Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Ubud Monkey Forest

A protected forest sanctuary home to over 1200 Balinese long-tailed monkeys, temples, and natural pools. It combines wildlife interaction with cultural heritage and provides an immersive jungle experience near Ubud.

Things to do

• Monkey Observation & Interaction — Walk through the forest trails to encounter over 1200 Balinese long-tailed monkeys in their natural habitat, watching their social behaviors and playful antics up close.
• Sacred Temple Complex Tour — Explore the three main temples within the sanctuary—Pura Dalem Agung, Pura Prajapati, and Pura Beji—which blend Hindu-Buddhist architecture and spiritual significance.
• Natural Spring Pools — Discover the cool freshwater pools nestled within the forest where visitors can wade and cool off while surrounded by jungle canopy.
• Forest Canopy Trekking — Navigate the main pathways and side trails through dense tropical forest to experience diverse flora, fungi, and the sanctuary's ecosystem.
• Photography & Wildlife Documentation — Capture images of monkeys, temple details, and forest landscapes, though visitors should remain alert as monkeys may attempt to grab cameras or belongings.
• Balinese Blessing Ceremony — Participate in optional traditional Hindu ceremonies or blessings conducted by local priests at the temples within the sanctuary.

Food to try

• Nasi Campur — A mixed rice plate with various vegetables, proteins, and sambals commonly served at food stalls near the sanctuary entrance.
• Gado-Gado — A vegetable salad with tofu, tempeh, and peanut sauce that provides a light, nutritious meal suitable for the humid jungle environment.
• Satay (Sate Ayam) — Grilled chicken skewers with peanut sauce available at nearby warungs, a popular protein option for visitors exploring the forest.
• Fresh Coconut Water — Refreshing young coconut water (es kelapa muda) sold by vendors at the sanctuary entrance, ideal for rehydration during the trek.
• Lumpia — Spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat, commonly sold as a snack at the sanctuary's food stalls and surrounding warung cafes.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Sacred Spaces — Remove shoes or dress modestly when entering temples within the sanctuary, and avoid pointing at or disrespecting altars and religious offerings.
• Monkey Safety & Non-Feeding — Do not feed the monkeys or make direct eye contact, as they may interpret these actions as aggression or invitation; secure loose belongings as monkeys are known to snatch items.
• Guide Recommendations — Hiring a local guide enhances the experience with cultural and spiritual context about the temples and monkey behaviors, while supporting the community economically.
• Morning Visits Preferred — Visit early in the morning when monkeys are most active and the forest is cooler, allowing for better wildlife observation and photography before afternoon heat intensifies.