places to visit near ubud bali

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Tourist Attractions Near Ubud

Bajra sandhi monument, museum le mayeur, kedonganan beach, karma beach, museum kartun, here are the most famous tourist attractions near ubud, quick navigation.

Tibumana Waterfall

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The Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres Museum, which is one of the most fascinating places near Ubud Bali, is a memorial museum dedicated to the work and life of the Belgian painter Adrien-Jean Le Mayeur de Merpres. This museum is easily accessible, as it is located just on Sanur's seafront. The complex elements of Balinese architecture that shelters well over eighty artworks are divided into five groupings based on the historic culture of Bali. The place offers artworks carved in different forms such as hardboard, plywood, canvas, and paper.

Location: Jl. Hang Tuah, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Kota Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Timings: 8 AM – 3:30 PM  You May Also Like:  Top Adventure Activities in Bali                                    Bali Tour Package For Couple From Ahmedabad

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Located near Ubud, Bali Swing is a famous hotspot of tourists who are looking for aesthetic thrills which makes it a must to include in your Bali tours. These swings are a perfect fit for those searching for an adrenaline rush while admiring the beauty of nature.One of the best ways to appreciate Ubud's beauty is from the Bali swing which gives the bird’s eye view of the entire region. The fresh air will prove to be refreshing as you swing high above the ground looking over paddy fields.Enjoy the jaw-dropping views of Bali with the exceptional topography that makes this place perfect for a couple’s photoshoot. The tranquil environment will provide you with dreamlike images for you to cherish forever.Click Here to Book Now: Bali Swing in Ubud

It is home to more than 60 species, all of which meander aimlessly in huge walled in areas that copy their characteristic living spaces. Appreciate riding on a safari transport to visit the creatures, viewing interesting elephant ability appears, get cuddly with child orangutans, and view infant sharks at the aquarium.Highlights: In Bali Safari and Marine Park there are 80 species and around 400 species from three regions - Indonesia, India and Africa, including spotted deers, Himalayan bears, nilgai, dark bucks, African hippos, zebras, camels, ostriches, monkeys, blue wildebeests, and lions. The most epic in plain view are the unbelievable Indian white tigers. Visitors board safari transports to go through various regions of the recreation center.Location: Bali Safari & Marine Park is located at Jl. Bypass Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra Km. 19,8, Serongga, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80551,Indonesia. Timings: Opens from 9:00 AM–5:00 PMClick Here to Book Now: Bali Safari and Marine Park TicketAlso Read: Best Activities to Do in Bali

Nestled amid the lush green hillocks in Bali’s Ubud region, are the elegant Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a delight for the eyes in the true sense. The perfect zig-zag pattern in which the entire hillside has been cut out is conducive to the local agricultural system.It is an old irrigation system used to extend water to all parts of the fields evenly. Irrespective of the purpose, however, the beautiful landscape of the area complete with verdant paddy fields has managed to mesmerize visitors who throng here from all parts of the island.If you visit Kintamani in Bali, The Tegallalang Rice Terraces will be an ideal stopover, a mere 20-minute drive from Ubud. As you make your way up the twisting and turning paths of the hilly areas of Tegallalang, you will instantly mark the difference in air quality and surrounding views.At 600 m above sea level, the weather is extremely pleasant, there is a cool breeze here that accompanies the mesmerizing panoramic views. You may also spot the local farmer tending to his produce lined along the distinctive oblique steps. The dramatic sights here make for great photography opportunities to create lasting memories.

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21 Amazing Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

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Ubud isn’t the kind of place where you need a long to-do list. None of the sights or activities are “must-dos”.

If all you did during your stay was eat, walk through the rice fields, and perhaps get a massage or take a yoga class, then that’s a successful Ubud visit in my opinion.

That said, if you are feeling more active, there are plenty of things to do in Ubud to occupy your time.

Our Ubud travel guide shares our top tips for what to do in Ubud, where to eat and stay, how to get there, and a map with all our recommendations.

Best Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

How to get to ubud bali, resources for planning a trip to ubud, bali, map of best things to do in ubud bali, more ubud posts, 1) stay out of town.

Ubud doesn’t make the best first impression.

We stayed in the centre of town for our first few days and wondered what on earth we were doing there. The centre is congested with traffic, tour groups, and souvenir shops.

There are gems to be found, but to make the most of your stay I highly recommend staying outside the centre, ideally somewhere with a rice field view.

We moved 3km out of town and ended up staying for nearly five months and returned for another five months the following year.

Relaxing by our pool with a rice field or jungle view is an Ubud highlight for us.

There’s a huge range of accommodation in Ubud from budget homestays to luxury resorts.

We use Booking.com to find hotels—choose “view” as one of the room facilities and you’ll find lots of suggestions out of town such as Ayuterra Resort with its gorgeous luxury villas.

If you want to be within walking distance of the centre (probably best if you don’t want to hire a motorbike), there are some lovely options in quiet, scenic locations including:

• Desak Putu Putera Cottages – An affordable jungle oasis with a pool. Our favourite place to stay in the centre.
• Three Dewi’s – A budget guesthouse with rice field views.
• Nur Guesthouse – Lovely rooms and pool surrounded by rice fields. 

If you want to really get away from it all (but still be within a longish walk from the centre), you can stay at Firefly Eco Lodge  in a rustic bamboo treehouse or quirky birds nest in the heart of the rice fields.

This is one of our favourite areas in Ubud (we lived nearby on our last visit), but you will need to walk down a narrow path to get there and be happy surrounded by nature. 

If you end up falling in love like we did and want to stay for a month or more, read how to rent a house in Ubud (it’s easy!).

2) Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge is our favourite walk in Ubud—it’s one of the only places to escape from traffic.

There are a few hills, but it’s an easy walk with lovely views of rice fields and down into a valley. There’s not much shade, so it’s best early morning or towards sunset.

Read these instructions on getting to the start of the Camphuan Ridge trail .

The walk from the school car park to  Karsa Cafe (the perfect spot for a break) and back was 3.5km (2.2 miles) and took us 45 minutes.

You can no longer park at the school so allow an extra 10 minutes/1km each way to walk to the start of the trail from the Ubud Art Market .

If you’d prefer to explore with a guide, this Ubud walking tour includes many of Ubud’s highlights including Camphuan Ridge, Monkey Forest, and the Art Market.

3) Rice Fields Walk

Another pleasant hike is the Sari Organik Walk on a flat path through the rice fields towards the former farm and restaurant.

Sari Organik has now closed, but there are lots of other cafes along the way where you can enjoy a drink or meal with a view. Try Cafe Pomegranate , Dragonfly Cafe , or Joglo Organik .

The Ubud Yoga House (one of my favourite Ubud yoga studios ) is also just off this path.

An alternative route is to start at the far end of Jalan Kajeng (look for Kajeng Rice Field on Google Maps) and loop around to the other rice field path.

The downside is that motorbikes drive on these narrow paths.

4) Discover Ubud’s Tranquil Spots

Are you wondering where to go in Ubud to escape the crowds? The centre of town is busy, but you can find beautiful, tranquil spots.

Our favourites are the lotus pond at  Saraswati temple (behind Starbucks) and Taksu Spa , where the river gorge is an oasis from the chaos.

Take the time to wander around and you might be surprised by what you find.

Recommended Reading: A Guide to Living in Ubud

5) Kecak Dance  Performace

Ubud is famous for its traditional dance performances. We didn’t have very high expectations but loved the Kecak dance we saw at the temple in Junjungan village. 

Around 60 sarong-clad men provide the soundtrack of haunting chants, while dancers recreate a story from the Ramayana.

It is less busy and commercial than the performances in the centre—all 150 families in the village are involved and proceeds go towards temple activities.

The Kecak performance takes place every Monday night at 7pm at the temple in Junjungan village on Jalan Tirta Tawar .

It’s one of the best things to do in Ubud at night and you could combine it with a meal at nearby Warung Bintangbali .

Read more about the performance on Till the Money Runs Out .

Another place to see a traditional Kecak Dance with an Authentic Balinese Dinner is at The Tempayan in Ubud’s Tanah Gajah Resort .

6) Rent a Motorbike

Renting an automatic motorbike is the best way to explore Ubud and the surrounding countryside.

You could walk or cycle, but it’s much cooler on the back of a bike. It’s cheap too—from just 120,000 IDR ($7.90) a day, and you don’t need to leave a deposit or show a licence.

The traffic in Ubud can be crazy, so if you are a beginner, practice on the quieter streets outside town, and ask someone to show you the basics.

Honestly, it’s probably best that Ubud is not the first place you ride a motorbike, though—accidents are common.

Once you have wheels, you can head north on Jalan Tirta Tawar , Sri Wedari or Suweta , or east through the tree tunnel to Penestanan village. You can visit many of the places below by motorbike.

If you rent a motorbike make sure your travel insurance covers you as accidents do happen. We recommend SafetyWing , which is available worldwide and covers riding a motorbike.

It’s affordable (kids are even free!) and is ideal if you are on a longer trip as you can pay monthly and purchase it outside your home country. Our travel insurance after departure post has more options.

If you aren’t confident on a bike, consider hiring a driver for a day —it’s an easy and surprisingly affordable way to go Ubud sightseeing.

7) Practice Yoga

Ubud is yogi heaven! Whether you prefer fast-paced vinyasa or gentle yin, you’ll find a class to suit you.

It’s the perfect place to create your own yoga retreat by buying an affordable multi-class pass.

My favourite places to practice are Ubud Yoga House (scenic and intimate), The Yoga Barn (a wide variety of classes but very busy), and Intuitive Flow (quieter classes in a beautiful setting in Penestanan).

Read my Ubud yoga guide to choose the studio that’s right for you.

If you came to Ubud after being inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert, check out this Bali Eat Pray Love Private Tour which includes many spiritual stops including a yoga class at Intuitive Flow.

8) Take an Art or Cooking Class

You can learn plenty of skills in Ubud—check out these classes in traditional Balinese painting , silver jewellery making , and batik making (dyeing cloth with patterns). They are fun for adults and families.

We enjoyed a cooking class with Payuk Bali (now Ketut’s Balinese Cooking Class ) when Simon’s family was visiting. It included a market visit, learning how to make offerings, and plenty of hands-on cooking.

They were very well-organised, had a special vegetarian menu, and the meal at the end was delicious, especially the tempeh satay with peanut sauce. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Ubud.

Paon Bali offers a similar cooking course with excellent reviews. Check availability here .

9) Dine with a View

You are spoilt for choice for restaurants in Ubud with views of rice fields and river gorges.

Some of our favourites include The Elephant , which serves up delicious vegetarian meals with views of the Campuhan Ridge, and Warung Bintangbali for affordable Indonesian dishes with rice field views.

Also, see #3 above for a rice field walk with lots of scenic places to eat on the way.

My Ubud vegetarian guide has more ideas.

10) Splurge on a Gourmet Meal

For such a small town Ubud has a surprising number of gourmet restaurants offering fantastic tasting menus (most with good vegetarian options).

Sure, they are much more expensive than a meal at a warung, but they are great value compared to a similar quality meal in Europe or the US.

Our favourite splurges were at Locavore , Kubu at the Mandapa Ritz Carlton , Mozaic , and Room4Dessert (we have to go back for their new sweet and savoury tasting menu).

Make sure you book a table at these restaurants at least a few days (and sometimes weeks) ahead.

11) Downhill Bike Tour

We don’t cycle often, but the  Bali downhill cultural cycling tour was easy—we hardly had to pedal!

We started with breakfast overlooking the volcano Mt Batur before cycling through the countryside stopping at a family compound, rice fields, and a 500-year-old banyan tree.

The cycle trip is one of the best Ubud activities to see more of the beautiful island and learn about Balinese culture. Check availability here .

12) Brave the Monkey Forest

The Monkey Forest is one of the top Ubud attractions, but we were a little worried about braving the famous monkeys.

It turned out to be an enjoyable walk through the forest with temples and banyan trees that felt like an Indiana Jones set.

Be careful of the monkeys, though—they are thieves and can be aggressive. We didn’t take a bag, sunglasses, or have anything in our pockets (except cash to get in and my camera around my neck), and they didn’t bother us.

Don’t feed them—you will end up with monkeys climbing all over you. This may sound fun, but rabies is prevalent in Bali, and if you get bitten or scratched (a common occurrence), you’ll need a series of injections.

The Ubud Monkey Forest is open daily from 9am to 6pm and costs 80,000 IDR for adults/ 60,000 children, more on the weekend.

If you have limited time in Ubud, you could take a Best of Ubud private day tour which includes the Monkey Forest, rice terraces, Tegenungan Waterfall, the market and more.

13) Pura Gunung Kawi

Pura Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple with shrines carved into the rock. It’s one of Bali’s oldest and most important monuments.

The complex is at the bottom of a river valley reached by a steep staircase of 300 steps.

It’s worth it for the beautiful scenery of rice fields, gushing river, and immense stone shrines.

The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR and includes a sarong, which everyone must wear (just wrap it over your clothes).

It’s a 30-minute drive from Ubud and is worth combining with Tirta Empul .

Get there early to avoid the crowds and souvenir sellers—at 8am there were only two other visitors.

14) Tirta Empul Water Temple

The water temple Tirta Empul is close to Gunung Kawi. Balinese Hindus come here to bathe in the holy waters for ritual purification.

I think the temple is best visited with a local who can explain its significance and etiquette.

You can hire a guide at the entrance or book a tour such as this Ubud Tirta Empul Temple Tour or Spiritual Cleansing and Shamanic Healing Tour .

The entrance fee for Tirta Empul is 50,000 IDR which includes the sarong it is essential to wear.

Tourists are welcome to bathe in the holy waters, but we didn’t feel comfortable doing so. If you do decide to, please be respectful and don’t spend too long taking photos.

The temple can be very crowded so it’s best to visit early.

15) Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall isn’t huge, but the scenery is lovely, and we enjoyed a swim in the pool.

Again, get there early as it’s popular. Even at 9am on a Saturday it was quite busy although mostly with local kids.

Entrance is 20,000 IDR and there are steep steps to get from the parking area to the falls.

It’s a 25-minute drive from Ubud. If you don’t have your own transport, consider this highly-rated Ubud Spectacular Waterfalls Tour which includes three waterfalls and an optional stop at the rice terraces and jungle swing.

Tegenungan can be combined with the nearby Hidden Canyon .

We didn’t make it down the canyon as it turned out to be more hardcore than we expected—come prepared to clamber rocks and wade through waist-high water. It’s best to hire one of the local guides to show you the way.

The Bali Adventure Tour includes Hidden Canyon, Tegenungan Waterfall, Goa Gajah and Gunung Kawi temples.

16) Tour Bali for a Day

One of the top things to do in Ubud is to hire a driver for the day (from 652,500 IDR) to take you on a temple tour.

We headed north to the temple at Lake Bratan , which we weren’t impressed by. We preferred the much less touristy Pura Luhur Batukau (about 1.5 hours from Ubud). 

I would avoid visiting any coffee plantations—they are touristy and overpriced souvenir shops with caged luwaks (here’s why not to drink gimmicky luwak coffee ) and without much to see.

One of the most popular trips is the highly-rated Bali Instagram Highlights tour to the island’s most scenic spots including temples, waterfalls, and a jungle swing. 

If you have more time, spend a few days travelling in the unspoilt north and western parts of the island—see our off the beaten track Bali road trip for ideas.

17) Visit an Art Gallery

Ubud is a very artsy town. You can visit lots of small studios to buy artwork or bigger art museums to learn about the history of art in Ubud.

I enjoyed the Balinese art at Neka Art Museum the most, although the architecture at the Antonio Blanco Museum was certainly eccentric.

18) Get a Massage

Getting a massage is a popular Ubud activity. It’s not our thing, but if we were to indulge, we’d be tempted by this riverside spa treatment .

I’ve also heard good things about  Cantika (especially the Cantika Zest branch in Penestanan).

Otherwise, you can get no-frills massages all over town for around 100,000 IDR. 

19) Watch a Film

If you’ve been travelling for a while, you might be in need of a movie night. 

Paradiso  is in the centre of Ubud and mostly shows older films, but you can enjoy raw and vegan food while you watch (the 75,000 IDR tickets include 50,000 IDR redeemable against food).

Denpasar Cineplex  is the nearest cinema for the latest releases, but unfortunately, it’s an hour away.

The Executive screen is ultra-comfortable with large reclining seats and only costs 75,000 IDR during the week. 

There are plenty of tacky souvenir shops in Ubud, but there are also high-quality boutiques selling clothes, jewellery, yoga gear, and home furnishings.

You’ll find plenty of options on Hanoman , Goutama , and Monkey Forest Roads .

For cheap clothes and souvenirs, head to the central market on Jalan Raya , but be prepared to bargain.

It can be chaotic, but if you are a shopping fan, it’s one of the best things to see in Ubud.

For delicious jams made from unusual local fruits, go to Confiture de Bali on Goutama street.

Seniman coffee studio is the best place for Balinese coffee beans.

21) White Water Rafting

On our very first trip to Ubud, we went white water rafting on the Ayung River and it was so much fun!

The trip is fairly gentle (it’s usually Class II although expect a more thrilling ride in the rainy season) but you will get wet.

The highlight is the stunning river gorge scenery where you can see waterfalls and monkeys.

Check availability for white water rafting here .

Back to Contents

Public transport is limited in Bali and by far the easiest way to get to Ubud from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) is by taxi.

I recommend booking an airport transfer in advance to avoid dealing with the chaos at the airport.

The drive from the airport takes about 1.5 hours.

• Don’t forget travel insurance —We use SafetyWing (available worldwide) or True Traveller is good for UK and EU residents. Read more about how to buy travel insurance .
• To find accommodation, look on Booking.com for hotels and guesthouses. Or find out how to rent a house in Ubud for longer stays. 
• For flights to Denpasar ( the nearest airport to Ubud) look on Kiwi.com, which offers a lot of flexibility to help you find cheap deals (choose a date range to find the cheapest day to fly).
• Lonely Planet Bali  is my favourite guidebook (I buy the Kindle version). 

I hope you enjoy some of these suggestions on what to do in Ubud.

But remember, if you don’t make it out of your sun lounger overlooking the rice fields, don’t feel guilty. Ubud is best explored at your own pace.

• The Ultimate Guide to Yoga in Ubud
• Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Ubud, Bali
• A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Ubud
• The Cost of Living in Ubud
• Off the Beaten Track Bali Road Trip

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34 Comments

Thanks for sharing your experiences! We went to 3 recommendations of yours, and all were disappointing:

1. The Elephant restaurant was not exceptional, and doesn’t deserve to be in the top 5 restaurants in Ubud. The sampler platter I got was average, and my girlfriends dish has to be returned due to rocks in the rice.

2. The Saraswati temple was a tourist trap in the most dense traffic/tourist zone of Ubud. We drove there seeking peace and refuge, as suggested, and had the opposite experience.

3. The Campuhan Ridge walk was not at all what we thought it would be. The beginning of walk was pretty with jungle and steam, then it became an overly developed strip for tourists to buy stuff, blocking most views of any nature. It is just another commercial zone now.

In addition, all of your links are to 3rd party booking systems, which take high commissions of 25-30% from the local companies. I don’t see how this supports small businesses from a sustainable standpoint, tour companies, etc. Instead, it supports huge global corporate bookings systems that dominate the market.

Booking small companies directly can have a huge impact on their longevity, not to mention there is often more incentive to do so, with a fee more personalized experience.

I hope you keep this in mind, next time you wrote an article.

Reply ↓

Great info, although I recommend booking direct with the Accommodation provider. (I work in the hotels industry and no exactly how it works) The commissions are massive that small businesses have to pay to third party websites. The Accommodation provider will often add incentives like complimentary breakfast/early or late check in/price match or even beat the rate you find on websites like booking.com just to get your business. Travellers, keep it in mind!

fantastic post about Ubud! I am travelling to the east side of Indonesia. It makes me want to go back Ubud to stay for one month.

its quit natural and beautiful believe me every one may like to see himself in these unique place

Thanks for the reminder that you don’t need to pay to have fun? Simple is the best way to go.

Hi, I am thinking of visiting Bali for a volunteer program next year. I want to go from January to March but I read that the rainy season goes from November to March so I wanted to know how rainy it is, does it rain all day or is it cloudy all day? Or does it only rain at night or how is it? I really want to take advantage of my stay there, so I want to make sure it is a good season to visit Bali. Thank you so much, I really enjoy you post!

I would just go. The seasons are all messed up at the moment and we actually found it rained more in the dry season than in the rainy season! It won’t rain all the time and as you are on a extended trip it doesn’t matter so much. You’ll also be visiting at the quietest time of year.

I’m heading to Bali later this week & again in February for a few months.

I am still torn about weather or not to visit the monkey forest. ? I cannot wait to do some yoga there!

Thanks for the tips!

It is a difficult decision. If you would be freaked out if a monkey jumped on you, you might want to skip it. They are a menace!

Your post brings back all the fond memories we have of Ubud! Our first night of our trip earlier this year, we found ourselves in the Ubud Palace, watching the LeGong dance – we were so entranced by Balinese dance, that we watched several other performances over the next few evenings (e.g., Kecak trance and fire “dance”). Because of the culture and all the temples (and the monkeys too). Ubud was our favorite part of Bali.

I’m glad you enjoyed your stay Ann. It’s definitely our favourite place in Bali too.

Just wondering what it is like in Ubud in December both temperature wise and weather-wise. I have read that this is the rainy season but wanted to know what it is really like. Does it rain all day, most days, or does it only rain for an hour everyday at a certain time, etc…..I want to go for a month at this time but not if it is going to be raining steadily for most of the month that I am there. Also, how hot does it get and what is the percentage of humidity? What does it feel like to you? I live in Ontario Canada and in the summer it gets to 30 degrees Celsius with 60% relative humidity and that feels quite hot to me.

Also, did you have to do any travel immunization before you went to Ubud? Is there any health risks that travelers should be aware of? Thanks.

I was really worried about staying in Ubud in December but it was actually fine. It was definitely hotter and more humid than September—about 30ºC and maybe 90% humidity—but it didn’t rain too much, just occasional heavy showers. Obviously, it might be different every year but as Christmas is peak season I can’t see that it’s ever too bad.

You need the standard immunisations for the tropics—typhoid etc. Speak to you doctor about it. Malaria isn’t a problem but dengue can be. All you can do is use bug spray. I’d also consider getting a rabies jab, although they are expensive.

Thanks for such a great guide to Ubud. We arriving to Bali next week and plan to stay in this region for a week so your tips are just in time) We also want to book waterfalls guided tour via The Seven Holiday. Can you reccomend us waterfalls worth to see? Thanks!

Hi. Great post on Ubud. I spent a weekend in Ubud when I was working in North Sulawesi. I tried yoga and visited the rice fields. For the rest of the time, I strolled around town. My latest blog is about my weekend in Bali. I worried that I missed out on mentioning some ‘must-see’ sights in Ubud so I was very happy to find your blog. I would have liked to have seen the waterfalls. You have a great website! Regards from Rose Ann MacGillivray (boomervoice.ca)

We loved climbing Mt Agung through the night to catch the sunrise and whitewater rafting

You are awesome! Congratulations.

This is a really great list of things to do! We rented a motorbike in Koh Lanta but we’re too nervous about the traffic to do it in Bali. One of our favorite things we did in Ubud was water rafting along with the Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Koh Lanta is so much easier to ride a motorbike on than Ubud. Simon was fine as he has a motorbike licence, but I couldn’t face it in Ubud either. We went rafting on our first trip to Ubud years ago. It was rather gentle but the scenery was gorgeous. Glad you have a nice time!

This is a lovely list! It may seem a bit early but I’m thinking of going to Ubud when we visit India in December…. I’m not really sure how many days I will be able to dedicate, but taking a walk through the rice fields is enticing!

When I was in Ubud, I took Bahasa Indonesia classes at the Pondok Pekak Library ( https://www.facebook.com/PondokPekak ), next to the football field. It was a wonderful and fun experience. It really made me connect more with the locals speaking their language (a bit).

I am I love with this place it is incredible and you can do alot of things and is so cheap

Looks awesome! I am hoping to make it to Ubud this year, sounds like a digital nomad paradise from everything I’ve heard so far.

It’s our favourite digital nomad destination—it just beats Chiang Mai which we also love.

Hey Erin – I have heard great things about Chiang Mai as well, hoping to visit there in the same trip. So far I have only passed through SE Asia for a few weeks on the way to Europe for a longer trip, so definitely need to head back for more exploring. I am actually hoping to interview a few digital nomads for my website while I’m in Southeast Asia next – perhaps that’s something you and Simon would be interested in? Would be cool to chat if you’re still about. :)

We’ve actually left Ubud now and are in Vietnam.

Why not add walking along the subak (water irrgation) and planting rice..

Dear Erin and Simon We have just read your latest post and thoroughly enjoyed it. We were in Ubud for about 10 days in January and actually met you while walking down the street, well almost accosted you! Sorry if we surprised you but we were so happy to finally meet you both as you have inspired our travels so much. In our short time there, we did manage to do all on your list except the yoga, movies or the cooking class. We didn’t brave a motorcycle, but did the day downhill cycle tour and also hired bikes the next day and cycled uphill to Pura Gunung Kawi and Tirta Empul Water Temple (thankfully, we are keen cyclists, so didn’t find the hills too bad and needed to work off all the delicious food we ate!). We also really enjoyed the Neka Art Museum, like you, and spent hours in there. The ARMA gallery was a great place to look at art but also wander round the gardens and relax in one of the pavilion cafe. We had a wonderful massage and mandi-lular scrub at The BodyWorks Centre and would certainly recommend that to any of your readers

Anyway, your post is great and glad you enjoyed your 5-month stay. Perhaps we might do that one day, but we have only just started our travels – so too much to see and do to catch you up!

We went to the North coast after Ubud then we headed east and went to Gili Islands. We stayed at Gili Air and ended up staying for 10 days, the reef wasn’t so good as what we saw at Pink Beach near Komodo Island (which was the best we have yet to experience), but the turtles made up for it! Floating with turtles became a new, everyday experience and they seem completely unperturbed by swimmers in the shallows. This did worry us when we saw the small boat fisherman go out with their nets. We are now in Amed waiting for the rain to stop and the sea to value, down so we can do some more snorkelling, as the reef is supposed to be very good here. Helen is also hoping to do a Free-diving course before we both do the 3-day Open Water diving course. We have never tried diving, so thought we would like to experience sea life in the deep and see new and wonderful creatures! We are then flying to Singapore and working our way up through Malaysia (highlands and Coast) and then over to Borneo before a few months home to visit family. We have yet to decide where to go in September – it is hard to decide and we wonder how you must struggle too!

