Sangeh Monkey Forest In Bali: An Ultimate Guide

Imagine a 6-acre sanctuary, home to grey, long-tailed macaques, sacred temples, tall nutmeg trees, and many tropical plants. That’s Sangeh Monkey Forest in Bali, a must-visit on any Bali Tour Packages This forest feels like stepping into another world, where monkeys aren’t just residents but are considered sacred.

Locals believe these intelligent creatures are protectors of the ancient Bukit Sari Temple, which dates back to the 17th century and is a part of Sangeh Forest. As you walk through the forest, you'll notice how the monkeys have organised themselves into distinct tribes, each with their own territory and leader.

Unlike popular tourist attractions, Sangeh Forest is a peaceful spot where you can connect with nature. For travellers planning a visit, here is some information about the Sangeh Monkey Forest entrance fee, how to reach Sangeh Monkey Forest, the best time to visit Sangeh Monkey Forest, and why Sangeh Forest is special than the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud.

Tourist Information

• Sangeh Monkey Forest Entrance Fee: ₹154/- per adult, ₹77/- per child
• Sangeh Monkey Forest Bali Opening Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM
• Sangeh Monkey Forest Facilities: Parking area, bathrooms, food & drink stalls, a handicrafts shop
• Sangeh Monkey Forest Bali Address: Jl. Brahmana, Sangeh, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80353, Indonesia

Sangeh Monkey Forest Bali: History

• The history of the Sangeh Monkey Forest in Bali began in the 17th century when a royal leader named I Gusti Agung Ketut Karangasem built a temple, later known as Bukit Sari Temple, in a nutmeg forest.
• The forest covers about 10.8 hectares (about 26 acres) and has many different types of plants.
• According to local stories, the forest is connected to an event where wood was moved from Mount Agung to the Mengwi area.
• People who saw this happening helped create the forest's identity.
• Today, Sangeh Monkey Forest is both a tourist attraction and a sacred temple area where local people from Sangeh and nearby villages come to worship.

Best Things To Do In Sangeh Monkey Forest In Bali

Let’s explore the best things to do in Sangeh Monkey Forest below:

1. Explore the tall nutmeg trees that create cool shade at the Sangeh Monkey Forest. Unlike the busy Monkey Forest in Ubud, Sangeh is quieter and less crowded.
2. Walk through the forest to see the 17th-century Bukit Sari Temple, built by the son of the King of Mengwi. This temple is still used today for ceremonies and offerings to the god Shiva.
3. One of the best things to do in Bali’s Sangeh Forest is to watch the playful, long-tailed macaque monkeys that live here. These monkeys are considered sacred guardians of the temple. You can take photos of them, but remember to be respectful and follow the safety rules(see below).
4. Enjoy the tropical plants and flowers while walking on shaded paths. This natural setting offers great photo opportunities that you won't find at the more popular Monkey Forest in Ubud.

Things To Avoid At Sangeh Monkey Forest In Bali

Along with the best things to do in Sangeh Monkey Forest, it’s important to understand the things we shouldn’t do at Sangeh Forest:

1. Don't bring valuables or wear glasses or sunglasses - monkeys will try to grab them.
2. Don't bring any food or hide it in your pockets - monkeys will smell it and get upset.
3. Don't run away from monkeys - they see this as a threat.
4. Don't smile while looking directly at monkeys - they think you're being aggressive, especially the larger ones.
5. Don't touch or try to pick up the monkeys - let them approach you instead.
6. Don't feed the monkeys human food - it's bad for their health.

Best Time To Visit Sangeh Monkey Forest In Bali

Find the best time to visit Sangeh Monkey Forest based on the season and a day below:

Dry Months(April To October):

• Weather: You can expect warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, which is ideal for observing the monkeys and enjoying outdoor activities.
• Crowds: This is the peak season, especially during July and August. You can expect larger crowds.

Wet Months(November To March):

• Weather: You will experience higher humidity and occasional rains. This is when the forest becomes lush and vibrant. However, you will see less active monkeys, and the forest might not be comfortable to walk.
• Crowds: During May, June, and September, you can expect fewer crowds due to rain.

Best Time In A Day

• The best time to visit Bali’s Sangeh forest is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the monkeys are more playful and the forest is cooler and less busy. Try not to visit during the middle of the day when it gets very hot.

How To Reach Sangeh Monkey Forest Bali

Wondering how to reach Bali’s Sangeh Monkey Forest? Here are some of the best transport modes available:

By Flight:

• First, fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, Bali.
• From the airport, Sangeh Forest is 37.9 km away and takes 1.25 hours to reach.
• At the airport, you have several options to choose from hiring a driver and a car, renting a scooter, or opting for a private tour.

By Renting A Driver With A Car:

• From the Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can hire a driver with a car.
• Sit back and relax while the driver takes you directly to the Sangeh Forest hassle-free.
• No parking headaches or license worries!
• Renting a car with a driver costs between ₹3300/- to ₹5000/- approx.

By A Private Tour:

• Choose a good 6-Day Bali Trip Package if you like your itinerary planned right from airport transfers to transportation to popular attractions and accommodations.
• These customised packages often provide expert guides who share interesting insights into famous places.
• These tours usually start from ₹50,000/-

By Renting A Scooter:

• Once landed at the airport, you can rent a scooter, which is one of the best ways of commuting in Bali.
• Follow map directions to reach Sangeh Monkey Forest in Bali.
• Ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) + your country’s Driver’s License!
• Remember to follow Bali traffic rules and safety precautions.
• Scooter rental from the airport to Sangeh Monkey Forest costs start from ₹310/-

By Ride-Hailing Apps(Grab/Gojek):

• From the airport, you can directly book a Grab/Gojek.
• You can have an estimation of how much the ride costs.
• Grab/Gojek prices usually start from ₹1,024 from the airport to Sangeh Forest.
• These prices differ if you’re booking from the places you stay, like Ubud or Kuta.

Tips For Visiting Sangeh Monkey Forest In Bali

1. Wear proper clothes that cover your arms and legs.
2. Stay safe by keeping your distance from the monkeys. Don't touch them, feed them, or go near their babies.
3. Keep quiet during your visit so you don't upset the monkeys.
4. Bring only what you need since monkeys might grab your belongings.
5. Don’t litter, and follow all the rules of this protected forest.