A Hidden Gem in Tabanan Regency
Nestled in the serene countryside of Kukuh in the Tabanan Regency, Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest is a small yet enchanting oasis, spreading across 6-7 hectares amid lush rice fields in western Bali.
Together with its temple and surrounding facilities, this verdant sanctuary spans a total of approximately 12 hectares.
The Sacred Alas Kedaton Temple
At the heart of this forest lies the Alas Kedaton Temple, a sacred space enveloped by greenery, where the air feels fresh, and the atmosphere remains tranquil, serene, and imbued with a sense of holiness.
Playful Monkeys and Other Wildlife
The forest is alive with its playful residents – the monkeys that roam freely across the temple grounds.
These creatures, ever curious and unafraid, bring the area to life with their chatter and playful antics, darting between the temple walls, leaping from branch to branch, or splashing about in the moat.
They seem to serve as guardians of the temple, greeting every visitor with a mix of mischief and charm.
Diverse Flora and Fauna
Beyond the monkeys, Alas Kedaton is also home to a variety of wildlife, including large bats and other small animals.
The forest boasts a rich diversity of flora, with at least 24 different types of grove plants identified within its boundaries.
Getting to Alas Kedaton
Reaching this secluded haven is simple, with easy access from the main road that connects Denpasar to Tabanan.
Along the way, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of rice paddies and the gentle murmur of irrigation channels, creating a soothing backdrop to the journey.
Unique Features of the Alas Kedaton Temple
The Alas Kedaton Temple itself is unique, featuring three distinct courtyards: the outer, middle, and inner yards.
While most Balinese temples are built with ascending levels, where the sacred spaces rise higher as you move inward, Alas Kedaton breaks this tradition.
Distinctive Architecture
Its inner sanctum, considered the most holy, is positioned lower than the middle yard, a distinctive feature that adds to the temple’s allure.
The temple also has four entrances, another rarity that sets it apart from other temples on the island.
The Temple Festival
The temple’s festival, a ceremony held every 210 days according to the Balinese Hindu calendar, falls on Anggarakasih Medangsia, or every Tuesday.
During this time, the community gathers to offer prayers for safety and prosperity.
The ritual is unique; it omits the use of fire and does not involve Penjor (decorative bamboo poles), and it is always completed before sunset, enhancing the temple’s distinctiveness.
A Hub for Education and Tourism
Alas Kedaton also serves as a hub for environmental education and agro-tourism, where visitors can learn about sustainable tourism practices and the preservation of natural habitats.
It draws a diverse array of visitors, both local and international, particularly from August to January, as well as during the Ramadan holiday season and other festive periods.
In front of the Alas Kedaton Temple, a vibrant collection of small shops offers a variety of crafts and souvenirs, including clothing, handcrafted items, and more.
Nearby stalls provide food and beverages, and the ample parking area ensures that visitors can comfortably explore this unique and captivating destination.