Sangeh Monkey Forest

Monkey's Sanctuary in Central Bali

Sangeh Monkey Forest, near the village of the same name in south-central Bali, is a sanctuary for grey long-tailed macaques. Aside from the monkeys, the forest sanctuary is home to approximately 22 different bird species, as well as a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and arthropods.
The monkey forest encompasses approximately 6 hectares of fertile forestland and is home to ancient, 40-metre-tall nutmeg trees. Sankey Monkey Forest also has mahogany, guava, and sapodilla trees, some of which are over three centuries old.

Overview

Sangeh Monkey Forest is a natural reserve famous for its monkey "tribes." Each of the grey macaques in the nutmeg grove has a ring leader. And in the greatest territory, there is only one supreme ruler or'king,' who lives in Bukit Sari Temple, a hallowed temple going back to the 17th century. Locals refer this a rare tree specimen as Lanang Wadon (which means "male-female"). This tree's bottom features a hole with a down-pointing branch that looks like genitals. It's a Milkwood pine, which may be found at the forest's entrance. It's commonly used to construct religious masks in Bali.

Good to know about Sangeh Monkey Forest

The grey macaques have a bad reputation for taking stuff from people who are wearing conspicuous jewelry or have loose items. Although their traits have improved with time, it is still a good idea to be cautious and treat them like wild creatures. Near the parking and entry are art stalls and snack vendors. Sangeh Monkey Forest is a sacred sanctuary, thus women on their periods or in mourning are not permitted to enter. The sanctuary is located near Sangeh, some 25 kilometers north of Denpasar, the island's capital.