The Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest: Cost, Entrance Fee and Dress Code [2024]

Visiting the Monkey Forest in Bali + A Prelude to Magical Ubud

The Monkey Forest at Bali’s Ubud is one of the top things to do in Ubud for many reasons: the monkeys are cheeky, cheap, and very Instagram-worthy.

I mean, it’s where you go to capture the iconic Balinese monkey selfie. But beyond all of this, the Monkey Forest is quite a sacred sanctuary.

Down by the riverbank, where all the animals hang out, there is a beautiful Hindu temple and offerings for good luck and prosperity. This place is about far more than what meets the eye.

This guide explores the cultural richness of one of Bali’s most sacred spots. It’s a complete introduction to this peaceful sanctuary, where its denizens are ready to interact with tourists and make a lasting impression on those who visit.

Sacred Monkey Forest

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

When you visit Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a must-see. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the town center, so it’s not hard to find.

It’s a fun place to hang out with friends and family, but it’s also an educational experience.

As soon as you step into the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, you are greeted by a cacophony of monkeys in every direction. They leap from tree to tree, screeching and chattering and generally acting like they own the place. And they do. This is their home.

Although they aren’t violent, these creatures are accustomed to getting their way. And they know that you are there for them: to watch them, feed them, and learn from them.

The forest is around 12.5 hectares, meaning there are plenty of monkeys. There are Balinese long-tailed monkeys as well as macaques (Macaca fascicularis). The monkeys are divided into 10 groups, each eating different food daily. They eat sweet potatoes, bananas, papaya leaves, and other fruit in the season.

The Monkey Forest Sanctuary has become an international tourist destination to create peace and harmony for visitors, protecting rare plants and serving as a natural laboratory for educational institutions.

When I visited Ubud Monkey Forest, I was surprised by how much there was to see, do and learn. There’s a ton of information about the park and its history, as well as information on conservation efforts throughout Bali. The park itself is massive. You can walk for hours without seeing all that there is to see.

Do’s and Don’ts

The Ubud Monkey Forest is a wonderful place to see some monkeys up close, but it’s important to take some basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to remember when visiting the forest.

Do:

• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. These monkeys are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
• Do hold on to your belongings tightly. Monkeys have snatched bags, hats, sunglasses, and other loose items.
• Do enjoy watching the monkeys, but please don’t feed them. They must follow a strict diet for their health. Feeding them human food can make them sick.
• Do wear closed-toe shoes. The ground in the forest can be uneven and sharp objects may be hidden in the grass.
• Keep an eye on your kids at all times. The monkeys can be playful, but they can also be aggressive if they feel threatened. If you’re not careful, they may bite or scratch your child.

Don’t:

• Don’t try to pet the monkeys. They may look cute, but they can bite or scratch if they feel threatened.
• Don’t bring any food into the Forest, not even snacks for yourself. As I said before, feeding the monkeys can make them sick.
• Don’t wear loose clothing or dangling jewelry. Monkeys have been known to grab these items, and you don’t want to lose anything or have something pulled off you.
• And finally, don’t worry. The staff at the Monkey Forest are there to help you have a safe and enjoyable visit. Just follow their instructions, and you’ll be fine.

Ways to Get There

So you’ve decided to visit the Monkey Forest in Ubud. You’re going on a tour with your friends and family. And you’re about to experience the most amazing day of your life. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from the airport to Ubud.

Check out the monkey forest Ubud map below for the exact location:

Let me tell you how to get there. It’s so easy.

• Walk: It’s a 15-minute walk from the center of Ubud, so you can head out and stroll through the beautiful rice paddies.
• Shuttle Bus: You can take a shuttle from the South of Ubud center. The bus will be waiting for you, have a sign that says, Monkey Forest. It drives every 15 minutes, so don’t worry, you won’t miss it.
• Scooter: It’s a short scooter ride from town. Park in the parking area of the sanctuary for a small fee. $0.13 for the 1st hour and $0.064 for the next succeeding hours.
• Rental Taxi: You can easily get there via Grab taxi or by hiring a taxi driver for the day if arriving from further away on the island. 