Anyway, keep your posts coming, we love following your travels and reading all about them. Also, great thanks to Simon for the Trail Wallet app, we purchased it before starting the trip and we use it diligently and enjoy tracking our money. So useful for our trip analysis and future planning. Sorry this is more than a ‘comment’, just wanted to drop you a line. Happy travels Jaynie and Helen

It was lovely to meet you both! Thanks for the additional Ubud tips and happy travels!

Wow, how many wonderful places, congratulations on getting to reach them, hopefully one day also get, great pictures congratulations

Thanks for this and keep the Ubud posts coming! It is so easy to just do work with lovely views, go to yoga and fantastic restaurants and forget to go out and “do” anything else! Thanks for the great list and reminder to break out of our Ubud routine.

That’s what we did most of the time and loved it :) Still, there are some things worth doing, and I know you enjoy motorbiking through the countryside as much as we do, and having a goal gets you out and about.

One more post is coming that is full of practical tips for living in Ubud.

Such a lovely post! It brings back so many wonderful memories from my time in Ubud last year, especially the yoga and food.

The yoga and food were my highlights too!

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Home » Travel Guides » Indonesia » 25 Best Things to Do in Ubud (Bali)

25 Best Things to Do in Ubud (Bali)

Ubud is located in the uplands of Bali and is a completely different atmosphere to brash and busy areas like Kuta or Seminyak. This part of the island has long been known as its cultural capital and you will find colorful art galleries, engaging museums, and dainty temples all over the area.

There is also the beautiful Royal Palace in the center of town and all of the cultural attractions are set against valleys and terraces of jade-hued rice fields. Ubud is also the home of some of the finest dining in Bali and there are a wealth of healthy restaurants here serving up vegetarian and vegan fare, or you can head to some of the resorts in the area and enjoy some upscale dining.

Ubud is also close to a range of other famous Balinese attractions like the sacred bathing waters of Tirta Empul, and if you want to experience the best of the culture here then make sure not to miss an elegant Balinese dance performance.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Ubud …

1. Have dinner at Locavore

Locavore is the most famous restaurant in Ubud if not in Indonesia.

Having won a host of awards, this is the place to come if you want to try some of the best fusion food around.

The chefs, Eelke Plasmeijer and Ray Adriansyah cook locally inspired dishes made from food sourced in the area and they serve up tasting menus that can stretch to nine courses.

Meals here usually last upwards of three hours and you can also choose dishes paired with wines to make sure you get the best out of your meal.

Most dishes are fusion based so they mix local elements with foreign techniques.

Famous dishes include smoked catfish and pork shoulder and, needless to say, you will need to book in advance if you are hoping to visit.

2. Enjoy the views at the Campuhan Ridge Walk

If you want to get out and about in Ubud and take in the best of the local scenery then head to the Campuhan Ridge Walk which is located slightly out of town.

The walk will take you through a lush area of gorgeous hills which overlook an exquisite valley and you can meander along the ridge from the pretty starting point of Gunung Lebah Temple.

There is a dedicated path here that you can follow and this is one of the nicest ways to take in some of the less developed areas around Ubud.

3. Admire the Museum Puri Lukisan

Ubud is known for being the cultural capital of Bali and it still has the highest concentration of art galleries on the island.

One of the best museums to visit if you want a slice of the modern arts scene in Ubud is Museum Puri Lukisan where you will find a wide range of art work on show which comes with English language explanations of the history of art in this part of the world.

The museum was the brainchild of Rudolf Bonnet, Walter Spies, and local artist Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati who was a prince and a member of the Royal Family of Ubud.

If you love art, then this is one of the best places to learn all about it, including non-religious art works which can be hard to find in other galleries.

4. Visit Pura Taman Saraswati

This quaint little temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wisdom and art called Dewi Saraswati.

To that end, you will find gorgeous carvings of the goddess all over the building as well as fountains that gush from the front of the temple and fill a large limpid pond area.

The pond is covered in lush lotus blossoms and it is customary to bathe or drink the waters in order to harness some of the power of the goddess.

There are also dance performances held here in the evenings when the temple is illuminated against the night sky and is even more magical than during the day time.

5. Stop for a cup at Coffee Studio Seniman

As a self-styled ‘coffee studio’, this coffee shop is known as one of the best places in Ubud to stop and grab a cup of coffee.

The brews here all come from the region and you can sit in one of the relaxing rocking chairs and enjoy the serene environment.

They take their coffee seriously here and you can enjoy a huge range of beverages including siphon and pour-over and sample some of the best Indonesian beans in the business at the same time.

They also serve food here which is a mix of local and international fare as well as alcoholic drinks in the evenings.

6. Visit Threads of Life Indonesian Textile Arts Center

This gorgeous textile gallery is not to be missed in Ubud and is also part of the Threads of Life charity which helps the local area through the sale of sustainable textiles.

All the pieces here are made using natural dyes and with a range of weaving techniques found around Indonesia.

This means that you can enjoy centuries of handicrafts traditions here and there is an adjacent shop where you can pick up a few of your own pieces as souvenirs of your trip.

If you want to get hands on then you can also join one of the in house textile-appreciation courses.

7. Explore Puri Saren Palace

Puri Saren Agung is also known as the Ubud Royal Palace and is close to the Ubud Art Market so you can easily take in both places at the same time.

It is located in the center of the city and dates from the 1800s when it was built during the reign of Ida Tjokorda Putu Kandel.

The Royal Family still lives in sections of the palace which is also used for ceremonial reasons but you can still walk around the gardens here and enjoy the Balinese ornate architecture.

It is also known as the best place to come in the evenings if you want to take in a traditional Balinese dance performance.

8. Enjoy Museum Rudana

This pretty museum overlooks some lush emerald hued rice fields and belongs to a Balinese politician called Nyoman Rudana and his wife, a fellow art lover called Ni Wayan Olasthini.

The museum spans three floors of art related memorabilia and you will find some 400 pieces which include vivid traditional paintings as well as antique pieces like a calendar that was made in the 1840s.

There are also modern pieces of art here and there is also an adjacent gallery where you can buy your own pieces of Balinese art work.

9. Have lunch at Alchemy Cafe

One of the local legends in Ubud is Alchemy Cafe where you will find some of the best raw and vegan food on the island.

All products are made onsite and you can enjoy plates such as vegan cheesecake and a full salad bar.

As if that wasn’t enough they also make raw vegan chocolate at their in house chocolaterie or you can just enjoy one of the raw pressed juices.

There is also an adjacent health store and a holistic clinic upstairs where you can get a range of beauty treatments.

10. Sample the delights at Gianyar Night Market

The Gianyar Night Market is found a little way outside the center of Ubud but it is well worth visiting if you are looking for something to do in the evening.

The night market is known for its delicious food and you will find a range of typical Balinese snacks such as satay, fried bananas, and dainty little cakes.

There is also the ubiquitous roasted suckling pig for which Bali is famous as well as other items for sale like clothes and toys.

11. Visit Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah means Elephant Cave in Indonesian and is one of the top attractions on the island of Bali.

It sits just outside Ubud in Bedulu Village and is an impressive archaeological wonder made up of a large temple complex.

To get to the cave you will need to walk down a flight of stairs and will then get to a charming courtyard that is the entrance to a cave that is said to date from the 11th century.

Inside the cave you will find a range of cave paintings as well as a small shrine used for meditation, and on the outside you can also enjoy a full Hindu temple complete with a resplendent bathing pool and some gushing fountains.

12. Take a class at the Yoga Barn

Ubud is known for its yoga retreats and one of the best-loved is the Yoga Barn.

Here you will find a range of classes for all different levels of ability and there are five different studios to choose from which have been designed to be open plan, meaning that you can take in the idyllic surroundings at the same time.

You can either come here for a class or stay longer and sign up for a cleansing program which requires a three day commitment.

13. Watch a Legong dance performance

One of the best cultural attractions in Bali is the Legong dance which is based on a legend from East Java that dates from the 12th century.

It is the story of a maiden who was kidnapped and then imprisoned and much of the story is dedicated to telling the tale of how she is freed.

Expect amazing dance moves and hypnotic music and you can watch the dance at a range of venues in and around Ubud such as Puri Saren, Peliatan Village, and Pura Dalem Puri.

14. Take a class at Casa Luna Cooking School

Bali is famous for its food, so if you want to have a go at making some of your own then you need to head to the Casa Luna Cooking School in Ubud.

Not only can you take a cooking class here but you will also get to learn all about the history, culture, and religious beliefs associated with food in Bali, and can then make a variety of Balinese classics.

Each of the traditional ingredients will be explained to you and participants are given recipe cards to take home as well as class notes so that you don’t forget anything you have learned.

Dishes change on a daily basis and you will then sit down and eat the fruits of your labors with all the other class participants.

15. Sample the duck at Bebek Bengil

Another one of Ubud’s most famous restaurants is called Bebek Bengil which translates as the ‘Dirty Duck’. The restaurant backs on to pretty rice paddies and the story goes that when the restaurant was being built a group of ducks waddled through and gave the building its name.

As you would expect, duck features heavily on the men and you can get traditional dishes such as crispy duck rubbed with a Balinese blend of herbs and spices which was first pioneered here in the 1990s, or you can enjoy fusion dishes such as duck salad with melon.

16. Admire the Botanic Garden Ubud

One of the delights of Ubud is that you can find some lovely green spaces in the center of town.

The Botanic Garden was designed by Stefan Reisner, a German journalist who modeled the area on the Royal Garden’s in Berlin using local shrubs to give the gardens their own Balinese identity.

The gardens run over 14 acres and you will find different themed areas as well as some greenhouses and a children’s area.

17. Visit the Agung Rai Museum of Art

The Agung Rai Museum of Art is also known as ARMA and is a gallery and cultural centre rolled into one.

It is the work of Anak Agung Gede Rai and is separated into two buildings which are stuffed with a wide array of art works.

If you want to learn more about the great art scene here and get an overview of the kinds of works produced in Bali then this is a great place to come.

18. Explore Monkey Forest

You can’t come to Ubud and not visit one of its signature attractions which is Monkey Forest.

This is actually a series of three temples that date from the 14th century and sit in a nature reserve which has also been turned into a conservation area.

The complex is now overrun with cute primates, as you would expect from the name, and the monkeys here are said to be spiritual animals that guard the temples.

You can buy bananas to feed the monkeys here but take care with your personal belongings as the monkeys have been known to snatch items like sunglasses from visitors.

19. Go for a spa session at Lembah Spa

Lembah Spa is one of the best spas in Ubud and is located on the majestic Patanu River.

If you really want to pamper yourself then you can choose from treatments that last up to 2 hours and there are even packages available for couples.

Some of the best treatments come with lunch or dinner overlooking the stunning river vistas and you can also swim in the onsite pool.

20. Peruse Neka Art Museum

Neka Art Museum is one of the best museums not only in Ubud but in Bali generally and you will find a huge cross-section of modern and ancient pieces.

The museum aims to tell the story of Balinese art work over the years and also showcases local rising talent.

You will get to learn all about the history of art in Indonesia and you can also find a great mix of pieces including paintings, jewelry, metalwork, and even textiles.

21. Go shopping at Ubud Market

Ubud Market is actually a series of different markets throughout the day and may look familiar as it was used as a location for the film Eat, Pray, Love starring Julia Roberts.

The market sells fruits and vegetables in the morning and in the afternoon you will find arts and crafts pieces on offer which can make great souvenirs.

It gets rather crowded in the afternoons so it is best to get here as early as possible to get the best deals.

22. Blanco Renaissance Museum

The Blanco Renaissance Museum is one of the best-loved spots in Ubud and is the former home and studio of Don Antonio Blanco.

The museum sits on a hill which looks out across jade-colored rice paddies in Campuhan and you will find a great array of art here including paintings, poetry pieces, collages, and even lithographs.

Many of the pieces are modeled on Balinese women and dancers and you can tour the artist’s home which is still run by his descendents.

As well as the museum you can also enjoy an onsite restaurant and wander through the pretty manicured gardens.

23. Enjoy some fine dining at Swept Away Restaurant

If you really want to splurge when you are in Ubud then come to the Swept Away Restaurant which is part of the Samaya Ubud.

The restaurant sits on the river and has a great fusion menu which includes choices like Pulled Chicken in Rice Paper Rolls.

There is also an afternoon tapas menu if you just want to relax here with some light bites or you can have the four course or six course tasting menu in the evening which usually includes plates such as lobster or wagyu beef.

24. Visit the Petulu Heron Colony

The Petulu Heron Colony is a little way out of Ubud but is a great place to come if you are looking for an interesting day trip.

This little village is known for the herons that fly in every evening to settle down in the trees for the night, and there is a slightly eerie feel to the proceedings as the birds are meant to be sacred and represent the souls of the dead.

Still, if you like wildlife then this interesting natural spectacle is a must-see in the Ubud area.

25. Walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Another attraction not to be missed in Ubud is a trip to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

These were created as a result of an irrigation technique called ‘subak’ which creates a stepped landscape and you can visit the terraces after a short drive to the outskirts of Ubud.

Some of the activities here include walking around the terraces and you can even learn how to plant and harvest rice.

There are also some souvenir stands here and it is best to visit in the morning or late afternoon as the sun can be fierce in the middle of the day.

Many people who visit Ubud consider a trip out here to be the highlight of their holiday in Bali .

25 Best Things to Do in Ubud (Bali):

• Have dinner at Locavore
• Enjoy the views at the Campuhan Ridge Walk
• Admire the Museum Puri Lukisan
• Visit Pura Taman Saraswati
• Stop for a cup at Coffee Studio Seniman
• Visit Threads of Life Indonesian Textile Arts Center
• Explore Puri Saren Palace
• Enjoy Museum Rudana
• Have lunch at Alchemy Cafe
• Sample the delights at Gianyar Night Market
• Visit Goa Gajah
• Take a class at the Yoga Barn
• Watch a Legong dance performance
• Take a class at Casa Luna Cooking School
• Sample the duck at Bebek Bengil
• Admire the Botanic Garden Ubud
• Visit the Agung Rai Museum of Art
• Explore Monkey Forest
• Go for a spa session at Lembah Spa
• Peruse Neka Art Museum
• Go shopping at Ubud Market
• Blanco Renaissance Museum
• Enjoy some fine dining at Swept Away Restaurant
• Visit the Petulu Heron Colony
• Walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Top 30 Things to Do Around Ubud

The most epic things to do in ubud from hiking adventures to crafting with local artisans.

Ubud is known by many for its rice fields and yoga retreats, but we love it because it’s the perfect mix of epic adventures and heartfelt experiences. Ubud is also the perfect base for day trips such as exploring Mount Batur volcano, hidden waterfalls and authentic East Bali.

You can spend 5 days or two weeks in Ubud and you won’t be bored!

Things to Do in Ubud

Explore gorgeous rice paddies.

One of the most special sights in Ubud is the rice paddy fields that surround the town. We don't love the Bali swing as it feels incredibly touristy. So if you're like us and are looking for a more authentic way to explore the paddy fields other than the jungle swing, we'd highly recommend a bicycle tour instead. Here you'll get to see the more remote rice paddies and local villages, and really experience the local way of life.

Take Part in a Purification Ceremony

For the Balinese, the Melukat ceremony is a way to purify the mind, body and soul while seeking blessings from the gods and ancestral spirits. You don't have to be religious or spiritual to find meaning in this ritual. You can just enjoy the peace of being in nature. Pura Tirta Empul Temple is the most famous place for Melukat, but if you are looking for something a bit more off-grid and authentic, check out this one instead.

Enjoy Sunset on Campuhan Ridge Walk

You can wear your flip flops for this relaxing stroll! The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a mellow, mostly paved hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding rice paddies and forests. It's easy to get to and even easier to navigate, all on your own. Best time to come is in the evening to enjoy the gorgeous sunset skies.

Admire the Beauty of Saraswati Temple

Although it can be a little hectic and it's most certainly not a hidden gem, the Saraswati Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess, is a must see spot in Ubud. The gorgeous lotus pond gives the place a peaceful vibe even with many tourists milling around.

Stop by Serayu Pot for Hand Made Gifts

We love Serayu Pot for its cozy and bright aesthetic as well as the story. This pottery studio and shop was started by a local artist who wanted to find a way to make enough money to send his kids to school. You may not have the time to make your own piece, but you can browse the shop to pick up a beautiful hand made terracotta pot or Balinese style painting. All for a good cause!

Watch Macaques Play in Sacred Monkey Forest

Whether you choose to go to Ubud monkey forest or not will depend on your tolerance for cheeky monkeys. If you can stand a bit of chaos, it can still be an interesting experience to wonder through this thick, jungle like natural reserve and watch the thousands of long tailed macaques play. Empty your pockets and bags of food before you come - otherwise they’ll be all over you!

Swing by Seniman for a Cup of Coffee

Seniman Coffee is an Ubud based, vertically integrated specialty coffee brand that elevates Indonesian beans to new heights. In addition to making tasty coffee, they also invest a lot in training and up-skilling local baristas and roasters. If you are planning an off-grid adventure and need good coffee to come with you, we highly recommend to pick up a box of their single use coffee drips!

Get Kitschy at the Ubud Art Market

Although a little kitschy and at times touristy, the Ubud Art Market is still a fun spot to wonder the stalls, hunting for souvenirs and gifts to take home. Here, you'll find a wide range of traditional Balinese textiles, wood carvings, and the occasional dream catcher and unicorn figurine.

Surprise Your Taste Buds at Locavore

Locavore is basically the Noma of Indonesia, but at a fraction of Noma's prices. It's one of our favourite restaurants in Bali because it really showcases the creativity of Balinese chefs and highlights local ingredients in a really surprising way. Imagine butter but without dairy and entirely made out of fishbones?! Come here for a really special experience.

Feel the Vibes at Goa Gajah Temple

Step right up and be swallowed up by the demonic, gaping mouth of the Goa Gajah Temple. The menacing entrance to the temple also known as Elephant Cave, leads to a small carved from stone chamber. Imagine what it would have been like to be a Hindu priest in the 14th century meditating here day in and day out!

Learn About Unique Flavours of Bali

The flavours in Bali will leave you wondering what makes food here so bold and fragrant. The Bali Farm Cooking School offers hands-on lessons that will teach you how to make local dishes using fresh, organic ingredients grown on the school's farm. Perhaps the best part of the experience is visiting the local market where you get to see the colorful local vibes and pick up ingredients for the meal.

Learn the Balinese Art of Batik

Ubud is traditional the artistic hub of Bali, with local artisan villages all based around here. These days it's hard to find an authentic artisan in Ubud as they've all decamped to nearby villages that are cheaper.

One of the remaining artist studios, nestled by green jungle vibes, teaches the traditional art of Batik. This elegant fabric painting by wax and dye is an ancient Indonesian tradition. Making a piece of your own at Five Art Studio will give you a glimpse of how intricate and time consuming this practice can be.

Make Yummy Tempeh

Did you know that tempeh was on the agenda at the G20 Meeting in 2022? This native Indonesian food, extremely dense in nutrients, is the sustainable food of the future that promises to feed the growing global population. Get ahead of the curve and learn how to make and prepare this delicious delicacy from the experts!

Design Jewellery with a Local Silversmith

Want to take home something a little more special than just a souvenir you picked up at a local market? How about making your own piece of silver jewellery! Ubud is famous for its silversmiths and spending a few hours in a cozy studio, while you make a ring or a pendant is a great way to learn more about this craft.

Experience Yoga with a View

You've probably heard of yoga in a studio and most likely practiced it at home, but have you ever tried yoga outside with an amazing view? Pranasanti Yoga can lead yoga sessions anywhere around Ubud - from forests with waterfalls to your own private villa. Their instructors are super patient and great with beginners and even advanced students.

Make Your Own Balinese Offering

Wonder what's the deal with all the tiny flower trays scattered on the pavements through out Bali? You can take a workshop where you can learn all about the significance of the offering to Balinese culture as well as make one yourself. If you wish, you can even wear the traditional garb that Balinese women wear when they make the offerings!

Spiritual Guidance from a Healer

The Balinese have a long and sacred tradition of consulting healers in a time of need or change, seeking spiritual wisdom from an elder. This tradition has come to wider attention with the film Eat Pray Love, which has also brought about a lot of hacks. After searching far and wide, we have found Jero, a genuine healer that continues the authentic practice, spiritually advising both locals and travellers.

Learn about Traditional Farming

Bali has ancient but modern day relevant farming techniques that take into account sustainability. By joining a workshop on a local farm you will see how traditional tractors and plows are used and get hands on in the harvest process. At the end, you will be able to prepare a dish with locally grown ingredients.

Craft Your Own Bamboo Furniture

As you travel around Bali you will notice bamboo being used in everything from food to building materials. At Bamboo Creative , you can work with local craftsman that will teach you all about the importance of bamboo to the Balinese home and you can even craft your own piece of bamboo furniture!

Cool Day Trips from Ubud

Experience sunrise on mount batur.

Is it worth waking up in the middle of the night to see the sunrise atop Mount Batur? YES!! You will not regret the early wake up and the night time trek as you watch the sun illuminate Mount Agung and Mount Abang. But if you are really can't be bothered that early, there are other ways to experience Mount Batur, such as taking a jeep!

Learn more about the Mount Batur trek here .

Taste Sunstainably Grown Coffee

Not all cups of coffee are created equally. If you really want to taste the best and learn more about this globally beloved crop, visit a sustainable coffee farm. Bali Beans is a family owned enterprise which only grows organic beans and works to elevate the local community as well as the status of Balinese beans as it sends them around the world.

Head to Gorgeous Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida with its dramatic landscapes, small winding roads and farming community is known for being like Bali 20 years ago. The most popular way to see this island off the coast of Bali is to do a day trip that usually covers all the IG-famous spots via car, followed by a snorkelling boat trip to see Manta Rays and other amazing sea life.

Feel the Epic Sekumpul Waterfalls

Sekumpul is the biggest and most impressive waterfall in Bali. Standing at the base of it as two large and constant streams of water come barreling down, it's hard not to be in awe of how powerful nature is. There are several ways to trek down to the bottom of the waterfalls, but anyway you take, it will make for a mild lush jungle trek.

Buggy Ride Through Villages of Munduk

Have you ever heard of the Fin Komodo? No, it's not the lizard! It's a locally produced off-road vehicle, similar to an ATV or buggy. And it's perfect for exploring jungles, villages and finding hidden waterfalls in Munduk. You won't regret the 2 hour drive from Ubud for this fun adventure !

Discover Untouched Sidemen

Sidemen is a sleepy small town that can be described as Ubud before Eat Pray Love. Sidemen is best for a quiet, back to nature stay or a day trip to walk through the rice paddies. If you have more time, there's also a super quaint silversmith shop that is worth a visit to make yourself a unique piece of jewelry.

Canoe on Gorgeous Tamblingan Lake

Lake Tamblingan is a hidden gem in the heart of the Bali Barat National Park. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by dense forests and verdant hills. One of the highlights of the lake, is the Ulun Danu Tamblingan Temple which is perched right on the bank. The best ways to experience it is by canoe.

Discover Local Balinese Wine

If you were not expecting to find locally made wine in Bali, you are not alone. We chanced upon Sababay Winery by accident and discovered that they have a noble mission of empowering local farmers to get better returns for their grape harvests. Knowing that you are helping the local farmers makes the picnic wine down in a lush garden that much sweeter!

Hike Mt Agung, Holliest Mountain in Bali

This is one of the most challenging climbs in Bali, but also one of the most rewarding. At 3031 meters, Mt. Agung is the tallest peak in Bali, as well as the most active volcano and most sacred to the local people. Suitable if you do regular cardio, or are an intermediate hiker as this requires a 8-10 hours climb time.

Mud Wrestle Like the Locals

This is a super cool way to understand local Balinese culture, and immerse in their traditional practices. Here you'll to try Mepatingan , a uniquely Balinese martial art which takes place in the rice paddy mud. Once you've had an exiting tumble in the mud with your friends and family, you can enjoy a mud sauna, a coffee scrub and a cup of java followed by a delicious local lunch!

White Water Rafting

If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, head to nearby Ayung River for white water rafting. The river is nestled in the jungle and you’ll be immersed in beautiful nature views. Ayung River is popular because it’s beginner-friendly - it’s a good way to get out in nature and have fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

Ubud in Bali , Indonesia is made popular by Eat, Pray, Love , but there’s so much more to Ubud than yoga classes and rice fields . Ubud is the beating cultural and spiritual hub of Bali . Here you’ll find gorgeous nature, adventure, temples, spiritual experiences and a rich artists culture.

The top things for us to do here are: farm-to-table cooking class , learn about local spiritual practices such as Melukat (purification ceremony), visit a local village to learn about the Balinese approach to sustainability, crafting with master artisans and day trips to the adventurous North Bali and sleepy, authentic East Bali .

If you’re interested in tourist attractions, there are a number of sights within Ubud you can rent a motorbike or get a local travel guide to take you on day trip - such as the more touristed Ubud art market and Ubud monkey forest .

As for day trips , you can also do white water rafting nearby on the Ayung river , do an early morning hike at Mount Batur and ATV in the jungle nearby. We’d highly recommend a day trip to adventurous Munduk or sleepy East Bali .

Ubud is definitely the best place to base yourself for sightseeing as most of the activities are nearby here.

We would recommend at least 4 clear days if you’re pressed for time, but ideally you would spend a week here. With a week, you’ll get enough time to explore Ubud and its surrounds to get a real feel for the place. 4 clear days means that you land on day 0, and you leave on day 5!

Ubud is about 2.5 hours drive from the airport, and even getting out of Ubud central to go to nearby rice terraces such as e.g. Tegalalang rice terraces, could be a 40-60 minutes drive. S o you do need to factor in the travel time when deciding how long to spend here.

