The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Explore one of Bali's most fascinating sacred spaces where the grounds of three (3) temples is also the home of several monkey communities. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the dwelling of some 900 Balinese Long-Tail Macaque Monkeys. This unique outing lets you observe the architectural beauty of ancient temples, a luscious forest, and the finer points of primate societies.

Featured in:Cultural, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Duration:
2 hrs
Available Days:
Every day
Schedule:
3:00 PM
Inquire for Transportation
Mobile Ticket Included
Offered in English

Discover thecharm of Bali, Indonesia. This tropical island is a mecca for outdoor adventurers and cultural enthusiasts. Surf some of the world's best waves. Climb mountains with sacred temples at the top. Go glamping near jungle rivers. See animals in their natural environment, and so much more.

The Resident Monkeys

This exciting tour takes you through The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a 30.8 acre (12.5 hectare) combination religious site, protected forest, and monkey reserve. Let a guide show you the home of the ground's resident long-tail macaque monkeys. Over 900 monkeys of various ages call the sanctuary home, and they're spread across 7 communities that have staked their claim across the temples, cemeteries, and forests. With 100-150 monkeys living in a given community, you're guaranteed to see these primates up-close!

Know Before You Go...

The monkeys are fed three (3) times per day and feast upon banana, coconut, corn, cucumber, papaya leaf, sweet potato, and other fruits. They do eat eggs, but not red meat, poultry, or fish. Bananas are available for purchase if you'd like to feed the monkeys, but be aware that they are curious, sneaky, clever, and — most importantly — not afraid of humans. It's best not to taunt them or hide the food. If you'd like to take a photograph with the cheeky little buggers, do so adjacent to a monky with yourself in the foreground and the monky in the background.

The Sacred Space

You'll also have the opportunity to see three (3) ancient temples that are estimated to be from the 14th century:

  • Main Temple - Dedicated to the God Shiva.
  • Pura Prajapti - Cremation temple; dedicated to Lord Brahma Prajapati.
  • Holy Water Temple - Dedicated to the Goddess Gangga.

You'll notice the sculptures throughout the forest; these are meant to be symbols that "...[support] the powers of the temples." Since this is a sacred space, guests are not allowed into the temples as spectators — the temples are for prayer only. However, you are wlecome to throw a coin into the Holy Spring Temple pool in the hopes that your wish will come true.

Special Notes:

  • Please leave any bags at the front center; the monkeys will try to take them.
  • Please dress modestly, as this is a sacred space. Thick tank tops and conservative shorts are acceptable during hot weather, 'skimpy' clothing is not.
  • Please do not feed the monkeys anything other than the bananas you have purchased from the sanctuary.

Attraction Visited

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

A unique combination of nature preserve, wild animal park, and Hindu temple complex, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary has much more than monkey business going on. This 31-acre (12.5 ha) park in central Ubud is home to more than 700 Balinese long-tailed monkeys, three ancient temples, and swarms of tourists hoping for that elusive monkey selfie. Located in the lush forest area at the end of Jalan Monkey Forest Road, the Padangtegal Mandala Wisata Wanara Wana Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is considered an important spiritual and educational center.

Read more:Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

What to Bring

  • Modest apparel (this is a sacred space; thick tank tops and bermuda shorts are acceptable during hot weather). Please DO NOT bring your sunglasses, wallet, keys and other necessities.

What's included

  • Professionally guided. -Private A/C vehicle
  • Entrance fee

Transportation

Many of our tours and activities offer transportation pick up & drop off options from several locations and destinations. Options vary by tour, see “BOOKING REQUEST” for full details.

Traveler Comments

Amazing!

- JESSICA , JAN 2020
Explore one of Bali's most fascinating sacred spaces where the grounds of three (3) temples is also the home of several monkey communities.The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary2
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