Operating Hours & Entrance Fee

The Monkey Forest is a jungle-y wonderland of monkeys, and it’s the perfect place to spend a day in Ubud.

It’s open daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, so you can come any time that works for you.

Remember to get your tickets early. They run out fast. The ticketing service opens at 9:00 AM, and they stop taking orders at 5:00 PM.

Entrance fees are $5.13 for adults, $3.85 for children on weekdays, $6.41 for adults, and $5.13 for children on weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m here to give you a quick rundown of what you need to know about the Ubud Monkey Forest.

Some people have written about this incredible place, but there’s a lot of misinformation out there, too. So I’m going to try and set the record straight for you.

What to expect inside the Monkey Forest?

There are 3 temples inside the Monkey Forest. Pura Dalem, Holy Water Temple, and Cremation Temple. You can also see various kinds of trees and monkeys.

When was the temple built?

The temple was built in the 14th century, about 600 – 700 years ago. And it’s still standing strong today.

What facilities are there?

There’s a little exhibition room where you can learn about the monkeys and see some of the tools they use to survive in the wild. There’s an open stage where you can watch them perform. 

The first aid clinic is nearby if you get hurt. They have plenty of experience dealing with this sort of thing. And there’s an animal clinic where they do checkups and vaccinations on all the monkeys living there. 

You’ll also find plenty of toilets around if you need one. If you’re coming from out of town, there’s even space for parking your car or motorbike, so you don’t have to worry about finding somewhere safe while exploring.

Is it safe for me to interact with the monkeys?

Yes, it is safe to interact with the monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest.

Following the guidelines, you can enjoy the monkeys without fear of infection or injury. You’ll see the monkeys in their natural habitat, and they’ll be happy to greet you.

Can I feed the monkeys?

Don’t do it. Monkey Forest staff feed the monkeys 3 times per day.

What should I do if the monkey jumps on me?

Don’t panic. Just stand up slowly and walk away as calmly as possible. If that doesn’t work, ask for help from one of the staff members who are always around to ensure everyone’s safety.

Do monkeys bite?

Sometimes they might bite if you touch and play with the monkey. It would be best to be careful when handling them, as they can get aggressive sometimes. 

However, there’s no need to worry because the monkeys are usually friendly and love to be petted.

What should I do if I accidentally get bitten by the monkey?

If you’re unlucky enough to get bitten by one of Ubud Monkey Forest’s monkeys, don’t worry. The first aid staff is there to help you. Just go to their building, and they’ll care for your wounds. 

They clean them up with alcohol, put some antiseptic cream on them, and give you advice about what to do next. You’ll be good as new in no time.

Are there monkeys with diseases in the forest?

No. The monkeys at the Monkey Forest are healthy. They monitor their health in cooperation with the Primate Research Center of Udayana University.

Are there any cases of rabies?

As it turns out, an incredible 14 years’ worth of research done by Dr. Agustin Fuentes from the Department of Anthropology at the University of Notre Dame said that there’s not a single case of rabies in the monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest.

Can I take pictures with the monkeys?

You can take pictures with the monkeys but must maintain a good distance from them. If you need any assistance with the monkeys, ask the Monkey Forest Staff.

Why does the staff threaten the monkeys with a slingshot?

The monkeys in Ubud Monkey Forest can be very mischievous and often try to steal food or other items from tourists. 

The staff has been known to use slingshots to scare off these naughty monkeys and ensure that no one gets injured during their visit to Ubud Monkey Forest.

My Monkey Forest Experience

My Monkey Forest experience was bananas. And that’s not even a pun because when monkeys surround you, there are no bananas to be found.

I had an amazing time. I had seen monkeys before, but never these. They are called Long Tailed Monkeys and are important in Balinese culture. They were portrayed in the “Ramayana” Hindu-based dance epic, the “Kecak” dance, carvings, and other arts.

