To navigate Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary safely, you’ll want to visit during the dry season (July-September) and arrive early between 8:00-10:00 AM when it’s less crowded. Don’t bring food or wear flashy items that might attract the monkeys’ attention. You can enter with an adult ticket for 80,000 IDR ($5 USD) and explore the three ancient Hindu temples and natural forest paths. Stay calm around the monkeys, follow staff instructions, and consider joining a guided tour for cultural insights. Remember proper temple etiquette, like walking around offerings and dressing modestly. These basic guidelines will help you access a deeper experience of this sacred 14th-century site.
The History of Sacred Monkey Forest
Temples and towering banyan trees mark the ancient grounds of Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest, which dates back to the 14th century. You’ll find three Hindu temples within the forest, each playing a crucial role in Balinese spiritual life. The main temple, Pura Dalem Agung, honors the god Shiva and represents the cycle of death.
Local villagers have long studied monkey behavior in this forest, believing these creatures to be sacred guardians of the temples. The monkeys’ presence holds deep cultural significance, as they’re thought to protect the forest’s spiritual energy. You’ll notice how the macaques roam freely, maintaining their natural social structures just as they’ve for centuries.
The forest gained official sanctuary status in 1951, though locals have protected it for generations. Traditional Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana guides the forest’s preservation, emphasizing harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual sphere.
Today, you can walk the same paths that Hindu priests have used for hundreds of years, experiencing a living connection to Bali’s rich heritage. The sanctuary continues to serve as both a sacred space and a natural laboratory for understanding primate communities.
Best Time to Visit
Planning your visit to this ancient sanctuary requires careful timing. You’ll find the best experience between July and September, when Bali enjoys its dry season. These ideal seasons bring clear skies and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the forest paths.
Early morning visits, between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, offer you the most peaceful experience. The monkeys are active but calmer during these hours, having just eaten their morning meals. You’ll also beat the crowds and the midday heat, giving you more freedom to wander and photograph.
Weather considerations play a vital role in your visit. Avoid the rainy season from October to March, when sudden downpours can interrupt your exploration. If you must visit during these months, pack a light raincoat and plan your visit between rain showers, typically in the morning.
The sanctuary is less crowded on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday. You’ll want to skip major Indonesian holidays and school breaks when local tourism peaks. By timing your visit strategically, you’ll get more space to observe the monkeys and ancient temples at your own pace.
Ticket Prices and Opening Hours
The sanctuary’s admission fees remain affordable for all visitors, with adult tickets priced at 80,000 IDR (approximately $5 USD) and children’s tickets at 60,000 IDR ($4 USD).
You’ll find ticket discounts available for groups of 15 or more people, and local residents can enter at reduced rates with proper ID. You can purchase your tickets directly at the entrance – no need for advance booking.
The Sacred Monkey Forest operates daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, though seasonal hours may vary slightly during religious ceremonies or special events.
You’ll want to check their official website before your visit, especially during major Balinese holidays. The sanctuary doesn’t close for lunch breaks, so you’re free to enter at any time during operating hours.
The best part? Your ticket gives you unlimited entry and exit privileges throughout the day. You can leave for lunch in Ubud’s center and return later without paying again.
Just make sure to keep your ticket stub and get a hand stamp at the exit. Remember, the last entry is at 5:30 PM, giving you enough time to explore before closing.
Safety Tips Around Wild Monkeys
While these macaques may look cute and friendly, you’ll need to follow key safety rules during your visit. The monkeys can be aggressive if they feel threatened or want your food, so it’s essential to stay alert and maintain a safe distance.
Don’t bring any food or drinks into the forest, as the monkeys will smell them instantly. Keep your belongings close, and avoid wearing loose items like jewelry, hats, or sunglasses – the monkeys love to snatch these. If a monkey grabs something, don’t try to get it back. Let the staff help you instead.
Understanding basic monkey behavior will help you stay safe. Avoid direct eye contact, as they see this as a challenge. Don’t smile or show your teeth – that’s a sign of aggression in monkey language. Keep your movements calm and steady.
When it comes to visitor interactions, never attempt to touch or feed the monkeys. Don’t use selfie sticks or get too close for photos. If a monkey climbs on you, stay still and wait for it to leave.
The staff knows how to handle difficult situations, so always follow their instructions immediately.
What to Bring Along
Smart packing choices can make your Monkey Forest visit both safe and enjoyable. Your essential gear should be minimal and easy to protect from curious primates. Bring a small crossbody bag or fanny pack that zips securely – avoid backpacks that monkeys can easily grab.
Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated in Ubud’s tropical climate. If you’re into wildlife photography, bring a camera with a neck strap and lens cap. Don’t bring additional lenses or equipment that you’ll need to swap out. Keep your phone tucked away safely, taking it out only when needed for quick photos.
Leave food, snacks, and plastic bags in your hotel room – these items attract unwanted attention from the monkeys. Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a small first aid kit are smart additions to your pack. Wear comfortable walking shoes that can handle both paved paths and forest trails.
