Ubud Monkey Forest

Three ancient Hindu temples, mostly built during the mid 14th century, are situated in the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, which are built with finesse and are quite a sight to see. The grand architecture of the temples in such that it will make you awestruck. These temples are an integral part of the local community that preserve the rich Balinese art tradition and the interesting Balinese mythologies. These temples are a must visit while visiting Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

1. Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple: The Dalem Agung Padangtegal Temple is the main temple in the sanctuary which is located in the southwestern part of the sanctuary. The temple is dedicated to Hyang Widhi who is considered to be a personification of Lord Shiva, the God of creation and destruction in Hindu mythology. This temple is beautifully built with intricate carvings and the Banyan trees that surround this temple makes it look magical.

2. Holy Spring Temple: Also known as Pura Beji, Holy Spring Temple is an ancient bathing temple located in the northwestern part of the sanctuary. This temple is built to worship Hyang Widhi, the personification of Ganga, a pristine and holy river. This temple is built to spiritually and physically purge your soul and body before performing religious ceremonies.

3. Prajapati Temple: Prajapati Temple is located on the northeastern part of the sanctuary and is dedicated to Hyang Widhi in the personification of Prajapati, the creator of the universe. This temple is adjacent to a cemetery where village funerals are conducted and a mass cremation ceremony is held every five years.

A number of events are organised in Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary regularly that gives a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Bali. Special Balinese dance and music performances are frequently held in the forest ground which are vibrant and eye pleasing. The dance and music staged gives an essence of the Balinese culture while the grooving music and the colourful attire of the performers is what attracts the eyes.

A number of festivals are also celebrated with a lot of zest and exuberance in the sanctuary which are a must witness. Festivals like Tilem Kasa (Dark Moon Festival) and Nyegara Gunung Ceremony are some of the important ones during which hundreds of locals dressed in traditional and colourful Balinese attire pray and proffer offerings in the temple to seek blessings. The whole sanctuary looks mesmerizing and lively during these festivals.

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary offers ample facilities so that travellers can comfortably enjoy their trip here.
• The forest ground has a forest conservation area, a public hall, an open stage and gallery that provides information about the sanctuary.
• A canteen is located in the sanctuary which offers eatables and drinks to satiate your stomach.
• A first-aid centre is also there to provide immediate medical care in case if mishappenings.
• Parking and restroom facilities are available at the sanctuary.
• If you want to feed the monkeys, a number of vendors selling bananas are located outside the sanctuary from where you can buy bananas and feed the monkeys.

• The monkeys here are at ease being surrounded by humans, but they can get wild if disturbed or teased.
• Do not disturb the monkeys by touching or look them straight into their eyes.
• Do not carry plastic or paper bags in Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
• Do not feed monkeys anything other than bananas.
• If, by any chance, you get bitten or scratched by a monkey, make sure to seek immediate medical attention to avoid contracting a disease.
• Make sure you are dressed modestly and comfortably as this sanctuary is sacred with a number of temples inside it.
• Some sacred areas of the temple are closed and you can only visit them if you are dressed in proper Balinese praying attire.
• Women experiencing their monthly menstrual cycle are not allowed to enter any part of the temple ground.