Ubud Monkey Forest Bali, officially known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is a nature reserve, temple complex, and community-managed cultural space in Padangtegal, Ubud. Its appeal comes from the combination of dense tropical forest, Balinese sacred places, and long-tailed macaques living in a semi-wild environment. This is not a petting zoo: the animals are free to move through the grounds and their behaviour can change quickly.
The sanctuary's official visitor information currently lists opening hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entrance at 5:00 PM. The same official page lists an entrance fee of IDR 130,000 for adults and IDR 100,000 for children. Fees, promotions, access, and operating arrangements can change, so check the official booking page before travelling.
What you will experience
The forest covers about 12.5 hectares and the official site describes around 186 species of trees. Paths pass beneath mature canopy, through ravines and bridges, and beside mossy stone features and waterways. The shade can make the sanctuary feel cooler than the streets outside, but the paths may still be humid, slippery, uneven, or busy after rain.
Dense forest vegetation and a stream inside the sanctuary; photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Plan time to walk slowly rather than treating the sanctuary as a single photo stop. The map includes points such as the lobby, Central Point, wooden paths, Dragon Bridge, conservation areas, and temple precincts. Some routes may be adjusted for maintenance, ceremonies, weather, or animal management; follow staff directions when a path is closed.
Long-tailed macaques and wildlife etiquette
Monkey Forest is home to a large population of long-tailed macaques. The official sanctuary describes them as living in a semi-wild setting, which means they are not domesticated pets and should not be approached as photo props. Watch their social behaviour from a respectful distance and leave them a clear route when they cross the path.
Long-tailed macaques grooming in the sanctuary; photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Do not touch, chase, corner, tease, feed, or make sudden movements toward a monkey. Keep food, drinks, plastic bags, sunglasses, jewellery, hats, cameras, and loose belongings secured according to current staff guidance. Never try to retrieve an item by pulling it away; ask staff for help. Parents should keep children close and explain the rules before entering.
Temples and sacred places
The sanctuary contains important Balinese Hindu sites, including the Main Temple, the Holy Spring Temple or Beji Temple, and the Cremation Temple or Prajapati Temple. The official map notes that some temples are not open for visitor entry, although visitors may be able to observe from outside. Access can also change during ceremonies.
Ceremony and offerings at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary; photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Wear clothing that is respectful for a cultural and religious setting. Follow signs about sarongs, footwear, photography, and restricted areas. Do not step over offerings, sit on shrine walls, enter a procession, or photograph worshippers at close range without permission. A ceremony is a living religious event, not a performance arranged for visitors.
Forest conservation and community life
Padangtegal residents regard the Monkey Forest as a spiritual, educational, economic, and conservation centre. The sanctuary's work includes managing habitat, caring for the macaques, maintaining paths and temples, and providing visitor information. A new forest area was established in the 1990s to give the growing monkey population more space, according to the official visitor map.
Visitors support this landscape by staying on marked paths, not disturbing plants or wildlife, and using bins responsibly. Carry a refillable bottle where practical, avoid single-use plastic, and take rubbish back to the lobby if a suitable bin is not nearby. Do not collect leaves, stones, flowers, or other natural or cultural objects.
Visitor facilities and activities
The lobby provides ticketing and information services, merchandise, a koi pond, and Wana Café with drinks, coffee, and snacks, according to the sanctuary's official visit page. The map also marks toilets, security and police posts, an animal clinic, parking areas, an exhibition room, and other visitor points. Facilities may be temporarily unavailable, so bring essential medication and water.
The official page currently describes Balinese dance performances at the open stage on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Check the current schedule before planning around a performance, as ceremonies, events, weather, or operational changes can affect it.
Visitor guidance at the sanctuary entrance; photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Getting there
The sanctuary is on Jalan Monkey Forest in Padangtegal Ubud. The official site provides a map pin around -8.5187511, 115.2585973, while the destination record uses a nearby point within the temple area. Traffic on Jalan Monkey Forest can be slow, especially late morning, weekends, holidays, rain, and ceremony days. Allow time for the walk from your drop-off or parking point.
Use a licensed driver or a confident scooter rider familiar with Bali traffic. Agree on a pickup point before entering, because vehicle access and stopping space around the street can be limited. Do not park across homes, temple gates, shop access, or pedestrian paths.
Best time to visit and what to bring
Arrive close to opening if you prefer cooler conditions and a quieter first walk. Early hours are not a guarantee of empty paths, and monkeys remain active throughout the day. Check rain forecasts and current sanctuary notices; heavy rain can make paths slippery and may affect animal movement or access.
Bring comfortable closed shoes with grip, water, sun protection, a light rain layer, and a small secure bag. Avoid carrying unnecessary food or loose accessories. A modest cover-up is useful for the temple areas, and a waterproof pouch protects your phone during rain.
A long-tailed macaque in the sanctuary; photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
This close view is a reminder to observe food-related behaviour from a distance. Visitors should never offer food directly or assume that an animal holding food is safe to approach. Follow the latest instructions from the sanctuary team even when they differ from advice in older travel posts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ubud Monkey Forest?
