Located in central Ubud, Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary of Ubud is one of the most recognisable places to visit on the island. The sanctuary, which encompasses both ancient Hindu temples, dense tropical forest, and over a thousand free-roaming long-tailed macaques, is an unusual combination of nature, spirituality, and wildlife. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a must-do for adventure seekers, photographers, spiritual seekers and cultural lovers when in Bali.
Introduction to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Also referred to as the Ubud Monkey Forest, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a protected nature reserve and temple complex located on Jalan Monkey Forest in the village of Padangtegal, Ubud. The 12.5 hectares of the sanctuary is home to more than 1,260 Balinese long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), which are an important cultural symbol for local people; they are deeply associated with spirituality and temple life.
Managed by the village of Padangtegal, the sanctuary operates on the Balinese tri-hita karana philosophy of achieving harmony between people, nature and spirit. Therefore, visitors don’t simply visit for sightseeing – they also visit to feel the living harmony of culture and religion with nature.
What to Expect When You Are at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary?
As you enter the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, it feels like stepping into an enchanted world. Giant banyan trees provide a tall canopy overhead and ancient stone paths interweave through the abundant vegetation, moss-laden statues and intricately carved temples.
The sanctuary is divided into several zones with each offering an array of highlights. There are three important temples located in the forest:
- Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal – the main temple-like shrine to the god Shiva.
- Pura Beji – a temple-like shrine of purification using the holy spring nearby.
- Pura Prajapati – the temple-like shrine that is used for cremation ceremonies and located near the cemetery.
Each of the shrines dates back to the 14th century and has strong religious significance to the local Bali community. Some areas have restricted access including those that have sacred meaning but visitors can appreciate their architecture, antiquity and the role that these temples play in Balinese Hindu rituals.
Another popular item within the Monkey Forest is the Dragon Bridge, a mystical stone bridge, guarded by snake-like statues that spans across a deep ravine and offers stunning photo opportunities. Each grove within the forest has over 115 different species of trees, many with traditional medicinal uses.
Meeting the Monkeys
The macaques of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary are, by far, the sanctuary’s most recognizable residents. The macaques live in six groups throughout the sanctuary, and, because they relate to deeply embedded beliefs and thus are sacred, there are local Indonesian beliefs that protect them. While most of the macaques are used to people, they are still wild animals and might behave aggressively if delighted. In conclusion, respectful behavior is essential. The monkeys can be observed eating, grooming, playing, and interacting with infants, and it is one of the few places you can see monkeys behaving normally. There are rules to be followed:
- Do not bring any food and do not feed the monkeys.
- Anything you have uses in front of monkeys – bags, jewelry, glasses, phones must be secure – if not, be watchful because they are curious and grab anything and everything.
- Do not touch, play, or make eye contact with the monkeys; they may try to defend themselves and attack you.
- If a daughter or son of the monkey climbs on you, do nothing and do not move suddenly.
Following the rules will allow visitors not let the monkeys and other animals suffer as a result of your actions, and (more importantly protect the monkey who becomes aggressive with you (to protect itself).
Visitor Information
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is open 365 days a year:
Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entrance at 5:00 PM)
Entrance Fees:
- Adult: IDR 80,000 (higher on weekends)
- Child: IDR 60,000
Most visitors spend 2 to 3 hours at the Sanctuary. While many visitors will only spend a couple of hours, some enjoy the calmness of the forest and will spend longer at the Forest.
Best Time to Visit Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The best time to visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary will be in the morning, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The weather is cooler, the lighting is better for pictures, and the monkeys tend to be more active. It is best to visit during dry season (April to October) to avoid muddy trails and slippery pathways.
Map Location
Facilities and Accessibility
The temples and the sanctuary is extremely well maintained with amenities such as restrooms, a ticketing area, walking paths and boards, first aid ability, even staff throughout the grounds. There are stairs and uneven terrain in some areas, but if you are in good health, the majority of the forest is accessible.
The sanctuary also has a small gallery and gift shop that sells souvenirs, handicrafts, and monkey-related items. Donations to support conservation efforts are accepted. Donors can donate at the sanctuary and through the sanctuary’s official website.
Reviews and Experiences from Visitors
Tourists from around the world have found the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to contain captivating beauty, while enveloped in a spiritual vibe. Other reviewers of the Sanctuary mentioned that the sanctuary’s clean, peaceful environment, where humans coexist respectfully, alongside wild animals, and the opportunity of witnessing their semi-wild behaviours, due to the natural, undisturbed terrain.
In his review, he observed, “Simply amazing. The monkeys were everywhere, and for a very small few, you can take pictures with them. The sanctuary is very clean and peaceful. Just make sure you hold on to your possessions and don’t stare the monkeys in the eyes.”
Another poster said, “An absolutely magical place you have to experience to believe. I loved how friendly the little monkeys were. I would recommend it to anyone who is in the area. You have to check this place out at least once!”
Testimonials like these illustrate why the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary remains one of Bali’s highest rated points of attraction.
Read Also: What is Hazevecad04 Version on PC? | cnlawblog | iofbodies.com
What’s Close By?
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is centrally located in Ubud and is within walking or driving distance from other popular destinations, such as:
- Ubud Palace
- Ubud Art Market
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
If you’re looking for a complete day out, you could visit the sanctuary in the morning, stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant such as Laka Leke Hideaway or Kafe Ubud, then explore the surrounding town area in the afternoon.
Read Also: Qoruv.com Pioneering Firm | What About huzoxhu4.f6q5-3d | about kiolopobgofit
Final Thoughts
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a profoundly enriching experience, where culture, religion, and wildlife all coexist in striking harmony. More than a tourist site, it is a living, breathing sanctuary for spiritual and ecological balance. Walking along shaded pathways, navigating through sacred temples and over friendly monkeys, is one way to truly experience the sacred rhythm of Balinese daily life.
If you are traveling to Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is worth a stop. It is a journey to the heart of Bali’s soul. Whether you want to connect with nature or explore ancient architecture, or observe the happy antics of monkeys, the experience is just plain FUN.