Here’s how you can spend your time in and around Ubud:

• Day 1: Hire a local guide / driver for a day tour to take you around Central Ubud and nearby spots for sightseeing . During this day you’ll cover the usual tourist attractions such as Tegallalang Rice Terrace , waterfalls such as Tibumana and Kanto Lampo waterfall, Tirta Empul Temple and Ubud Monkey Forest . In the evening if you still want more, you can head to Ubud palace to see the traditional kecak dance performance . After this first day, you’d have seen all the touristed spots!
• Day 2: Head to Mount Batur for a easy beginner-friendly hike up Bali ’s most popular volcano. If you don’t like hiking you can also take a jeep up. After your hike, you should add-on a visit to Trunyan village - Bali ’s oldest village with a magic tree. If you prefer a bigger hiking challenge, we’d recommend hiking Mount Agung , Bali ’s tallest and most sacred volcano.
• Day 3: Experience crafting with local artisans. You can stay in Ubud and learn Batik (a traditional balinese art ), or you can do a half day trip out to nearby Sidemen to learn jewellery making from a silversmith family who has been crafting for generations. We’d highly recommend Sidemen as you’ll get to see what Ubud was like before mass tourism. In the evening, we’d recommend having dinner in a local village to learn about the local way of life in an authentic and heartfelt way.
• Day 4: If you'd like more nature, do a cycling tour around the rice fields in the morning. Or you can do a farm-to-table cooking class with a visit to a local market and organic farm to really experience the heart of Balinese sourcing and cooking. In the evening, head to a local warung for dinner or to Nusantara or Locavore (upmarket restaurants that are some of the best in Bali ).
• Day 5 (Optional): If you’re interested in wellness , we’d highly recommend doing a purification ceremony and visiting a healer in Bali . The Balinese spiritual vibes are strong and it’s difficult to fully understand Balinese culture without understanding the deep spirituality underlying it. If you like yoga, you can head to the famous yoga barn , but we prefer getting a private yoga teacher for a more personal experience.

If it’s your first time in Bali and you’d like to explore the beaches, you can also spend 4 days in Ubud and 3 days down south in Canggu , Seminyak and Denpasar to experience beach and surf culture. Note that there are no beaches or clubs in Ubud so you’ll need to head down south for that.

Yes! Ubud is one of the best places in Bali (and even Asia!) to visit as a solo traveller, and especially if you're a female solo traveller as it's incredibly safe here. There are no clubs in Ubud so it's rare to encounter drunk and rowdy behaviour (that you might encounter in South Bali e.g. Seminyak and Kuta), and it's perfectly safe to walk the streets alone even when it gets dark. The Balinese are incredibly hospitable and helpful, and speak excellent English so if you ever need help you can turn to the locals.

As with travelling anywhere in the world, low risk doesn't mean zero risk. So do have your wits about you - don't walk around with your bag wide open, clutch your bag to you at all times and don't leave valuable items unattended. Ubud is safer than most cities around the world, so you don't need to be hyper vigilant but just keep your wits about you and it'll be fine!

As for things to do there, there are so many things to do in Ubud as a solo traveller. We'd highly recommend taking a guided tour (but a non-cheesy one!) and seeking out experiences where you'll interact with the locals so you'll get to see how truly hospitable the Balinese are. You'll be on your own but we promise you'll never feel alone here in Bali .

More Field Notes finds

15 Best Things To Do in Ubud, Bali

Located in the center of beautiful Bali lies the popular art city of Ubud. Surrounded by stunning rice terraces, countless waterfalls, yoga retreats, and the towering Mount Batur, it’s one of the most incredible locations on the island. Everyone spends their time differently here, from relaxing in an eco-retreat and exploring the lush nature to visiting holy water temples. Spend a few days of your Bali itinerary in the heart of the island, and discover all the best things to do in Ubud.

Things to do in Ubud, Bali

The creative and cultural hub of Ubud lies in the center of the island, known for its beautiful green rice paddies and lush jungles. It’s one of the most sought-after locations, with many people visiting for the city’s incredible natural scenery and peaceful surrounding atmosphere.

Swim in natural pools under tall waterfalls, roam through the surrounding green lands, and discover the impressive Balinese culture by visiting the area’s temples. There are many things to do in Ubud, Bali. 

Tip: Ubud also makes a good location to base yourself in Bali, as it’s easy to visit other incredible places such as mountainous Munduk , Mount Batur , lush Sidemen , or the bustling Canggu .

Hotels in Ubud 😴

1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Rise and shine early to visit one of the most magical valleys of Bali, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. Here, countless layers of rice fields spread across the hills, lined by the island’s luscious jungles. Visit when the sun’s barely risen, covering the fields in beautiful light.

The valley lies an easy 20-minute drive north of Ubud and is a great place to wander around for an hour or two. Walk through the lush paddies and explore the different levels, taking in the stunning views of the area as you go. Make sure to bring your camera, as you’ll surely want to snap some pictures on your route! 

Here are all your hotel options in Ubud.

Keep in mind that these are active farming lands; respect the workers and stay on the paths throughout the entire valley. On the outskirts, you’ll find the iconic jungle swings and plenty of small cafes, both with stunning views over the rice terraces.

See tickets and availability for a private tour of Ubud

Due to its popularity, it’s best to visit the terraces in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the bigger crowds. The entrance is easily located on the side of the road, from where you’ll walk down into the valley towards the Tegalalang rice terraces.

Read more about: visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, Bali

2. The Holy Spring Water of Pura Tirta Empul

Pura Tirta Empul is a sacred temple complex known for its holy spring water, fresh from the ground. The water here is believed to have healing powers, making it a popular place amongst locals and tourists looking to cleanse themselves in the pools.

 If you’d like to join in with this important purification ritual, dip your head under the 30 different stations, moving from left to right. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water, and lies about half an hour from Ubud. Entrance to the temple costs 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD). 

See availability for a Shamanic healing tour to Tirta Empul

Apart from the holy water pools, you can explore the other beautiful structures of the complex, from golden shrines to courtyards. The temple also organizes several ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, offering you a glimpse into the rich Balinese culture. 

Tip: Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, so nearly every temple provides sarongs to use inside the complex. Be mindful of the temple’s sacred nature and join in with its peaceful quietness.

3. Ancient Bali: Pura Gunung Kawi

Pura Gunung Kawi is an archeological site in Bali known for its ancient temple complex. About 1000 years ago, these temples and houses were carved out of rocks as people didn’t know how to construct the buildings. It’s believed to be one of the oldest and largest monuments on the island! 

The 7-meter-high shrines cut out of the rock give a unique glimpse into Balinese architecture of the past. Walk down a long flight of stairs to reach the lush river valley below to admire these ancient remnants, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding rice paddies. Pura Gunung Kawi lies about 20 minutes outside of Ubud and costs 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD) to enter.

4. Monkey Forest Ubud

One of the best things to do in Ubud is to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Ubud Monkey Forest . Located in the center of town, you’ll find a beautiful park without a fence, where loads of monkeys spend their day. Though, even if you don’t like the monkeys, the park makes a must-do in Ubud for its grand rainforest and beautiful walkways alone.

Escape the buzz of the town and delve into a natural oasis full of stunning temples, serene rivers, ancient trees, and hundreds of cheeky monkeys. This is a great place to observe the animals up close and watch as they interact with one another. Expect to spend about 2 hours here, walking around the park. The entrance fee is 50,000 IDR (3,30 USD). Alternatively, book a combo tour of Ubud’s most popular sites, including the Monkey Forest.

The Monkeys 

Since the monkeys roam freely here, it’s a wonderful opportunity to see the animals in their natural surroundings. Hundreds of long-tailed grey macaques roam around the Ubud Monkey Forest, and since there are no fences, the monkeys happily live here by choice. 

They’re not really interested in you but always remember that they’re wild animals, so make sure to stick to the park’s rules. This is a must-do on any Bali itinerary . 

Read more: The complete guide to the Ubud Monkey Forest

5. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Around sunset, go on a beautiful hike over Campuhan Ridge. This 2-kilometer trail lies close to the center of Ubud and is the perfect way to end a day full of sightseeing. While you peacefully wind down, take in the panoramic views of the surrounding jungle-covered hills of Ubud, Bali. 

The trail starts at the Campuhan Bridge, next to the Pura Gunung Lebah temple, where the two rivers meet. From there, you can follow the trail as it winds through lush scenery, rice paddies, and small villages. This is a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, and you’ll see people walking their dogs, going for a run, or taking lovely pictures. Walking the trail is a free thing to do in Ubud.

6. Visit the Waterfalls

Bali is known to have some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia , with many of them located in the center of the island. Because of this, chasing waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Ubud to experience the beauty of the island’s natural surroundings.

Wear comfortable shoes to walk down the steep (sometimes slippery) paths towards the falls, and spend a few hours swimming in the refreshing mountain streams.

Kanto Lampo 

The Kanto Lampo waterfall, about 40 minutes outside of Ubud, is a huge beautiful wall of water and a popular one to climb up on. Locals like to hang around here on the weekends, swimming in the small pool area in front of the rocks. Take your time at this beautiful spot; jump in the water, enjoy a relaxing swim, and shower under the falls. 

This is a popular waterfall in Bali, so we recommend visiting on a weekday when there’ll be fewer people. From the parking lot, it’s only a 3-minute walk down.

Read more: The best waterfalls in Bali

Tibumana Waterfall 

Only 15 minutes further from Kanto Lampo lies the secluded and powerful Tibumama waterfall. After an easy walk down, you’ll be rewarded with refreshing water to cool off in. However, be careful, as the force of the falling water is usually very strong here. The entrance to the waterfall is 10,000 IDR (0,65 USD). 

Tegenungan Waterfall

The Tegenungan waterfall is the closest waterfall to Ubud, located just a 15-minute drive away. It’s known for its 15-meter-tall stream that flows over a cliff, plummeting into a large pool below.

To get to the falls, you’ll have to walk down a steep flight of stairs. Once there, enjoy the fresh spray of the water and the lush surroundings. There are a few viewpoints around the waterfall, offering a different look at the natural scenery. The entrance to the waterfall is 15,000 IDR (1 USD). 

Good to know: Bali has a big problem with trash. Try to be mindful of your surroundings and the environment, and clean up after yourself. Learn more about sustainable travel .

Book a day tour to multiple falls in Ubud here

7. Goa Gajah, Elephant Cave

Don’t worry – no elephants or animal abuse here! This small temple, with a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture, features an elephant statue carved into the rock’s face instead. 

Goa Gajah is an impressive meditation cave and an important cultural site in Bali, made entirely by hand. It’s easy to get there from Ubud, as it lies only 6 kilometers south of the city. Admire all the intricate carvings and learn more about Bali’s history while you make your way across the grounds. 

Tickets: Entrance costs 50,000 IDR (3.30 USD) per person, and you can borrow a sarong for free near the ticket counter inside.

8. Ubud Water Palace

In the center of Ubud’s town, surrounded by water and beautiful pink lotus flowers, lies the Hindu water palace, the Saraswati temple. It’s dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, arts, and learning and makes a must-do in Ubud, Bali . Explore the temple grounds, admiring the different shrines, statues, and water gardens.

 You’ll find the temple hidden behind Starbucks, with its intricate carvings and beautiful pavilions sticking out above the other buildings. If you can, revisit at night when dance performances are often held. The entrance to the temple is free.

9. Tubing or White Water Rafting

Tubing and white water rafting are two very popular things to do in Ubud. Whether you’re solo or together with a group, you’ll mingle with the rest during these adventurous activities. Going down the Ayung River is a great and exciting experience – we loved tubing with our friends! You can book this tour directly through our friend Yande below.

Float down gently in a large inflatable tube, allowing the river to guide you while you enjoy the stunning scenery. Or, navigate the river on an inflatable raft with an experienced guide, tackling the river rapids as they change class. Both tours usually take about 6 hours (8 AM – 2 PM) and cost between 445,000 IDR (30 USD) and 600,000 IDR (40 USD).

See tickets and availability for a white water rafting tour in Ubud

10. Relax at a Pool Bar

After your day of thrilling activities and a dose of natural gems, relax and unwind at one of the many pool bars in Ubud, Bali. The incredible views over the city’s lush rice paddies and surrounding forests make this a popular activity to do in town. A few of our favorite bars with a pool in Ubud were: 

• Wanna Jungle Pool
• Kelapa Muda Ubud Pool Bar
• Folk Pool & Gardens
• Jungle Fish

Sip on a refreshing drink while you soak in an infinity pool overlooking the gorgeous river valley below. Many pools have loungers, sunbeds, and umbrellas, making it an ideal spot for a break to soak up the sun.

11. Shop at the Ubud Art Market

Every day in the heart of town, you’ll find the vibrant and popular Ubud Market. Depending on the time you visit during the day, you can find different products here.

The traditional market is in full swing from 3 AM till 8 AM, where lots of veggies and meat are sold. However, at 9 AM, the market changes to the lively Art Market, where you can find everything from handbags and kitchenware to decorations and souvenirs.

It’s here where the ‘Ubud bag’ comes from, now a worldwide fashion item. As a result, every shop sells these pretty bags. Take your time as you stroll through the busy alleys, admiring all the different handmade crafts and local artworks. 

Good to know: They’re currently (2023) working on rebuilding the Ubud Market, so most vendors have temporarily moved to the Ubud Central Parking Lot in the nearby Sambahan area.

Visit the Art Market on this combi tour of Ubud

12. Ubud Rice Fields Walk

One of the lesser-known things to do in Ubud is to go on the relaxing rice field walk. This 45-minute route runs across a path between the stunning rice fields and farms outside Ubud, Bali. Though it’s right in the center of town, it’s not very well known as it lies hidden between all the other highlights of Ubud. Here’s the exact route .

Soak up Ubud’s tranquil beauty and stunning natural surroundings while you make your way across the path. Walking between the rice fields offers a chance to connect with the local culture and learn more about the Balinese agriculture traditions. 

Dinner between the rice fields 

While en route through the Ubud rice fields, stop halfway to have a delicious dinner at Sari Organik or Sweet Orange Restaurant. Both of these restaurants are in the best dinner spot in Ubud, with incredible views over the lush rice paddies. Enjoy local classics such as Nasi Goreng while you watch the green fields turn into a golden orange during sunset. 

Also read: The best things to do in Amed, Bali

13. Stay at a Bamboo House

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the jungle-covered hills or a private villa with a pool overlooking lush rice terraces, there’s no limit to accommodation options in Ubud, Bali. For a unique experience, spend a few nights in a bamboo house in Bali tucked between the diverse landscapes of central Bali. 

More about the best bamboo houses in Bali .

From cozy budget-friendly cabins to grand works of art capable of housing big groups of friends, there’s a bamboo house for everyone. These incredible hotels are known for their open-air concepts, gorgeous details, and perfect hanging nets that look out over the stunning surroundings. Built only with natural resources, they make the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s busier towns. 

14. Hike up Mt. Batur

Hike to the top of the sacred volcano of Mount Batur to be rewarded with incredible 360-degree views over Bali. It rises high above the surrounding landscapes, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. Look out onto beautiful pink and orange clouds that float far below or watch how endless valleys lie between the island’s green jungles.

The relatively easy hike requires an early start, with most tour companies picking you up around 2 AM. This leaves plenty of time to drive to the trailhead and trek up the mountain for sunrise. Depending on your fitness level, reaching the summit takes roughly two hours, making it a 4-hour round-trip journey.  

Tip: You can also visit Pinggan, a rural farming village on a mountain ridge with many viewpoints overlooking Mount Batur. Here, you’ll see some spectacular views of the mountain instead. This is a relaxed morning alternative to the two-hour hike up Mount Batur.

Guided Tour 

It’s required to hire a local guide or book a tour to get up the mountain. Although it’s generally very safe (the last eruption was over 20 years ago) and easy, a tour takes all the hassle out of the experience. Your guide will collect you from your accommodation, provide useful equipment, and tell you their expert local knowledge. Breakfast and a nice cup of hot coffee at the summit are also included!

Tip: Wear warm layers and good hiking shoes, and make sure you bring plenty of water and some snacks.

15. Join a Cooking Class

Indonesians have an incredibly delicious and unique cuisine, making it a must-try when visiting the country. Learn more about the Balinese culture and the island’s traditional cooking methods by joining a cooking class in Ubud. 

Start with a visit to the local market, where you’ll pick up all the ingredients needed for the dishes you’ll be making later on. An experienced chef will share the secrets of great Balinese food and guide you in making delicious authentic meals. This is a fantastic opportunity to try new foods. Moreover, you’ll bring home a new culinary skill set – the perfect souvenir!

See availability for a traditional cooking class in Ubud

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Ubud, Bali

From colorful ‘Bali bowls’ full of fresh fruit to tasty Nasi Goreng or Gado Gado, there are many authentic Indonesian dishes to try in Bali. Because of its popularity, you’ll find many great warungs (family restaurants) and international restaurants in Ubud. A few of our favorites are:

• Kebun bistro (Mediterranean)
• Warung Pondok Madu (great Indonesian food)
• Lazy Cats Cafe

Spend your days hopping around the island’s center, discovering cute cafes, and trying different dishes.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Though Ubud makes a great day trip destination, the surrounding rivers, rice field views, and jungle vibes also make it an amazing spot to spend a few days. There are some beautiful and affordable hotels in Ubud and the surrounding villages, as well as a great choice of hostels .

Stay in the center of Ubud if you’re looking to do some shopping and want to be close to most restaurants. Choose the village of Penestanan for more tranquility, or spend your days lounging in a beautiful bamboo villa in the lush region of Tegalalang.

Read: The best places to stay in Bali

How Many Days in Ubud?

A minimum of 3 – 4 days is plenty to fully experience what the bustling central town of Ubud has to offer. This way, you’ll have enough time to explore the beautiful temples, lush rice paddies, waterfalls, and other natural gems, as well as experience the local culture. Though many travelers also use it as a base to explore other locations on the island. 

Also read: 3-week Bali itinerary

How to Visit Ubud

Ubud lies a 1-hour drive from Bali’s International Airport and visitor favorites Canggu and Seminyak . However, the roads are busy, so it usually takes a little longer. 

Rent a car or motorcycle, book a tour, or arrange a private car or taxi to get to the lively center of Ubud. A slightly more affordable option is to book a shared van from the airport, which leaves several times a day. 

There’s also a public bus that operates between Denpasar and Ubud, meant to decrease the number of on-road vehicles. The Teman Bus runs daily from 5 AM to 7 PM, and you can book tickets through their app.

Getting Around

The town of Ubud is very walkable, with many incredible things to do in the center. Most roads are one-way because it can get quite crowded, especially in the high season with lots of people visiting. 

Ubud’s central location is also very convenient if you’re looking to explore the stunning surrounding areas. Within an hour or two, you can be swimming under waterfalls, rafting on strong river currents, or hiking up the grand Mount Batur for beautiful sunrise views.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Bali trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

By Motorbike

If you’re an experienced driver, you can travel around Ubud by motorbike. Wind your way through lush rice fields and over streets lined with palms as you explore the surrounding regions. The roads in Bali are relatively good, and motorbike rental costs about 50,000 – 100,000 IDR (3 – 7 USD) per day. 

Book your scooter rental in advance

By Private Driver or Tour

Private drivers in Bali are a great option if you don’t want the hassle of organizing your own travel. Decide where you want to go and what you want to see, and your driver can make it happen! Alternatively, book a guided tour which usually includes several points and a local guide. 

How Much Does Ubud Cost?

Though it’s a popular tourist destination, Ubud can be very affordable depending on where you stay and eat. There are many well-priced accommodations in and around town, and a full plate of delicious food can cost you as little as 2 USD at a local warung. Prices may be slightly higher during the high season (June – August). 

Costs of Traveling in Ubud

Travel on a budget in Ubud, from $100 − $180 USD weekly per person, mid-range $390 − $1050 USD, and high-end from $930 − $1440 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $20 − $100 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $5 − $15 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $3 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $50 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $2 − $40 USD
• Activities: $2 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit Ubud, Bali 

The best time to visit Bali is between May and July and September and October when the weather is good, and the island sees less rain. However, this is also the busiest time in Bali as it’s when most people visit.

Ubud is a great destination throughout the year, except when Bali’s rainy (green) season comes (December – February). Weather-wise, Ubud is best visited between June and September when the days are warm but the nights much cooler.

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Tegalalang Rice Terrace at Ubud, Bali

Indonesia travel guide: the ultimate itinerary to bali, java & flores, nusa penida tour: the perfect day trip from bali.

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Ubud Travel Guide: 31 Best Things To Do In Ubud Bali

This Ubud travel guide is the culmination of our many years spent exploring the artistic and cultural center of Bali island. No trip to Indonesia would be complete without a visit to Ubud Bali!

This town and tourist hotspot is full of interesting markets, palaces, jungles, and temples to see, and of course lots of great cafes, restaurants, and comfy luxury hotels. It has all the sights and charms of Balinese culture.

After you’ve exhausted all of the top things to do in Ubud, there are even more waterfalls and rice terraces to see in the nearby areas of Tegalalang, Gianyar, and Bangli, which can be reached in 15-30 minutes.

Here’s my Ubud travel guide, with a list of some of the very best things to do in Ubud Bali!

Table of Contents show 1) Where To Stay 2) Where Is Ubud Bali? 3) How To Get Around Ubud Bali 4) Best Things To Do In Ubud Bali 5) Ubud Temples 6) Ubud Waterfalls 7) Other Top Things To Do Near Ubud 8) Ubud Bali Itinerary 9) Is Ubud Safe? 10) When To Visit Ubud Bali 11) More Bali Travel Tips 12) Ubud Hotels 13) Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental

Where To Stay

The Kayon Resort

Adiwana Unagi Suites

Pondok Serayu

Umah Dajane Guesthouse

Where Is Ubud Bali?

First things first — where is Ubud Bali located?

Ubud is located in the highlands of the Gianyar regency, in the heart of Bali, Indonesia. It’s about 40 kilometers north of the Bali airport, which is a 1 hour drive.

The main Ubud tourist area is concentrated near the Ubud town center, which is packed with hotels, restaurants, markets, activities, and attractions like the Bali Monkey Forest.

However, the areas surrounding Ubud (like Tegalalang, Gianyar, and Bangli) also have some nice accommodation, and there are lots of waterfalls , temples , rice terraces, and other things waiting to be explored.

The best things to do in Ubud Bali include markets, palaces, and rice terraces.

How To Get Around Ubud Bali

If you’re staying near the Ubud town center, it’s pretty walkable and most things are close enough to be reached on foot.

However, if you want to do some exploring outside of town, you’ll need to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver (both of these can be booked online). Airport transfers to Ubud from the Bali airport can also be arranged with your hotel or booked online .

Taxis are available for short rides around Ubud, but the prices are wildly inflated for tourists. It’s possible to use ride-hailing apps like Grab and Go-Jek , but you have to be discreet because the local taxi mafia is very protective of their turf, and may cause trouble if they see you using one of these apps in Ubud.  

Best Things To Do In Ubud Bali

1. ubud monkey forest.

Seeing the cheeky Bali monkeys should be somewhere near the top of your Ubud to do list, and the Sacred Monkey Forest is the most popular place to do it.

Swing by the famous Ubud Monkey Forest for a funny experience getting your pic taken with the Balinese macaques.

There are hundreds of them living in the jungle here, and they’re (mostly) friendly to outsiders.

Read More: Ubud Monkey Forest

2. Ubud Market

Just up the street from the monkey forest, you’ll find the Ubud art market.

It’s full of interesting handmade souvenirs like wood carvings, paintings, coconut bowls, rattan hats and bags, and everything else you can imagine.

Feel free to haggle for lower prices, because some of the sellers here start a bit on the high side.

3. Ubud Restaurants

Ubud has great restaurants and cafes everywhere you look.

A lot of places serve familiar Western foods and fresh fruit juices (including smoothie bowls ), but don’t forget to try the local Indonesian dishes too, like chicken satay and nasi goreng.

This is far from a complete list, but here are some great restaurants to check out in Ubud:

• Breakfast — Watercress Ubud , Milk & Madu , Suka Espresso , Social Monkeys , Bittersweet , and Lazy Cats Cafe
• Dinner — Restaurant Locavore , Copper Kitchen & Bar , Hujan Locale , Ibu Susu Bar & Kitchen , Embers Restaurant , and The Grill At Luxe
• Ethnic — Omiiku (Chinese), Fu Shou Noodle Club (Chinese), Toro Sushi Cafe (Japanese), Pesona Lounge (Indian), Uma Cucina (Italian), Nostimo Grill (Greek), Pica South American Kitchen (Peruvian), Sweet Orange Warung (Indonesian), Bebek Bengil (Balinese), and Wanara Spice (Balinese)
• Dessert — Caramel Patisserie & Cafe , Monsieur Spoon , Daily Baguette , Yogurt Republic , Room4Dessert , Frozen Yogi , Gelato Secrets , and Tukies Coconut Shop

Of course, Ubud also has plenty of cheap and authentic Indonesian ‘warungs’ (little family owned restaurants) if you look in the side alleys and outside of the main town center. Bali is pretty much a foodie paradise for any kind of budget.

We plan to cover food and restaurants in more detail with another Ubud travel guide later on, so remember to bookmark this blog and check back later!

4. Balinese Massage

Practically every third building in Ubud is a massage shop.

Balinese massage is fantastic and the prices can be very affordable, at 150k Rupiah ($10 USD) or less for a 1 hour body massage.

It’s the perfect way to unwind after a full day of hiking or touring.

5. Ubud Royal Palace

On the corner of the Ubud town center is this fancy palace from the 1800s, with amazing Balinese stone carvings and courtyards. It’s a quick stop (15 minutes) but very worthwhile!

Read More: Ubud Royal Palace

6. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Bali’s most famous rice terraces are at Tegalalang, just a 15 minute drive north of Ubud. There are foot paths to walk through the whole valley and see the terraces up close.

Read More: Tegalalang Rice Terrace

7. Bali Elephant Sanctuary

Mason Elephant Park is a rescue park opened in 1997, and they do a lot of great conservation work for the Sumatran elephants, which are critically endangered on their home island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

We had a great experience here, and I have to say every aspect of the park is very well managed and nicely maintained. The elephants are happy and healthy, and you can tell they love the attention from humans.

The park is a 30 minute drive from Ubud.

