Touring in Bali

Day 54 of 164 Days Around the World Cruise

We were very sorry to leave the Four Seasons this morning but our driver Pande took us on a wonderful tour of the Rice Paddies, Monkey Forest, and a Bali Temple on our way back to Benoa to catch our Viking Neptune cruise ship.

Warning Notice: Don't look directly into the Monkey's eyes. This video is rated R for adult language.

Ubud is a small town located in the heart of Bali, Indonesia, known for its lush green rice paddies and the famous Monkey Forest. Both attractions offer unique experiences that are not to be missed when visiting Ubud.

The Monkey Forest, officially known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is a natural reserve and temple complex in Ubud. The sanctuary is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, also known as Balinese monkeys, who roam freely throughout the lush jungle canopy.

Visitors to the Monkey Forest can walk along designated paths to observe and interact with the monkeys. While the monkeys are used to human presence, it's important to remember that they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable. Visitors are advised to avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys and to not touch or feed them.

In addition to the monkeys, the sanctuary also features several ancient Hindu temples and a stunning waterfall. The temples are still used for worship by locals, making the Monkey Forest an important cultural site in Ubud.

While the Monkey Forest is a must-visit attraction, the rice paddies in Ubud offer a tranquil and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. The rice paddies are a reflection of the traditional Balinese way of life, with farmers still using traditional methods to grow their crops.

Visitors to the rice paddies can take a leisurely walk along the narrow paths that wind through the terraced fields. The scenery is breathtaking, with green fields stretching as far as the eye can see, and the sound of running water from the irrigation channels that feed the rice fields.

Many restaurants and cafes in Ubud also offer stunning views of the rice paddies, making them the perfect place to relax and enjoy a traditional Balinese meal while taking in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.

In conclusion, the Monkey Forest and rice paddies in Ubud offer visitors two unique and unforgettable experiences. While the Monkey Forest showcases Bali's abundant wildlife and rich culture, the rice paddies offer a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the traditional Balinese way of life. Both attractions are not to be missed when visiting Ubud, and should be at the top of any traveler's itinerary.