The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or Monkey Forest Ubud, is one of the most mysterious and atmospheric places in Bali. Located in Ubud, this forest is not just a nature reserve but a blend of wild nature and ancient traditions. This place attracts tourists from all over the world, but for locals, it holds a much deeper significance.
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary covers an area of about 12.5 hectares and is a dense tropical forest where ancient trees, vines, and exotic plants grow. The air here is filled with the scents of tropical greenery. The forest is called sacred because it is part of the local culture and religion. For the Balinese, this place is not just a natural site but a sanctuary where the spirits of ancestors and deities reside.
Paths wind through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, leading through lush vegetation, past ancient stone statues and small altars. These altars are used by locals for offerings and prayers, highlighting the spiritual importance of this place. The entrance to the forest is guarded by stone demon figures, which, according to beliefs, protect the sacred territory from evil forces.
The Monkeys: Masters of the Forest
The main inhabitants of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary are long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). Around 700 monkeys live in the forest, divided into several groups. They roam freely, play, rest, and interact with visitors. The monkeys here are accustomed to people but remain wild, so their behavior varies: some may be friendly, while others can be capricious or even aggressive.
Locals consider the monkeys guardians of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and believe they possess special spiritual power. According to Balinese legends, the monkeys are descendants of gods and serve as protectors of sacred places. Interacting with them is not only entertainment for tourists but also an opportunity to connect with ancient traditions. However, it is important to remember that monkeys should only be fed special food sold on-site, and visitors should avoid provoking them or trying to take anything from them.
Pura Bukit Sara Temple
At the heart of the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary lies the ancient Pura Bukit Sara Temple, built in the 14th century. The temple is an important site for Balinese Hindus and is used for religious ceremonies. Its architecture is typical of Balinese temples: stone gates, carved walls, and multi-tiered roofs symbolizing the connection between earth and heaven.
Here, you can see locals who come to pray and make offerings. Tourists are allowed to view the temple from the outside, but only believers may enter inside. This place serves as a reminder that the Sacred Monkey Forest is not just a tourist attraction but a spiritual space.
