About Sangeh Monkey Forest

Discover the legendary 13.91-hectare sacred Nutmeg Tree sanctuary, centuries-old royal temples, and harmonious wildlife in Bali.

The Sacred Sanctuary

Centuries of Nature, Culture & Harmony

Sangeh Monkey Forest (Obyek Wisata Alas Pala Sangeh) is Bali's premier sacred nature reserve, covering a sprawling area of 13.91 hectares in Abiansemal, Badung Regency.

It is the only natural forest in Bali that grows as a homogeneous reserve of towering Nutmeg Trees (Dipterocarpus Trinervis / Pohon Pala). These magnificent trees are hundreds of years old and protected by custom and law.

The forest is inhabited by hundreds of tame long-tailed ash monkeys (Macaca fascicularis), revered as sacred guardians by the local community. Visitors can peacefully interact with them and participate in monkey feeding sessions.

13.91
Hectares Area
17th C.
Temple Heritage
100s
Sacred Monkeys
Sangeh Nutmeg Forest
Historical Legacy

The 17th-Century Pucak Bukit Sari Temple

Deep within the shade of the sacred nutmeg canopy stands Pura Pucak Bukit Sari, constructed in the 17th century by the royal Puri Mengwi Kingdom. This historic temple has a profound spiritual connection to the world-famous Taman Ayun Royal Temple.

Surrounding the main temple are other revered shrines:

Melanting Temple
Shrine dedicated to prosperity and forest blessings.
Tirta Temple
Holy water shrine for purification ceremonies.
Anyar Temple
Revered historic shrine along the sanctuary path.
Lanang Wadon Tree
Iconic gender tree displaying dual male-female shapes.

Taman Mumbul & Sacred Springs

Life-giving water for the community

The dense root system of the Sangeh nutmeg forest acts as a natural water catchment that gives rise to dozens of fresh water springs.

One of the most notable is Taman Mumbul, a serene sacred pool and lake filled with thousands of holy fish. It is celebrated by local villagers as a primary source of life, spiritual renewal, and clean agriculture water.

Visitor Safety & Ethics

Visitor Rules & Guidelines

To ensure a safe, respectful visit for both guests and the sacred monkeys.

Please Don't Touch The Monkey

Dilarang Memegang Monyet: Monkeys are wild animals. You may feed them peacefully and take photos, but avoid direct touching, pulling, or sudden physical contact.

Secure Your Belongings

Please secure sunglasses, loose jewelry, keys, hats, and small accessories in your bag. Inquisitive monkeys may be attracted to shiny or loose items.

Follow Staff Guidance

Our trained forest rangers and guides are on-site at all times to assist you with monkey feeding, photos, and temple orientation.

Balinese Philosophy

Living in Tri Hita Karana

Our management follows Bali's ancient three-fold path to harmony and sustainability.

Palemahan (Nature)

Preserving the homogeneous Nutmeg forest, fresh water springs, and protecting the habitat of ash monkeys.

Pawongan (Community)

Fostering respectful, warm interactions between local customary village members, visitors, and researchers.

Parahyangan (Spiritual)

Maintaining regular prayers, temple ceremonies, and honoring Pucak Bukit Sari Temple's sacred legacy.

Experience the Magic of Sangeh Monkey Forest

Whether you're visiting for a serene forest stroll, family monkey feeding, or a breathtaking prewedding photo session — Sangeh welcomes you.

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