Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Discovering the magic of the Monkey Forest in Ubud

*Directions to visit Monkey Forest Ubud can be found at the end of this article.

The sacred sanctuary of the Monkey Forest, commonly called the Monkey Forest in Ubud, is a peaceful retreat in the village of Padangtegal in Ubud, Bali. This lush sanctuary covers an area of 12.5 hectares and is home to more than 1,200 long-tailed macaque monkeys.

History and development of Monkey Forest Ubud

Monkey Forest Ubud boasts a rich history deeply rooted in Balinese culture. Its origins date back to the 14th century when it was considered a sacred place, home to spiritual forces and guardian spirits. The monkeys that inhabit the forest are considered sacred animals, symbolizing both protection and playfulness, creating a unique bond between humans and wild animals.

In the 20th century, the Ubud Monkey Forest gained recognition as a crucial protected area. Efforts have been made to preserve its natural beauty, promote responsible tourism and raise awareness of its cultural and environmental importance. Today, it is a treasured reserve where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, observe the fascinating behaviour of monkeys and support ongoing conservation initiatives.

The mission of the Sacred Monkey Forest Reserve

The mission of Sacred Monkey Forest Reserve, also known as Monkey Forest Ubud, is to protect the environment and cultural heritage through the philosophy of Tri Hita Karan. This concept, rooted in the Hindu tradition, emphasizes the importance of maintaining harmony in three key relationships:

Between people
Between people and nature
Between humans and the Supreme God.

A paradise for nature conservation

In the 20th century, the Monkey Forest in Ubud gained recognition as an important place for nature conservation. Efforts have focused on protecting the natural beauty of the area, promoting sustainable tourism and raising awareness of its cultural and ecological importance.

Today, the reserve serves as a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can connect with nature, observe the fascinating behaviour of the monkeys and support important conservation initiatives. A visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest is more than just a trip into the heart of Bali’s natural landscape; it is an opportunity to participate in the protection of a valuable cultural and ecological heritage.

Directions to visit Monkey Forest Ubud

– Keep a safe distance
– Do not touch the monkeys or try to pick them up. Always keep a respectful distance to avoid potential problems.
– Do not attempt to feed or interact with the monkeys unless you are under the direct supervision of trained staff. This will prevent aggressive behaviour and ensure the safety of yourself and the monkeys.
– Avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys
– Maintain a safe distance
– Stay calm
– Keep an eye on your children so that they do not play with the monkeys.

Looking directly into the eyes of a monkey can be interpreted as a sign of aggression. Avoid eye contact to avoid misunderstanding.

How much do tickets cost?
60,000 IDR/pax