Read More: Bali Elephant Sanctuary

Ubud Temples

8. saraswati temple.

The Saraswati water temple is in central Ubud and it has some of the coolest wall patterns and carvings you’ll see in Bali. The doors are insanely detailed and elaborate. Flowers, dragons, demon figures, and more.

Read More: Saraswati Temple

9. Pura Dalem Temple

This is another temple in central Ubud and it’s known for having some of the most bizarre and intricate statues of any of the Bali temples. Creepy demon goddesses, lions, and other creatures stare back at you here.

10. Goa Gajah Elephant Cave

This is one of the oldest temples you can visit in Ubud Bali, and also one of the weirdest. Goa Gajah dates back to the 9th century. The doorway to the cave is really bizarre and unique, and it feels like you’re walking into the belly of some underground rock monster!

The inside of the cave has a narrow path that goes about 15 meters deep, where you’ll find some Hindu incense baskets burning, and the outside of the cave has a photogenic banyan tree with giant roots. Overall, it’s one of the most famous and photogenic temples in the Ubud area.

Read More: Goa Gajah Temple

11. Samuan Tiga Temple

This is a big temple from the 10th century between Ubud and Gianyar, just 800 meters from the Goa Gajah temple or a 10 minute drive from central Ubud. This temple is unusually quiet and only a few tourists seem to know about it, but it’s popular for Hindu ceremonies.

Ubud Waterfalls

12. layana waterfall.

This is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in Ubud. Layana is just a 10 minute drive from the Ubud town center.

As an added bonus, there’s a warung above the waterfall where you can eat with the view — but it’s totally optional, you don’t have to order anything to visit the falls.

Read More: Layana Waterfall

13. Tibumana Waterfall

Tibumana used to be a secret waterfall, but it’s exploded in the last couple years and now every Instagrammer comes here. It’s still worth a visit!

The road to this one winds through some green rice fields and palm trees, so it’s a great scenic drive, and there are a couple of smaller waterfalls you can also see nearby.

Read More: Tibumana Waterfall

14. Suwat Waterfall

This waterfall is an up-and-coming hidden gem near Gianyar and Ubud. It’s good for swimming and there’s even a neat little bamboo raft you can paddle around on.

The hike to Suwat Waterfall is short and easy, and takes you through a small bamboo forest and other tropical foliage along the way.

Read More: Suwat Waterfall

15. Taman Sari Waterfall

Just 500 meters from the entrance to Tibumana is a separate path that leads to Taman Sari Waterfall.

Also called the Pengibul Waterfall, it’s a small 2-step cascade with no crowds, and you can reach it in 5-10 minutes of walking, so it’s definitely worth checking out while you’re at Tibumana!

Read More: Taman Sari Waterfall

16. Goa Rang Reng Waterfall

Watch out for slippery rocks! Goa Rang Reng has 3 different waterfalls, but my favorite is the first one, a big sloped cascade that looks like a natural Slip N Slide.

17. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

Kanto Lampo is a cascade of waterfalls running over the rocks into a natural pool below. As an added bonus, you get to see some creepy carvings in the rock walls nearby.

This is a really nice waterfall and I’d definitely rate it as one of the best things to do in Ubud!

Read More: Kanto Lampo Waterfall

18. Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan is the busiest and most touristy waterfall in Bali. Don’t go here to escape the crowds, but it’s still a nice spot for lunch, and chances are you’ll be driving past it at some point anyway!

Read More: Tegenungan Waterfall

Other Top Things To Do Near Ubud

19. kemenuh butterfly park.

This is a small park with hundreds of butterflies, but the best part is getting to hold an Atlas Moth, the biggest moth in the world. They also have giant stick bugs from Borneo.

Read More: Bali Butterfly Park

20. Bali Zoo

The Bali Zoo has a lot of great wildlife, including some species that are local to Indonesia. You can get your picture taken with tropical birds here, and the park facilities and animal care seem to be top notch too.

Read More: Bali Zoo Review + Photos

21. Bali Bird Park & Reptile Park

This park has more than 1,000 birds and reptiles ranging from tropical parrots to Komodo dragons. The grounds have an ancient ‘Angkor Wat’ theme that fits perfectly with the wildlife, and everything is very well managed.

22. Mas Wood Carving

Balinese wood carvings are some of the best in Southeast Asia, and the carvers at Mas village are known for being some of the very highest quality. Warning though, some of these can be very pricey. Research and haggle before you buy.

23. Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall

The Bangli area has lots of great waterfalls and it’s not far from Ubud. Start with Goa Giri Campuhan waterfall, in the north. This one is hidden and you have to sneak through a couple of cool caves to reach it.

24. Goa Garba

This is an ancient cave temple and 12th century archaeological site in Pejeng village.

Goa Garba was a school and place of study for the Balinese kings and their children. Today, it’s a peaceful hidden spot in the jungle where you can see some ruins and escape the tourist crowds.

Read More: Goa Garba Temple

25. Gunung Kawi Ruins

Of course I can’t do an Ubud travel guide without mentioning Gunung Kawi!

In my opinion, this is one of the most unique and interesting temples in Bali. Gunung Kawi is actually an underground temple carved into the side of a cliff.

It’s an 11th century temple, and the age of everything here is obvious when you look at it.

Read More: Gunung Kawi Temple

Gunung Kawi Ruins near Ubud

26. Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple

The name and location of this temple is very close to Gunung Kawi, but this one is not near as famous. This is a water temple with a nice jungle setting.

27. Tirta Empul Spring

This is one of the most well known temples near Ubud, partly because of the Hindu holy spring where visitors (including tourists) are allowed to bathe and pray, if that’s your thing.

Read More: Tirta Empul Temple

28. Batuan Temple

This is an ancient 10th century temple located in Batuan village, halfway between Ubud and Sanur. The whole temple grounds are open to tourists, and a lot of the buildings and carvings are different from what you normally see at other Balinese temples.

29. Sangeh Monkey Forest

The Sangeh Monkey Forest is another protected jungle area in central Bali with hundreds of friendly (but wild) monkeys to play with.

If the Ubud Monkey Forest is too crowded for your liking, you might want to check out the one in Sangeh instead. It’s only 30 minutes from Ubud, but it’s quieter, cheaper, and less crowded.

Read More: Sangeh Monkey Forest

30. Taman Ayun Temple

I think this is one of the best temples in Bali — very photogenic, but away from the major tourist areas so it doesn’t get too crowded. Taman Ayun is pretty close to Abiansemal and the Sangeh Monkey Forest.

Read More: Taman Ayun Temple

31. Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

The Mount Batur hike in east Bali is a popular day trip from Ubud, especially for sunrise, where you can catch epic morning views from the top of an active volcano!

Read More: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Ubud Bali Itinerary

Here’s what a sample 3-day or 4-day itinerary for Ubud Bali could look like:

• Day 1: Ubud Center . Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest , Ubud Market, Ubud Palace , and Saraswati Temple . If monkeys aren’t your thing, substitute that for the Campuhan Ridge Walk or Sayan Point.
• Day 2: Ubud Terraces & Temples . Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace , Gunung Kawi Sebatu Water Temple, Tirta Empul Temple , Gunung Kawi Temple , and Goa Gajah Temple . If you want to focus less on temples, you could substitute one of these for a visit to a scenic Bali swing instead.
• Day 3: Waterfalls Near Ubud . Visit some nearby falls like Goa Giri Campuhan Waterfall, Kuning Waterfall, Tibumana Waterfall , Taman Sari Waterfall , and Goa Rang Reng Waterfall.
• Day 4 (Optional): Explore South of Ubud . Visit sights south of Ubud like the famous Mas wood carving shop, Kemenuh Butterfly Park , Tegenungan Waterfall , and the Bali Bird Park & Reptile Park.

You can take a look at my full blog post about this Ultimate Ubud Itinerary for more detailed information and photos!

A fancy door at the Ubud Palace

Is Ubud Safe?

Yes, Ubud is very safe. It gets more than 4 million visitors a year, and it’s generally known as one of the safest areas in Bali. Just take normal precautions and you shouldn’t have any issues.

I’ve often brought my camera gear all over Ubud photographing the markets, temples, and rice terraces, and there are usually plenty of other photographers doing the same.

Even around sunrise, people are already jogging the path at Campuhan Ridge Walk and other places in Ubud. Violent crime is rare in Bali, and Indonesia in general.

The main thing to watch out for is drive-by phone snatchings, which do happen in some parts of Bali from time to time, so just remember to put away your phone when you’re near a busy road with passing motorbikes.

When To Visit Ubud Bali

The best time to visit Ubud depends on what you’re looking for:

☁ Bali’s rainy season runs from November to April. The weather during the day can be hot and humid, at 32 to 35 °C (90 to 95 °F), but it’s less crowded during this time, and the rain is normally in the evening or at night.

☀ From May to August, the temps are cooler, and it’s more breezy and sunny. This is the windy season and it’s the nicest weather. It’s also the high season for tourists, so it’s generally more crowded.

In any case, it’s generally possible to experience the sights in this Ubud travel guide all year round!

I love this sign. It’s so authentically ‘Bali’. I want to hang it in my living room.

More Bali Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this list of the best things to do in Ubud Bali!

We plan to add more tips to this Ubud travel guide in the future, so check back later.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Bali Travel Guide for more tips, info, and photos!  

Ubud Hotels

Bali private driver & motorbike rental.

If you want to explore Bali in the comfort and safety of a private car with an English speaking driver, my top recommendation would be GetYourGuide .

Their price is 650k Rupiah ($45 USD) for a full day of driving and sightseeing in Bali (up to 10 hours) for 1-5 passengers. That's the total price for the whole car + driver + petrol! It's a great deal. They also offer affordable hotel transfers from the airport.

If you'd rather travel by motorbike, they have that too. Their scooter rentals start at 140k Rupiah (~$9) and include a helmet, rain coat, and free delivery in the south Bali area.

We've used GetYourGuide for lots of tours and activities around the world, and they're great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Bali Private Driver / Scooter Rental  

• Bali Travel Guide – Info, Pictures, & Blog
• Ubud Travel Guide – Best Things To Do In Ubud Bali
• 3-Day Ubud Itinerary – Touring Bali’s Cultural Center
• Ubud Temple Guide – Best Temples In Ubud Bali
• Ubud Waterfall Guide – Best Waterfalls Near Ubud Bali
• Bali Beach Guide – The Best Beaches In Bali
• Bali Waterfalls Guide – The Best Waterfalls In Bali
• Bali Temple Guide – The Best Temples In Bali

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Great and useful information learnt alot thanks is Ubud or Bali disabled friendly?

Hi Fabiana, yes Bali is fairly disabled friendly, although it depends where you go. The temples and waterfalls usually have lots of stairs, for example. But there are still a lot of nice places you can see in a wheelchair.

Thanks David for the useful information learnt I am a disabled person but love traveling and adventure my two kind friends will be with when visiting Ubud, Bali

Welcome! Have a nice trip!

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29 Incredible Things to do in Ubud, Bali

By: Author Taylor Lorenz

Posted on Last updated: 11/20/2023

Ubud is the centre of Bali and where all aspects of Balinese life come together, making it an exceptional place to visit as there are plenty of things to do in Ubud. It’s a tourist paradise no matter your budget but don’t let that deter you from visiting.

The village of Ubud itself is small but the surroundings are where the real magic and sites are and where you can expect to escape the hustle and bustle.

Visit Ubud and you’ll find culture, art, good food, and shopping. Lot’s of shopping. It’s where yogis flock to to enjoy the serene settings just off of the busy streets and where visitors come to indulge in the local lifestyle through cuisine and the nature.

Ubud is as spiritual as much as it is a tourist centre and this unique combination makes Ubud one of the top destinations not only in Bali but in the world, making it a must-visit destination during any trip to Bali .

Table of Contents

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Things to do in Ubud

In this article you’ll find what to do in Ubud and travel tips to keep you busy for 2 days to 1 week. There are so many Ubud activities and places to visit in Ubud that your time spent here can vary a lot depending on what you want to do during your Ubud itinerary.

All prices are quoted in Indonesia rupiah. Check up to date conversions here .

Get Your Instagram Game on at Tegalalang Rice Terrace

The Tegalalang Rice Terrace are one of the most famous Bali attractions and one of the best things to do in Ubud. They were made famous because of their natural beauty even though it’s really just a place where farmers do their work. The rice terrace uses a Balinese cooperative irrigation system and are one of three rice terraces in the region.

You are free to walk through the rice terrace for an entrance fee of 10,000 but you will also be asked to give a donation each time you cross into a new farmers property. The terraces offer incredible views from above for drone shots but also are stunning down on land.

If you don’t feel like trekking through the terraces (beware don’t go after it rains!) then you can get a beautiful shot on the famous ‘Love Bali’ swing that sits just outside of the terraces at one of the cafes that lines the street.

Marvel at the rice terraces from an infinity pool

Tis Cafe has yet to become popular but it will surely be soon because this cafe has not one but two infinity pools that you can float in while taking in the incredible views of the Tegalalang rice terraces.

The best part? Not many people hike through the part of the rice terraces that Tis Cafe overlooks. Prices are decent at the cafe as well so you can spend a few hours soaking in the sun and the views.

Visiting cafes (especially ones like this) are apart of Ubud sightseeing that is a can’t-be-missed.

Brave the Ubud Monkey Forest

If you’re as terrified of monkeys as I am then avoid this place at all costs. Don’t ask why I still went, I suppose it was just curious to see what all the hype was about as this is one of the top things to do in Ubud.

The area is actually a Sacred Monkey Forest that is a sanctuary for the 700+ grey long-tailed macaques that live in the area. The forest is not huge but it is beautiful when you’re not trying to dodge monkeys. Besides the monkeys, you’ll see some temples, one of which is dedicated to village funerals.

The monkeys in this monkey forest are quite used to humans so do not bring in any food, plastic water bottles or wear jewelry. You may have a new friend or a few if you do.

Ubud Monkey Forest is located in central Ubud and is within walking distance of any accommodation that is in town. The entrance fee is 50,000. And be careful around Monkey Forest Road as some of the monkeys do come out of the forest!

Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

This 9th-century sanctuary is most famous for the face of the cave that has intricate details carved into the stone’s surface. But walk around and you’ll see the beauty of the rest of the area. Don’t let its name fool you though, this cave is not where you’ll find elephants.

Instead, there are bathing pools, rock-wall carvings, fountains and a meditational cave.

Goa Gajah has significant historical and spiritual value as it was originally built as a place for meditation. It is located just outside the centre of Ubud and has a 15,000 rupiah entrance fee. Many tours will include a stop at this famous spot.

Shop Through the Ubud Market

Ubud is the top place to shop in all of Bali and the Ubud art market is the centre of it all. It’s located right in the heart of Ubud and offers a splendid selection of souvenirs from clothing to jewelry, bags, trinkets and much more.

Many hand-crafted goods can be found here that come from the neighbouring villages as Ubud is the centre of multiple art producing villages.

The market was also the location for a scene from Eat, Pray, Love . When you come here make sure you’ve got your bargaining skills ready.

Stop by Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace, Puri Saren Agung, is a royal palace that was built in the 1800’s and is a main landmark in Ubud. It sits on a busy street but step through the gates and it will be peaceful to admire the traditional Balinese architecture that has been extremely well preserved. It is also a popular place to watch dance performances in the evening.

Chill out at an adventure club

You’re probably wondering what exactly an adventure club is and you’re not alone, I too wondered what I was getting myself into when I first visited D’tukad River Club .

Well, picture this: infinity pools, a heart shaped pool, swings, photo areas and more all right beside one of Ubud’s most famous waterfalls while a DJ plays tracks in a booth overlooking the whole club. They even have floating breakfast in their infinity pools!

If you need a break from adventure or just want a day to chill out with a coconut or margarita then I highly suggest visiting D’tukad River Club which is about a 25-minute drive from the centre of Ubud.

The entrance is 20,000 rupiah which is to cover the entrance to Tegenungan waterfall. You can access the waterfall from the club and I recommend going about halfway down the steps for a great photo op without all the crowds at the bottom.

Stroll Along the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Another natural hot spot in Ubud is the Campuhan Ridge Walk which allows visitors to escape from the hectic Ubud centre streets.

The hilltop Campuhan Ridge Walk is just outside of the centre of Ubud and is a magical place to catch sunset and get a workout through the rice fields, ravine and lush green setting. It’s a 9km walk from start to finish up and down moderate hills that makes you feel like you’re further away from town than you really are.

Watch Sunrise from Mount Batur

Mount Batur is technically not in Ubud but the town acts a main spot for visitors to catch a ride to the active volcano. Mount Batur is an hour drive away in the town of Batur and is where many flock to to catch the sunrise from the volcano’s summit .

It is claimed to be the easiest volcano trek in all of Indonesia, but if it’s considered easy I don’t want to know what the others are like! (That’s coming from someone who is lazy and doesn’t work out).

The trek itself is about 2 hours up steep and sometimes loose rock or volcanic ash but the sunrise view from the top of Mount Agung on Bali and Mount Rinjani on Lombok is breathtaking.

Dine at Room 4 Dessert

For a truly unique experience (or foodies, this is a must), book yourself at table at Room 4 Dessert , a restaurant with 7 courses of dessert. Yes, you read that right.

In fact, your whole experience is 21 courses, but don’t worry, the first and last 7 courses are small like snacks.

The restaurant and dishes are curated by a world-famous chef, Will Goldfarb, from New York. His desserts are so unique that it landed Room 4 Dessert and the chef on the Netflix hit, Chef’s Table.

I won’t spoil it for you as they keep all of the courses secret but it is an experience worth having just outside of Ubud’s centre for a night of fine dining and delicious cocktails which are paired with the 7 main desserts that are seriously works of art as well as food!

Visit Pura Taman Saraswati Temple

This scenic Ubud temple is in centre of town and is an escape and oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Step in here to admire this water temple that has ponds filled with blooming pink lotuses and Balinese architecture, making it one of the best temples in Ubud.

This temple is one of the free things to do in Ubud but if you wish to dine with an excellent view of the lotuses then make sure to have a meal at Cafe Lotus. Dance performances are also held here.

Experience sound healing at the Pyramids of Chi

One of the most unique experiences I had in Ubud was participating in a sound healing session at the stunning Pyramids of Chi which are a 10-minute drive out of Ubud’s main city centre.

The Pyramids of Chi are what the name suggests, pyramids, where a number of events are held inside, with sound healing being the most commonly held event.

You can expect a truly magical experience as experts lead you through a sound journey and explain the special meaning behind the pyramid shape. Cacao ceremonies, yoga, tantra sessions and much more are also offered.

A shuttle from the centre is available for those that don’t drive.

Visit Kanto Lampo waterfall

While Kanto Lampo is not the most famous waterfall in Ubud, I do believe it’s even better than the most famous waterfall which I talk about below.

Kanto Lampo is not as busy, though it’s still known on the tourist trail. Less tours come here so you have a better chance of getting some pictures looking like no one else is there.

What’s also great is that because there are rocks you can climb them (carefully) and get to take pictures in the waterfall! And after scootering around Ubud you’re going to want to cool off too. These rocks are also why Kanto Lampo is so pretty as the water gushes over the rocks.

To the left of the waterfall the water continues and is also a pretty spot for pictures with nice lighting.

Marvel at Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is a powerful waterfall that is about a 20-minute drive outside of the town centre. It’s the most easily accessible waterfall in the region that is between Ubud and Denpasar. Since its location is so good it is extremely popular so aim to go early before the crowds of tourists arrive.

Entrance is 20,000 and there are about 100 stairs to get down. There are some Instagram-worthy spots on the way down too including a giant swing in front of the waterfall. There is a large pool of water that you can swim in as well.

Though if you enter from the D’tukad River Club side there are less stairs, less people and an adventure club!

My personal favourite part of the area was the small waterfall that you can see on the left hand side of the stairs about half way down. There’s less people, it’s beautiful and there’s also a small swing.

Get Blessed at Tirta Empul Water Temple

One of the most known temples in Ubud, Tirta Empul is a national heritage site that was built in 960AD and tells the story of good versus evil through carvings on the stone walls. Tirta Empul means ‘holy water spring’ but is mostly known as the Ubud water temple to visitors.

The temple was named such because of the holy water spring that is within the temple complex.

It’s here that many locals come multiple times a year on important dates to get blessed under the spouts of water that have the holy water flowing from into purification pools where a few fish also live. Visitors are welcome to take part in the blessings.

Tirta Empul Water Temple is outside of Ubud, about a 20-minute drive and I highly recommend going with a local guide or doing research beforehand so you can properly perform the ritual for blessings under each spout of water and know what each statue pouring water out stands for. This temple really is the best of Ubud.

Get Your Yoga On

Ubud is the epicenter of yoga in Bali and for good reason. The peaceful practice suits its surroundings well with the tranquil and quiet nature of rice fields, forests, and flowing water down the river. Yoga retreats in Ubud can be found in abundance within Ubud village itself and the surrounding areas.

Classes are also available at the many studios for those who wish to practice only once or a few times. The most popular and well-known yoga studio in all of Bali is Yoga Barn which is in Ubud. I can vouch that it’s a great place to practice!

Or if you want to dive a little further into your yoga practice, book a yoga retreat ! Retreats in Ubud range from a couple of days to a week or more, meaning you can add an Ubud yoga retreat onto your itinerary!

Take a Cooking Class

Cooking classes are available all around Bali but there are tons in Ubud as it’s one of the most popular activities in Ubud. Most are just outside of town and though they are a more expensive Bali activity they are totally worth it.

You will learn to make Balinese dishes , see the techniques used and then get to taste just how delicious all of the dishes are from soups to mains to desserts.

Check out less busy rice terraces

While the Tegalalang rice terraces are stunning, they’re busy. A great alternative is to go further and see the Jatiluwih rice terraces that are about an hour outside of Ubud.

They’re just as pretty (if not prettier) because there are mountains as a backdrop. You also have the opportunity to drive through the rice terraces as the main road of the area winds through them which is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever done in Bali.

Entrance is 40,000 and tours do make their way to these rice terraces now, though far less than Tegalalang. If you’re driving up for a day trip there are a number of waterfalls in the area too.

Jatiluwih is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often combined with other UNESCO sites on Bali as a part of a tour. Bike tours through rice paddies are popular too.

See the Most Instagramable Spots in Bali

Doing tours from Ubud is not uncommon either as Ubud acts as a great base. The Mount Batur Sunrise Trek is one of them (well technically it’s only the morning) but another great one is visiting the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple which is in the northeast of Bali.

Instagram tours of Bali are also available, with guides who take you to the best spots and some even have photographers ready to capture the perfect moments in the best spots on the island.

See a Traditional Balinese Dance

Ubud is the hub of all things relating to art in Bali from painting to hand-made crafts, music and even dance. If you want to see a Balinese dance then Ubud is the place to do it as you’ll have the most options here.

Each dance tells a story and is truly unique. The colourful costumes and make-up are worth seeing alone. There aren’t many things to do in Ubud at night but this is one of your options.

If you want to see the kecak fire dance I recommend seeing it at D’tukad River Club. They host a dance every Thursday or on the night of the full moon. Uluwatu Temple is the most famous place to see it with sunset over the temple and ocean behind the dancers but it’s a bit of a drive away!

Learn Traditional Dance

Instead of just observing, why not try learning Balinese dancing for yourself? It’s a unique way to understand the culture a little better and a fun challenge as the dance can be harder than it looks! Check in with your accommodation for advice of where the best classes are.

See History at Pura Gunung Kawi

Pura Gunung Kawi is a very Balinese temple in the way that it has rice field across both sides of the path the leads you down to the temple. It’s a unique archeological site because of the carvings that are carved directly into the rock.

It is said that the man who made the carvings did it just using his own nail. On-site there are also a number of shrines and the site overlooks a river that flows down from Tirta Empul Water Temple.

This temple is a 20-minute drive outside of Ubud and has 300 stairs down. Entrance is 15,000 rupiah.

Chill out at a spa

Spas are scattered all across Ubud so there is no need to fear if there is not a spa on-site at your accommodation. Ubud is the perfect place to chill out and relax and what better way is there to do that than with a massage between temple hopping or yoga sessions?

Spas in Ubud range in price with the cheapest being very affordable with an hour Balinese full-body massage for 70,000. Many are walk-in’s but some require appointments, such as Ubud Traditional Spa (which is worth checking out).

On my last trip to Ubud I spent 4 hours at Purti Ubud Spa for a final day of pampering for a really affordable price. They have quite a few packages available and I recommend the spa. There are multiple locations so make sure you book for the right area!

Visit the Bali Swing

Have you seen pictures on Instagram of girls swinging above a lush green forest with long dresses blowing behind them? If you have then there is a very high chance that it was taken on an Ubud Swing .

There is one swing that is know as  the  Bali swing but you don’t have to go out of your way for it as there are plenty of swings in Ubud that are typically included in tours.

Cycle Down a Volcano

Want to get active and feel adventurous without too much effort? Then the Downhill Bike Tour is for you. You’ll spend the day riding down Kintamani volcano for scenic views over Ubud and stopping in the hottest spots outside of town such as the famous rice terraces. Don’t worry, you get driven up the volcano to start!

Swing by Tibumana Waterfall

If you want to see a waterfall near Ubud that isn’t packed with tourists then a stop by Tibumana Waterfall is a must. This secluded waterfall is one of Bali’s better secrets, and though it’s popular enough that there is an entrance fee of 10,000, there are still very few people there.

This waterfall may not be as powerful as Tegenungan Waterfall but the serene setting and quiet atmosphere make this simple waterfall a picturesque destination.

Check Out the Bamboo Forest

Also just outside of Ubud is the Bamboo Forest, another hidden gem that isn’t so hidden yet not very many people check it out. You can visit it on your own to get some stellar Instagram shots or you can choose to do a bike tour through the forest and enjoy your surroundings.

Get Adventurous and Go White Water Rafting

For water activities in Ubud try river rafting , which is surprisingly available in Ubud. Ayung River runs through the surrounding area of Ubud making excellent rapids for travellers to enjoy.

Step away from the cultural side of Ubud for a while and enjoy some adrenaline through the beautiful surroundings.

Ubud Accommodation

Read my detailed Ubud accommodation guide to find the best places from budget to luxury, hostels to hotels and villas.

