. This space holds significant historical value, connecting royal history with the development of military healthcare in Lopburi.

 

The charm of military-area tourism in Lopburi lies in its diversity. Some locations offer adrenaline-filled challenges, others provide historical insights into special forces, while certain sites reflect national development through architecture. Meanwhile, places like the golf course or hospital exhibition rooms offer a more tranquil experience.

 

The overall atmosphere differs significantly from typical tourist spots such as cafés or photo check-in locations. Each site operates within an active military context, and visitors can sense the discipline, structure, and regulations that must be respected. This creates a more meaningful and authentic travel experience.

 

Getting There The most convenient way to explore these attractions is by private car, as they are spread across various military zones in Mueang Lopburi District and nearby areas such as Khok Tum, Khao Phra Ngam, Tha Lay Chup Son, and Khao Sam Yot. For a one-day trip, it is recommended to plan your route carefully and contact each location in advance to confirm access conditions.

 

Visitors interested in participating in activities within the Special Warfare Command should allow extra time for coordination, as safety regulations and preparations are required. Similarly, museum visits and restricted areas in other units should be checked in advance for opening schedules.

 

Overall, military-area attractions in Lopburi represent a highly distinctive travel theme. They reflect the province’s identity through history, military development, training systems, sports, and national memory. Visiting these sites is not just tourism—it is an opportunity to understand Lopburi on a deeper and more meaningful level.

 

 

A: Visitors can enjoy adventure training activities, explore military museums, learn jungle survival skills, and visit historical buildings and exhibitions.

 

A: Yes, especially for activities in Special Warfare Command areas, where advance coordination of at least 7 days is recommended.

 

A: Yes, the Field Marshal P. Phibunsongkhram Golf Course is open to civilians.

 

A: It is located inside Ananda Mahidol Hospital in Mueang Lopburi District.

 

A: Private transportation is recommended due to the dispersed locations.