After the Indians started treating monkeys with reverence, the concept caught on in the whole of Asia, including Indonesia, which is now a predominantly Islamic nation. Temples, forests, rituals and caves are named after the sanctified animal throughout the region and are commonly seen in inhabiting the locality. The term ‘Wanara Wana’ is used in Balinese, to refer to the Monkey Forest where ‘Wanara’ directly translates to Monkey and ‘Wana’ means forest or jungle.

The rain forest in Ubud, Bali with its sheer greenery and resident macaque manage to draw a healthy ten thousand or more in number annually. With three temples or shrines within its womb, the forest is a tribute to the revered species of the animal kingdom. According to chronological data the holy edifices had been erected in the 14th century. The monkeys are considered the guardians of the Dalem Agung Temple and are found in throngs all over the jungle. The small acreage is full of trees, shrubs, plants, herbs, creepers and of course monkeys.

Four clusters of monkeys exist in four corners of the forest and love being fed by the long lines of visitors. The few hundreds of monkeys in the woodland are very territorial; hence it is in their own interests to not cross the path of a fellow from another pack or it could end up in a fight. The sloped topography that culminates before the coastline also amounts to a good rejuvenating hike, especially if all three temples are visited.

The forest is administered by the dwellers of the Padang Tegal Village, which is the closest civilization. These locals take an active interest in promoting the jungle stretch, maintaining the integrity of the land dedicated to the reserve and conserving the natural wonder as it is.

The most eventful areas in Bali are undeniably along the coastline, where most of the Ubud resorts are located. However, it is not uncommon to find an Ubud hotel which will guarantee its guests a quiet stay if that is what they desire. At the Alila Ubud Bali, they mix and manage the two polar ends with considerable ease to delight customers with both kinds of expectations.