Visit Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest

Meet the playful residents of Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest. Book your tour now!

The Sacred Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and temple complex located in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. The forest is spread across approx. 25 acres with at least 115 different species of tree. It is a home to about 1,260 Balinese long-tailed macaque monkeys, who are considered sacred by the local Balinese people. The sanctuary also includes a public hall and gallery, an open stage, a canteen, a first aid centre, a police post, a parking lot, and a composting facility.

The monkeys of the Sacred Monkey Forest are divided into five groups based on each occupying different territory. The first group inhabits the area in front of the main temple, the second group occupies the park’s Michelin area, the third group the eastern area, the fourth group the central area, and the fifth group lives in the cremation and cemetery area.  During the dry season, the different groups must pass through each other’s territory to reach the stream, making the conflicts between groups unavoidable.

The main source of food for the monkeys is sweet potatoes fed to them by the park staff. They still feed on papaya leaf, maize, cucumber, coconut, and other local fruit. The visitors are prohibited from feeding the monkeys. Visitors can observe the daily activities of the monkeys like mating, fighting, grooming, and caring for their young ones from very close range and even sit to them along the park’s paths.

The sanctuary is a popular tourist destination with various species of plants and trees, three temples and numerous visitor facilities. It is one of the Bali’s most unique attractions that blends free-roaming monkeys, ancient temples and dense jungle in a setting that feels both chaotic and spiritual.

The three Hindu temples located in the park, that plays an important role in the spiritual life of the local people are;

• Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, the main temple where God Hyang Widhi is worshipped and that lies in the southwestern part of the park.
• Pura Beji, a Holy Spring bathing temple used for spiritual and physical cleansing prior to religious ceremonies and it lies in the northwestern part of the park.
• Pura Prajapati, used to worship Hyang Widhi in the personification of Prajapati and lies in the northwestern part of the park.

Some parts of the forest area are not open to the public as it is considered sacred by the local and sacred temple areas are opened only to those people, willing to pray and wear proper Balinese praying attire.

The visitors can also experience Balinese dance at Ubud’s Monkey Forest. Immerse in the graceful movements, vibrant costumes and enchanting music.

• Lubdhaka Dance, a traditional Balinese dance inspired by the ancient Mahabharata epic, especially the episode of Lubdaka.
• Frog Dance, also known as Tari Katak inspired by the playful movements and characteristics of frogs.

Things to consider in Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest:

• Do not feed the monkeys or try to interact with them unless you are under the direct supervision of a trained staff.
• Maintain a safe distance with the monkeys to avoid any potential issues. Do not touch them or try to pick them up.
• Avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys as they may interpret as a sign of aggression.
• In case a monkey jumps on you stay calm and walk slowly. Do not panic or run.
• Food or drinks are prohibited into the forest, as the monkey may grab anything edible as it can lead to aggressive behaviour.
• As a sign of respect for Balinese culture, dress appropriately when entering the sanctuary.

Time to Visit:

The Sanctuary is open throughout the week from 9am to 6pm with entrance fee slightly higher in weekends compared to weekdays.

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