No trip to Bali is complete without visiting a nature park and interacting with the animals inside. One of the most popular attractions for both domestic and foreign tourists is a place where they can engage directly with monkeys or taking Bali’s monkey selfies.
In Bali, there are several locations that allow people to see monkeys up close. In fact, not only can you observe them, but you can also interact with and take photos alongside a group of monkeys.
Many photos of tourists taking selfies with monkeys during their holidays in Bali have gone viral on social media. Here’s the secret to getting the perfect selfie with a monkey in Bali. Curious?
Recently, the internet was stunned by a photo of a tourist taking a selfie with a monkey. In the photo, it appears as though the monkey took the selfie itself.
But the reality isn’t quite what it seems. There is a clever photography trick behind these viral monkey selfies.
As revealed by TikTok user @thekristieera, in a video she shared, she explained how many people had asked her how she managed to take a selfie with a monkey.
“My most asked question from my trip to Bali… this is how we did it 🥹,” she wrote in the caption.
@thekristieera My most asked question from my trip to Bali… this is how we did it 🥹 📍Sacred Monkey Forest Sancturary, Ubud, Bali #bali #monkeysanctuary ♬ original sound – ava
In the video, a person can be seen taking a picture of a monkey. Behind the monkey, two foreign tourists are sitting.
A man, dressed in traditional Balinese attire, teases the monkey by extending his hand with food over the camera. He continues to do so until the monkey reaches out its hand towards the camera.
At this point, the Balinese man takes a few photos, capturing the moment just right. The result is a picture that makes it appear as though the monkey is the one holding the camera for the selfie.
The curious netizens who had been left wondering were finally given an answer. Many of them expressed their admiration for the creativity behind these monkey selfies in Bali.
“I didn’t think of that! This is how it turns out hahahaha,” commented one netizen.
“All this time I was fooled… I thought the selfie was really taken by the monkey,” wrote another.
Bali’s Monkey Selfies Tips in Monkey Forest Bali & Restrictions
Besides interacting with long-tailed monkeys, visitors to the Monkey Forest can also enjoy walking around the lush, serene surroundings.
The 27-hectare forest is home to over 115 species of plants. In addition, there is the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple, which is used for ritual worship of Lord Shiva, and several other temples that are commonly used for the Ngaben ceremonies.
If you tire of walking around the forest, you can enjoy a variety of Balinese dishes. Not far from the Monkey Forest, about 500 metres away, is the famous Bebek Bengil restaurant on Jalan Hanoman, where you can sample fried duck or roasted duck.
After filling your stomach, you can buy souvenirs for your loved ones. The Monkey Forest offers handicrafts such as beadwork, ikat weaving, wood carvings, baskets, silverware, and paintings.
Tips When Visiting the Monkey Forest Bali
As the Monkey Forest is considered sacred by the local Hindu community, it’s essential to follow all the rules and regulations while visiting. Here are some helpful tips for your visit:
- Use a Backpack If you carry a plastic bag or shopping bag, it will attract the monkeys. Instead, use a backpack or sling bag to keep your belongings. Avoid wearing necklaces, earrings, rings, or sunglasses, as these may also draw the attention of the monkeys.
- Don’t Panic Monkeys will often approach from various directions. If they do, remain calm and do not panic or run away. It’s best to stay still, as the monkeys will usually leave on their own after a while.
- No Selfies with Monkeys Without a Handler Taking selfies with monkeys is a popular activity in the Monkey Forest, but it’s important to have a professional handler present. This is necessary to ensure that the photos are clear and well-composed. The handler will use tricks to help you capture the perfect moment with the monkey.