It is a nature reserve, temple complex, and community cultural space in Padangtegal, Ubud, known for its forest landscape and long-tailed macaques.
What are the current opening hours?
The official visitor page currently lists 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entrance at 5:00 PM. Verify before departure in case of special closures or changes.
How much is the entrance ticket?
The official page currently lists IDR 130,000 for adults and IDR 100,000 for children. Confirm the current price and any applicable category or promotion when booking.
Can I feed or touch the monkeys?
No. Do not feed, touch, chase, tease, or corner them. They live in a semi-wild environment; keep belongings secure and ask staff for assistance if an animal takes something.
Can I enter the temples?
Some sacred areas are restricted. Observe signs and staff instructions, and remain outside any temple or ceremony area that is not open to visitors.
Is the sanctuary suitable for children?
It can be educational for families, but children must stay close to an adult and follow the macaque safety rules. The animals are not domesticated and can move unpredictably.
How long should I spend there?
Allow at least two hours for a relaxed walk through the forest and cultural areas. Add time if you want to visit the café, see a scheduled performance, or pause at the map points.
Ubud Monkey Forest is most rewarding when visitors treat it as a living forest and sacred community space. Follow the sanctuary's current rules, give macaques and worshippers room, and let the forest be experienced without forcing an interaction.
Reviews reflect our overall Bali tour service quality.
5.0
from 24 Google reviews
RussiaKudo90
Google Review
5
I’m happy to leave this review because I know Made personally, and I can honestly say he’s one of the best guides and kindest people you’ll meet in Bali.
What makes him special isn’t just his deep knowledge of the island – though that alone is impressive. He knows all the hidden gems, the best times to visit popular spots, and always has interesting stories behind every temple and rice terrace. But more than that, he genuinely cares about the people he’s with. He doesn't treat it like a job; he treats it like he's showing his own friends around his home.
I’ve seen how he goes out of his way to make sure everything runs smoothly, how he checks in on comfort and safety, and how he handles any little issue with a smile. He's reliable, patient, and incredibly warm-hearted. If you're looking for someone who will not only show you beautiful places but also make you feel welcome and looked after – Made is your guy.
I truly hope this comment helps him, because he absolutely deserves more recognition. Thank you, Made, for being the amazing person and guide that you are! 🙏🇮🇩
2 weeks ago
Leah Davidson
Google Review
5
The Best Tour Guide in Bali!
We honestly couldn’t recommend Made enough! From start to finish, he was absolutely fantastic and went above and beyond to make our trip around Bali so special.
Before we even arrived, Made’s communication was amazing. He helped us plan our whole trip, gave us fantastic advice and recommendations, and really took the time to understand what we wanted to see and do. He made everything so easy and stress-free for us.
Throughout our trip, Made looked after us incredibly well. He picked us up, took us to all the different places we wanted to visit, and even showed us some amazing places we probably wouldn’t have found ourselves. His knowledge of Bali is incredible — he knew so much about every place we visited and was always happy to explain things and answer our questions.
What really stood out to us was how kind, caring and genuine Made was. He didn’t just feel like a tour guide; we genuinely felt like we were being looked after by a friend. He always made sure we were comfortable, safe and enjoying ourselves, and nothing ever felt like too much trouble.
Everyone in his team was also absolutely fantastic. They were friendly, professional and made us feel so welcome throughout our trip.
Made played such a huge part in making our Bali holiday so memorable. If you’re looking for someone who is reliable, knowledgeable, kind and genuinely cares about giving you the best possible experience, we would 100% recommend him.
Thank you so much, Made, for looking after us and helping us have such an amazing time in Bali. We’ll definitely be recommending you to anyone visiting Bali — and hopefully we’ll see you again one day! ❤️🇮🇩
3 weeks ago
Max Maxvik
Google Review
5
Excellent, the driver is responsible, punctual, drives well, knows a lot of places to relax, the sights of Bali, speaks Russian, English and Chinese well.
A month ago
Софья Меркулова
Google Review
5
Очень советую Мади в качестве гида. Он организовывал нам тур на Нусу Пениду, у него много друзей, который организуют вам все что угодно за очень выгодную плату. Мади очень дружелюбный и улыбчивый человек, он знает русский язык, поэтому с ним можно разговаривать и узнавать многое про Бали. Я его всем советую в первую очередь, он может показать вам весь остров и организовать туры на другие соседние острова и вулканы. Спасибо ему большое, нам очень понравилось с ним проводить время. Советуем вам выбрать именно его за его труд, старания и доброжелательность
Мади, спасибо тебе ❤️
7 months ago
GEDE BMTHAMV
Google Review
5
Thanks a lot
7 months ago
Валерия Келейникова
Google Review
5
Thank you for a great day in Ubud, Madi 🙏🏻 We really enjoyed our cozy and interesting trip)
A year ago
Р М
Google Review
5
No written review.