When I finally arrived at Monkey Forest, I had no idea how many amazing things would be in store. After paying my entrance fee, I set off into the forest with a map and a camera, ready for whatever might come my way.

When you first enter the forest, you’ll get a different vibe from most tourist attractions. It’s that sacred kind of vibe. You will appreciate their effort to make this an extra special experience.

I liked seeing how the monkeys are well looked at in their reserve. You can see that they are well taken care of and treated fairly. They are bosses.

The only downside of this experience is that you must be very careful where you sit down because there are many different kinds of monkeys in this area. Some are more aggressive than others, and they will try to steal your belongings if given the opportunity.

It was also disheartening to learn that certain parts of the forest area are off-limits to regular visitors, including the sacred temple area. This area is reserved for those who want to pray, and visitors must wear traditional Balinese clothes or sarongs.

Temples in the Monkey Forest

At first glance, the Balinese Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary might seem wild and untamed. But in fact, it’s home to 3 temples that are used only for sacred prayer, and they’re all situated inside the sanctuary itself.

The Pura Purana tells us that the 3 temples were built around the middle of the 14th century, but some experts agree that they were probably constructed even earlier than that.

The temple area is open to worshippers who wear traditional clothing like the sarong during prayer.

Check out the Do’s and Dont’s when visiting Bali Temples.

Pura Dalem Agung (The Main Temple)

Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal is the main temple in the Monkey Forest of Ubud, Bali.

The architecture is amazing. It’s one of the most beautiful Hindu temples I’ve ever seen, and it seems to have been designed specifically to be appreciated by monkeys.

It has intricate carvings and designs on the outside walls, so if you sit quietly for long enough, you’ll see monkeys climbing up and down like tree trunks.

Inside is even more impressive. It features a deity of Lord Shiva, and devotees from different corners flock here to seek his blessings. It’s an unmissable part as it showcases the exceptional style of architecture you can find only in Bali.

It’s meant to be a place for people to go and worship Hyang Widhi in personification as Shiva. Right now, it’s permanently closed though you can still take pictures outside.

The Pura Beji (Beji Temple)

The Pura Beji (Beji Temple) is the oldest temple in Ubud. It’s dedicated to the Hindu god Hyang Widhi in personification Gangga. And it’s famous for its Barong architecture and virtuoso relief carvings, which are some of the best in Bali.

The temple itself is a peaceful oasis of serenity. I can’t help but imagine what it must have been like when this place was bustling with activity.

You can go here to worship Hyang Widhi or Gangga in personification. If you want to donate, you’ll pay between $0.64-$1.28 as an entrance fee.

Inside, you can find a small pool of holy water used for melukat or spiritual and physical cleansing. It’s a great place to purify before conducting Piodalan.

Some people throw coins into the Holy Spring temple pool because they believe it will make their wish come true. But even if you don’t have any wishes to make, just going there is enough. It’s an amazing place to relax, meditate, and enjoy nature.

Pura Prajapati (Prajapati Temple)

The Pura Prajapati (Prajapati Temple) is a temple on the northeast side of the Ubud Monkey Forest. It’s adjacent to the cemetery, which is off-limits unless you’re an orthodox Hindu.

If you’re like me and want to see everything, there is something to see in this world. You’ll want to head over there as soon as possible.

It’s a beautiful example of Hindu architecture, and it’s nice and peaceful if you’re looking for a place to sit and reflect on your journey through Bali.

This beautiful temple is dedicated to Hyang Widhi in personification as Prajapati, the creator god. People come here to worship him in person and ask for his help in their lives. 

You can see the inside of this temple by paying a small fee. The outside of it is free, so you can walk up to the entrance and see it from there.

Many other Bali Sea temples are also worth seeing. Make sure to check them out as well.

Best Hotels near Monkey Forest

When you’re staying in Ubud, one of the best things you can do is stay near the Monkey Forest.

