The Ubud Monkey Forest is a famous tourist spot as well as an important religious and cultural site. It is located in the cultural center of Bali. The official name of the place is the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It’s a special spot where faith, animals, and nature come together. This guide tells you everything you need to know about this mysterious forest’s past, why you should go, where it is, how much it costs to get in, and other important visitor tips.
The history of Monkey Forest, Ubud
The Ubud Monkey Forest has a long and interesting past that goes back hundreds of years. Three old Hindu temples that were built around the middle of the 14th century are there. The main temple, Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, is where people celebrate the god Hyang Widhi as Shiva, who is known as the “Recycler” or “Transformer.” The other two buildings honor the gods of either being burned or buried. The fact that these buildings are so important to the spiritual life of the locals shows that the Monkey Forest has always been a very important place for religion and culture.
The nearby village of Padangtegal takes care of the forest, and people there are constantly working to keep the sanctuary’s integrity. Because they care, the forest will always be a safe place for the monkeys and a peaceful place to worship and think.
Why Should You Go to the Ubud Monkey Forest?
When you go to the Ubud Monkey Forest, you can enter a beautiful, green world where more than 700 grey long-tailed macaques live. Along with being beautiful, the forest gives you a look into Balinese Hinduism through the sacred temples and elaborate carvings that are there. This is a chance to see monkeys doing their daily tasks in their natural environment, which can be fun and teach you something.
The site also gives a unique look into the society and architecture of Bali. The temple relics, statues, and gates are all very well-made works of art that speak to the spiritual depth and long past of the island.
Where is the Ubud Monkey Forest?
You can find the Monkey Forest in the town of Padangtegal, which is in the artsy city of Ubud. It is in the middle of Bali, about a kilometer south of the center of Ubud. You can easily get there on foot by going through the busy streets of the village. The forest acts as a natural wall, keeping the peace in the business places nearby.
Fee to get into Ubud Monkey Forest
As of this writing, it costs IDR 80,000 for people to enter the Ubud Monkey Forest and IDR 60,000 for kids. This fee helps keep the forest in good shape, take care of the monkeys, and protect the buildings inside the sanctuary.
Things You Should Know Before You Visit Ubud Monkey Forest
To make sure your trip to the Monkey Forest is safe and polite, here are some things you should think about before you go:
- Do not feed the monkeys. It may be tempting, but feeding them changes their normal behavior and diet.
- Keep your things safe. Monkeys are curious and can take things like sunglasses, jewelry, or cameras that aren’t protected.
- Don’t look the monkeys in the eyes. In their language, this could be seen as a sign of aggressiveness.
- Don’t freak out or run away if a monkey climbs on you. Instead, stay cool and walk away slowly.
- Stay on the road and follow the temple’s rules: Follow the paths that have been marked, and be polite in sacred places.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ubud’s Monkey Forest
Is it safe to go to Ubud’s Monkey Forest? It is safe as long as you follow the shelter rules. Because of how monkeys normally act, though, it’s important to keep your distance and keep your things safe.
May I bring food into the Monkey Forest? It’s best not to bring food into the bush so that monkeys don’t notice it.
Are there guides that you can hire in the forest? You can explore the forest on your own, but you can also hire a local guide at the entrance who can tell you interesting things about the site’s cultural and historical importance.
How long should I stay in Monkey Forest? Most people who visit the forest stay for about an hour or two, which is enough time to walk around, look at the monkeys, and go to the churches.
When is the best time to go? It’s less busy and cooler early in the morning or late in the afternoon, making the experience better.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is more than just a place to see monkeys. It’s also a great way to learn about Bali’s spiritual and natural history. Whether you’re interested in animals, culture, or just peace and quiet, the Monkey Forest is a fascinating place that will give you unforgettable experiences.