How to Get to Ubud

Getting to Ubud is easy with a few options available. From the Bali airport, taxis will be the most expensive at 300,000 but private drivers booked in advance can be very affordable.

This is because Ubud is actually quite a distance from the airport and it will take 1-1.5 hours to get to Ubud. You can try to negotiate with private drivers for a better price or organize through your accommodation.

From other areas of Bali you can get a taxi or private driver or for a more budget-friendly option choose to use Grab, Uber or Go-Jek (the Indonesia version of Grab and Uber). These drivers will usually try and negotiate a higher price with you but stick to your price and you’ll find a driver.

Lastly, scooter rentals are 50,000-80,000 a day and you can drive yourself.

Getting Around Ubud

The town of Ubud itself is very small and you can easily walk to all of the main Ubud attractions in town within 20 minutes from one end to the other.

The rest of the main attractions in Ubud are located outside of Ubud itself, though they’re still considered things to do in Ubud. To get to things such as waterfalls, rice terraces and temples many people choose to hire a driver or guide as there are plenty of tours and sightseeing in Ubud available that will take you to all of the main highlights.

It’s also possible to make your own itinerary as private drivers are affordable, typically starting at 500,000 for the day. Or you can choose to get yourself around on a motorbike for 50,000-80,000 a day. Ubud is very nice to drive around once you’re outside of the main centre.

Enjoy your time in Ubud, I hope this helped you find all of the top places to see in Ubud and where to go in Ubud!

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13 Things to Do in Ubud in Bali (Plus Tips for Avoiding the Crowds)

Ubud is one of the cornerstone tourist destinations in Bali, and often touted as the cultural capital of the island. Here is my Ubud travel guide to help you plan your perfect Bali trip.

Ubud is famous for its emerald cascading rice terraces in nearby Tegallalang, thousands upon thousands of gilded Hindu shrines, powerful waterfalls and art museums.

It is one of those destinations that has become almost synonymous with Bali as a whole, and it is therefore unsurprising that its streets are saturated with tourists seeking out a little piece of that Ubud magic – you’ll be hard-pressed to find a Bali itinerary that doesn’t include Ubud as one of the stops.

Though Ubud itself is not huge, the main hub is bustling with swarms of pedestrians popping in and out of cafes, souvenir shops, yoga studios, boutique labels and restaurants.

While we certainly knew of Ubud’s reputation as a soulful and popular place to visit in Bali, we were somewhat caught off guard by exactly how crowded it was – especially after our contrasting time in the peaceful mountains of Munduk . I’m told that the small town was once far sleepier, before it became the sleek and sophisticated tourism epicenter it has developed into.

This is not necessarily a negative – especially when Ubud is in a destination where tourism brings huge income and job opportunities for the community. It simply demanded a change in mindset – I booked a boutique hotel in the heart of Ubud and had ( naively ) envisioned a slow-moving, jungle-framed village filled with yoga retreats. And while that world certainly still exists within Ubud, you’ll need to venture away from the busy nucleus from time-to-time to experience that side of the cultural capital.

The good news is: it’s not difficult to steer clear of the crowds if you know where to go. Planning a trip and want to know what to do in Ubud? Read on for the top things to do in Ubud and how to make the most of your time there.

You may also enjoy: Planning a trip to Bali and not sure where to start? Here is my easy 2 week Bali itinerary for first time visitors

Where is Ubud in Bali?

Ubud is located in central Bali, about an hour and a half’s drive away from Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. It is directly north of Sanur and south of Munduk and Bedugul .

Wondering how to get to Ubud? First you’ll need to travel to the island of Bali by flying into Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. An airport transfer from the airport to Ubud costs approximately 300-350,000 IDR (US$25 or so) and takes 1-1.5 hours from door-to-door depending on where in Ubud you are headed and what time you are driving. The streets of Ubud are narrow with lots of cars when entering or exiting central Ubud, so be prepared to hit bottleneck traffic.

I recommend getting in touch with Sudewa/Ani (Whatsapp at +62 819 9845 3366 ) or Gede (Whatsapp at +62 812 3689 2841 ) for any long-distance transfers in Bali. We found that their rates were fair, vehicles are clean and they can also provide a forward-facing car seat if you are traveling to Bali with kids or babies.

Travel tips for visiting  Ubud in Bali

First time to Ubud or Bali? Here’s what you need to know before you go.

✈️ The main airport in Bali is Ngurah Rai International Airport.  Many airlines fly direct to Bali, and a 30-day tourist visa-on-arrival is available for passport holders from  more than 80 countries .

The Bali visa fee is US$35 or 500,000 IDR, and can be paid by Visa (not American Express). Children and babies are charged the same fee. As of November 2022, you can also apply for an electronic visa ahead of your trip here . You may be eligible for the visa exemption arrangement if you hold an ASEAN member country passport including those from Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Save yourself some time by completing the electronic customs declaration ahead of your Bali trip  here . As of February 14th 2024 you will also be required to pay a 150,000 IDR (approximately US$10) “tourism levy” to be used towards the conservation of Bali’s nature and support sustainable tourism – this fee is in addition to the visa-on-arrival fee. You should arrange to pay this fee online before your trip, though certain exemptions apply (diplomatic visa, Golden visa and student visa etc.) and must be applied for 1 month in advance. Read more here .

💱 The currency is the Indonesian rupiah and the exchange rate is approximately US$1/1 Euro: 15,000 IDR or AUD$1: 10,000 IDR.  There are ATMs in the airport where you can withdraw a small sum to get you started, and then you can visit brick-and-mortar money exchange places once you are in Ubud. Legitimate currency exchange shops in Bali advertise the rates clearly and do not charge a commission – we had a great experience with this money exchange shop on the main street through Ubud. The majority of hotels, tourist restaurants and supermarkets accept credit card payments, though you will still need cash to pay drivers and for tips.

You pretty much never have to pay full price for admissions tickets in Bali as most tour operators, car charters, spas and major attractions are listed on Klook. Before you book anything for your Ubud itinerary click here and search for places you want to go, and book online for discounted entry  or head on over here to  read more about how to use Klook  to book travel experiences.

📱 Buy a local Indonesian SIM card . The easiest way to do that is via Klook – you can get a 35 GB (US$12) or 51 GB (US$13) data-only SIM card and pick it up from the airport on arrival or have it delivered to your hotel. You will need to provide certain information including your passport copy.  Buy your local Bali SIM card here . Everyone in Bali including hotels, taxi drivers, spas and equipment rental companies use Whatsapp to communicate, so make sure you have stable internet access throughout your Bali trip.

🏖️ The best time to visit Bali  is typically considered to be during the summer months between July to early September, which means this is the peak travel season in Bali and the island receives the highest volume of tourists during these months – many hotels are fully booked and the atmosphere is buzzing. This is the dry season and Bali typically receives lower rainfall during these months. The rainy season in Bali usually runs during the winter months from December to February. Want to avoid the crowds in Ubud? Consider visiting in the shoulder months in May, June and September.

That being said, there is no “bad” time to visit Bali. One thing to note for first time visitors to Bali is that  Nyepi , New Year’s day in the Balinese calendar, falls in March (the date changes each year) and during this day the island observes complete silence. Shops and businesses close for the day, and everybody (including tourists) is expected to stay indoors as part of the ritual. The airport is no exception – there are no arrivals and departures on the day of Nyepi and some hotels may not facilitate check-ins and outs during this day.

Another major holiday to take note of is Galungan and Kuningan, a Hindu celebration which takes place every 210 days. The two major events are 10 days apart, and many Balinese Hindus will spend the festival visiting family temples – many government offices will be closed on Galungan and Kuningan, and some major religious landmarks (like Pura Lempuyang in East Bali ) may close for ceremonies or have different opening and closing times. It is a beautiful time to be in Bali, when all the streets are lined with towering bamboo penjors.

👚 What to wear in Bali:  The majority of the population on the island are Hindu, and the dress code in Bali is typically fairly relaxed. Beach and vacation wear is the norm, so go ahead and pack your dresses, shorts and crop tops. There is, however, an exception – if you plan on visiting any temple or shrine (of which there are many in Ubud) you will need to cover your legs with a sarong and make sure that your shoulders are also covered. You will also notice that most women in Bali dress conservatively, even donning gorgeous traditional attire on certain days during the week and to partake in religious ceremonies – to be respectful, I would recommend that you dress on the conservative side when out and about around town outside of your resort or hotel.

Planning on heading inland to chase waterfalls in the mountains of Bali before or after visiting Ubud? The temperature can fluctuate significantly over the course of just a couple of hours, so make sure you bring some warm clothes.

🗓️ How many days to spend in Ubud:  For a first time visitor I would recommend spending no fewer than 3 days, maybe 4 days in Ubud if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas and waterfalls. It may appear small, but there’s a lot of ground to cover and plenty of things to do in Ubud that will keep you on the move.

🚁 Flying a drone in Ubud:  You can fly a small drone in Bali for recreational, non-commercial purposes without a license as long as you follow  a few important guidelines . Most temples and places of worship forbid the use of drones, and many hotels and day clubs in Ubud will have their own policies for drone usage on their property, so it’s best to check ahead before you launch your UAV.

Safety in Bali

The vast majority of visits to Bali are trouble free, and tourism is a major source of revenue for the island. Violent crime against foreigners occurs infrequently, but petty crime including bag and phone snatching is not uncommon. You should keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. There are a number of  common scams in Bali : if an offer seems “too good to be true”, it could be part of a scam.

Most well-known waterfalls in Ubud have ticket booths with posted prices – if you are asked to pay extra fees it may not be a legitimate request.

I recommend taking certain precautions such as pre-booking airport transportation with a reliable car service and driver, watching your drink when you are out and about, and letting friends and family know of your travel plans and hotel contact information. Read more about safety in Indonesia and Bali by clicking  here  and  here . Here is more information about  local laws and customs in Indonesia .

How to get around Ubud  in Bali

The best way to get around Ubud is either by local taxi, scooter rental or on foot. While local ride-sharing companies like Grab, GoJek and Bluebird used to be visibly unwelcome in Ubud, as of August 2022 we were able to use Grab in most areas of Ubud with no issues – usually it takes no more than 10 minutes for the driver to show up.

Here is another one of my top Bali travel tips: when you find a driver you like, get their contact information and add them to Whatsapp so that you can get in touch with them directly. In addition to Gede who I mentioned above for transport between areas in Bali, we used Nyoman for short trips within Ubud – he was always fairly punctual and friendly, and can give you a good rate if you book him for a few hours at a time. You can reach Nyoman via Whatsapp at  +62 813 3855 9491. We paid approximately 250,000 IDR for 3 hours of private car service within Ubud (mostly within the city center), just make sure that you agree on a price with your driver ahead of time.

Another popular option for getting around Ubud is by scooter, but you may want to consider this option carefully if you are not confident driving a scooter – the roads in Ubud are narrow and there are often pedestrians trying to narrowly avoid traffic on the non-existent sidewalks. Even the smallest of loose rocks can cause a serious accident (like it did for us towards the end of our trip in Uluwatu)!

My husband has the proper international motorcycle certifications and license, and we paid approximately 70,000 IDR/day for scooter rental in Ubud (the daily rate varies across Bali). We had a good experience with Aloha Scooter Rental in Ubud and paid an additional 20,000 IDR for delivery of the scooter to our hotel. Ensure that your scooter rental comes with helmets, that you note any existing damage/scratches and that you have the proper international driving license in case you are stopped by the local authorities.

It is also possible to hire a car in Bali but you should know that parking can be an issue and that not all hotels will offer parking; it is also not recommended unless you have experience navigating very narrow streets filled with scooters zooming by. Your international driving permit may require further endorsement by the local authorities, and you should double check that your travel insurance covers any motor vehicle accidents overseas. Have all your ducks in a row? Great! Looking for the best prices for rental car companies around the world?   Click here to book your rental car ahead of your Bali trip.   Bookings can be cancelled or amended if your plans change!

Where to stay in Ubud in Bali

Looking for the best accommodation in Ubud? For first-time visitors traveling to Ubud I recommend staying near the centre of town so that you can easily walk to the various Ubud tourist attractions and restaurants.

Origin Ubud was our home for 4 days in Ubud, and boy did we feel right at home in this cozy boutique hotel. Origin Ubud was just a 10-minute walk from the main stretch where the majority of restaurants and bars are located. We absolutely loved the daily breakfast by the pool – such a treat! You can order breakfast a day in advance and choose a delivery time.

The villas are extremely spacious, but some areas could do with touch-ups and a little TLC; nevertheless, a great boutique hotel that has a very reasonable price tag in Ubud. If you are sensitive to noise ask for one of the lower villas situated furthest away from the main road as it is located opposite an incredible active temple that regularly hosts religious ceremonies for the local community. Don’t miss the hypnotizing Kecak fire dance show – staff can help arrange tickets!

We appreciated the warm hospitality and would not hesitate to recommend based on the property’s staff, location and value for money – this is one of the best Ubud hotels with a private pool in the heart of town. It is perfect for couples and independent travelers – click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud .

If you are traveling with young children who are very mobile you should be aware that there is not a lot of common area for them to run around in, nor is there a kids club or on-site restaurant/other facilities. There is an excellent laundry just up the street ( Seaweed Laundry ) which we used during our stay in Ubud.

Booking tip: Sort by “Distance from city centre” if you want to be within walking distance of the majority of restaurants and shops in Ubud. Don’t underestimate the amount of time it takes to travel into the city centre – it can take a while traveling 2-3 KM in Ubud as there is lots of traffic and many one-way streets.

You might also want to check out Airbnb if you are traveling with friends to Ubud as there are plenty of Ubud villa options available outside of the city centre (however you’ll want to double check if meals are served on-site or whether you will head out for meals). We mostly used Booking.com for this Bali 2 week itinerary as the cancellation policies tend to be a little more flexible.

Interested in checking out other options for accommodation in Ubud? Here are some other highly-rated hotels in the area – we also personally considered staying at these Ubud boutique hotels: 11 on Kajeng : Located in the heart of Ubud, 11 on Kajeng is a 10-minute walk from the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple. The décor is a curious blend of modern meets traditional Balinese, and reviewers love the pool and spacious rooms. Despite its proximity to the Ubud city centre, most people say it is quiet and peaceful. This may not suit you if you or a travel companion has any mobility issues as you will need to walk up lots of stairs to get to the rooms. Click here to check rates and availability at 11 on Kajeng. The Sankara Resort : If you aren’t fussed about staying near Ubud town, then consider staying at this boutique hotel 15 minutes by car from the city centre. This beautiful property has a fantastic on-site spa, and is away from the hustle and bustle. There is also a shuttle service into town if you want to visit the main Ubud attractions. Click here to check rates and availability at The Sankara Resort. Sapodilla Ubud : Sapodilla is one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud. It features a large outdoor pool, a free shuttle service and spacious, brightly-lit rooms. Reviewers love the attentive team, excellent food and say that it feels like an oasis away from the crowds. Click here to check rates and availability at Sapodilla Ubud.

The best things to do in Ubud in Bali

You could easily spend up to a week in Ubud as a first-time visitor, there is an infinite number of things to see and places to visit in Ubud. From the lush jungle waterfalls to sophisticated day clubs overlooking jewel-toned rice terraces, here are some of the best things to do during your Ubud trip.

1. Watch a Kecak fire and trance dance

A Kecak dance is a form of traditional Balinese Hindu dance and drama that typically tells the story of Rama’s triumph over Rahwana and his demons. Though the most famous Kecak dance in Bali takes place in Uluwatu overlooking the ocean, there are a number of temples in Ubud that also put on this captivating performance.

As night falls, dozens of Kecak dancers chant in unison, seemingly never taking a breath as performers in elaborate costumes act out King Rama being led away from Sita by a golden deer, who is actually Rahwana’s evil servant in disguise.

Eventually, the lovely Sita is kidnapped by Rahwana and taken away to his kingdom. Rama sends his trusted general, the Hindu monkey god Hanuman, to hand over Rama’s ring to Sita and destroy the park where Sita is being held hostage.

Finally, a battle ensues and Rama kills the evil Rahwana – a testament that good always prevails over evil.

The hour-long performance takes place on Sunday and Tuesday evenings at 7 PM at Pura Dalem Gede (across the street from Origin Ubud ). Tickets are available at 100,000 IDR per person, and seats are limited – I highly recommend getting there early to secure a good seat.

The Kecak dance was one of the most fascinating traditional Balinese performances that I had the privilege of watching during our Ubud trip. Is it touristy? Yes. Is it amazing? Also yes. It is also far less crowded than the Uluwatu Kecak fire dance so if your heart is set on watching this amazing Balinese cultural performance make sure you set aside an evening in Ubud!

2. Visit the Tegallalang rice terraces

Spending an afternoon at the Tegallalang rice fields is one of the top things to do in Ubud. Visitors from all across the island head to the lush UNESCO-listed rice terraces for the amazing views and to hike down the elevation and walk among the emerald fields.

The Tegallalang rice terraces follows the traditional “ Subak ” irrigation system, and is reachable by car or scooter from Ubud – the drive will take you approximately 20 minutes or so.

The main street of Tegallalang is lined with plenty of tourist cafes, restaurants and photo parks – this is where you’ll find a plethora of “Bali swings”.

Prefer to sit back and take it all in over a glass of wine or some lunch? Head straight to Tis Cafe , a gorgeous bamboo-built restaurant complete with an infinity pool and rope swing. The service was impeccable and the atmosphere was incredibly laid back – unlike some of the other more Insta-famous Tegallalang day clubs in the area.

Did you know that there are also rice paddies in Canggu near the beach? Read my Canggu travel guide here to get the lowdown on where to stay in Canggu and the best things to do.

Looking for boutique Ubud accommodation in the heart of downtown? Check out the individual pool villas at Origin Ubud . We loved the privacy of the 1-bedroom villa and enjoyed a delicious breakfast served poolside each morning. Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud . Want to explore more Ubud hotel options? We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a small boutique hotel within walking distance of the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel with an excellent on-site spa, provides a shuttle service into town) and Sapodilla Ubud (one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud).

3. Observe the purification rituals at Pura Tirta Empul

You can combine a trip to the Tegallalang rice terraces with your visit to Pura Tirta Empul water temple , both of which are located north of Ubud town.

The stunning Tirta Empul is one of the most sacred water temples in Bali and one of the top places to visit near Ubud. Dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, Tirta Empul features holy springs with water that is believed to purify devotees in a ritual known as “melukat”.

Each day, rain or shine, thousands of Balinese and Hindu worshippers queue in pools to dip their heads in spring water that flows out of nearly 30 spouts. Once they have immersed their heads and hair in the water from one spout and prayed, they move onto the next until they have cleansed under each spot (with the exception of two which are only to be used for the dead).

We rode through a thunderstorm to get to Pura Tirta Empul, and were privileged to observe the holy cleansing ritual as hundreds of devotees offered prayers under the pouring rain – it was a humbling experience and one I won’t soon forget.

The dress code for entering Tirta Empul temple is strict – you must wear a sarong (long pants that cover the knees will not suffice) which can be rented at the temple. The entry fee is 50,000 IDR for adults and parking costs extra. You should also be aware that like many other Hindu temples around Bali, women are requested not to enter during menstruation.

We also noticed that there were many tourists partaking in the melukat purification ritual as part of a tour – while it seems to be possible, I did not feel comfortable partaking as a non-Hindu. There is a lot of debate about the commercialization of religious ceremonies such as the melukat (similar to partaking in alms giving if you are not Buddhist ); if you are not Hindu, I encourage you to do your due diligence and put in some thought before you sign up for a tour that offers this as a tourist “experience”.

4. Do the Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk (or Bukit Campuhan) is a fairly leisurely nature walk that begins just outside of Ubud’s main centre, and is one of the most popular places to visit in Ubud.

The scenic walk is approximately 2 kilometres long along a stone-paved path (not stroller-friendly), with a number of small rest stops and shops offering refreshments on the way.

The best time to do the Campuhan Ridge Walk is in the early morning or afternoon, when the heat of the mid-day sun isn’t beating down – the trail is not shaded so make sure you bring a hat and wear proper walking shoes as it can get steamy.

If you are hiking the Campuhan Ridge with young children I would recommend bringing a lightweight carrier – you can always turn back after 10-15 minutes and head back to the beginning of the trail if you don’t want to complete the entire walk.

5. Stop at the Saraswati Temple / Ubud Water Palace

Pura Taman Saraswati temple is a stunning Hindu temple in Ubud dedicated to the goddness of knowledge, Saraswati (or Sarasvati). Featuring an enchanting lotus pond, it is also sometimes referred to as the Ubud Water Palace.

It is located right in the heart of Ubud town (right behind Starbucks) and around the corner from the Ubud Palace. There is no entrance fee and worth a quick stop – you are not allowed to enter beyond the lotus pond area into the temple interiors.

Looking for the perfectly located Ubud accommodation in the heart of downtown? Check out the individual pool villas at Origin Ubud . We loved having breakfast served poolside each morning and the spacious, brightly-lit rooms. Click here to check availability and rates at Origin Ubud or head over here to see more hotel options in Ubud . Want to explore more Ubud hotel options? We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a small boutique hotel within walking distance of the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel with an excellent on-site spa, provides a shuttle service into town) and Sapodilla Ubud (one of the top-rated boutique hotels in Ubud).

6. Walk through the grounds of the Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace , or Puri Saren Agung, was once the official residence of the royal family of Ubud.

This historic landmark is conveniently located in Ubud town and, like the Saraswati Temple, has no entrance fee. It’s one of the most popular and well-known tourist attractions in Ubud.

As the grounds are not sprawling, you can explore Ubud Palace within 10-15 minutes as most interior locations are not open to tourists.

The palace hosts cultural performances in the evening, and tickets for the show can be bought at the gate.

7. Explore Goa Gajah elephant cave

The ancient Goa Gajah temple complex is a 15-20 minute car or scooter ride away from Ubud town. Though it is a fairly prominent and well-known Ubud attraction, the grounds are sprawling and there were only a handful of other tourists when we were there.

It is most well known for the intricately-carved devil face whose mouth serves as a doorway into the inner sanctum.

You can walk through the menacing portal – while the interior of the cave is fairly basic, it is not uncommon to see delicate floral offerings left within.

Directly in front of the cave is a large communal bath area which was unearthed in the 1950s featuring half a dozen rock statues of women, possibly Hindu deities, pouring water from jars.

In order to enter Goa Gajah you will need to purchase a ticket which costs 50,000 IDR per adult – this includes sarong rental which is required for entry. Don’t get pressured into purchasing a sarong from the souvenir shops! Parking costs extra at 2,000 IDR for scooters, so bring some small notes.

8. Lounge at a day club in Ubud

Honestly, a trip to Ubud just wouldn’t feel complete without some R&R at one of the amazing day clubs in the area, and you should definitely set aside some time during your Bali itinerary to lounge at an Ubud pool club.

Here’s the thing, the vast majority of Ubud tourists tend to flock towards the big-name Ubud day clubs – but there are actually a whole host of alternative options if you’re looking to spend a day in Ubud away from the crowds.

We loved our time at Kelapa Muda, Adidarma and Tis Cafe – all of these Ubud pool clubs have an on-site restaurant and fabulous pool to frolic in.

Kelapa Muda , or “young coconut”, is a stunning pool club in Ubud surrounded by rice paddies and palm trees. This was the perfect place to take our baby in Ubud – there is a small children’s playground, are willing to prepare off-menu kid’s items and the staff were so incredibly warm and hospitable.

The swim-up bar is a winner for grown-ups, and we were all-too-happy to spend our afternoons here lounging and sipping on drinks.

Adidarma , while perhaps more traditional in its architecture, has a lovely pool with built-in cabanas and a bamboo-built restaurant on-site. The food was some of the best we had in Ubud, and the staff were extremely friendly as well.

Tis Cafe in Tegallalang is a sophisticated and relaxing pool club overlooking the rice paddies. The food is fab and the setting and views really can’t be beat!

Ready to visit Ubud? Look for a hotel near downtown Ubud if you are a first-time visitor and want easy access to restaurants and bars. Head over here to see highly-rated hotel options in Ubud , or check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel in Ubud that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery).

9. Drop in to a Yoga class

Like Canggu , Ubud has a strong Yoga community and is considered one of the top Yoga destinations in the world .

Yoga practitioners travel to Ubud to join in workshops and retreats led by some of the most popular Yoga teachers who travel from all over the world to share their teachings in Bali.

Wondering where to go in Ubud to practice Yoga? There are several wonderful yoga studios in Ubud to choose from, and all of them offer drop-in classes or you can buy a multi-class pass if you are spending more time in Ubud.

The Yoga Barn is a popular studio that offers a whole array of different classes, workshops and yoga trainings. The complex has its own on-site café, accommodation and spa, and also hosts ecstatic dance and community kirtan events.

Radiantly Alive Yoga studio in Ubud is another reputable and popular option for Yoga lovers – they have a diverse class offering everything from acroyoga and Vinyasa to myofascial release Yin and Kundalini.

10. Go for a dip in a jungle waterfall

Ubud is surrounded by waterfalls enveloped by lush jungle. The good news is that the top Ubud waterfalls are easy to reach – most are within a 30 minute to 1 hour-long drive away from the town centre. The bad news is that they can get extremely crowded.

After our time in Munduk I was, quite frankly, shocked by the ridiculous queues of people waiting up to an hour at Kanto Lampo waterfall for their turn to take photos in a series of poses in the exact same spot as the last person.

There was barely a second to spare to take a photo of the Kanto Lanto waterfall itself without a person in it – this is the best that I managed with the help of long exposure and some minor editing.

To avoid the crowds at the waterfalls in Ubud you will need to wake up bright and early to enjoy the peace and quiet, or travel to Ubud outside of the peak season which typically runs from June to August.

In addition to Kanto Lanto which is easily accessible from Ubud (only about 30 minutes away – entry costs 20,000 IDR), some other Ubud waterfalls to add to your Ubud itinerary include Tegenungang Waterfall (about 30 minutes from Ubud – there is also a pool club named Omma which overloks the waterfall), Tibumana Waterfall (45 minutes from Ubud), Tukad Cepung Waterfall (1 hour from Ubud) and Leke Leke Waterfall (just over an hour from Ubud).

