Last Updated on 20 November 2025 by Vanessa
When it comes to memorable animal encounters, nature always manages to surprise. In the lush Ubud Monkey Forest, also called the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Anne Young, a visiting tourist, spotted something truly unforgettable: a long-tailed macaque monkey taking care of a tiny ginger kitten.
The monkey treated the kitten like family. It groomed the little cat, kept it close, and gave it the kind of attention only a devoted guardian could.
No one knows how the kitten ended up among the macaques, but the bond they formed captivated everyone lucky enough to see it.
Want to know more about this unique pair and the park they call home? Then read on.
Long-tailed macaque adopts stray cat in Ubud Monkey Forest, Bali
About Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is located in the village of Padangtegal, which also owns it.
The reserve spans 27 acres and is home to approximately 340 long-tailed macaque monkeys divided into four groups.
With around 10,000 visitors exploring Ubud Monkey Forest each month, it’s a must-see stop on your Ubud itinerary.
The park feels magical. Ancient temples peek through dense greenery, and centuries-old banyan trees stretch overhead, creating a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
It’s no wonder travelers from all over the globe flock here.
But Ubud Monkey Forest is more than just a pretty place.
For the locals, these playful primates hold deep cultural significance.
Balinese people consider the macaques sacred, protectors of the temples that dot the park.
The forest represents the delicate harmony between humans, nature, and spirituality—a living testament to Bali’s unique heritage.
The community works hard to protect the monkeys and their home. Conservation programs focus on keeping the forest vibrant, teaching visitors how to interact responsibly, and promoting sustainable tourism.
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The macaque monkey and the cat
But no matter how many glowing reviews Anne Young had read about Monkey Forest, nothing could have prepared her for seeing a wild macaque monkey caring for a tiny stray ginger kitten.
The monkey treated the tiny feline like its own, grooming it, protecting it, and keeping it close. It was a rare act of compassion that left everyone watching completely captivated.
The macaque went out of its way to shield the kitten from prying eyes.
Whenever Anne tried to snap a photo, the monkey positioned itself to keep its companion safe. It even kept other macaques, especially young males, at a distance.
Through it all, the kitten looked relaxed and content, clearly trusting its unusual guardian.
This heartwarming pair proves that the animal kingdom can surprise us with empathy and unexpected bonds.
In a world full of wild unpredictability, moments like this remind us that compassion knows no species.
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Ubud Monkey Forest: practical information
Did this story about the ginger cat and his long-tailed macaque monkey guardian inspire you to visit Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali?
Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth trip.
Address
Ubud Monkey Forest sits at Wenara Wana Road, Padangtegal, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia.
Getting there
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Taxi or private car: The easiest way to reach Ubud Monkey Forest is from central Ubud or nearby towns like Denpasar or Kuta. If you’re staying in Ubud, ask your hotel to call a taxi or arrange a rental car. From outside Ubud, a metered taxi or ride-hailing service (like Grab) works well—just agree on the fare beforehand.
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Scooter rental: If you rent a scooter at one of the rental shops in Ubud, you’ll be able to easily navigate narrow streets and stop at nearby attractions along the way. Make sure you’re comfortable with Bali traffic and always wear a helmet.
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Guided tours: Many tours depart from major towns or directly from your hotel in Ubud. These often include transport to Monkey Forest plus other nearby attractions like Tegalalang Rice Terraces or local temples. You can book your guided tour to Ubud Monkey Park here.
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Public transport: There’s no direct public bus to the park, but you can take a local shuttle or bemo (shared minivan) to Ubud center, then walk or take a short taxi/scooter ride to Monkey Forest.
Opening hours
Monkey Forest Park welcomes visitors every day of the week (including weekends) between 08:30 am and 06:00 pm.
Tickets
It’s always best to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak season. Reserving ahead also helps you skip the lines.
Tickets cost:
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Weekdays: Adults IDR 80,000 | Children IDR 60,000
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Weekends: Adults IDR 100,000 | Children IDR 80,000
Final thoughts
What do you think of this macaque and its ginger kitten? Have you ever witnessed an animal friendship that surprised you? Have you ever visited Ubud Monkey Forest? Experiences like this one really make Bali worth visiting. Share your thoughts in the comments below!
If this story inspired you, don’t hesitate to share it with your animal-loving friends and on social media.
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