I say this because it’s a unique experience, and nowhere else has anything like it. You can see monkeys everywhere in Bali, but this particular forest is reserved for them.

It’s all so fascinating. And even though there are many other things to do in Ubud, the Monkey Forest is one of the best things you can do while you’re here.

There are plenty of hotels around Ubud Monkey Forest, but here are my top 3:

The Samaya Bali Ubud

Location: Jl. Baung, Sayan, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

Starting Rate: $443/ night

The Samaya Bali Ubud is a yogi’s dream. You can connect with yourself, your partner or friends, and nature.

This resort is also home to an incredible yoga studio, which features an open-air pavilion where you can practice your favorite moves in any weather. 

The resort’s numerous villas are also perfect for groups of friends or families who want to stay together. Check out their luxurious villa, especially the Riverside Villa. It has a little private gazebo which adds to its romantic ambiance.

Each villa has a private pool to enjoy your space close by. Plus, if you’re looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of hiking opportunities, swimming in natural pools, and exploring magical waterfalls.

The resort has its restaurant and bar, so you can enjoy a meal or cocktail while overlooking the beautiful scenery. It’s a great location for any special location. I would recommend you try their lobster-prawn laksa.

It also has a spa where you can treat yourself to massages or other treatments.

I love this place because it helps me feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself. I’m connected through the practice of yoga and meditation.

Komaneka at Monkey Forest

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

Starting Rate: $158/night

The name alone tells you that this is a place you should consider. And if you’ve ever been to Ubud, you know that a visit to Ubud Monkey Forest is magical.

Not just because of the monkeys but because of their natural beauty and the energy from being so close to nature.

Komaneka at Monkey Forest offers a unique experience in this beautiful location. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with beautiful outdoor bathrooms and natural light.

You will have access to a swimming pool, spa, and a restaurant specializing in Indonesian cuisine.

There is also a tour desk where you can book activities or get advice on what to do while in Ubud.

Each room has its character and features a private balcony with views straight into the jungle.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, hot water showers, and modern en-suite bathrooms.

If you’re looking for something more traditional, family-style villas are available with large open-air bathrooms or outdoor baths.

If you want to take advantage of everything Ubud offers, staying at Komaneka at Monkey Forest is one of the best ways.  

I highly recommend this hotel to anyone spending time in Ubud. You won’t miss out on the property’s infinity pool, which offers a great place for relaxation. 

If you’re lucky enough, monkeys from the Monkey Forest might visit you there.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Ubud, Bali

Location: Jl. Lod Tunduh Br. Kengetan, Singakerta, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

Starting Rate: $156/night

If you’re looking for adventure and relaxation, you’ll find it all at The Westin Resort & Spa, Ubud.

The resort is situated on the banks of the Ayung River, which winds through Ubud and provides a stunning backdrop to your stay. 

You can enjoy excursions in the surrounding area with a private guide or tour with a group of friends. The staff at the resort can help you plan your activities and ensure everything goes smoothly, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

The resort has a spa that will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The spa offers various services, including massages, manicures, and pedicures. 

You can enjoy treatments in the privacy of your villa or at the spa’s indoor pool area.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Ubud, is the perfect place to escape your everyday life. With their swimming pool and spacious rooms overlooking miles of rice fields and jungle scenery, you will feel like you are experiencing another world when staying here.

Even better than all, this hotel is located just outside Ubud city center, so it feels like you’re getting away from it without leaving home. 

The closest restaurant and mini-mart are 10 minutes away on foot. There are no sidewalks along the road you have to walk along. 

You will have to walk on a curvy road that gets busy sometimes, so it’s unsafe for long stretches.

Best Restaurants near Monkey Forest

1. Wild Air

Location: Jl. Bisma No.888X Kaamala Resort, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

If you’re looking for a place to have a cheap and delicious lunch in Ubud, Wild Air is the place for you. 