Have more time in Ubud? You might also consider venturing to East Bali for a day trip to visit some of the island’s most important temples and former water palaces. Here is my East Bali day trip itinerary .

11. Get your caffeine fix

Coffee is taken very seriously in this neck of the jungle. Some of the best coffee in Bali is served in Ubud.

We especially loved the (seriously strong) flat whites from Ubud Coffee Roastery in the heart of downtown Ubud (limited seating), as well as the coffee from Gangga Coffee just outside of the main strip. I also heard great things about Seniman but didn’t get a chance to stop by this time around.

12. Wind down with a relaxing massage

The cherry on the cake of our 4 days in Ubud was a traditional Balinese massage at Radha Spa at The Sankara .

The stunning couple’s treatment room was light-filled and it felt as though we were in the depths of the forest with the lush garden.

After the spa treatment you can use the hotel’s pool or opt for a flower bath (at an additional cost). You can also book massages in Ubud at Kamandalu, Maya Ubud and Chapung Wellness – most will include a day pass to allow you to use their pool and other facilities.

13. Go on a sunrise trek up Mount Batur

Hiking up Mount Batur (AKA the Kintamani volcano) to watch the sunrise is one of the top things to do in Ubud. Most Mount Batur tour operators pick up hikers from Ubud sometime between 1:30-2 AM in the morning, and the trek begins at approximately 4 AM to ensure that you get to the top in time for the sunrise.

We had a toddler in tow, and let’s be honest – I’m not a huge fan of hiking, so gave this a miss. However lots of friends who have done the Mount Batur sunrise hike speak highly of the experience!

Ready to visit Ubud? Look for a hotel near downtown Ubud if you are a first-time visitor and want easy access to restaurants and bars. Head over here to see highly-rated hotel options in Ubud , or check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel in Ubud that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. It is perfect for couples and solo travelers! We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery).

Travel tips for visiting Ubud with a baby

Heading to Ubud with kids? There are a few things you should know first. Families traveling with young children to Ubud will love the child-friendly pool clubs in the area, waterfalls which are easy-to-reach from the centre of town, and walking down the rice terraces at Tegallalang. I even saw a few older children having a blast watching the traditional Kecak fire dance show in the evening.

Here are some additional tips for visiting Ubud with children:

Worried about bringing too much luggage?  You can rent any baby gear including travel cots and car seats for around US$5 or AU$7 a day. We used  Bali Baby Hire  – it was easy to coordinate the equipment booking via e-mail and they even dropped off and picked up all the gear for us (for an extra fee).

Book a driver with a child car seat.  I recommend getting in touch with Gede (number at the top of this Ubud travel guide) who can provide a forward-facing child car/booster seat. If you need a rear-facing baby car seat for younger children book one for your trip via Bali Baby Hire.

Stock up on diapers and baby food in Ubud.  You can easily buy diapers and baby food from Pepito Andong Ubud about 10 minutes away from the main strip.

Be prepared if your baby gets sick in Bali.  Many Ubud hotels will have a pediatrician on call, make sure you ask if your baby requires medical attention. Otherwise, head straight to BIMC private hospital in Ubud. You can also buy baby paracetamol in liquid form from Guardian pharmacies.

Many hotels may not have a cot, or may be adults-only.  Double check with hotels if they are able to provide a cot, as they might not even if the hotel’s booking page says that they can.  Origin Ubud  were able to provide a wooden cot in the room, though we opted to use our own rented travel cot.

Some, but not all, restaurants and day clubs in Bali have high chairs.  If you are looking for kid-friendly cafes and restaurants in Ubud I recommend Milk & Madu (however it does not have any outdoor play area like the ones in Canggu) or Kelapa Muda. If you are not sure whether a restaurant in Ubud has a high chair consider bringing along a portable travel high chair like the Totseat or Bumbo booster.

Last but absolutely not least, here is my top tip for traveling to Ubud with kids: need an extra pair of hands to wrangle your little one?  There are many experienced nannies in Bali  who you can hire by the hour (or day, or even your whole trip) to help you out so that you can actually sit down and eat your meal, go for a surf, practice yoga or go for a massage.

I highly recommend getting in touch with Febri from Feby’lous Bali Nanny or Ani from Mom’s Nanny Care – we have personally used both services. We were set up with Ani who looked after our baby in Canggu, Ubud and Uluwatu during our 2 weeks in Bali.

Get in touch with Febri or Ani as soon as you know your dates for visiting Ubud as good nannies are in high demand! The rates are extremely reasonable – 65,000 IDR (US$5 or AU$6.5) per hour with a minimum of 5 hours per day. There is an extra fuel surcharge to help cover the cost of the commute to Ubud (many nannies are based in and around Denpasar).

Ready to visit Ubud? If you want easy access to restaurants and bars check out Origin Ubud – a boutique hotel that offers the best of both worlds – it’s private and away from the hustle and bustle, but within walking distance to the main Ubud strip. We also considered staying at 11 on Kajeng (a boutique hotel within walking distance of Ubud town), The Sankara Resort (beautiful hotel outside the city centre with an on-site spa) and Sapodilla Ubud (a stunning hotel surrounded by lush greenery). You can also head over here to explore other highly-rated hotel options in Ubud .

Where to go after Ubud

We traveled to Ubud after spending time in Munduk and Canggu. You could, however, kick off your time in Bali in Ubud. Planning your Bali itinerary and not sure where to go after Ubud? Here are a few options:

Ubud to Munduk : Munduk in northern Bali is a quiet mountain town that remains somewhat off-the-beaten-path. It is surrounded by dozens of waterfalls and is a stone’s throw from one of the holiest Hindu water temples in Bali – Pura Ulun Danu Beratan. Munduk is located approximately 70 kilometres or two hours by car from Ubud. Read my Munduk travel guide here .

Ubud to Uluwatu : Uluwatu in the southern Bukit Peninsula is popular for its white sand beaches, world-class surf and picturesque clifftop views. Uluwatu is only 55 kilometres or so from Ubud but the road into Uluwatu through Denpasar is often crowded with heavy traffic, so you can expect the drive from Ubud to Uluwatu to take over two hours. Read my Uluwatu travel guide here .

Ubud to Canggu: Canggu  is one of the top beach destinations in Bali and a great place to begin or end your Bali 2 week itinerary. Canggu is only 30 kilometres or an hour by car from Ubud. Read my Canggu travel guide here .

Ubud to Sanur: The coastal beach town is an underrated Bali destination, popular with families and people looking for a less frenetic pace and fewer crowds. Sanur is about an hour by car from Ubud. Read my Sanur travel guide here .

I hope this guide to Ubud in Bali helps you to plan your perfect getaway!

You may also enjoy these reads:

• It can be overwhelming planning a trip to Bali. Here is a 2 week Bali itinerary to get you started , complete with trip extension options
• Headed to the mountains of northern Bali before or after Ubud?  Here is my Munduk travel guide
• East Bali is home to some of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Here is my guide to planning a day trip to East Bali
• Canggu is a wonderful Bali beach destination for solo travelers, couples and families alike. Read my Canggu travel guide for first-time visitors
• The stunning Bukit Peninsula has plenty to offer beyond the peeling surf – check out my Uluwatu travel guide for more details
• Sanur is often overlooked with a reputation for being “too sleepy” but it is incredibly underrated. Read my guide to the top things to do in Sanur to plan your trip to this east coast beach town
• Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting regions, but there are many common misconceptions about this part of the world.  Read this before you travel to Southeast Asia!

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Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide

Ubud is one of the most popular destinations to visit in Bali, Indonesia. From incredible waterfalls and rice terraces, to volcano hikes, yoga classes and massages, find out the top things to do, places to visit, eat, drink, and of course, a few of my special tips for travelling around the region in my Ubud blog! 

Ubud is one of those super cool towns I’d read about before I visited Bali in Indonesia . Friends raved about the natural beauty, the spas, food, waterfalls, day trips, yoga and more. I felt like everyone had a favourite spot in the area, and feeling cynical I wondered whether it was going to be horribly overhyped and touristy!

You know what? It really wasn’t. I mean, there were plenty of people visiting but it didn’t have that horrible touristy vibe where you feel like all real culture has been lost. It lived up to the hype, and perhaps even surpassed beyond my expectations.

It’s also incredibly budget-friendly. So after spending so many enjoyable days there, I wanted to write this Ubud travel blog with a few of my top places to visit and things to do. Some are obvious (hello rice terraces and waterfalls!) and some are places that I discovered with my friends and couldn’t wait to share!

Planning your trip to Bali? Here are a few quick highlights:

Top Things To Do In Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Guide 

Tegalalang rice terraces.

Ubud’s most iconic photos are of the beautiful lush rice paddies to the north of the town. They’re as stunning as the photos, and the green is so bright, you feel like you’ve cranked up the saturation!

You can enter free of charge, but to continue to different sections, you’ll pay small fees (a few IDR). You can also pay to have photos at the famous Love Bali sign or to pose with one of the workers in the famous hats!

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek  

Easily one of the most challenging things I did during my time in Indonesia, but also the most rewarding. I’d recommend this hike to everyone – all fitness levels, all holiday styles.

You can find out more about it in my post here, but I think the photos probably tell you everything you need to know! While it’s not IN Ubud, the tours run from the town daily.

Toya Devasya Hot Springs  

I visited these hot springs just after completing the Mount Batur sunrise trek . The series of swimming pools were located right on the lake, making it a truly spectacular place to reflect on an adventurous morning.

While I visited as part of a tour, you could hop on a scooter to visit the area.

The Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)

Goa Gajah (aka the Elephant Cave) is an ancient temple built in the 9th century. There are lots of carvings on the stone on the entrance to the cave.

The actual cave itself is tiny! In front of the cave is a large bathing pool featuring five statues depicting Hindu angels holding vases that act as waterspouts. There are also beautiful gardens to explore. Entrance fee: 15,000 IDR.

Top tip: There are plenty of people selling sarongs outside saying you need one to enter, but they actually include one in the price of your ticket, so don’t be fooled!

Goa Rang Reng Waterfall

I remember the moment we arrived at this waterfall, and what a moment it was! Beautiful cascading falls splashing down the rock edge, with a large pool to bathe in at the top. It’s a steep (and often slippery) climb up to the top, but there’s a rope to help steady you.

To reach the falls you walk through stunning jungle trail lovely trail, plus there’s a cave to explore too! When I visited there were about 8 other people there, and at one point we had it all to ourselves.

Tegenungan Waterfall

The most famous waterfall near Ubud, Tegenungan is very impressive! It’s a great place to cool off on a sticky day, but at this one, be prepared for the crowds. Entrance fee: 10,000 IDR but you’ll pay around 10,000 extra to visit the other side.

  A post shared by #balipunyacerita (@bali_punya_cerita) on Apr 22, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

Monkey Forest, Ubud

I was a little apprehensive about visiting Ubud’s famous Monkey Forest as I’d heard so many stories about monkeys grabbing phones, sunglasses and more. Then days before our visit, two monkeys had started going at it on someone’s head! There are over 700 monkeys in the forest and plenty had adorable little babies.

It’s also worth mentioning there are plenty of monkeys around the entrance and causing chaos along the main road. It’s not a zoo – they’re free to roam where they wish, but no doubt enjoy the forest for the food that’s fed to them by tourists each day. I’d assumed the monkeys were the main thing to see here, but there were three lovely temples, a river and of course the beautiful forest full of tall trees and banyans to explore too. Entrance fee: 50,000 IDR.

Yoga in Ubud

With Ubud being such a beautiful, peaceful region, full of nature, it’s no wonder many flock there for relaxation and mindfulness. While I don’t claim to be a yogi, The Yoga Barn came highly recommended by friends and travellers I met along the way. Daily classes run from 7am until 8pm and there are options for all abilities and styles.

They also run retreats if you’re looking for a more focused approach. Prices start from 130,000 IDR (approx. £7.60) for a one-off visit, but you’ll pay less if you book more classes.

Where next in Indonesia? Find out about travel in the Gili Islands , Yogyakarta , Jakarta , Bandung  and Raja Ampat .

Top Places To Eat And Drink In Ubud

There are so many cafes, restaurants and bars in Ubud, and many of them are excellent. The area is famous for its vegan/healthy foods, but there’s plenty of great satay, nasi goreng (fried rice) and mie goreng (fried noodles) on offer too! You’ll also find plenty of western-style restaurants if you’re craving a little taste of home.

Ubud and Digital Nomads

It’s also worth mentioning that Ubud is a popular town for digital nomads, so there are lots of cafes with excellent coffee and strong wifi, where they’re happy for you to sit for hours nursing one cup of coffee! My travel buddy Emily put together a great round up of the best cafes to work from in Ubud , so check that out if you’re looking for somewhere to pitch up for the day!

This was one of my favourite spots in Ubud. I started the day heading to their café across the river, only to discover they’d moved to a new location right in the town. This beautiful garden-like café was being finished (we watched as fish were brought to their new pool at the edge of the seating area!) It’s Instagram-friendly (check out the décor), has a delicious healthy menu of juices, brunch dishes and great coffee.

I loved the relaxed vibe, in particular the lounge area upstairs where people were tapping away on laptops while lazing on gigantic cushions. Oh and once you’ve finished upstairs, the more adventurous out there can slide down the fireman’s pole! Prices weren’t too bad wither – I enjoyed a huge salad plus an iced latte for 114,000 IDR (approx. £6.70).

Warung Bendega

The food here was absolutely delicious. We enjoyed Thai lime chicken, ayam jejurek (a flavoursome chicken dish) and ayam rica rica (a spicy chilli chicken dish). It’s a tourist restaurant but the food was good, atmosphere relaxed and prices were reasonable.

Mama’s Warung

I’d been told this was home to some of the best satay sauce in Ubud, and wow was it good! It’s a tiny restaurant, and very basic in style – more of a lunch place than a dinner place.

I started with an amazing ginger, lime and mint drink – so good I ordered a second glass. We had a generous portion of fried spring rolls (of course with Mama’s famous peanut sauce!), deep fried aubergine and a large mie goreng (fried noodles). A meal for three with drinks came to 186,000 – just over £10! What a bargain!

Burger Shop

This little restaurant caught my eye several times with its big menu of burgers and tasty looking shoestring fries. After completing the huge challenge of climbing Mount Batur, we decided to reward ourselves here – and the burgers certainly didn’t disappoint!

Chill Out Bar and Restaurant

While I heard this was a buzzy place in the evenings with live music and alcoholic drinks, it’s a relaxed spot in the day with good Wi-Fi and delicious milkshakes, plus they bring you free tortilla chips to ward off any hunger pangs!

Ubud Hotels: Where To Stay In Ubud

When it comes to Ubud accommodation, this is a town where you get a lot for your money. While there are a few larger hotels out of town (including luxury brands Viceroy and Four Seasons), the majority in the town centre are small guesthouses, villas and B&Bs.

Many have pools, great facilities and include breakfast. To be honest, I was surprised that there were so many Ubud hotels with private pools – it really is an amazing place for value!

READ MORE:  Where To Stay In Bali – Whole Island Guide (Budget – Luxury)

Budget ubud hotels (under £40 per night).

This is a great town if you’re on a budget. You can stay in an Ubud hostel for as little as £5 a night, so it’s no wonder a lot of backpackers enjoy this part of Bali. Time to reveal the best places to stay in Ubud on a budget.

Permana Ubud Cottage – we spent our time at this small hotel overlooking the rice paddies. For 300,000 IDR a night for a double room (approx. £17), we enjoyed a complimentary breakfast on our terrace each day, and had access to a cute outdoor pool.

Check availability and latest prices here .

Siwaya Villa – Rent your own beautiful villa for as little as £40 a night. With a great pool and set in the rice paddies, it’s a little slice of Bali paradise! It’s a short walk into the centre of Ubud, so you can enjoy the peace and quiet or immerse yourself in the busy town depending on what you fancy.

Check availability and latest prices here.

In Da Lodge – Without a doubt, this is one of the cheapest places to stay in Ubud (when I looked there were beds in dorms available for as little as £3 per night!). This hostel is right in the centre of Ubud and offers pretty standard hostel amenities – dorms, bathrooms and communal areas. It’s a great place to meet other solo travellers and even has a pool – amazing value for the price.

READ MORE: Ubud Hotels – Where To Stay In Ubud, Bali 

Mid-price hotels in ubud, bali (£40 – £100 per night)  .

Biyukukung Suite and Spa, Ubud – Ten minutes from Ubud’s Monkey Forest, this collection of bamboo overlooks the Balinese rice fields. For the price, this is a pretty luxurious option, with a pool and a few restaurants on site.

Alamdini Resort Ubud – The suites at this beautiful new Ubud resort get great reviews. They look lovely and luxurious, with balconies overlooking the jungle. There’s a large outdoor pool overlooking lush tropical greenery, and it’s just a short walk to the centre of Ubud for shopping and restaurant options.

Artotel Haniman Ubud – Just a short walk from the Monkey Forest, this modern hotel is clean and new, with a restaurant and swimming pool. Compared to a lot of Ubud’s hotels this is different, with its quirky arty theme and colourful works on the walls. I love the look of their spacious studios with balconies – looks like the perfect option for couples looking for somewhere to stay in Ubud.

Luxury Hotels In Ubud, Bali (£100+ per night)

Bali is a popular honeymoon destination, and when you see some of these luxury Ubud hotels you’ll understand why!

Adiwana Resort Jembawan – This is one of the best resorts in Ubud, especially if you want to be close to the town centre. Luxurious and smart, there’s a wonderful pool, spa options and yoga on site. It’s also moments from Ubud Palace, so perfect for walking into town for meals and shopping, or to check out attractions like the Monkey Forest.

READ MORE: Top Things To Do In Ubud: The Best Tours, Attractions And Activities

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan – One of Ubud’s most luxurious hotels, the Four Seasons Resort Bali is a ten-minute drive from the centre of town. It’s located in the most stunning area of jungle, and has world-class facilities including beautiful infinity pools, spacious villas, a top spa and great restaurant options. This is my top honeymoon resort recommendation too, as I’d say it’s one of the most unique places to stay in Ubud. Just look at it!

KajaNe Mua Ubud Villas And Hotel – Another amazing town centre option, this 5-star villa resort is on Monkey Forest Road, moments from Ubud Palace. The rooms are super smart, service is next level plus there’s a great pool, spa and gardens.

Hanging Gardens Of Bali – One of the best resorts in Ubud, this five-star hotel really is stunning! That infinity pool!! Accommodation here is in villas which have large terraces or balconies with views of the jungle. There’s also a spa, restaurant and bar. This is another super special place to stay in Ubud, especially if you’re on honeymoon.

Komaneka at Bisma Ubud – This beautiful hillside Ubud hotel offers clear views of Campuhan River, coconut plantations and rice fields. Along with smart, spacious rooms, the resort has two outdoor pools, a restaurant, and a spa. The suites look particularly nice!

Viceroy Bali – Another five-star Ubud hotel, Viceroy Bali is located up in the highlands of Ubud. Stay in a luxurious villas with your own private pool or take a dip in the hotel’s main infinity pool overlooking the lush jungle. Hotel experiences like this come at a premium, but if you’re looking for one of the best places to stay in Ubud, then this might just be it!

Spas In Ubud

Ubud is overrun with spas! I read it was one of the massage capitals of the world when you look at the ratio of masseurs to visitors. It’s a town where it’s easy to walk into a spa and be lying down for a massage in a matter of minutes. One thing I’d say is that quality REALLY varies. I was hoping to include a few links to my top spa experiences in Ubud (after all I had two massages and a pedicure in just a few days!) but I don’t know whether I’d truly recommend the experiences, and I always like to be totally honest.

Prices start around 55,000 IDR for an hour’s massage (£3.20) and go up to prices in the million rupiahs (£70+). Obviously the more expensive massages are in more luxurious settings, but a lot of it is about the masseur you get.

I visited Pratama Spa in Ubud for a full body massage and a pedicure. It cost 125,000 IDR in total (around £7.50) so it was incredibly cheap. The massage was good and the pedicure pretty average. The overall experience wasn’t that relaxing, so if that’s why you’re visiting, I’d pay a little more for a more pleasant setting.

I also visited Glory Spa in Ubud, which was very close to where we were staying. My partner and I enjoyed a couple’s massage for 80,000 IDR each (approx £4.70). While it was nice to be in the same room as him, my masseuse had extremely long, sharp fingernails, and it really wasn’t very comfortable.

My partner however, loved his massage, and claimed it was one of the best he’d ever had… so it really does depend who you get! I hope you have better luck than me!

Travel In Ubud

Scooters are really popular in Indonesia, and you can rent one for a day for around 30,000-50,000 IDR (just a few £/$s!) Lots of tourists ride them and no one travels all that fast. Saying that, there are accidents frequently and police crack down on tourists who aren’t obeying the rules.

Several people got stopped in Ubud for a very unclear right hand turn that wasn’t permitted. Quality varies too, and one of the ones we rented struggled to get up hills. Ubud and the surroundings is quite hilly, so take that into account if you’re a new driver.

Taxi service Uber works in Ubud and generally works out significantly cheaper than local taxis. Locals haven’t embraced the service, and as a result they’re not permitted in some areas. You may have to choose a pick up location away from major hotels or shops. We had a few problems when travelling by Uber in Bali.

Despite always opting to pay by account, one driver suggested we pay in cash in the vehicle (no doubt we would have been charged twice). Travelling to Uluwatu, we were dropped at our destination only to discover the driver hadn’t ended the journey so was charging us for his return journey. Be aware and ready to check whether you’ve been charged correctly!

If you’re happier travelling by car, you could look at hiring a vehicle for your trip. After checking a few sites, I found some really good offers on Holiday Autos .

Using Mobile Phones In Ubud

I have a mobile (cell phone) contract with Three , which is absolutely amazing for travel. Their Feel At Home plan works in 42 countries, allowing you to use your phone tariff as normal when you’re away. Thankfully, Indonesia is on the list, so Three is perfect for anyone spending time in Bali.

I hope some of this info helps you travel around Ubud in Bali. Let me know if you have any questions!

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

6 thoughts on “Ubud, Bali – The Ultimate Ubud Travel Guide”

Ubud is just amazing!

It’s gorgeous isn’t it!! I loved it there – such happy memories!

Love all the activities you’ve mentioned here. Many happy memories of climbing Mount Batur for the sunrise, and of the Monkey Forest. When I arrived in Ubud I was mostly taken aback by the amazing cafes and restaurants though! After two months travelling through South East Asia in remote places my eyes opened wide at the sight and smell and taste of feta cheese and chilled white wine. The restaurants you mention above sound fab and I need a visit again soon!

Wow yes I know what you mean! The restaurants in Ubud were fab and multicultural too. Ahhh such happy memories for me too!

Thanks so much for this post! I haven’t been to Ubud before so I’ve essentially got majority of this on my list to see/do – now the question is HOW to fit it all in! Sarah

I know Sarah – sometimes it’s so hard to choose when you only have limited time! I’d definitely say the rice terraces and Mount Batur! Love it there – have a great time!

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A guide to exploring Ubud, Bali

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Ubud, located in the central foothills of the Gianyar Regency, was my favourite spot during my January 2017 exploration of the tropical island we know as Bali. I’ve been to Bali three times now and each time I’ve loved a different spot more significantly than others. This is the ultimate guide to Ubud, for those of you wanting to visit when you go to Bali.

Ubud, for me, encompasses a lot of what I see as ‘authentic Bali’, from its visual presentation to the interactions and experiences on offer in this gorgeous village. Don’t get me wrong, you have your Western establishments popping up, but they are hard to avoid these days. Somehow, even though it’s become the thriving destination that it is, Ubud has wonderfully managed to hold to so many of its roots .

Host to some of Bali’s most iconic landscapes and known as the  spiritual home  of the island, your adventures here in Ubud wouldn’t be complete without a wander around the  rice paddies,  lunch at one of the many stunning  raw food restaurants , a stroll around Ubud  market , or an afternoon  wandering around the temples .

Ubud makes for a perfect  relaxing getaway  and would be my number one recommendation in Bali. It’s a destination that, for a longer adventure, would partner nicely with one of the nearby tropical islands such as Nusa Lembongan, Gili or Lombok.

Here’s the ultimate guide to exploring Bali, Indonesia.

A complete guide to Ubud, Bali…

EXPLORE BALI ON MY BLOG HERE

Not sure where to stay in Bali?  Check out this blog post to help you plan your Bali itinerary!

Where to stay in Ubud…

Whether you’re looking for an  exclusive villa overlooking the rice paddies , a  basic bed in the hustle and bustle  of Ubud’s activity, or a villa for you and your loved ones… Ubud can cater to everyone.

Central Ubud is pretty jam-packed and is an awesome place to stay if you only have a couple of days and would rather not rent a motorbike to get around. If you locate yourself centrally, most of the main attractions are within walking distance as it’s a pretty small village. Then you can just hop in a taxi or on the back of a moped for a couple of other excursions, should you wish.

If you’re looking for something with a little more space and landscape, then try the neighbouring villages of Penastanan or Nyuh Kuning too. Honestly, it won’t take long before you fall in love with somewhere on this beautiful island.

Looking for a hostel?

You can grab a hostel for as little as £3 a night, though most of them lie between £5-8 per person / night. Type  Ubud into HostelWorld here  and have a browse at the gorgeous locations on offer.

Looking for a hotel or a villa?

See Trip Advisor’s top 10 Ubud hotels here.

Looking for an Airbnb?

As always, unless you are a solo traveller or particularly fancy hostel life,  I recommend starting your search on AirBnb . In Bali, you get incredible value for money and can bag yourself some  unique experiences  via AirBnb. I use it all the time!

Get £30 off your first Airbnb booking here.

My recommendation: Cito’s Guesthouse

Prices from 200,000 IDR (£11 a night). There are different grade rooms, the one below is £22 a night (private bathroom, breakfast and balcony included) which split between the two of you is just £11 each.

Book our room here on Airbnb

Check out my top tips for staying in hostels here, as well as my hostel packing list.

If you want a unique place to stay in Bali, try one of these Bali AirBnbs.

Getting around Ubud…

As I mentioned previously, if you stay in central Ubud you won’t need to sort transport unless you are unable to walk. Exploring the town can be done easily in a day and you’ll only need transport when heading afield for activities or landscapes such as the Tegallalang rice paddy or Mount Batur.

