Information
Landmark: Sacred Monkey Forest SanctuaryCity: Bali
Country: Indonesia
Continent: Asia
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Bali, Indonesia, Asia
Overview
In the heart of Ubud, Bali, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary-locals call it Mandala Suci Wenara Wana-spreads out in a green tangle of mossy trees and winding paths.Hundreds of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) roam this sanctuary, a place that’s as steeped in Bali’s culture and spirituality as it is alive with the rustle of leaves and the calls of the forest.In Ubud, it’s a favorite stop for travelers, who come to watch the monkeys, wander among moss-covered temple ruins, and soak in the quiet, leafy air.The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary isn’t only home to lively troops of long-tailed macaques-it’s also a centuries-old Hindu temple complex rich with cultural and spiritual meaning.Locals and travelers alike see it as sacred, a place devoted to Hyang Widi Wasa, the forest’s god, where the air smells faintly of moss and incense.Locals believe the sanctuary holds deep spiritual meaning, a quiet space where they gather to pray or sit in stillness beneath the trees.For generations, the forest and its temples have been a living heart of their religious life.Scattered through the sanctuary, several temples hold deep meaning for the Balinese Hindu community, where incense often curls into the warm air.The site also reflects Bali’s deep bond with nature, where many believe the forests breathe with unseen spirits, their leaves whispering in the wind.Key Features and Attractions 1.The Sacred Forest Sanctuary shelters more than 600 long-tailed macaques, and you’ll spot them leaping through the trees or padding softly along the mossy paths.Visitors flock to see the macaques, even though these quick-fingered troublemakers have been known to snatch a snack right out of your hand.They often mingle with visitors, and though they’re usually harmless, you should still be careful-don’t feed them or let them snatch things like sunglasses or snacks.The forest around you feels calm and alive, with tall trees overhead, dense green leaves brushing your arms, and narrow paths that twist out of sight.In the heart of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary unfolds in lush layers-moss clings to weathered stone statues, sacred groves hum with quiet life, and clear streams slip over smooth rocks-while at its center stands Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, the grand and timeworn temple devoted to the forest’s guardian deity.The temple showcases classic Balinese design, with stone statues, pavilions, and carvings so detailed you can trace each delicate swirl with your fingertip-an unforgettable sight for visitors.Sacred banyan trees tower over the temple, their roots twisting into the damp earth amid thick, green foliage.Beyond Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, the sanctuary holds several smaller temples, each with its own story.Within the temple grounds, you’ll also find Pura Beji and Pura Prajapati-two striking shrines honoring different deities and serving as gathering places for local Balinese ceremonies.Nearby, the sound of water trickles through the holy springs and pools, inviting visitors to wander and explore.The sacred pools, used for religious purification, sit in the shade of moss-covered statues and intricate carvings of Hindu deities.As you wander through the sanctuary, you’ll spot weathered stone figures draped in green, their faces softened by centuries of rain and time.The statues depict Hindu gods, mystical figures, and animals, their worn stone faces lending a quiet reverence to the sanctuary.Stone bridges span streams and link winding paths, guiding visitors past mossy temple walls and lively monkey enclosures.Shaded trails weave through dense forest and rich, tangled greenery.Stroll slowly along the winding paths, pausing to explore each corner of the sanctuary.Winding paths lead to tucked-away alcoves where you can pause and watch a flash of wings or the sway of ferns, and stone bridges span narrow streams, inviting quiet moments by the water to take in the lush greenery and darting dragonflies; you’ll find the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary at Jl.Monkey Forest in the heart of Ubud, Bali’s cultural center.You can reach it from central Ubud in about ten minutes on foot, just a stroll past the Ubud Market and the palace’s stone gates, and it’s open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Go early in the morning or wait until late afternoon to skip the crowds and soak in the quiet, cool air.Entry to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary costs about IDR 80,000 (around USD 5), with optional donations helping care for the grounds and protect the wildlife.Since it’s a sacred place, wear modest clothing.You’ll usually find sarongs at the entrance for visitors to wear before stepping into the temple grounds.Wear comfortable shoes-the stone paths can be uneven and slick after rain.And remember, the monkeys may be used to people, but they’re still wild, so don’t tease or provoke them.mediummediumIf a monkey comes close, stay calm and move slowly-don’t jerk or flinch.And remember, the temple is a sacred space, so follow local customs, like removing your shoes before you step inside.Please keep your voice low so you don’t disturb any religious ceremonies in progress, where incense might still be drifting through the air.Just a short walk away, you’ll find Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung), a graceful historic residence once home to Ubud’s royal family.At night, visitors wander the palace grounds under glowing lanterns and watch lively traditional dances, then stroll to nearby Ubud Market, a vibrant maze of stalls selling handwoven baskets, carved masks, and other Balinese treasures.Just a short drive from Ubud, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces invite you to soak in local culture while browsing for one-of-a-kind treasures, all against a backdrop of sweeping, emerald-green fields.You can wander slowly through the tiered terraces, breathing in the scent of damp earth, or sample rich, freshly brewed coffee.Just outside Ubud lies Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave, an ancient archaeological site carved into stone.You’ll find a cave etched with delicate carvings, a cool bathing pool, and relics whispering stories from Bali’s Hindu past.The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud weaves nature, playful monkeys, and rich tradition into an experience you won’t forget.Its lush jungle hums with life, and a playful splash echoes from somewhere beyond the tangled vines.