Wild Air is one of my favorites. The food is delicious. The atmosphere is lively. It’s next to Monkey Forest so you can take a walk after your meal.

The menu is diverse and includes everything from Asian dishes to pizza and healthy options. Their menu offers several vegetarian and vegan dishes. The best part is that it’s all under $16 per person.

It’s where you can go to get a drink, listen to music, and hang out with friends. It’s also where you can go on a date night and have a fun time together.

When you first walk in, you will be greeted by friendly staff who help you find your seats.

There’s a patio. You can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air while watching people walk by. If it’s not so nice out, there’s indoor seating available for those days when it might rain.

I feel like it’s where I can chill and enjoy my meal. The atmosphere of the place is so relaxing and friendly. You can even feel at home while eating your food with your friends or family. The waiters are also very helpful in recommending the best food on their menu.

The first thing that caught my attention was their Ayam Bakar Plecing. This grilled chicken thigh has a unique flavor that makes it different from other grilled chickens around town. The meat is tender but not mushy. I can enjoy the texture without having to chew on bones as I eat it.

Kung Pao Chicken is spicy, but not overwhelmingly so. You still get that sweet and savory combination that makes Chinese food delicious. They also have this crispy duck that’s out of this world.

Bebek Tamarind is one of my favorites if you want to try other places that serve it. The skin is super crispy, and the meat is so tender you can cut it with a fork.

If you haven’t been there yet, trust me: you’ll love it. 

2. Wanara Spice

Location: Jl. Bisma No.74 Villa Sonia Bisma, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

Wanara Spice is the best place to eat if you’re looking for a quick, cheap meal with an Asian twist.

The prices are super low. Depending on your order, the price range ranges from $2 to $5. Vegetarians, vegans, and people following special diets can all eat at the restaurant on a tight budget.

Also, drinks are available for those who want to grab something quick without much fuss.

In addition to serving its customers, this restaurant has a deft way of multitasking. Its server juggles 4 tables at once while also making drinks and taking orders. A skill no doubt honed during training.

Asian food is a good option if you’re tired of Italian and want to try something new. The portions are large enough that you could easily share an entree with someone else in your group or even have enough leftovers for lunch the next day.

The chef’s recommendations are always spot-on, and they have an extensive menu covering all cuisines. Their Mie Goreng (fried rice) is delicious and comes with various toppings. 

I usually go for the chicken satay, but you can also get pork satay, beef satay, and even vegetarian options. I could see why this was such a popular dish. It’s very flavorful but not too spicy or salty like some other brands can be.

The restaurant itself feels welcoming and comfortable. You’ll feel right at home when dining here.

3. Bali Bohemia

Location: Jl. Nyuh Bojog Nyuh Kuning – Ubud – Opposite Monkey Forest Gate 3, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

I’ve always been a sucker for a good story.

I love hearing about how people got started, what they’re working on now, and where they’re headed. That’s why Bali Bohemia is such a great place. It has everything I love: local arts, cultural connection, and delicious food in a free-spirited atmosphere.

Bali Bohemia is the only place in Ubud that supports local artists through its gallery space, live music performances, and art classes.

The moment you walk in, you feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. The atmosphere is so light and free-spirited. It’s almost as if the air itself has been infused with joy.

Bali Bohemia is the kind of place you go when you want to feel like you’re on a European vacation. It’s got a casual vibe: no fancy tablecloths or anything like that, just some funky art on the walls and a bunch of people having fun. The food is also pretty simple. I’d describe it as “comfort food” if it could be so delicious.

The best-sellers are the tapas selection and the Mediterranean chicken dish with hummus and garlic sauce. Still, I’ve heard rave reviews about their empanadas, little pastry pockets filled with savory goodness.

Check out this YouTube video of the monkeys, credit to the guys for filming this;

You can also check out my other guides;

• Kamandalu Ubud
• Ubud Village Hotel
• Hanging Gardens Ubud
• Alila Ubud