If you fancy getting local or you are staying just outside of town, then hiring a motorbike or scooter is a great idea. It’s not too hard to drive in Ubud compared to the main roads in Bali, so it’s a great and very cheap option that will prove super convenient and efficient for exploring Ubud and the surrounding areas.

You can hire a scooter (that fits 2 people on) for around 60,000IDR a day (about £3.50).

Here are 20 travel tips you MUST know before you go to Bali!

Here’s a complete guide to Seminyak, Bali.

How much should I budget for Ubud?

See my guide to budgeting for Bali here  and have a look at how much meals and activities will cost you!

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

Not sure when the best time to visit Bali is?  Check out this blog post.

For advice on travelling on a budget, check out  these top tips! 

Restaurants I loved in Ubud…

The food in Bali is my favourite in the entire world.  Hands down. Straight up. Without a shadow of a doubt.

They have the most gorgeous selections of tropical fruits, raw produce, superfood specialities and remedies. You won’t walk far without a ‘raw cafe’ coming into view and this means you can eat the yummiest food in the entire world and feel incredible for it afterwards. What’s even better is the prices. Sure, a lot of the ‘raw cafes’ have Western owners, but prices are still cheap compared to the likes of Australia and London, and with it, you get their incredible knowledge and cooking skills.

In between these dreamy cafes, you will find an abundance of Warungs (snack huts), where you can indulge in the finest Indonesian cuisine too. A combination of Nasi Gorengs and dragonfruit açai bowls is what I call heaven.

Some of my favourites in Ubud for lunch or dinner:

• Raw Food Cafe and Tonic Bar
• Seeds of Life
• The All Coconut Cafe
• Wayans Warung (great local Indonesian dishes)

Coffee spots I love in Ubud:

• Revive coffee (need a scooter to get to it)
• Temu coffee (they serve with Oatly too!)

Here are the best places for brunch and coffee in Uluwatu, Bali.

Here are the best places for brunch and coffee in Canggu, Bali.

The best things to do in Ubud…

As well as incredible food, landscapes and culture, Ubud is a hub of activity and adventure that will keep you occupied for days.

During your time in Ubud consider…

• Walking the Campuhan Ridge Walk through the rice fields.
• Climbing Mount Batur

I highly recommend doing this at sunrise and going to the hot springs nearby afterwards.

See my  18 hiking tips for beginners here.

See my Mount Batur adventure here.

• Joining a cycling tour of the rice paddies.

Here’s a complete guide to Uluwatu, Bali.

• Taking an Indonesian cooking class.

Here’s a complete guide to Sanur, Bali.

• Wandering around the Ubud market.

Here’s a complete guide to Canggu, Bali.

• Visiting one of Ubud’s temples.

Including: Pura Taman, Gunung Kawi Sebatu, Gunung Kawi, Goa Gaja, Tirta Empul.

• Taking a yoga class at Radiantly Alive or The Yoga Barn.

If you’re looking for wellness things to do in Bali,  check out this blog post.

• Exploring the work and landscape of Tegallalang Rice Field.

• Hiring Hari for the day and having him show you all the local spots.

We had Hari as our tour guide for the day and he took us through all the rice fields, explaining and showing us all that grows in the wild and all the natural remedies this island provides to its people. He is an absolute sunshine of a human and you can book him and his car for a day of tailored adventures.

Drop him a WhatsApp on +62 813-3855-5633 or Instagram @hari_made_

Send him my love!

Before you visit Bali, check out my  22 top tips for travelling in Southeast Asia.

• Checking out the cheeky monkeys in Ubud’s Monkey Forest.

Make sure you take your sunglasses off of your head, secure your bag and hold on to your cameras!

Here’s the ultimate Bali bucket list, with the best things to do in Bali!

Want to know more about Bali?  Check out my complete guide to visiting Bali here .

Have you been to Ubud?

What were your favourite spots? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

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• 17 Amazing Places To Visit In Ubud To Savour The Best Of Your 2024 Bali Vacay!

23 Mar 2023

Ubud, a beautiful town in Bali, Indonesia attracts tourists from all over the world owing to its traditional handicrafts, picturesque rainforests, and terraced rice paddies along with Hindu temples and shrines. Being a home to such natural wonders and architectural marvels, explore the rich glories of Ubud’s past through the famous places to visit in Ubud along with popular Ubud sightseeings on your next trip to Indonesia.

17 Best Places To Visit In Ubud

While you’re planning to visit this scenic land of Ubud, make sure you know what all to explore beforehand. Scroll down to know what all awaits you here.

• Komaneka Fine Art Gallery
• Tirta Empul Temple
• Ubud Monkey Forest
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Ubud Art Market
• Setia Darma House of Mask And Puppets
• Tanah Lot Temple
• Ubud Celuk Village
• Pura Taman Saraswati Temple
• Royal Palace Cultural Night Performances
• Pod Chocolate Factory And Cafe
• Bali Bird & Reptile Park
• Tegallalang Rice Terraces
• Puri Lukisan Museum
• Blanco Renaissance Museum

1. Komaneka Fine Art Gallery

Image Source

Komaneka Fine Art Gallery is among the popular places to visit in Ubud . This Art Gallery highlights work of skilled painters who depicts life of contemporary epicureans. A must visit place for art lovers to witness the modern works of art in its best form.

Location: Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 8AM to 9PM

Suggested Read: Glamping In Ubud: 3 Exotic Resorts To Experience A Blissful Stay Under The Stars!

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2. Tirta Empul Temple

If you want to spend some time in peace and tranquility during your Bali vacation then you should not miss Tirta Empul Temple which is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Ubud . Constructed around 960 AD, this temple with a mountain spring is located in the town of Manukaya. There are various destinations all through the area along with other archeological relics which can be visited.

Location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia

3. Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the best places to visit in Ubud, Bali . Located close to the Ubud Town Center, this forest is home to 749 Balinese long tailed Monkey. Attracting nearly 12,000 tourists every year, this forest also has 3 temples inside the premise. Other than watching monkeys and offering prayers in the temple, you can take a stroll along the pathways through the woods.

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 8.30AM to 5.30PM

Suggested Read: 8 Super Luxe Villas In Ubud For A Memorable Stay In Indonesia

4. Tegenungan Waterfall

If you are a nature lover, you need not worry on what to see in Ubud . Visit the mesmerizing Tegenungan Waterfall that is amidst lush greenery. Enjoy the scenic beauty or to add some thrill in your vacation, go for swimming or bathe under the natural springs. Spend some time in complete relaxation with your loved ones in the lap of nature in this one of a kind waterfall in Ubud.

5. Ubud Art Market

Holiday remains incomplete if you do not shop from the local markets so if you are in Ubud, do not miss to visit and shop from the famous Art Market on your Ubud day tour . The products sold in the market are manufactured by the Balinese in the neighbouring towns exhibiting their true craftsmanship. You can choose from a wide range of shirts, quality woven packs, caps; statues, and other handicrafts. Location: Jalan Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 6AM to 6PM

Suggested Read: 6 Best Ubud Resorts To Make The Most Of Your Tropical Vacation In Indonesia!

Planning your holiday in Bali but confused about what to do? These Bali travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.

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6. Setia Darma House of Mask And Puppets

The Setia Darma Masks and Puppets House is one of the famous Ubud tourist attractions . The house is an exhibition hall to showcase the great work of art and creativity of Indonesia’s beautiful heritage products. It currently houses over a 1,000 covers and more than 4,000 manikins from Indonesian archipelago, Africa, China, Latin America and Europe.

Location: Jalan Tegal Bingin, Mas, Ubud, Kemenuh, Gianyar Sub-District, Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia Timings: 8AM to 4PM

Suggested Read: Shopping In Ubud: 13 Best Places Where Shopaholics Can Shop And Splurge!

7. Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot Temple is one of the best places to go in Ubud . A renowned Hindu temple, it has a great significance among Balinese. Famous worldwide for its offshore spectacular settings, it is formed from the rock amidst waves. A truly picturesque setting of this temple will make you stay longer here. An ideal place for spending quality time and find inner peace. This is along among the top Ubud tourists attractions and very popular among shutterbugs as well.

Location: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 8217, Indonesia Timings: 7AM to 7PM Entry Fee: Child (6-12) : Rp. 30.000, Adult : Rp. 60.000

Suggested Read: 15 Best Restaurants In Bali For Delicious Food And Sun-Soaked Memories

8. Ubud Celuk Village

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Ubud , the famous Ubud Celuk Village is a popular tourist attractions that is located 4 km southwest of the Sukawati District. The Balinese village inhabitants masters the art and creativity of crafting gold and silver jewellery to perfection and sell their products at cheap rates. You can buy handicrafts of gold and silver from this craft village and can also try local dishes and satiate your taste buds.

9. Pura Taman Saraswati Temple

Among the top 10 places to visit in Ubud , Pura Taman Saraswati Temple is one which is a must visit if you are in Bali. Built in traditional Balinese architecture, this water temple is located in the centre of Ubud. You can also visit the temple post sunset to witness the famous Kecak Dance Performance that takes place inside the temple premise on every Tuesday and Thursday from 7.30 PM.

Location: Jalan Kajeng, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings : 7 AM to 5 PM

10. Royal Palace Cultural Night Performances

Image Source One of the most renowned landmarks in the entire Ubud, the Royal Palace is one place you cannot miss here. Not only the intricate details of the fine architectural work attracts the visitors from far off, the Legong dance and Ramayana are something you ought to witness for a deeper insight of the vibrant culture of that Balinese are proud of. Location: Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 8AM to 7PM

11. Pura Puseh

Image Source Comprising of a magnificent designing detail and stone carvings, Pura Puseh is one of the remarkable temples in Bali that will fill you with great awe. Renovated in 1992, this temple carries a unique essence and proof of its establishment in 1022 AD in its engraving. Displaying many Hindu deities and symbols of Hindu religion, this temple is something you cannot afford to miss on the island of temples. Location: Desa Batuan, Sukawati, Indonesia Timings: NA

12. Amed Beach

Image Source If visiting Bali, doesnt involve beaches, your vacation is surely incomplete. So, while youre planning to check out some of the cool places to visit in Ubud make sure you include a perfect combination of sun,sand and waves that Amed beach provides. Also known for its salt cultivation, this beach is also a good place to surf along those waves. Location: Tulamben Village, Kec Kubu, Karangasem, Indonesia Timings: 9AM to 5PM

13. Pod Chocolate Factory And Cafe

Image Source Indulging in a fun chocolate tasting experience can never be wrong especially, when youre in the land that has high amounts of cocoa as a produce. Go for the chocolate drinks that this place has to offer or simply create a chocolate elephant of your own. A good news for all chocolate lovers, a visit to the factory at this place will let you experience a whole new level of chocolate essences. Location: Jl. Tukad Ayung, Carangsari, Petang, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80353, Indonesia Timings: 9AM to 5PM

14. Bali Bird & Reptile Park

Image Source The gorgeous colourful birds that one can spot in various places in the tropical land of Bali is a delight to the hearts of all nature and wildlife enthusiasts. With so many species of reptiles and birds on board, it can be a great learning experience for the kids too. Whats more is that you can spot a huge Komodo dragon right in the front side along with other beings like python, frogs and turtles. Location: Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir Singapadu, Batubulan, Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582, Indonesia Timings: 9AM to 5:30PM

15. Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Image Source With a beautiful sun shining on the lush green rice paddies from above, it is surely nothing less than a sight to behold for all tourists. Serving as a nice spot for clicking many pictures, people from different walks of life like to soak in some amount of bliss with all the greenery and cool breezy weather to accompany such views have to offer. Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia Timings: Open 24 hours

16. Puri Lukisan Museum

Image Source Care to find a perfect combination of history, art and Balinese culture in Ubud- Well, Puri Lukisan museum is just the place for you. Taking some time off from the bustling Ubuds crowd and happening pubs all around, this museum also serves as a serene place to spend some time in the nature. Set in the lush green gardens, this museums offers peace, quiet, knowledge and a sneak into the Balinese culture. Location: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 9AM to 6PM

17. Blanco Renaissance Museum

Image Source Some of the fine works of Antonio Blanco can be seen in this museum. The works are inspired by his travel and the stories attached to those destinations. As usually found in the open spaces that lead you to the museums in Bali, you can also click pictures around the scenic tiny waterfalls and gardens that the entrance region has. Location: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia Timings: 9AM to 5PM

Further Read: 13 Amazing Things To Do In Komodo Island For Adventure-Seekers

Falling in love with Ubud already? Include these places to visit in Ubud and embark on a journey of a lifetime to this beautiful Balinese town on your next holiday in Indonesia . So, when are you packing your bags? Make sure you pack more than enough clothes in case this place changes your mind and you extend your vacay!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Ubud

Why is Ubud famous?

Ubud is best known for its rich culture, heritage, lush green jungles, Hindu pilgrim sites, terraced rice fields, and handicrafts. If you want to witness the best of Bali, make sure to visit Ubud. Some attractions that you can add to your itinerary include Komaneka Fine Art Gallery, Tirta Empul Temple, Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegenungan Waterfall, Ubud Art Market, Setia Darma House of Mask And Puppets, Tanah Lot Temple, Ubud Celuk Village, and Pura Puseh.

What are the best outdoor activities in Ubud?

Ubud is known for its majestic temples and engaging museums. One of the most famous things to do in Ubud is taking a giant swing. You could also take a walk amidst rice plantations and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Some other activities you can enjoy are getting clicked with colourful birds at Bali Bird Park, spending some picnic time at Tegenungan Waterfall, and visiting Bali Zoo to witness the intriguing wildlife.

Can I visit Ubud during the current Covid situation?

Yes, Ubud is now welcoming travellers from India. Make sure to abide by all the mandatory safety guidelines issued by Government. Keep wearing a mask whenever going out or surrounded by people, and maintain social distancing at all times. Also, sanitize your hands at certain intervals.

What should I not miss in Ubud Bali?

Do not miss the giant swing in Bali and taking a scenic walk to Campuhan Ridge. Visit the famous temple – Puri Taman Saraswati. Apart from this, you must check out Ubud market where you will famous handicrafts to buy as souvenirs.

Which is better, Ubud or Kuta?

It is up to your preferences. If you like serene and quaint places filled with lush greenery, then you are going to love spending time in Ubud. Kuta, on the other hand, is a tourist place full of hustle-bustle. You can hit the beaches and go to a water park.

What can you do in Ubud for free?

The most amazing thing that you can do in Ubud for free is taking a walk on Campuhan Bridge. You could visit Ubud Art Market for free but you will still have to spend money to buy things unless you are going window-shopping

What is there to do in Ubud at night?

You could visit any of the famous bars and pubs in Ubud and witness the exotic nightlife of the place. Enjoy a movie night in Paradiso or take a night spa at the Dragonfly Sauna.

Where can I walk around Ubud?

You could take the Jalan Subak Sok Wayah walk where you traverse through emerald-green rice fields. There is Campuhan Ridge Walk and Penglipuran Village walk where you will get to know the culture of Ubud from up close and personal.

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21 Best Fun Things To Do For Your Ubud Itinerary 2024

21 best things to do ubud in 2024: complete itinerary.

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best things to do in Ubud, Bali,  one of the best honeymoon and backpacking destinations in the world ?

If you’re looking for a complete and thorough itinerary and a list of places to stay in Ubud , then this is it!

This location is known as the art and yoga capital of the world and you will understand why when you arrive. It’s still to this day one of the best places to visit in the world if you enjoy nature and spirituality like me.

The architecture is rustic and beautiful, the streets are filled with artisans selling handmade goods, and everyone seems happy to be there.

Here’s where you can see some of the best activities,  such as the Sacred Monkey Sanctuary ,  Bali Swing  and  Pura Tirta Empul , including all the other best attractions in Ubud that you must do.

Also, there is plenty of things to see at night in Ubud, but I will cover where to go in this post (see all the Bali backpacking guides )!

Stuck for time and also looking for places to stay? Check out these lush places to stay in Ubud: Booking.com

1. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

The Sacred Monkey Forest Ubud of Padangtegal is one of the most popular things to see in Ubud.

The natural forest was previously a temple dating back to the 14 th  century. Looked after by a community-based management program, the forest is home to a flock of grey long-tailed monkeys. Locals believe that these macaques are sacred animals that guard the temple.

Other than watching these monkeys swing from branch to branch, you can also take a walk down the pathways in the forest’s cool environment while feeding the primates bananas.

However, make sure you take care of your belongings because these monkeys like playing pranks on visitors.

The monkeys are clearly accustomed to being petted and photographed. They climb right onto a tourist’s shoulder or knee when encouraged.

This forest is one of the most visited attractions in Ubud because of its amazing views and peaceful surroundings .

You can go on a hike through the forest or simply enjoy some time in nature here. I can say that this is a great place to visit if you’re travelling with kids.

How to get to the monkey forest? We walked from the Ubud town centre to the monkey forest, it took us about 20 minutes with a brisk walk and we got breakfast in the town centre on the way.

You can check out cheap tickets for the Monkey forest  here.

2. Take a walk down the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Location: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

If you want to enjoy the amazing scenery, you are bound to walk down the  Campuhan Ridge Walk , the place you can resort to if you want to escape a sometimes busy area.

The hilly area gives a beautiful view of the valley and its rice paddies. The view is best during sunrises and sunsets and it’s definitely of the sweetest  free things to do in Ubud .

The trail is a little over 2 miles long and not difficult to walk, but it can be hot out. Everyone you will see on the hike is happy and smiling. Go early in the morning if you want shade.

Try closing your eyes and taking in the cool breeze that hits your face, it’s the best refreshment you can get. The ridge walk is near the Monkey Forest so you should visit both of the Ubud tourist attractions.

This is a free activity and all you need is some water and a camera to enjoy this awesome hike.

If this hike sounds like something that might interest you, you might want to check out our best hikes and walks in Bali recommendations .

3. Get enchanted by the Puri Saren Palace

Location: Jalan Ubud Raya, Ubud, Indonesia

This is one of the must-do things on the list of things to see in Ubud. Located in the centre of the town the Palace is the  Ubud Royal Palace .

The antique building dates back to the 18th century when the King Ida Tjokorda Putu Kandel built it and is home to Balinese ornate architecture that you can admire as you take a walk inside the palace.

Even though the Ubud Royal Family still resides in various sections of the palace, the historic building is open for tourists to visit.

A maze of ornate architecture and intricate stone carvings will make your jaw drop. You’ll get to see beautiful architecture and learn about Balinese history simultaneously.

You’ll even get a chance to see how traditional Balinese dance is performed by visiting one of the ceremonies or festivals that happen here regularly.

Guess what, since the Palace is located in the Ubud centre, the art market and other commercial areas are easily accessible from there.

If you want to do some shopping and enjoy some delicious food afterward, this is the most solid choice on the list. I recommend you spend around 30 minutes in the market in Ubud to enjoy the local environment, and why not, buy something new.

You can check out awesome Ubud Tours Here. 

4. Enjoy the Kecak Dance Performance

Location: Jl. Sri Wedari No.12, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

If you’re going to Ubud, you must see the Kecak Fire Dance Performance . This ceremonial dance is a part of the Balinese Hindu religion , performed at temples throughout Bali.

Kecak Dance is a classical monkey dance performed by dancers from the Pekraman Taman Kaja, that dates back to 1930s.

It’s held in the courtyard of Pura Dalem Temple, where the audience seated on either side of the temple.

100 men perform without any musical instrument except for chanting and singing.

Their performance is based on the epic from Ramayana that they recreate in front of their audiences.

If you are looking for something to do in Ubud that’s a little different and unique, you should be here.

The Kecak performance is held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7 pm in the temple of Junjugan Village on Jalan Titra Tawar.

Unlike commercial performances that are crowded, these are relatively more fun to attend. The cost of the Kecak Performance is 75,000 IDR (around $7). 

There are a few shows in various locations around Ubud. You will be approached to buy tickets, but don’t feel pressured into going unless you’re interested.

The seats can range from the cheap wooden variety up to cushioned interior boxes. Find whichever one suits your budget and preference best.

Definitely wouldn’t leave Ubud without seeing at least one show, though. They really do give you an authentic slice of Balinese culture.

Make sure to check out Kecak Fire Dance Tour Here

5. Treat your taste buds the delights of Gianyar Night Market

Location: Jl. Ngurah Rai-Gianyar No.38, Gianyar, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80361, Indonesia

A 10-kilometre ride from Ubud is the  Gianyar Ubud Nigh t Market, a place best suited for hungry and curious travellers.

The market looks and feels more interesting after sunset when the lamps on each vendor stall light up making the market look like a feast from a movie. This is one of the best markets to explore in Ubud if not the best.

At the Gianyar Night Market, you would be able to reach a level of satiation when it comes to hunger and tasting new dishes. Traditional dishes like babi guling, jaje Bali, palm sugar-filled klepon and various other items of food are served on banana wraps here.

Meals at the Gianyar Night Market start from 25,000 IDR , going down to even 5,000 IDR . Quite cheap for a Western traveller!

You will be pleased to know the food is amazing. Whether it’s meat you love, or you are a vegetarian. There are plenty of restaurants for all taste buds, especially if you want to know where to eat in Ubud .

I recommend visiting here because you will have a great time getting to know the locals while sampling the various cultural foods available.

It’s best to only bring small bills for buying things since you’ll have trouble getting change otherwise.

6. Appreciate the Botanic Gardens Bali

Location: Jl. Kebun Raya Eka Karya Candikuning, Tabanan 82191 Indonesia

I have mentioned before the stunning greenery the Bali sights possess and the Bali Botanic Garden is proof of that statement.

The Indonesia botanic gardens are built amazingly and you will appreciate the work that has gone into these.

If you’re looking for places to go in Bali that are a little different from markets and yoga barns, then this is it.

You’ll first notice the smell as you approach the Botanic Gardens in Bali. It’s like walking through a perfume store. And that’s because there are so many flowers here.

The gardens have 2,000 species of tropical plants and trees from around the world, including bamboo from China, orchids from Thailand, and fruit trees from India.

The gardens also have a butterfly enclosure where hundreds of butterflies fly around freely and close to visitors. They have an orchid garden where you can see how orchids are grown for commercial sale.

You can spend hours here exploring every corner of this beautiful place. There are many paths through the garden, so you can take your time and explore at your own pace.

And if you want to learn even more about these incredible plants and flowers, there are botanists available who can tell you all about them.

Take pictures with your family or friends. There are lots of places where you can get incredible group shots with these tropical plants as backdrops.

You may have to travel a little to get here, but it’s completely worth it as this is one of the best Ubud sightseeing attractions.

This garden is a popular place for family reunions and large-group picnics . It has become an informal gathering spot for residents who use the space to celebrate family celebrations and hold teambuilding exercises.

Book the Tickets Here 

7. Take a dive in the Tegenungan Waterfall

Location: Jl. Raya Tegenungan, Kemenuh, Ubud 80581 Indonesia

Right from the moment you start your journey to the utterly breathtaking  Tegenungan Waterfall Bali , all you encounter is beauty.

On the way to the famous Waterfall, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the rice paddies on either side of the road.

Upon reaching your destination, you come across various shops and the famous restaurant, Bebek Tamarind which serves finger-licking Balinese-style crispy fried duck.

The crystal-clear waterfalls are surrounded by lush jungles, making it an ideal place to take photos while enjoying the fresh air.

Don’t forget to bring your camera. This place is truly magical and offers some incredible photo opportunities. You’ll be glad you captured the moment.

But that’s not all. There are also many other things to do here as well.

Upon reaching your destination, you come across various shops and the famous restaurant, Bebek Tamarind, which serves finger-licking Balinese-style crispy fried duck.

Following the meal, you can go down towards the waterfall, a scenic, and dream-like view.

A stream of fresh water flows from the green canopy, and you can take a relaxing dip into the water. Reminisce on the scene’s serenity, storing the experience in your heart forever.

It’s a great place to visit in the summer, as it gets pretty hot. It can get crowded with tourists so getting off the beaten track isn’t easy.

There are cool bars and plenty of shops around there, just be prepared for some steep climbs.

You can also travel north of Bali to the Gitigit waterfall for some epic photos and fun.

Following the meal, you can go down towards the waterfall which is a scenic and dream-like view in itself, from the green canopy, flows a stream of fresh water and you can take a relaxing dip intoit.

There are plenty of top waterfalls in Bali and this is one of the best Ubud attractions for you to check out !

You can also travel north of Bali to the  Gitigit waterfall  for some epic photos and fun.

8. Bali’s Elephant Cave – Goa Gajah

Location: Jl. Raya Goa Gajah Desa Bedulu, Ubud 80581 Indonesia

A historical site must-visit for all history lovers deserves to be on our Ubud must-do highlights itinerary.

The Goa Gajah Bali  or the Elephant Cave is located six kilometres out of central Ubud. The cool  weather in Ubud  makes the trip even more enchanting than it already is.

In the 11th century, the Goa Gajah was built as a spiritual place for meditation, the Cave has a relic-filled courtyard, bathing pools and fountains, rock-wall carvings and a central meditation cave.

It has various Hindu as well as Buddhist structures and indentations which indicates where meditating priests centuries ago sat.

The location of Goa Gajah too is strategic as it is built on a hillside where two streams meet forming a river junction which is considered sacred by locals.

There was a steep hill, so it was hard to walk without falling. So make sure to bring a good set of shoes or hiking boots.

Visitors to Ubud enjoy coming here to check out the sweet architectural stone and take some great photos of this top temple in Ubud.

You can  book a tour  here.

9. The Bali Swings

Location: Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352, Indonesia

If you’re visiting Ubud and you don’t experience the must-do Ubud Bali Swing , then there’s a lot o self-pity you should be indulging yourself into.

We saw many awesome things. However, the Bali swings would fasten your heartbeat and give you the perfect kick you need! This is a top tourist attraction so expect plenty of visitors.

There is lots of epic swing in Bali to see. I would try and get around what you can to see most of them. Each swing offers an amazing view.

You can get a bird’s eye view of Bali from this perspective . The view from each swing is different because of its location.

The swings are made with wood and ropes so they can hold heavy weights, and people can swing freely in the air while enjoying the scenery around them.

If you want to see the most beautiful scenery of Ubud, keep your eyes open when you hang on a swing because you might be surprised by what you see.

