Experience Ubud’s Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Bali

Seeing the cheeky Bali monkeys should be somewhere near the top of your Indonesia bucket list, and the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the most popular place to do it.

Almost 1,000 monkeys live at the Bali monkey forest! This is a 12 hectare (30 acre) jungle area surrounding an old 14th century Hindu temple, located in the heart of Ubud.

It’s fun, family friendly, and affordable, and you get to interact with the animals in a more natural setting than a zoo. What’s not to like?

This travel guide will explain how to get to the Ubud monkey forest, current entrance fees, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Where To Stay

What To Expect – Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

It may sound strange, but the Instagram-famous monkey forest was one of the biggest inspirations for my first trip to Bali years ago.

I saw all the moss-covered statues in the jungle and pictures of people posing with monkeys in Ubud, and it looked like great fun. Opinions of the monkey forest vary widely; some love it, while others do not.

Many people feel uncomfortable around monkeys, preferring to stay far away. However, for those who enjoy animals, visiting the monkey forest can be a unique and entertaining experience you won’t find elsewhere.

Now that my wife and I live in Bali, we’ve returned to the monkey forest multiple times and find it amusing to observe the monkeys’ antics.

No matter who you are, this place guarantees memorable experiences!

Monkey Business – Things To Know

The Bali monkey forest can be a bit wild. You’ve been warned!

I’ve seen monkeys crawl on people’s faces, pull down women’s tops, chew on hair as if it were a snack, drink from water bottles, and even steal sunglasses!

Miraculously, I’ve avoided being peed on, though several monkeys have climbed on my shoulders over the years.

This place presents a reasonable chance of being peed on, robbed, or even bitten. Therefore, if you’re not fond of cheeky monkeys, this might not be the best location for you!

I’ve received a few minor bites, but the Bali monkeys aren’t known for transmitting diseases (safety discussions are later in this guide).

With around 1,000 monkeys residing here, divided into over 6 groups, it feels like quite a party.

Unlike a zoo, the Ubud monkey forest allows monkeys to roam freely. This jungle is their natural home where they sleep in banyan trees.

You’ll be entering their cherished environment. You may feed the monkeys or take photos with them, which is facilitated by the helpful staff at the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

The monkeys are fed three times daily, with a diet comprising mainly sweet potatoes and bananas, along with occasional papaya leaves and seasonal fruits.

The species found here is called the Balinese long-tailed macaque, or crab-eating macaque (scientific name: Macaca fascicularis).

Baby monkeys stay with their mothers until they’re about 10 months old, progressively learning the ways of their habitat, and they’re as adorable as anticipated.

Capturing pictures with Bali’s monkeys is a delightful experience.

The staff can attract monkeys to sit on your shoulder using snacks, and they can even create amusing trick photos for you, making it seem like the monkey is taking a selfie with you. The process involves using a sunflower seed or another treat behind your phone to attract the monkey.

While taking pictures, we tend to avoid older monkeys with large fangs, preferring to interact with the gentler younger ones who are also more appealing for photographs.

However, exercise caution and avoid sudden movements around baby monkeys, as their mothers can be protective!

The staff carries slingshots to manage troublesome monkeys if they fight or steal from visitors; these are harmless deterrents.

Currently, the Ubud Monkey Forest can get busy, especially later in the morning and early afternoon. However, it is not the only monkey forest Bali has to offer.

If the crowds at Ubud are overwhelming, consider visiting the Sangeh Monkey Forest, an equally fascinating monkey locale in Bali that’s not as crowded.

Things NOT To Do

Here’s a list of activities to avoid at the Ubud monkey forest:

• Do not bring valuables. Jewelry and accessories can be stolen by monkeys. Large earrings are particularly risky.
• Do not wear glasses or sunglasses. Monkeys often grab them off faces, and I’ve seen expensive glasses lost here.
• Do not bring outside food or hide it in your pockets. Monkeys will find it, and they won’t appreciate it.
• Do not feed the monkeys outside snacks or drinks. Items like peanuts and sweets are harmful to them.
• Do not use plastic or paper bags. Monkeys associate these with food and may steal them.
• Do not panic or run from the monkeys. Staying calm helps to keep the monkeys calm as well.
• Do not look monkeys in the eye and grin at them. This is perceived as aggression, particularly by larger monkeys.
• Do not touch or grab the monkeys. They dislike being touched and will let you know if they want to interact.

Kids At Ubud Monkey Forest

Children are welcome at the Ubud monkey forest, and I often see families enjoying their time here.

Nevertheless, I recommend keeping a safe distance from the larger monkeys as they can be aggressive; some weigh up to 10 kilos or 22 pounds!

Younger monkeys are more manageable and cuter for photographs, although they may be shy initially.

The Ubud Jungle & Temples

The Ubud monkey forest offers beautiful jungles, ancient statues, and Balinese temples, reflecting its status as the ‘sacred monkey forest sanctuary.’

A notable banyan tree here is estimated to be at least 100 years old, if not much older, and it’s a favorite spot for the monkeys to climb.

There are also three Hindu temples; the main one is called Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, built around 1350 AD.

While tourists generally can’t enter this temple, capturing lovely pictures from outside is simple.

The Dragon Statues

Deeper into the jungle, you’ll discover old mossy statues of Komodo dragons and other fascinating creatures.

This enchanting environment is reminiscent of an Indiana Jones adventure, and I still enjoy exploring it, even after numerous visits.

