Imagine stepping into a lush, ancient forest where towering trees meet intricate stone carvings, and mischievous eyes peer from the canopy. The air is alive with the chatter of hundreds of monkeys, guardians of a sacred sanctuary that has stood for centuries.

Welcome to the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a living time capsule that offers a unique blend of spiritual energy, architectural beauty, and wildlife encounters in the heart of Bali.

Facts about Monkey Forest

History

The Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, also known as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, has a rich history deeply rooted in Balinese culture and spirituality, dating back to the 14th century. Located in the village of Padangtegal, Ubud, it is considered a sacred landmark inhabited by spiritual forces and guardian spirits.

The forest's origins are intertwined with the founding of Padangtegal Village in the 14th century. The local community regarded the forest as sacred, believing it to be inhabited by benevolent spirits and powerful gods, with the long-tailed macaque monkeys revered as sacred animals symbolizing protection and mischief in Balinese Hinduism.

In 1982, the community formally designated the area as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and initiated organized conservation efforts, including establishing a new forest area in the 1990s for the growing monkey population.

Mission

The sanctuary's mission is deeply rooted in the Balinese Hindu principle of "Tri Hita Karana," which emphasizes maintaining harmonious relationships between humans and God, humans and the natural environment, and humans themselves, to achieve spiritual and physical well-being.

Additionally, the sanctuary aims to conserve rare plants and animals (especially those used in Hindu rituals), serve as a natural laboratory for educational institutions (focusing on monkey social interactions), preserve its natural beauty, promote responsible tourism, and raise awareness about its cultural and environmental significance.

Features & Facilities

The Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is well-equipped with various facilities, including a public hall and gallery, an open stage, a canteen, a first aid center, a police post, and a parking lot. There are also sufficient toilets and a composting facility.

For visitor convenience and safety, the sanctuary provides staff guides, security, educational signage in English and Indonesian, and lockers in the lobby.

Three principal Hindu temples were constructed within the forest around 1350 AD during the Pejeng Dynasty: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal (main temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva), Pura Beji (for purification rituals, dedicated to Goddess Ganga), and Pura Prajapati (Cremation Temple).

The Animals

The most prominent animals in the sanctuary are the Balinese long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). According to Ubud Monkey Forest official website, as of 2023, there were approximately 1,260 monkeys living in the forest, divided into several social groups.

While these monkeys are wild, they are accustomed to human presence within their natural habitat. The sanctuary also aims to conserve rare plants and other animals, including the Timor rusa deer.

How to Get There and Admission Ticket

How to get there

The Sanctuary is located in central Ubud on Jalan Monkey Forest road, making it easily accessible.

• Walking: From central Ubud, it's often a 15-30 minute walk from the main town center or Ubud Palace.

• Motorbike/Scooter: Rent a scooter or take a motorbike taxi (e.g., Grab). Parking is available.

• Car/Taxi: Book a private car or cab from your hotel. The drive from central Ubud is about 10 minutes; from areas like Canggu or Seminyak, it can take 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Bus: Public bus services can take you to the outskirts, requiring a short walk.

• Tours: Many organized tours to the Monkey Forest include pick-up and drop-off services.

Ticket Price and Opening Hours

The entrance fees vary between weekdays and weekends, and for adults and children:

• Foreign Adults: Weekdays: IDR 80,000 - IDR 100,000; Weekends: IDR 100,000 - IDR 120,000.

• Foreign Children: Weekdays: IDR 60,000 - IDR 80,000; Weekends: IDR 80,000 - IDR 100,000.

• Children under three generally receive free admission. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance online. Cash, credit cards, and bank cards are typically accepted.

The sanctuary is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The last entry for visitors is at 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM.

Practical Tips while Visiting Ubud Monkey Forest

To ensure a pleasant and safe visit:

• Best Time to Visit: Arrive between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM for fewer crowds and calmer monkeys. Late afternoon (after 4:00 PM) can also be quieter.

• Dress Code: Wear light, comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate clothing is encouraged as it is one of the sacred Balinese Hindu sites.

• Monkey Etiquette (Crucial for Safety):

  • Do NOT feed the monkeys. They can become aggressive if they expect food or think you have it.

  • Avoid eye contact. Monkeys may perceive direct eye contact as a sign of aggression.

  • Do not touch or try to pet them. They are wild animals.

  • Do not smile at them, as showing teeth can be seen as aggression.

  • Do not run. If a monkey becomes aggressive, stay calm and slowly back away.

  • Leave baby monkeys alone. Their parents are very protective.

• Protect Your Belongings: Monkeys are known to steal valuable items (phones, sunglasses, jewelry). Keep all belongings secured in a small bag and close to your body. Avoid wearing loose glasses or sunglasses on your head. Do not bring plastic or paper bags, as monkeys associate them with food; leave them with reception staff if necessary.

• Inside the Sanctuary: You can spend approximately 1 to 2 hours exploring. Do not enter the temple areas as they are reserved for worship. Bottled water can be purchased inside. Be prepared for humidity and heat.

Where to Stay

The Tropical Doors has a wide array of vacation rental options available near the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, catering to various budgets and preferences. These vacation rentals in Ubud you can choose are:

Villa Sandro: Villa Sandro is a luxurious 3-bedroom villa in Ubud. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this stunning retreat offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and tropical tranquility.

Villa Surga: Villa Surga is a 4-bedroom en-suite villa in Ubud, Bali. Set against a backdrop of lush rice fields, this luxurious villa boasts a private pool and modern amenities. This villa offers the perfect escape in the heart of Bali's cultural hub.

Villa Rosita: Located just minutes from the renowned Tegalalang Rice Terrace, 5-bedroom Villa Rosita provides easy access to Ubud’s vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural scene.

Villa Xanadu: Nestled amidst lush rice fields, 5-bedroom Villa Xanadu is perfect for a getaway with family or friends. Explore nearby gems like Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Gunung Kawi Temple, and Tirta Empul Temple.

Villa Kiena: This stunning 6-bedroom villa offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable stay. Whether you’re here for a relaxing retreat, a getaway with friends, or a special celebration, Villa Kiena has everything you need to make your time in Bali truly magical.

Villa Anarya: Nestled among Ubud’s lush rice fields, this 6-bedroom Villa Anarya is a brand new bungalow-style sanctuary where modern luxury blends seamlessly with the peaceful charm of Bali’s landscape.

Summary

The Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary stands as a testament to Bali's rich cultural heritage and commitment to environmental preservation. More than just a tourist attraction, it's a sacred site where ancient temples, diverse flora, and a thriving population of Balinese long-tailed macaques coexist in harmony, guided by the philosophy of Tri Hita Karana.

Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem, respecting its traditions and inhabitants, while gaining a deeper appreciation for the intricate balance between humanity, nature, and the divine.