A year ago
Bakhtiyar Azagov
Google Review
5
Thank you for hospitality! We enjoy our travel in Bali with you
Excatly Mr Burteh! He is best tour guide and driver in Bali. Mr Murteh is local, thats why he has to much information about Bali
Perfect
A year ago
Elena Toroshniak
Google Review
5
Нам повезло, что знакомы с Маде. Это самый добрый и искренний человек на Бали
A year ago
Vit Mit
Google Review
5
Путешествие на Бали – это всегда погружение в мир красоты, духовности и уникальной культуры. Но по-настоящему раскрыть душу острова, прочувствовать его магию можно только с опытным и увлеченным проводником. Нам в этом невероятно повезло – мы встретили Маде!
Маде – не просто гид, он настоящий хранитель традиций и наследник балийской культуры. Он открыл нам не только знаменитые достопримечательности, но и тайные уголки острова, поделился своими знаниями о древних обычаях и верованиях. Благодаря Маде мы смогли:
* Почувствовать энергетику священных храмов: Маде рассказал нам об истории и значении каждого храма, помог правильно провести церемонии и почувствовать связь с духовным миром Бали.
* Погрузиться в атмосферу балийской деревни: мы побывали в гостях у местных жителей, познакомились с их бытом, попробовали традиционные блюда и даже приняли участие в мастер-классах по ремеслам.
* Насладиться природными красотами: Маде показал нам живописные рисовые террасы, вулканы, водопады и секретные пляжи, где можно было отдохнуть от шума и суеты.
Но самое главное – Маде подарил нам незабываемые эмоции, искреннее общение и теплоту. Он отвечал на все наши вопросы, учитывал наши пожелания и создавал атмосферу настоящего приключения.
Мы безгранично благодарны Маде за это удивительное путешествие! Он помог нам открыть для себя настоящий Бали – остров Богов, красоты и гармонии. Если вы планируете поездку на Бали, обязательно обратитесь к Маде – он сделает ваше путешествие незабываемым!
A year ago
Галина Бардымова
Google Review
5
Мадэ очень классный, дружелюбный и общительный, интересно рассказывает)
Ждет когда нужно, в общем, очень приятный) рекомендую
Можно обо всем договориться) если будет дождь, он сопровождает с зонтиком)
A year ago
Инна Звездина
Google Review
5
Спасибо большое, мы объехали за один день все прекрасные пляжи 😍
Остались очень довольны и будем рекомендовать друзьям 🙏🏻✨
A year ago
ЖАННА
Google Review
5
Хотим от всего сердца поблагодарить нашего гида Маде. Наше путешествие по Бали было незабываемо! Благодаря вам мы познакомились с этой чудесной страной! Нас не только возили по районам, но и рассказывали историю Бали❤️ мы чувствовали себя в полной безопасности и полную заботу о нас. Благодарим и до встречи вновь на Бали🫶🏻
A year ago
Карина Ревазян
Google Review
5
Veryyyy good
A year ago
Влад Хайбулин
Google Review
5
No written review.
A year ago
細野佳代子
Google Review
5
No written review.
A year ago
Alex Alex
Google Review
5
Очень рекомендую этого русскоговорящего балийца! 👍 Экскурсии с ним - это просто супер! 🤩 Он не только рассказывает интересные факты об острове и показывает самые красивые места, но и делится местными фишками, о которых не прочитаешь в путеводителях. 😉 Он очень внимательный и отзывчивый, с ним легко и приятно общаться.
A year ago
Евгений Ширшин
Google Review
5
Маде добряк!) очень внимательный, и профессиональный гид! Уже много лет дружим с ним! Провез по всем уголкам прекрасного Бали! Хорошо говорит на русском и английском языках! Аккуратно водит машину! Очень адекватные цены на экскурсии!! Знает все вкусные и красивые места! Поможет со всеми вопросами на Бали, такие как аренда скутера, или аренда жилья! Встретит и проводит в аэропорт, если вы с ребенком то у Маде прекрасные дочки которые с удовольствием побуду няней!))
Всем рекомендую это агенство!!
A year ago
Сергей Милых
Google Review
5
No written review.
A year ago
Denise
Google Review
5
Made did an amazing job as a guide!
Comfortable pick-up & drop-off, safe driving, very friendly & helpful, explained a lot while driving & visiting the spots. He knows a lot and is happy to answer any questions! He also brought local fruits for testing! Amazing day, thank you so much! 🙏🏼🫶🏼🧡
A year ago
Stijn Heerze
Google Review
5
Really nice and kind guide. Knows a lot about Bali. Also a very good driver.
A year ago
Juliette Bos
Google Review
5
Very nice driver, good communication and good service. Perfect!
A year ago
Nengah Negare
Google Review
5
This company is the best, good driver and pofesional guide, i am very enjoy visiting Bali island 👍👍👍
A year ago
Ni Kadek Kardiasih
Google Review
5
Sakuraba give me best service treveling in bali. Thakyou very much for guide bali sakuraba
2 years ago
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.jpg "Visitor guidance at Monkey Forest Ubud")
