Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary: A Peaceful Escape into Balinese Nature and Culture
Nestled in the heart of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary is a lush and mystical jungle that offers visitors a serene retreat into Balinese spirituality, nature, and heritage. Home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and centuries-old temples, this sacred forest is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a vital spiritual and ecological landmark deeply rooted in Balinese culture.
Sacred
Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary
Discovering the Sacred Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary, also known as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, spans approximately 12.5 hectares of dense forest. As you step under its towering banyan trees and across its moss-covered pathways, you are immediately embraced by the calm and cooling shade of ancient nature. The forest is home to more than 1,200 Balinese long-tailed monkeys (Macaca fascicularis), who roam freely among visitors, temples, and towering fig trees.
Walking through the sanctuary,
you’ll encounter beautifully preserved stone statues, sacred temples, and
tranquil streams. The atmosphere is quiet and meditative, inviting you to slow
down and take in the harmony between humans, animals, and the natural world.
Spiritual Significance
The Sacred Monkey Forest is not just a habitat for wildlife—it is a spiritual place for local Balinese communities. It houses three sacred Hindu temples: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, dedicated to the god Shiva; Pura Beji, used for spiritual cleansing; and Pura Prajapati, related to funerary rites. These temples are still used today, and ceremonies are regularly held, connecting modern Balinese life to ancient traditions.
Locals believe that the forest is
protected by spiritual guardians, and the monkeys themselves are considered
sacred beings. Visitors are encouraged to respect the area by dressing
modestly, not feeding the monkeys, and maintaining a calm demeanor during their
visit.
Ecological and Cultural Harmony
More than a sanctuary for monkeys and a religious site, the Sacred Monkey Forest is also a conservation area and cultural center. The Sacred Monkey Forest Foundation manages the site and focuses on preserving the forest’s rich biodiversity while supporting local traditions and education. The forest’s design reflects the Tri Hita Karana philosophy—a Balinese belief that harmony must exist between people, nature, and the spiritual realm.
This living philosophy is evident
in every corner of the forest, from the carefully maintained pathways to the
balance between tourism and sacred space. The sanctuary provides a meaningful
example of how tourism, environmental preservation, and cultural reverence can
coexist in harmony.
Visitor Information
The Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5 PM. The entrance fee helps support conservation and local community initiatives. While visiting, it’s recommended to secure your belongings—especially food and shiny objects—as the curious monkeys can be quite cheeky.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a
spiritual seeker, or a cultural explorer, the Sacred Monkey Forest offers a
rich and peaceful experience that connects you to the essence of Bali.
Extend Your Ubud Experience with a Silver Jewelry Workshop
Just a 10-minute walk from the Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud Sanctuary, you can continue your cultural journey by joining a silver jewelry-making workshop at Ubud Town Center Silver Class. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to craft your own silver jewelry piece from scratch, guided by skilled local silversmiths in an authentic Balinese setting.
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| Silver jewelry making class in Ubud |
This hands-on experience is perfect for all ages and skill levels, offering a creative and memorable way to bring a piece of Bali home with you. The workshop operates daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, providing plenty of flexibility to fit into your Ubud itinerary.
So after immersing yourself in the sacred beauty of the monkey forest, take a short stroll to the Ubud Town Center Silver Class and let your creativity shine—an ideal way to end a day filled with culture, nature, and inspiration.
