Kelingking Beach
Discover Secret Temples in Ubud Monkey Forest
Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal
Located in the southwestern part of the forest, the Main Temple is a place to worship Hindu's God, Hyang Widhi taking form of Shiva, the destructor of evil and the transformer. It is predicted that the temple complex was built in 1350, and are well-maintaned until now. The entrance gates have the identical shapes from the typical pura gates. Upon entering inside the complex, you'll notice a 'bale' or traditional terrace near the cremation grounds. A unique statue was erected nearby, depicting of what looks like vampire children. The main temple building is located few meters away from the entrance gate.
Pura Beji
Head northwest from the main forest route to find second secret temple, which is Pura Beji. Pura Beji was erected to worship god Hyang Widhi, this time taking personification of Goddess Ganga. Main feature of the temple is a sacred 'Holy Spring'. Balinese people usually come to the temple for purification and spiritual cleansing before they hold religious ceremonies.
Pura Prajapati
Pura Prajapati is located in the northeastern part of the forest, used to worship Hyang Widhi in personification of Prajapati. Next to the temple is a cemetery ground, where Balinese people bury their deceased loved-ones for temporary while they wait for mass cremation ceremony (Ngaben Asti Wedana).
How to Get Tickets?
Buy the entrance tickets to Ubud Monkey Forest at the provided ticket booth near the entrance. Fee for adults is Rp 40.000,- or $2.79 and Rp 30.000,- or $2.09 for children. You might get cheaper deals if you buy them from trusted travel agency.
How To Get Around?
Ubud Monkey Forest is a trekking place, so obviously you will have to walk to go through the forest. To go to other attractions after you visited the monkey forest, you can take public transportations such as bus or taxi.
What Should I Wear?
Ubud Monkey Forest is considered sacred to Balinese people, so dress appropriately. You can wear tanktops or denim shorts, though refrain yourself from wearing too revealing or skimpy clothes. Avoid wearing shiny jewelleries and sunglasses to prevent monkey thievery. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes (preferably sneakers) since you'll walk, a lot.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to go to Ubud Monkey Forest is during dry season from April to October. It is best to go in the morning, afternoon, or evening, when the weather is still relatively cool.
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Will I Need a Guide?
Nope, you'll be fine on your own.
How To Get There?
Ubud Monkey Forest is located at Jl. Monkey Forest, Padangtegal Ubud. It only takes 15 minutes walking on foot to the south of Ubud's main road to Jl. Hanoman. Turn right, and you're there. You can also reach the monkey forest by car or scooter which will takes time about 1 hour.
Additional Info
There are few things you should pay to attention carefully when you are visiting Ubud Monkey Forest - As adorable as they might be, or how much of a monkey-lover you are, the monkeys inhabit the forest are wild and unpredictable. Some tourists might attempt to interact with them or taking snaps some photos with a monkey on their shoulder. Don't do it. Monkeys are carrier of rabies, and there's a huge chance you might get bitten or scratched. - Secondly, you might want to feed the monkeys you encounter with bananas, we all do. However, refrain doing so because the monkeys might follow you only so they will get the rest of bananas. Greedy, right? - Likewise, they might snatch your belongings such as jeweleries, glasses, or even your whole bag so it's better to carry backpack and not carrying any kind of foods inside it. - If you ignore the above rule about not feeding them bananas, then don't tease them by pulling back your offer. The monkey will perceive it as a threat, only God (or God knows) what will happen to your face.