Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Best Things to Do in Bali, the Island of the Gods | Condé Nast Traveler

"This tourist magnet might look like an open-air zoo attraction, but it’s actually a holy site with a 1000-plus band of long-tailed Balinese macaques in their natural habitat. As cantankerous as some of the monkeys can be—your dangling jewelry, bags, and conspicuous food will invite aggressive sticky fingers—the primates are considered sacred by Balinese Hindus who come to pray in the complex's three ancient temples. Roam around the 31-acre forest and you’ll find scores of monkeys—playing, resting, fighting, or scheming to snatch bananas or sunglasses from tourists. Otherwise, the three 14th-century temples are a lovely sight, as are the moss-covered monkey sculptures throughout the sanctuary. Tall banyan and nutmeg treetops provide ample shade, and paths are smoothly paved. The sanctuary staff does a great job to ensure a safe, enjoyable visit." - Julia Eskins