Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is a protected natural and cultural site featuring a dense tropical forest, three ancient Balinese temples, and a population of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). The site combines wildlife viewing with cultural heritage: temple architecture, stone carvings, and shaded pathways create a unique experience in the heart of Ubud. It’s both a nature reserve and an important spiritual site for the local community.
Location
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Mandala Suci Wenara Wana), Ubud, Gianyar, Indonesia
Duration
Typical visit: 1–2 hours (can extend to 2–3 hours if combining with nearby attractions or a guided tour).
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (08:00–10:30) or late afternoon (15:00–17:30) to avoid the midday heat and largest crowds. Dry season (April–October) is generally more comfortable for walking.
Pricing
Entrance fee: approximately IDR 80,000–100,000 for foreign adults (prices may vary and are subject to change). Discounts may apply for children, students, or local residents. Additional costs: small fees for professional photography, guided tours, or camera permits in some cases.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Close-up viewing of long-tailed macaques in a semi-free environment
Three ancient temples inside the forest: Pura Dalem Agung, Pura Beji, and Pura Prajapati
Lush, shaded tropical forest with large banyan trees and ornamental stone carvings
Photogenic stone statues, moss-covered shrines and carved gateways
Short, well-marked walking paths suitable for casual visitors
Itinerary
Arrival and ticketing
Buy tickets at the entrance; staff will give a short orientation and show the path map. Bring small change and have your camera ready.
Orientation and rules briefing
Staff or signage will explain safety rules around the macaques — follow them closely to avoid incidents.
Walk the main loop and visit Pura Dalem Agung
Explore shaded pathways, observe macaques, and admire temple carvings. Keep belongings secured.
Visit Pura Beji and Pura Prajapati
Continue along the path to the other temple complexes and the small holy spring and stone features.
Photography and wildlife observation
Photograph macaques from a safe distance. Avoid sudden movements and feeding the monkeys unless supervised by staff.
Exit and optional nearby stops
Exit through the main gate and consider visiting the nearby Ubud Market, Monkey Forest Road cafés, or an art gallery.
Safety Requirements
Secure loose items (sunglasses, phones, bags) — monkeys are attracted to small items
Do not feed the monkeys unless a staff member instructs you to; feeding can provoke aggressive behavior
Avoid direct eye contact and sudden gestures toward monkeys
Keep a safe distance from infants and juvenile monkeys — mothers can be protective
Follow instructions from sanctuary staff and signage at all times
Children should be supervised closely; do not leave strollers unattended in monkey-accessible areas
Basic travel vaccinations as recommended for Indonesia; consult your healthcare provider if concerned
Tips
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and lightweight clothing — shaded but humid forest paths
Bring a small amount of cash (IDR) for the entrance fee, donations, or local vendors
Keep cameras and phones on straps or in zipped pockets to prevent snatching
If you want photos with monkeys, wait for calm interactions and let the animals approach you rather than reaching out
Respect temple areas — dress modestly if you intend to enter temple compounds (sarong may be required for some interior areas)
Hire a local guide for deeper cultural context and to help manage interactions with the macaques
Visit early to avoid the busiest times and get better lighting for photos
Combine this visit with nearby Ubud attractions (Ubud Palace, Ubud Market, Saraswati Temple) for a fuller day
