One Killed and Significant Damage Reported at Sangeh Monkey Forest, a Top Bali Tourist Attraction
Bali, Indonesia – December 4, 2025 – Heavy rainfall accompanied by extreme weather conditions has resulted in one fatality and extensive damage at the Sangeh Monkey Forest, one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations. The incident took place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, causing grave concern among local authorities and visitors alike.
Tragic Incident During Severe Weather
The disaster unfolded when several large trees, some measuring approximately 50 meters in height and 1.5 meters in diameter, were toppled by a sudden tornado during persistent heavy rains. These trees fell within the main temple complex of the forest, particularly impacting the Pucak Sari Temple area.
IB Nyoman Suamba, a 51-year-old staff member responsible for monitoring the monkeys in the forest, was tragically killed after a pavilion collapsed due to a falling tree. Another staff member, 47-year-old Nyoman Rasna, was seriously injured, sustaining a broken arm during the same event.
IB Putu Mas Arimbawa, the Head of Abiansemal District, confirmed the details of the incident to local media, highlighting the severity of the weather and resulting destruction. “Nearly 80 percent of the temple area was thrown down by fallen trees,” Arimbawa said. He noted that although trees had fallen randomly across the area, a particularly dangerous tree identified earlier did not fall.
Damage to Cultural and Natural Heritage
The disaster inflicted major damage on the Pucak Sari Temple’s main mandala, with many buildings within the complex flattened. In total, about 13 temple structures, including palinggih (shrines) and bale (pavilions), suffered damage. Additionally, over a dozen nutmeg trees, many of which were old-growth and towering above 50 meters, were uprooted or snapped.
Authorities estimate the material losses to exceed IDR 1 billion. IB Gede Pujawan, Head of Alas Pala Sangeh Tourism Management, confirmed the extensive impact on the ancient forest’s trees and temple buildings.
Response and Memorial Plans
Rescue teams evacuated the attraction promptly as trees began to fall. However, Suamba briefly returned to retrieve a phone charger before the pavilion collapsed, leading to his untimely death. The temple area remains closed temporarily as cleanup and restoration efforts begin, though the rest of the forest is still open to tourists.
In light of the fatality, ceremonial activities are planned as part of Balinese tradition. Arimbawa explained that the incident took place during the post-pujawali celebrations at Pucak Sari Temple, with a significant memorial service slated to occur soon to honor the deceased. “Because there were casualties, a large memorial ceremony will be held at the site. The deceased will also be cremated,” he added.
Official Support and Safety Warnings
Badung Regency officials, including Deputy Regent Bagus Alit Sucipta, have visited the site to assess the damages and coordinate aid. Deputy Regent Sucipta urged prompt action, ordering the disaster response agency (BPBD) to evaluate and provide assistance swiftly.
With Indonesia facing one of its most severe rainy seasons in recent memory, medical personnel and officials are warning tourism operators and the public to maintain heightened vigilance. Paramedic Inastuti emphasized, “We urge the public and attraction managers to be extra cautious as extreme weather conditions are expected to continue over the next few days.”
Historical Context
This tragic event echoes a similar incident almost exactly a year ago, when a falling tree at the Ubud Monkey Forest resulted in the deaths of two tourists. These repeated occurrences underscore the urgent need for reinforced safety measures at Bali’s outdoor tourist sites, especially during the seasonal monsoon storms.
Visitors planning to explore Bali’s natural attractions are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and follow all safety regulations issued by local authorities. The Sangeh Monkey Forest authorities are committed to restoring the site while honoring the memory of those affected by this devastating event.
Add a comment