Sangeh Monkey Forest: Traveler’s Guide to a Primate Paradise

October 11, 2022

The Sangeh Monkey Forest is a unique place in Bali. It’s a pleasant, serene atmosphere with plenty of trees and greenery. But it’s also home to monkeys! There are hundreds of monkeys to play with at the Sangeh Monkey Forest, a protected jungle area in central Bali. Despite being less renowned than Ubud’s monkey forest, this place has some terrific aspects that make it well worth visiting while in Bali.

Many people choose to visit the Sangeh Monkey Forest for its natural beauty and interesting inhabitants. If you’re looking to make this one of your first stops when you arrive in Bali, keep reading to learn all about this intriguing destination!

monkey mother in sangeh Source: Unsplash

What to Know Before You Go

Sangeh Monkey Forest (named after the village in which it is located) is still a little-known gem. It is less crowded, cheaper, and quieter than its Ubud counterpart, which covers 35 acres (14 hectares) of forest. Not only is it renowned for its tame monkeys, but also for the presence of a 10-hectare homogeneous Nutmeg Forest (Dipterocarpus trinervis), whose seeds are inedible, and the existence of Pura Bukit Sari, a temple dating back to the 17th century during the height of the Mengwi Kingdom.

From a 1993 survey, the area was home to 22 different species, among which were kestrels, eagles, owls, weasels, and forest cats. The most prevalent among these was the Gray Ape, noted for its distinctive characteristics. Regarding flora, Nutmeg trees were prominent for their high yield, alongside 54 other plant species including Amplas, Pule, Buni, Yellow Cempaka, Kepohpoh, and more.

Sangeh has become a popular spot for pre-wedding photo shoots among locals because of these reasons. Couples typically photograph their pre-wedding pictures here, providing another interesting aspect of the location. The monkeys at Sangeh are more well-mannered than those at Ubud, where monkeys are overloaded with human interaction. Of course, both monkey forests have their own benefits. The Ubud one is more accessible and has some fantastic statues and banyan trees that are perfect for photographs.

temple inside sangeh monkey forest Source: Bukit Sari Sangeh

Inside the Sangeh Monkey Forest

The Forest itself isn’t very large, measuring only about 50 acres. However, the forest is lush with greenery, and you can walk around and observe the monkeys from a distance. There are over 100 individual monkeys living at the site, and they roam freely through the forest. To protect the monkeys, there are warning signs about keeping a safe distance from the primates. The forest also has many other types of animals living in the Sangeh Monkey Forest, including civets, bats, cats, and insects. Sangeh Monkey Forest is a great place for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

The monkeys at Sangeh may sit on your lap or shoulder for photos. Staff is also available to follow you and hand out peanuts to the monkeys so that you may take photos. If the monkeys misbehave, the staff will shoot around them with a slingshot to warn the monkeys. Furthermore, if monkeys see the slingshot, they will run into the forest. Just remember to give the staff a little tip for their help!

Sangeh Monkey Forest Activity

Animal Interaction

For animal enthusiasts, Sangeh Monkey Forest offers a never-dull experience. You’ll encounter numerous long-tailed monkeys native to this forest. Visitors have the opportunity to interact freely with the monkeys, taking pictures and even feeding them. If you wish to feed the monkeys, you can purchase bananas or yams from vendors near the parking area.

However, it’s important to watch your belongings like jewelry, glasses, and bags, as the monkeys might snatch them unexpectedly. For added safety, consider hiring a tour guide.

Visiting the Temple

Once you’ve enjoyed some time with the monkeys, you can explore the sacred temples of the Balinese people within the forest. There are two temples nestled in the forest: the smaller Pura Melanting and the larger Pura Bukit Sari. Historically, Pura Bukit Sari is connected to the splendor of the Mengwi Kingdom in the 17th century.

Photo Opportunities

Sangeh Monkey Forest is rich with picturesque spots, from the temple gateways to the towering trees and winding pathways. These spots highlight the natural coolness, the architectural beauty of the temples, and the dense forest shade. The forest is also a popular site for pre-wedding photo shoots. Should you wish to hold a photo session here, there will be a fee.

This blend of cultural and natural elements makes Sangeh Monkey Forest a captivating visit for those looking to immerse themselves in Balinese tradition and wildlife.

free froam monkey in sangeh Source: Unsplash

Tips for Visiting

Dress Appropriately: Visitors to the Monkey Forest should wear appropriate clothing. This means wearing clothes that cover the arms and legs.
Stay Safe: This is a great place to visit, as long as you stay safe. Make sure that you don’t get too close to the monkeys. Don’t touch them, feed them, or try to take their babies.
Be Quiet: Silence is golden at the Sangeh Monkey Forest. While you are at the site, it’s important to remain quiet so that you don’t disturb the monkeys.
Follow the Rules: The Monkey Forest is a protected area, and it’s important to follow all of the rules while you are there.
Only bring the necessary items. There is a risk the monkey will steal items from you.
Don’t look the monkeys in the eye and grin at them. They will get really mad if you do this, especially the larger ones. They see it as an act of aggression.

monkey in man sholders Source: Badung Tourism

How to Get to the Sangeh Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest is situated about 30 minutes north of Ubud, Bali. From Canggu or Sanur, it takes about 45-60 minutes based on traffic. Best method to get there is to rent a scooter or hire a private driver (both of which may be booked online). The Taman Ayun Temple and the local pig satay are also nearby. Have a wonderful trip!

If you’re planning to visit Sangeh Monkey Forest, it opens everyday from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. and there’s an entry fee of IDR 15,000 for adults. For parking, the fee is IDR 2,000 for motorbikes and IDR 5,000 for cars.

For those interested in holding a pre-wedding photo shoot in the forest, there’s a fee of IDR 200,000 for locals. Domestic tourists from outside Bali and international visitors are charged IDR 300,000 and IDR 500,000, respectively.

Please note that these prices are subject to change.

Bottom line

Sangeh Monkey Forest is among the most popular locations in Bali. It contains over 100 free-roaming monkeys. If you’re a nature lover or wildlife photographer, this site is for you. Make sure to go to the Sangeh Monkey Forest when you visit Bali. Need a place to stay in Ubud? Why don’t you check the Ubud Villa Rental by Red Lotus, they have a lot of luxury villas that may suit you. Have a nice holiday in Bali!