ALAS KEDATON: THE ROYAL FOREST SANCTUARY
Where Ancient Spirits and Nature Dwell in Harmony
The Etymology and the "Royal Forest"
The name Alas Kedaton carries a deep historical weight, suggesting the site was once of great importance to Balinese royalty.
Alas (Forest): In the Balinese language, Alas simply means forest or woods.
Kedaton (Palace/Royalty): Derived from the word Datu (king), Kedaton refers to a royal palace or a place belonging to a kingdom.
The Meaning: Together, the name translates to "The Royal Forest." It implies that this stretch of greenery was once a protected wilderness or a private retreat for the kings of old, specifically those from the Tabanan or Mengwi lineages.
Location and the Emerald Enclave
Alas Kedaton is located in Kukuh Village, Marga District, within the Tabanan Regency.
The Protected Nutmeg Grove: The site consists of approximately 12 hectares of dense forest. It is particularly famous for its towering nutmeg trees (Pala), which create a thick, cool canopy that keeps the forest floor shaded and humid even during the peak of the dry season.
The Inhabitants: The forest is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). Unlike the monkeys in more commercial areas, the Alas Kedaton macaques are known to be slightly more relaxed, though they remain the spirited "guardians" of the temple.
History and the Sacred Megalith
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The history of Alas Kedaton blends ancient Balinese Hinduism with traces of megalithic culture.
The 14th Century Roots: The central temple, Pura Dalem Kahyangan Kedaton, is believed to have been established by Mpu Kuturan, a high priest who significantly shaped Balinese Hinduism in the 10th-11th centuries. However, the current structures likely date back to the 14th century.
A Unique Orientation: Most Balinese temples face toward the sacred Mount Agung (Kaja). Interestingly, Pura Alas Kedaton faces West, which is a rare architectural choice and adds to the site's mysterious spiritual aura.
The Flying Foxes: Beyond the monkeys, the forest has a long history as a sanctuary for giant fruit bats, or Flying Foxes. These creatures hanging from the trees have become an iconic symbol of the forest’s ancient, untouched atmosphere.
Access and the Countryside Path
Reaching Alas Kedaton is a smooth journey through Bali’s agricultural heartland, often combined with a visit to Tanah Lot or Taman Ayun.
The Route: It is located about 35 kilometers from the southern tourist hubs. The road to Kukuh Village is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the Tabanan rice fields.
Proximity: It is roughly a 1-hour drive from Seminyak or Kuta and approximately 40 minutes from Ubud.
The Atmosphere: Upon arrival, you are greeted by a wide, open parking area and a row of local vendors, leading into the quiet, shaded entrance of the forest.
Facilities and the Sacred Courtyard
Alas Kedaton is well-equipped to handle visitors while maintaining its integrity as a place of worship.
The Temple Inner Sanctum: Visitors can walk around the outer perimeter of the temple. The architecture is rustic and weathered, covered in moss, which enhances the "lost world" feeling of the site.
The Bat Sanctuary: There are specific areas within the forest where the giant bats gather. Photo opportunities are available, and the local guides are very knowledgeable about the behavior of both the bats and the monkeys.
Local Guides: The site is managed by the local Kukuh community. Local guides often accompany visitors to ensure their safety around the monkeys and to share stories of the forest’s history.
Amenities: The complex features clean restrooms, a large parking lot, and a dedicated area for souvenir shops and small Warungs (local cafes) where you can enjoy a drink after your walk.
Experience the Mystery of the Royal Forest
At Balisutha Tour Service, we recommend Alas Kedaton for those who want to see Bali's famous monkeys in a more tranquil and authentic setting. It is a place of deep shade and ancient whispers, fitting perfectly with our "Feel Like Home" philosophy of peaceful discovery.
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