Located in the lush village of Padangtegal, Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary—commonly known as Monkey Forest Ubud—is one of Bali’s most iconic destinations.
This natural reserve is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), and it serves not only as a popular tourist attraction but also as a spiritual, cultural, and ecological sanctuary.
A Living Forest with Deep Cultural Roots
Monkey Forest Ubud is more than just a place to see monkeys. This 12.5-hectare forest is a sacred site that dates back to the 14th century.
It houses three important temples: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati.
These temples are still actively used for religious ceremonies, maintaining the spiritual essence of the forest.
Managed by the local villagers of Padangtegal, the sanctuary is rooted in the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana—three principles of harmony: harmony with people, harmony with nature, and harmony with the divine.
These values are deeply integrated into every aspect of forest management and conservation.
Home to Over 1,200 Monkeys and 186 Tree Species
The forest is divided into six monkey territories: the Temple group, New Forest group, Central Point group, East group, Michelin group, and the Cemetery group.
Each group occupies its own area within the sanctuary. Visitors can observe the social behaviors of these intelligent primates in a natural setting.
In addition to its primate population, the forest contains at least 186 species of tropical trees, many of which are considered sacred in Balinese culture.
Some trees, such as the Majegan, are used in temple construction, while others like the Berigin provide materials for ceremonial purposes.
One of the most sacred trees in the sanctuary is the Pule Bandak. This tree plays a central role in the creation of ritual masks used exclusively inside temple grounds.
Rather than cutting down the entire tree, a priest chooses an auspicious day to respectfully request permission from the tree spirit before harvesting a small piece of wood—ensuring that the spirit remains within the mask.
Conservation Meets Culture
What sets Monkey Forest Ubud apart is its dual role in conservation and culture.
The sanctuary collaborates with Udayana University in Denpasar to study the forest’s biodiversity.
It is also a research hub for scientists from around the world who focus on primate behavior and forest ecology.
The sanctuary regularly hosts rituals such as Tumpek Kandang, dedicated to animals, and Tumpek Uduh, which honors plants.
These ceremonies reflect Bali’s unique respect for all living things and help maintain the spiritual balance of the forest.
A Sanctuary for Tourists and Locals Alike
With more than 120,000 visitors every month, Monkey Forest Ubud is one of the most visited attractions in Bali.
However, the experience remains peaceful and respectful, guided by local traditions. Visitors are encouraged to walk the shaded paths, observe the monkeys responsibly, and learn about the rich spiritual and ecological significance of the forest.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a serene place to reflect, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary offers a truly meaningful experience.
It stands as a reminder of how harmony between humans, nature, and spirituality can thrive in the modern world.
Planning Your Visit to Monkey Forest Ubud
Location: Padangtegal Village, Ubud, Bali
Opening Hours: Typically open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Tickets: Available on-site or online; affordable entry for both local and international visitors
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, and respect for wildlife
Tips: Don’t bring food or shiny objects—monkeys may be curious!
Looking for more nature-inspired experiences in Bali? Monkey Forest Ubud is a must-visit—where the sacred meets the wild, and every visit supports conservation and cultural heritage. (BT)
Image source: monkeyforestubud.com
