Indonesia

Ubud Monkey Forest , situated in the small village of Padangtegal, seems like an oasis of peace as much for the monkeys as for the people. No wonder this nature’ sanctuary counts among some the most popular tourist sites in Bali. The place is perfect to observe the primates while enjoying its exotic habitat.

Visit the Monkey Forest

The tropical forest occupied by the monkeys is also home to more than 186 vegetal species including a few rare plants that hold spiritual and religious meanings for the Balinese.

The primates belong to macaca fascicularis family. They have long tails and grey hair. In spite of their small anatomy, they are pretty strong and do not hesitate to

use their sharp teeth if they feel threatened.

These days the sanctuary is home to over 600 monkeys. The females account for half the population, the other half consists of males and babies.

The population is divided into 5 communities. Each occupies its own part of the territory and rarely mixes with members of the other communities.

The forest is sacred to Balinese. It comprises three temples where people come to pray and give colorful offerings:Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, Pura Beji and Pura Prajapati. Like other Balinese sites, they feature exotic statues and traditional carvings forming typically rich ornaments.

The Monkey Forest hosts numerous cultural and religious events throughout the year including Ngebejiang, the Ngelawang performance and Tumpek Kandang celebration. Part of the complex is closed to visitors during religious ceremonies. For example, Pura Beji and all its surrounding are closed during Ngegejiang.

Meeting the monkeys

The monkeys are the main attraction. Tourist are free to walk along the trail amidst the dense and thick vegetation to closely observe the monkeys.

However, feeding the monkeys with biscuits, bread or peanuts is prohibited. The authorities of the park tolerate bananas and other fruit. Special precautions are to be taken if you interact with the primates as they are wild animals and should be respected as such. Beware of your personal belongings as they frequently grab bags, cameras and even eyeglasses from tourists. Beware of a bite as it can transmit rabies. There is a small first aid center on the site in case you need help or advise.

How to get there?

The Monkey Forest is approximately one-hour drive from Denpasar. The best is to rent a car with a driver.

• Opening hours and cost

The Monkey Forest is open from 8.30am to 6pm. The tickets office closes at 5.30pm

Entrance tickets cost Rp50,000 per adult and Rp40,000 per child