Sustaining the Monkey Forest: A Model for Edutourism Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali

Abstract

Ubud, a cultural and spiritual hub in Bali, Indonesia, is renowned for its sustainable tourism practices that align with the traditional Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. This research explores the sustainability of the Monkey Forest in Ubud, Bali, as an edutourism sanctuary, focusing on its role in promoting education and conservation. The study examines how the Monkey Forest integrates ecological preservation with cultural tourism, providing an educational experience for visitors while maintaining the area's biodiversity. Data were collected through surveys, interviews with interviews with local stakeholders, including community leaders, conservation experts, and tourism managers, and field observations, analyzing the economic, environmental, and social impacts of the sanctuary. This research used qualitative methodology, Snowball sampling was also carried out in the data collection process. The results indicate that the Monkey Forest contributes significantly to local economic growth through tourism while fostering awareness of conservation practices among visitors. The research suggests implementing community-based initiatives, stricter visitor management, and enhanced educational programs to ensure the balance between conservation and tourism development.