Remember to bring cash for entrance fees and keep it in a zippered pocket. Don’t bring valuable jewelry, loose items, or anything dangling that might catch a monkey’s interest.
The less you carry, the more freely you can explore this sacred space.
What Not to Bring
Five key items should never make their way into Monkey Forest during your visit. Understanding monkey behavior and managing visitor interactions safely means leaving certain things behind. The monkeys are naturally curious and will grab anything that catches their eye, which can lead to unwanted encounters.
- Don’t bring any food or drinks (except water). The monkeys can smell snacks even through closed bags and will try to steal them.
- Skip wearing flashy jewelry or accessories. Shiny objects attract monkeys who may grab and run with your valuables.
- Leave your plastic bags at home. Monkeys associate them with food and will target you immediately.
You shouldn’t bring open shoes like flip-flops or sandals, as the terrain can be slippery and monkeys might grab at your feet.
Also, avoid bringing any medications, toiletries, or cosmetics in your bag – monkeys are drawn to these items and may mistake them for food.
If you’re carrying a camera, keep it close to your body and secure.
Temple Etiquette and Dress Code
Beyond protecting yourself from curious monkeys, showing proper respect in the Monkey Forest’s temples is a must. While monkey behavior draws most visitors’ attention, remember that this sanctuary holds deep cultural significance for the local Balinese community.
You’ll need to wear a sarong and sash when entering temple areas – these are available for rent at the entrance. Make sure your shoulders are covered, and avoid wearing revealing clothes. Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten appropriate attire – the staff provides temporary coverings.
Never enter a temple during menstruation, as this goes against local customs. Don’t touch or sit on sacred structures, and keep your voice down near prayer areas. You can take photos of the temples, but don’t pose disrespectfully or stand directly in front of shrines.
Watch where you step – avoid walking in front of people who are praying. If you see offerings on the ground, walk around them.
The temples aren’t just tourist attractions – they’re active worship sites where locals still perform ceremonies. Following these simple guidelines helps preserve the sanctuary’s spiritual atmosphere while ensuring you’re a respectful guest.
Guided Tour Options
Professional guides at the sanctuary offer several tour packages to enhance your visit. You’ll find both private tours and group tours available throughout the day. Private tours give you one-on-one attention from your guide, while group tours let you share the experience with other travelers at a lower cost.
Key tour features you’ll get:
- Expert guidance on monkey behavior and safety protocols
- In-depth history of the temples and sacred grounds
- Photography tips for capturing the perfect monkey shots
Book your tour at the sanctuary’s entrance or reserve online before your visit. Morning tours typically start at 8:30 AM when the monkeys are most active. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider booking an afternoon tour when crowds thin out.
Most tours last between 1-2 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore. Your guide will help you navigate the forest paths safely while sharing local legends and cultural insights.
They’ll also show you the best spots for monkey watching and teach you how to interact with them responsibly. You’re free to explore on your own after the tour ends.
Photography Tips and Locations
Capturing memorable photos at the Sacred Monkey Forest requires smart planning and the right locations. You’ll want to understand basic monkey behavior before you start shooting – keep your distance and avoid direct eye contact, which monkeys view as aggressive.
Protect your photography gear by using a camera strap and keeping backup equipment in a secured bag. Don’t bring flashy accessories that might attract the monkeys’ attention. The best shots often come from simply observing and waiting patiently.
Head to the Dragon Bridge early morning or late afternoon when the light’s perfect for photos. The ancient temple grounds offer stunning backdrops, especially around the moss-covered statues. You’ll find great shooting spots near the central courtyard where monkeys gather and play.
For action shots, position yourself near the feeding stations – but stay behind the marked lines. The forest paths leading to Pura Dalem Agung temple provide natural frames with filtered sunlight through the canopy.
Don’t forget to look up – you’ll often catch monkeys swinging between trees or perched on temple roofs.
Remember to regularly check your surroundings while shooting – curious monkeys can sneak up quickly.
Getting There and Parking
Transportation to the Sacred Monkey Forest is straightforward from most areas in Ubud. You’ll find several public transportation options, including local shuttles and taxi services that run regularly throughout the day.
If you’re staying in central Ubud, you can easily walk to the sanctuary, as it’s just a 10-minute stroll from the main market area.
For those driving, there are three main parking options near the sanctuary:
- Main parking lot – Located at the northern entrance, offering spaces for both cars and motorbikes with hourly rates
- Street parking – Available along Monkey Forest Road, but spots fill up quickly during peak hours
- Secondary lot – Found near the southern entrance, typically less crowded and cheaper than the main lot
You’ll pay around 5,000 IDR for motorbikes and 10,000 IDR for cars at the official lots.
If you’re taking a taxi or ride-share, ask your driver to drop you off at the main entrance where there’s a designated area for passenger pick-up and drop-off.
During rainy season, it’s best to arrange your return transportation in advance.
