What are sacred forests and where to find them?

The sacred forest sounds quite mystical and intriguing but how many of us are actually aware of its relevance and history? In the heart of many cultures, there exists a world of sacred forest which are enchanting expanses of nature. These forests are known for their spiritual, cultural, and ecological significance.

Sacred forests are not just clusters of trees but living proof of the connection between humans and Mother Nature. Let’s try to understand what these sacred forests mean in the modern world.

Understanding the Sacred Forests

Sacred forests, also known as sacred groves, are patches of land protected by communities due to their sacred, religious, or cultural importance. These fields of pristine wilderness are respected and protected by ancient communities. Unlike conventional conservation efforts, the protection of sacred forests is deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs, making them a guardian of biodiversity.

Cultural value

The roots of sacred forests delve deep into the cultural being of different societies. A number of indigenous communities view these sacred groves as the dwelling places of deities or spirits. The trees, plants, and animals that live in these forests are considered sacred. The protection of these natural spaces becomes a sacred duty, and the consequences of desecrating them are often believed to be dire.
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These forests also play an important role in regulating local climate, water conservation, and contribute to soil fertility.

A quick look at some of the prominent sacred forests from across the world:

Yakushima, Japan: Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an island off the coast of Kyushu, Japan. The island is noted for its ancient cedar forests, with some trees dating over 1000 years. The island is steeped in Shinto and Buddhist traditions, and the forest is considered sacred

Dzukou Valley, India: Located on the border of the Indian states of Nagaland and Manipur, the valley is noted for sacred groves protected by the local communities. People here believe that spirits live in this forest.

Olympic National Park, USA: In the state of Washington, the Hoh Rainforest within Olympic National Park is considered a sacred and spiritual place by the Quileute people.


Mount Athos, Greece: Mount Athos, a mountain and peninsula in northeastern Greece, is home to several monasteries and a unique monastic community. The surrounding forests are considered sacred, and the entire area is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Indonesia: Located in Ubud, Bali, this sanctuary is not only a haven for long-tailed macaques but also a sacred site for the Balinese Hindu community. The temple within the forest, Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, is an important spiritual center.

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The Amazon Rainforest, Brazil and Peru: The whole Amazon Rainforest holds immense spiritual significance for indigenous communities. The forest is considered sacred, and its preservation is vital for the well-being of numerous indigenous tribes, who view the area not just as a home but as a living entity.

Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, Kenya: The sacred Kaya forests are found along the Kenyan coast and are considered holy by the Mijikenda people. These forests are integral to their religious and cultural practices, serving as burial sites.