Ubud Monkey Forest Place guide

The natural habitat and sanctuary of the Balinese long-tailed macaque in Ubud are the Ubud Monkey Forest, owned by the village of Padangtegal. More than 700 monkeys populate the forest along with 186 species of trees in this 12.5-hectare sanctuary.

There are three temples within the Monkey Forest: Pura Dalem, the shrine to Lord Shiva, the Holy Water Temple, and the Cremation Temple. In the forest, visitors can also find sculptures, symbolizing the energies supporting the powers of the three temples. The temple-structure is based on the doctrine of Tri Hita Karana, which teaches followers how to maintain harmonious relationships of humans with humans, humans with their environment, and humans with The Supreme God.

Visitors to the Monkey Forestare discouraged from playing or having physical contact with the monkeys, as they are wild animals which may bite. Feeding them peanuts is not good for their health, but bananas are sold at the banana counter, and these may be fed to the monkeys. Do not try to hide the food as the monkeys will know and will try to take it. If a monkey jumps on you, remember to stay calm, stand up, and slowly walk away. Ask for assistance from the staff.

GETTING THERE

Ubud is about an hour away from Kuta, and you can get there by bus or with private car hire or motorbike. Once within Ubud, the Ubud Monkey Forest is only a fifteen-minute walk from the center of Ubud.