New Monkey Forest Opens in Bali for Tourists to Connect with Nature

Bali Welcomes a Unique Attraction

Bali has recently unveiled a new eco-friendly attraction, the Kemenuh Monkey River, located in the picturesque Gianyar Regency, close to the cultural heart of Ubud. This new monkey forest sanctuary aims to provide tourists with an opportunity to connect deeply with Bali’s rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage, while simultaneously offering vital sanctuary for local wildlife, including long-tailed macaques, rare white monkeys, and flying foxes.

A Scenic Setting

The Kemenuh Monkey River is situated in Kemenuh Village within the Sukawati District, which is conveniently just a 20-minute drive from central Ubud. Officially opened on April 12, 2025, the attraction is welcoming its first visitors this week. The Chief Operator, Aji Witara, expressed enthusiasm for the opening and shared insights into the vision behind the sanctuary, which reflects the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana. This philosophy emphasizes living in harmony with nature, community, and spirituality.

During visits to the Kemenuh Monkey River, tourists will have the chance to observe the wild monkeys in their natural habitat, allowing for a meaningful connection with both the wildlife and the surrounding natural beauty. Witara highlighted the area’s features, including natural forests, the clear Petanu River, and beautifully constructed artificial waterfalls, which all contribute to a serene and restorative atmosphere. Traditional Balinese shalas have also been constructed throughout the area, providing visitors with spaces to relax and take in the breathtaking environment.

Wildlife Observation and Conservation Efforts

The sanctuary features Bali’s famous long-tailed macaques, a charismatic species accustomed to human presence. However, it is important to note that while these monkeys are familiar with visitors, they remain wild animals, and tourists are encouraged to observe from a distance, refraining from feeding or attempting to interact with them.

The development of Kemenuh Monkey River is a collaborative effort led by PT Synergy Alasse Indah in partnership with the Kemenuh Traditional Village. Besides the long-tailed macaques, the forest is known for hosting a small population of white monkeys, which are incredibly rare. The sanctuary aims to contribute to the conservation of both the white macaques and flying foxes by implementing a breeding program, with plans to eventually reintroduce these species into the wild when they reach maturity.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond wildlife observation, visitors to Kemenuh Monkey River can take part in traditional Balinese ceremonies, including the sacred melukat water blessing ceremony. While many visitors seek this experience at the well-known water temples, such as Pura Tirta Empul, the advantage of Kemunah Monkey River is the opportunity for a more intimate setting away from the bustling crowds.

Visitor Information

The Kemenuh Monkey River is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry permitted at 5 PM. To celebrate its grand opening, the attraction is offering promotional ticket rates of IDR 80,000 for adults and IDR 40,000 for children.

Bali’s monkey forests are consistently ranked among the top attractions on the island, with the Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest being the most famous. The opening of the Kemenuh Monkey River adds to this list, promising a unique experience for tourists looking to immerse themselves in nature and Balinese culture.

As tourism continues to thrive in Bali, the Kemenuh Monkey River stands out as a model for sustainable tourism that respects wildlife and promotes cultural heritage, creating a lasting legacy for future generations.

For more information, visitors can explore additional resources and stay updated on the latest attractions in Bali.