Heavy rainfall and extreme weather have caused a tragic fatality and significant destruction at one of Bali's most popular tourist destinations, the Sangeh Monkey Forest. The incident, which occurred on December 3, 2025, marks the worst damage the sacred site has seen in over a decade.
Fatal Collapse During Extreme Weather
As the island's intense rainy season continues, a severe storm battered the forest area near Ubud. The extreme conditions caused several massive trees, some measuring 50 metres high and 1.5 metres in diameter, to topple within the main temple complex.
Tragically, 51-year-old staff member IB Nyoman Suamba was killed when one of these falling trees crushed the pavilion at the Pucak Sari Temple. According to the Head of Abiansemal District, IB Putu Mas Arimbawa, Mr Suamba and a colleague were on their usual shift monitoring the monkeys when the bad weather struck suddenly.
"They were both usually on duty watching the monkeys here, and suddenly there was a tornado," Mr Arimbawa told local media, as reported by The Bali Sun. In a devastating turn, Mr Suamba was struck after he returned to collect his phone charger following an initial evacuation of the site.
Widespread Damage to Ancient Structures
The destruction extended far beyond the single fatal incident. The storm flattened almost 80 percent of the temple area, with several buildings in the main mandala of Pucak Sari Temple completely destroyed. More than a dozen ancient nutmeg trees were also uprooted by the force of the weather.
Bali police have provided an initial estimate, placing the cost of the damage at around $90,000. Another staff member suffered a broken arm in the temple collapse, adding to the toll of the disaster.
Ongoing Clean-Up and Travel Advisory
While the clean-up operation is underway, the Sangeh Monkey Forest management has stated the attraction will remain open to visitors in the coming days. However, the damaged temple area itself will stay closed. Tourists may witness additional religious ceremonies being conducted at the site following Mr Suamba's death.
This tragic event comes as Bali endures one of its most severe rainy seasons in decades, following widespread flooding across the island in December. The disaster serves as a stark reminder for Australian travellers heading to Bali during the Christmas and summer holiday period. Authorities are urging visitors to take weather warnings and safety precautions seriously, as extreme conditions can develop rapidly.