A prime photo opportunity is a significant concrete bridge over a ravine, flanked at its entrance by two stone dragon statues.

Do The Bali Monkeys Have Rabies?

The short answer is NO, the Bali monkeys do not have rabies.

The Bali Monkey Forest sees over 10,000 visitors each month, many of whom, like myself, have experienced monkey bites without seeking treatment. Years later, we are perfectly fine.

If rabies were present, you would certainly be hearing alarming news about monkey-related incidents during vacations in Bali. However, there has never been a documented case of rabies among the monkeys here.

Research on these monkeys by scientists from the US and Australia has continuously shown them to be healthy over decades. In 2023, the Bali authorities also began mass vaccinating the monkeys as an additional safety measure.

Regarding Herpesvirus B, it’s important to note that while macaques can carry it, a US study in 2002 determined that no human infections have been reported in Bali, even with numerous bites in various contexts.

This study suggests that the macaques here carry a non-pathogenic strain that does not harm humans.

There’s much concern online about rabies and other viruses among these monkeys, yet thankfully, these viruses have never been documented in any Bali monkey forest.

Nevertheless, if you receive a monkey bite, it’s wise to sanitize it, as monkeys are not the cleanest creatures!

A first aid office at the Ubud monkey forest offers staff assistance with cleaning and antiseptic treatments if needed.

Hours & Entrance Fees

• Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (tickets close at 5 PM)
• Adults (Weekdays): 80k IDR (~$5 USD)
• Adults (Weekends): 100k IDR
• KITAS / KITAP Holders: 60k IDR
• Kids 3-12 (Weekdays): 60k IDR
• Kids 3-12 (Weekends): 80k IDR
• Kids 0-3: Free

These entrance fees for the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary are accurate as of 2024, although prices tend to increase annually due to its popularity.

Entrance can be paid in cash Rupiah, international credit cards, or bank cards. Foreigners with KITAS/KITAP pay the same fee as domestic tourists.

Your entrance ticket permits you to explore the entire sanctuary, including old temples, statues, bridges, and a peaceful cemetery where some Balinese locals are laid to rest.

The staff can assist in taking pictures with the monkeys, such as ‘monkey selfies,’ for an additional charge of 50k Rupiah.

How To Get To Monkey Forest Ubud

The Ubud monkey forest is conveniently located near Ubud’s town center in central Bali, Indonesia.

If you’re staying in the Ubud area, it’s especially accessible, but it can also be reached via day trips from popular tourist areas like Kuta, Canggu, Seminyak, and Sanur.

Use Google Maps for directions to the entrance, which has ample parking for cars and motorbikes, along with public restrooms.

Renting a scooter or hiring a private car and driver are the most convenient ways to get there (both options can be arranged online).

Additionally, there are Ubud tour packages that include the Bali Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary as part of the itinerary.

Best Time To Visit

Any month is suitable for visiting the Ubud monkey forest. The monkeys remain active throughout the year, and the rainy season typically involves evening showers.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit early in the morning (around opening time at 8:30 AM) or late in the afternoon, as Ubud is a popular tourist destination, particularly during Bali’s high season (July to August).

Remember, you have other monkey forest options in Bali. If Ubud’s crowds become too overwhelming, consider visiting the Sangeh Monkey Forest for a quieter experience.

Another fascinating place is the Alas Kedaton monkey forest, which also serves as a bat sanctuary featuring giant fruit bats (flying foxes) — among the largest bats in the world!

How Long To Stay

A visit to the Bali monkey sanctuary can take about 1 to 2 hours; however, if you’re an avid photographer or a primate enthusiast, you could quickly find yourself staying longer.

Time flies while enjoying the company of Ubud’s monkeys and capturing plenty of photos. If you’re anything like me, you may wish to remain for the entire day!

Are There Monkeys In Ubud Town?

Yes, it’s not uncommon to see monkeys in Ubud town, particularly near the main road called Jalan Monkey Forest.

According to locals, monkeys leaving the jungle are often barred from returning. While I’m unsure of how accurate this is, I advise against interacting with monkeys in Ubud town, or any area outside the forest, as they may seek food and behave aggressively.

During one meal at a restaurant in Ubud, we witnessed a monkey jumping onto someone’s plate and stealing their food! It was quite a surprise, and I’m sure they’ll be more cautious in the future.

At your Ubud hotel, monkey encounters are typically not an issue, though occasionally they may peek around the grounds. Some hotels may ask guests to secure their belongings at night to avoid monkey mischief.

Overall, it’s seldom a real problem. For many, myself included, seeing a few monkeys around Ubud is part of the unique charm of being in Bali!

More Ubud Travel Tips

Thank you for exploring! I hope you found this guide helpful for the Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Bali, Indonesia.

We consistently enjoy visiting the monkeys in Ubud and admiring the ancient temples and statues hidden in the jungle. We’ve returned here countless times.

Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental

For a comfortable and safe exploration of Bali with an English-speaking driver, I recommend GetYourGuide.

Prices start at 700k Rupiah (~$48 USD) for a full day of driving and sightseeing (up to 10 hours) for 1-5 passengers. This figure includes the driver and petrol — an excellent value! They also offer reasonably priced airport hotel transfers.

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We have utilized GetYourGuide for numerous tours and activities worldwide, and their services are highly recommended.

Ubud Hotels

The Kayon Resort

Adiwana Unagi Suites

Pondok Serayu

Umah Dajane Guesthouse