If you’re visiting Gili Trawangan  for your honeymoon or just to escape the stresses of everyday life, be sure to check out my post about the best things to do in Gili Trawangan .

Check out  booking the tour .

Side note – Do you take photos yourself and want to get into a little travel photography? Then check out  this camera – it’s cheap, takes great photos and has great ratings!

10. Get a Spiritual Reconnect at the Yoga Barn in Ubud

Location: Jl. Pengoseken, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

Like several other things, this town is also famous for its yoga retreats. Among the several yoga studios it has, the most loved one is the  Yoga Barn in Ubud .

The Yoga Barn is a studio right off the main road, surrounded by rice paddies and greenery on all sides .

We had a chance to visit, and I must say it’s peaceful, quiet, and beautiful. It’s a place where you will be challenged, you will sweat, and you will be sore for days.

But that’s okay because it also happens to be one of the most rewarding experiences you could ever have in Ubud.

Instructors lead the classes with varying levels of experience and expertise.

You’ll find yourself surrounded by people just as excited to be there. It’s a fun and welcoming environment for anyone looking to learn more about yoga or improve their practice.

The classes are tailored specifically to each group’s needs. They will be helping beginners learn how to do downward dogs or helping advanced practitioners perfect their poses.

The place is a getaway from all your worldly problems and tensions.

You can  book Yoga meditation  here.

What are the best Yoga houses in Ubud?

Here is a list of some of the other best places to do yoga in Bali;

• Yoga House Ubud
• Aerial Yoga Ubud
• Radiantly alive yoga Ubud

11. White Water Rafting on the Agung River

If you’re looking for something adventurous in Ubud, then this one should be on top of your list of Ubud activities .

It’s not an easy task, but it’s one of the best ways to see Ubud from a new perspective . And guess what? You get to take home some pretty epic photos.

White Water Rafting is one of the most famous outdoor activities in the city. In Ubud, the sport is done on the white waters of the Agung River.

You’ll see amazing things when you’re rafting. You’ll see the beautiful scenery around you and the other people on the river enjoying themselves. You can even see some wildlife.

You are picked up from your hotel in the morning and taken to a class where are briefed on the do’s and don’ts of rafting.

Other important basics are taught, and the adventure starts at 10 am and ends at noon. The experience is exhilarating and results in an adrenaline rush in your body.

The guides are great at helping you learn how to navigate your way through the rapids and make sure that everyone has a good time on the trip.

It’s not something I’d suggest for people who aren’t comfortable in the water or don’t have much upper body strength.

But if that sounds like something you can handle, this is an excellent choice for your next adventure.

For safety and convenience, you should wear good water-proof shoes when coming down to the river area.

Book Ticket:  White water rafting Ubud

12. A trip to the Agung Rai Museum of Art

Location: Pengosekan Road, Ubud 80571 Indonesia

If you are interested in learning about new religions and cultures, then  Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) is your go-to place.

The place is an encyclopedia about Balinese traditions and cultural aspects .

ARMA is surrounded by tropical gardens and features notable and praiseworthy works of Indonesian artists like Affandi and Raden Saleh.

It’s not just an art gallery but shares information about traditional Balinese orchestras, Balinese history and dance, wood carvings, conventional cuisines, and native fabrics. The visitors are usually accompanied by guides.

The museum was founded in 1976 by Agung Rai, a well-known artist who lived in Ubud for most of his life. He built this museum as a way to showcase pieces that are representative of Balinese culture.

Today, it houses over 2,000 pieces and over 2 million square feet of space and is filled with beautiful paintings, sculptures, and art pieces from different artists.

There are rooms dedicated solely to religious art like Hindu gods or funeral items like wreaths and coffins.

In addition to its extensive collection of artworks and artifacts, ARMA also hosts art exhibits regularly.

Moreover, in the afternoon after viewing the art collections, visitors can have snacks in the local café or enjoy a traditional Balinese dance performance.

However, the walk to the main attractions from this museum takes about half an hour. So I recommend taking a taxi.

13. Walkthrough the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Location: Jalan Raya Ceking, Tegalalang 80517 Indonesia

Another important tourist attraction in Bali is the  Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud . Rice paddies are very commonly found in the Ubud town, even if you take a walk down the streets of the town you will enjoy their view.

However, this activity here is overlooking the rice terraces from  Mount Batur .

Along with walking, you can also learn how to plant and harvest rice here. A trip to the Tegallalang Terraces is considered to be the highlight of their vacations to Ubud by several tourists.

Once you start walking down them and getting closer, you’ll realize how much work went into making this place what it is today. I suggest wearing closed-toed shoes when you go there, especially during the rainy season.

The terraces are perfectly constructed and maintained by local farmers who still use traditional methods to grow their crops.

One of my favorite things about the terraces is that they make a perfect spot for photos because of how beautiful they are during different times of the day. There are swings where you can pay locals to take your picture.

You can see them at sunrise or sunset or even during the evening when everything glows in an amber hue.

Tip: For all the photographers, the Tegallalang Terraces have the most picturesque views that you ought to capture through a lens.

Also, for the best photos visit early in the morning or late in the afternoons.

Book a  cheap tour around Bali  here.

You may have heard of the  Gamba Padi  in Ubud which you should check out. The Padi fields in Bali are awesome.

14. Pura Tirta Empul

Location: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552, Indonesia

The  Tirta Empul temple  is a Hindu Balinese water temple located near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali.

The temple is beautiful, and they have some cool statues lining their courtyard walls. The best part about Pura Tirta Empul is walking around the grounds and seeing their architecture up close.

One of the cool things is that you can actually get in the water and get blessed here. You have to take a ‘sarong’ though, or won’t be allowed into the water for the blessing.

The temple is also known for its healing waters . Many people make pilgrimages here because they believe drinking from this spring can cure illness or improve fertility.

Each one has a different meaning and a different blessing. You’re supposed to them in chronological order, so start at the left side and work your way up through the numbers to be blessed.

It’s built over a natural spring, and the water from the spring is used for ceremonies. A long line of people come here daily to pray and make offerings. So if want to see some of the local culture first-hand, this is the perfect place to do it.

Also, known as the water temple this is a sacred place to the locals. What are the Pura Tirta water fountain meanings?

Each one has a different meaning and a different blessing. You’re supposed to them in chronological order, so starting at the left side and work your way up through the numbers to be blessed.

Looking for amazing temples in Bali? Check out the amazing  Pura Tanah Lot Temple too.

Book a  private tour  for less than $12

15. Ancient Bali: Pura Gunung Kawi

Location: Sebatu, Tegallalang, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80511, Indonesia

Pura Gunung Kawi is an archaeological area in Bali. Back in time, the local Balinese people used to construct houses out of rocks,  crazy right? 

This is because they didn’t have the tool or knowledge of how to correctly build houses. You can come and see how these houses were crafted in some of the most amazing settings.

It’s also said to be one of the most spiritual places in Bali, so if you’re looking for some energy-clearing vibes, this is probably your spot.

The structure itself is pretty impressive. It has almost 20-foot-tall stone carvings carved into pillars and walls throughout the temple.

You can walk through the temple grounds and see all of the statues, explore the surrounding area and find some quiet places to sit and reflect on life.

You can also just spend some time wandering around and imagining what it would have been like for people thousands of years ago when this place was first built.

It is fairly short, and the terrain isn’t difficult, but it can be taxing on those not used to hiking. At the bottom, a small stream provides good photography opportunities.

Book your  private tour with personal driver  and free Wifi.

What is the Pura Gunung Kawi entrance fee?

The price for Ancient Bali is 15000 IDR per person. Worth it!

16. The Tibumana Waterfall

Location: Jl. Desa Apuan Apuan, Susut, Bangli 80661 Indonesia

The Tibumana Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Ubud to visit. The crowds show it swell.

My best advice, get here before 9 am if you want a good photo here! There are tours to the waterfalls but we made our way here by scooter.

This is one of the only waterfalls you can swim in, and you don’t want to miss out on that experience. It’s not just a pretty place to visit. It’s an activity.

The natural beauty of this place will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. You’ll want to spend some time exploring the area around the falls.

Make sure to bring a camera to take some photos that will last forever. My best advice is to get here before 9 am if you want a good photo.

You can purchase a $1 ticket and pass through a temple to reach this place.

Then visit many staircases made by the local community to make your trip easier. Their natural beauty will soothe your heart.

17. The Jungle Fish Ubud Infinity Pool

Location: Jl. Raya Sebali Chapung Sebali, Ubud 80561 Indonesia

The  Jungle Fish Bali is one of the sweetest Instagram locations in Bali. This is a stunning jungle-setting hotel in Ubud, however, you can visit here on a day pass and enjoy the amazing infinity pool, delicious food and epic scenery.

A  day pass at the Jungle Fish  is just to enjoy the pool, reserve a sun lounger or a hanging bed then the price starts at IDR 100,000 ($7.50) per person. This doesn’t include food.

A  night at the jungle fish  will cost around  6,035,729.00  IDR ($424.55). Not cheap I know, but it is an amazing place for honeymoon and couples. 

Book A Room:  Jungle Fish

18. Ubud Food Festival

Location: Jalan Raya Sanggingan No. 88X Kedewatan Ubud, Kedewatan, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

The  Ubud Food Festival  is one of the top things to see in Ubud for food lovers.

It’s an annual event celebrating all things food , from delicious street snacks to high-end delicacies.

Every year, it brings together chefs, restaurateurs, and people who love to eat their way through the streets of this small town.

This is the place to go if you want to try new food and meet people from all over the world who are just as excited about food as you are.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to sample local delicacies, see performances, and learn about the island’s history through its food.

You won’t have any trouble finding local treats at this festival. Vendors sell everything from grilled meats to fruit smoothies to handmade paper products.

You can also sit down for a traditional Balinese meal at one of the many restaurants open during the festival.

If you’re looking for something less formal than dinner, consider participating in one of the many cooking demonstrations throughout the week.

These events allow you to watch chefs make traditional Indonesian dishes from scratch and taste them afterward.

They’re a great way to learn how locals prepare their favorite food. They’re worth trying yourself once you get home.

If you want to get closer to your food, consider participating in one of the cooking classes some of Bali’s best restaurants offer.

The food here is as diverse as the many cultures represented in Indonesia. There are local dishes, international delicacies, and even fast-food chains.

Although it takes about 20 minutes to cover all the pavilions on foot, you’re bound to find something interesting wherever you go.

The Ubud food festival will offer:

• Cooking demonstrations
• Cooking classes
• Special events
• Music shows
• Film screenings
• Book launches

19. Have a meal at the Locavore

Location: Jl. Dewisita No.10, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia

Want to visit an amazing restaurant in Ubud? Then you need to visit the famous  Locavore  restaurant. The food here is amazing!

There are 2 awesome chefs here that prepare your mouth-watering meals, Ray Adriansyah and Eelke Plasmeijer. These 2 will make you have a true foodie  experience whilst visiting this restaurant.

This is not just a one-meal sort of place. You can dine here and enjoy up-to 9 meal courses, wow, all that food.

The food is delicious. It’s prepared in a way that highlights the ingredients while still making them accessible to Western palates.

They also have a delicious selection of beer and wine, which is excellent if you want to unwind after a day of exploring Ubud.

The atmosphere is rustic and relaxed. You’ll feel at an old friend’s house on their back patio.

If you’ve ever wanted to get out of your comfort zone with your food choices but didn’t know where to start, Locavore is an excellent place for that.

Expect to eat a succession of small courses beautifully and deliciously presented by an experienced chef. You will leave full but not stuffed.

The opening hours of Locavore are:

• Lunch –  Tuesday to Saturday 12:00 – 14:30
• Dinner –  Monday to Saturday 18:30 – 22:00

This is one of the top restaurants in Indonesia, so as you can imagine, tables here book up fast! So, make sure to book in advance 🙂

20. Petula Heron Colony

Location: Petulu, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80561, Indonesia

Why not take your camera and visit the Petulu heron colony in Bali.

The birds are so numerous that they often cover entire trees. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during the breeding season, you can see them take flight in unison.

They fly off to find new nesting spots for their young.

Visiting the colony is an incredible experience because it lets you get up close and personal with some of nature’s most elegant creatures. It also gives you a chance to make new friends.

This place is beautiful and quiet, with many trees that perfect perches for these birds . You should bring your phone or camera to take some great shots.

The herons started visiting the village of Petulu around 1965. The villagers are not sure why these herons have made a home here.

However, the locals believe it to be a blessing, and there is something spiritual about the birds.

The best time to visit the colony is after 5 pm before it goes dark , this is when you will see the colony thriving.

Remember to take your camera along with you, it’s a spectacular scene!

You can  book a ticket  here.

21. Visit a spa in Ubud

Everyone loves a good old   spa and there are some amazing choices in Ubud for you to visit.

Don’t worry if you’re backpacking and have a  tight  budget. You will find a spa cheap enough for your budget.

You can spend the afternoon getting your back massaged or having a good feet rub. Whichever spa you choose, you will no doubt be in the hands of an expert who can use spiritual techniques to help you relax and enjoy the massage on offer.

Also, if you’re looking at what to do in Ubud with a view, then you will be pleased to know that some of the spas offer their treatment in an amazing jungle setting.

Let’s look at some of the best spa treatment centres in Ubud;

• Hanging Gardens of Bali
• Ubud traditional spa
• Sangspaubud

Things to See at Night in Ubud?

The bars in Ubud fill up with tourists and people are walking the streets at night.  

My recommendation is to go for a meal at one of the local restaurants. Then, go and have a few drinks in a local bar.

That’sbecause this is the best way to meet other travellers, getting chatting to locals and save money. You will get to learn about the history of Ubud and also find out what to do there from a local’s perspective.

On one of our nights out, we did the Yoga Barn, then went for a meal and a few drinks.  

Here are a few popular bars in Ubud;

• Bali spirit

If you like awesome nights partying, why not check out the amazing Sky Garden Bali , one of the best nightclubs in Bali!

Is Ubud safe at night for walking around?

Ubud is a safe place for travellers and backpackers. You will be safe if you walk around Ubud alone at night and during the day.

Certain areas in Ubud are not well-lit at night. Therefore, you may want to walk around with a fellow traveller.

Also, the suburban areas of Ubud are safe, we drove out on our scooters for miles, and all the locals were very friendly.

Things to do for free or under $5

Here is a summary of free things to do in Ubud;

• Alam Sari Agrotouris
• Storks Colony In Petulu Village. Storks Colony In Petulu Village
• Visit The Ubud Art Market
• Campuhan Ridge Walk. Campuhan Hill Ubud Ridge Walk
• Taman Saraswati Temple Ubud
• Threads of Life Ubud
• Visiting Ubud Royal Palace

Best Way How To Get Around Ubud Town?

• There are plenty of ways to  get around in Ubud town centre and don’t expect you will easily get public transportation in Ubud Bali.You won’t have to search very hard to find a taxi as they are calling out for passengers.
• The best way and my favourite way to get around is by scooter and rent one in Ubud  for ($3) a day . And you can fill the gas up at a petrol station for ($1), so that is quite cheap.Traffic can be pretty crazy at times so I warned you, that’s the price to pay if you want to move with transportation.
• If you on a holiday or honeymoon to Ubud Bali, you may prefer to hire a car instead. Although this isn’t my best choice, it may be your preferred option. Speaking of which, a driver costs only $30 a day and is a good way to move around Ubud without big problems.They will also take you to the best local restaurants, so if you have a good budget, the best option is to go by car by all means.

Looking for accommodation in Ubud?

Looking  where to stay in Ubud with family ? Booking.com

There is plenty of great  accommodation in Ubud and places to stay in Bali . You can find luxury and cheap places to stay in Ubud. The  hotels and homestays in Ubud  cater to all types of visits. A town centre is a perfect place for backpackers and honeymoon holidays. The accommodation in this amazing place offers epic budget rooms and some amazing  luxurious hotels  for those of you wanting to experience a more luxurious stay in Ubud.

We stayed in a few places around this amazing place in Bali. I’m going to share with you some of the  best places to stay in Ubud.

Kamandalu hotel

The  Kamandalu hotel  is a perfect chance for a Balinese experience with all the comforts of a 5 Star resort. Kamandalu has an amazing deluxe pool villa for its privacy and amenities. There is very friendly resort staff throughout your stay. There is a mega spa at this top  hotel . The Kamandalu is truly an enchanted Balinese village waiting to satisfy you with a perfect experience. This is a luxury hotel so if you are on a budget, this one is not for you.

BOOK ROOM:  Book room

homestay hotel in Ubud

This  homestay hotel in Ubud  is in the perfect location and it’s within walking distance with all the must-see attractions.    This homestay offers very clean and comfortable rooms. These come with hot showers, free tea and coffee all day long. There is also free breakfast included with this  homestay in Ubud . The service here is also amazing and you will feel very welcomed on your stay. Also, the Wifi is very good here, always a tip essential.

BOOK ROOM:  Banana Homestay

Undis Homestay

• This is another great cheap place to stay in Ubud. It’s a budget homestay that offers amazing service, clean rooms and free tea/coffee. There is a good view of this homestay and you can even get a view of the flowing river that runs by it. You will be treated very well at this budget accommodation and this is a top place for backpackers to stay.

BOOK ROOM:   Undis Homestay

Ubud village hotel

• If you are looking for a more luxurious place to stay in Ubud, then the  Ubud Village Hotel  is it. This is a classic Balinese hotel that is in perfect walking distance to most of the main attractions, as it’s located in a great spot between the monkey forest and the town centre. The rooms at this top hotel in Ubud are large and very clean. You will receive a great Buffet breakfast and plenty of tasty fruit to set you up for a great day out.

BOOK ROOM:  Book Room

Are you looking for places to stay in Bali? Check out my link below, it will give you $40 off your next stay at any Airbnb;

Weather in Ubud

yr.no: Forecast for Ubud

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best places to eat in ubud.

There are so many great places to eat in Ubud, it’s hard to know where to start! For breakfast, you can’t go wrong with Sarong Restaurant, which serves up delicious Indonesian and Western dishes. For lunch or dinner, try Bebek Bengil, a restaurant specialising in crispy duck that is sure to leave you satisfied. Other great places to eat in Ubud include Mozaic Restaurant, Warung Ibu Oka, and Cafe Lotus.

Where are the best places to stay in Ubud?

There are a number of great places to stay in Ubud, depending on your budget, style and preferences. For luxury travelers, there are a number of 5-star resorts, such as the Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, the Ayana Resort and Spa, and the Alila Villas Uluwatu.

Where are the best places to shop in Ubud?

There are a few great places to shop in Ubud, but the best place by far is the Ubud Market. The market is open every day from early morning until late afternoon, and is located in the center of town. There are two main sections to the market: the wet market and the dry market. The wet market is where you’ll find fresh produce, meat, and seafood. The prices are very reasonable, and the quality is excellent.

How many days do you need in Ubud?

To see all the major sights, i advise staying in Ubud for at least three days. Although it might be condensed to 2 days, we strongly advise spending 3 days in Ubud. It’s not all about packing in as much as you can in Ubud. If at all feasible, i advise slowing down and taking some time to unwind.

Summary of Ubud’s points of Interest

Ubud in Bali is one of the best places to visit in Bali.

If you are wondering what to do to fill your time. So there are things like visiting museums, having delicious meals in restaurants, visiting temples, taking yoga classes and indulging yourself in other creative activities the city offers.

The city is rightfully called the cultural capital of Bali as it gives a detailed look inside the centuries-old customs, cultures, and traditions of Bali. Not only that, the land is diverse in a way that it represents the history of various religions like Buddhism and Hinduism. This again proves that the land of Ubud town is surely distinct and sacred. Also, it’s a traveller’s paradise!

What to pack for Bali? Here is a list of essential items to take to Bali;

This goes without saying, but you will need a backpack on your Bali tours and adventures. You can get everything in there such as  Mosquito spray ,  suncream ,  Travelon anti-theft backpack  and snacks.

You should follow me on  Instagram  and connect.

Related reads:

• Tegallalang rice terraces
• Yoga barn Ubud
• Bali monkey forest
• Pura Tirta Empul
• Jungle Fish Ubud
• Is Ubud worth visiting
• Is Ubud expensive
• Nusa Dua to Ubud

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Bali travel guide: Everything to know before you go

Bali has been a byword for tropical paradise since Charlie Chaplin visited in the 1930s. It’s somewhere that offers all the magazine island cliches: world-class diving, metronomic surf breaks, viridian rice terraces and cliff-top temples, not to mention gorgeous spas and beach clubs.

Like many places, the destination has struggled with overtourism, yet Bali boasts a rich and unique culture, and is a gateway to Indonesia ’s 17,000 or so other islands – two solid reasons seek out the island’s serene heart.

Travel restrictions and entry requirements

Entry requirements change often: check them on Welcome Back to Bali . As matters stand, adult travellers should bring paper proof of Covid vaccination (at least two doses) and fill in a customs form online or at the airport. UK and EU nationals need to buy a 30-day visa on arrival either at the airport or online ; the cost is 500,000 IDR (£27). You can extend this once for a further 30 days.

Best time to go

Bali’s weather is best during the dry season, which coincides with the European summer and Australian winter, but this is a terrible time to visit. The island’s patchy infrastructure groans at the seams and it can take an hour for a taxi to exit the airport grounds. Shoulder seasons – April to May and September to October – are a better choice. Europeans often struggle with the humidity during the wet season peak in January and February.

Top regions and cities

Ubud is Bali’s spiritual and cultural capital. Bali’s ongoing tension between sybaritic and spiritual is evident here: it’s home to both the island’s fanciest fine dining and its best vegan food. Between temples, yoga, arts classes, rice field walks and cycles, Ubud is a wonderful place to recharge, with some spectacular (and some expensive) retreats perched above the gorges north of town.

Seminyak sits between Kuta (incredibly popular with Australians) and Canggu (southeast Asia’s answer to Tulum) along Bali’s west coast. The beaches deliver thermonuclear Indian Ocean sunsets and some of the island’s kindest surf for beginners. The indie fashion boutiques and design stores make for great window shopping, while Eat Street (Petitenget) houses a world-class restaurant scene.

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Rapidly developing Uluwatu sprawls along the cliffs of south Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, centred on the cliff-top temple that bears its name and the epic wave that breaks below it. Give knees a workout descending hundreds of steps to hidden beaches through macaque-filled forests – or take the easier option and ride a funicular to a decadent beach club. At sunset, the temple hosts a traditional kecak dance performance.

Uncharitably known as “Snore” due to its popularity with retirees, this east coast beach district is Bali’s smartest choice for parents with young children thanks to its flat, current-free waters and villagey pace of life. Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, yoga and cycling the lovely beachfront path are draws here.

Idling along a mellow coast, where swooping hills embrace volcanic sand coves, Amed’s main attractions lie underwater. It’s best known for the USAT Liberty shipwreck, but snorkellers, free divers and scuba junkies will find everything from artificial reefs to dramatic coral walls. It’s also an easy drive from two of east Bali’s star attractions: the Tirta Gangga Water Palace and Lempuyang Temple (known for its “Gates of Heaven”, which frame the sacred Mount Agung volcano).

Best under the radar destinations

Nusa penida.

The largest of a trio of islands perched off Bali’s east coast is popular for day trips but actually merits several days. Hike down rugged cliffs to perfect crescents of sand, dive with manta rays and maybe even sunfish, descend through a barely visible hole into a vast cave temple, or chill out in Crystal Bay or Ped.

An open fire in the tropics? Yes! Bedugul sits at the heart of Bali’s central highlands, so cool and rainy that vendors sell local strawberries by the roadside. A vast botanical garden rolls down to a lake that reflects the beautiful Danu Beratan Temple. It’s a popular stop for day trippers but merits at least an overnight stay.

This island, with its grazing deer and surprisingly temperate-feeling forest, sits within West Bali National Park and offers dramatic views across the narrow strait to Java’s marching line of volcanoes. It’s not possible to overnight on Menjanga, although a boat trip is a must because this is where to find probably Bali’s best snorkelling. A handful of hotels let you stay inside the park and rattle along the forest tracks in modified safari vehicles.

With rice terraces forming natural amphitheatres to showcase Mount Agung, Sidemen feels like the Bali that time forgot, an ideal place to hike, pedal through the rice fields or get stuck into a good book. Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace,  is an easy day trip, while the local arak – a traditional alcohol made from fermented rice –  is Bali’s best.

North of the Canggu-Seminyak-Kuta madness of Bali’s west coast, Balian offers two Bali signatures – surfing and yoga – on a ruggedly beautiful volcanic beach set on a tranquil river estuary. Cows still graze amid the guesthouses and hotels on tranquil back streets, and the pace of life harks back to gentler times.

Best things to do

Climb mount batur.

Bali’s third highest volcano, with a smouldering crater and frozen lava flows, is the island’s signature hike. The sunrise views from the crater rim more than repay starting off in the wee hours; on a good day, you can see the Rinjani volcano on neighbouring Lombok. Boiling eggs for breakfast in the geothermally heated soil is great fun, while hot springs are the perfect salve for tired muscles.

Dive the Liberty Wreck

Indonesia is one of the world’s top scuba destinations. If you fancy breathing underwater, Bali’s coral reefs and warm water are a wonderful place to give it a go. The USAT Liberty, a World War II transport ship, is one of vanishingly few shipwrecks that’s shallow enough for beginners; there’s nothing quite like watching a turtle swim through the porthole of a sunken ship.

Visit the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival

Each October, Ubud hosts the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, southeast Asia’s top literary festival, bringing local and international fiction and non-fiction talents to the stage and a welter of special events. Speakers have included the likes of Irvine Welsh, Yotam Ottolenghi, and Eka Kurniawan, whose book Man Tiger was the first Indonesian novel nominated for the Man Booker Prize.

Getting around

Bali’s infrastructure can present difficulties. There’s a lack of public transport, roads can get choked, and boat safety varies widely. Ridesharing apps such as Gojek and Grab (but not Uber) fill some of the gaps, with two-wheel and four-wheel taxis on demand. Hiring a private driver for the day – or even the whole holiday – is cost-effective. Companies such as Perama run tourist shuttles between popular destinations. It’s only possible to drive on a UK licence with an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, which is 1,200km from Bali. Riding a motorbike without the correct licence for the power of the bike and an Indonesian IDP will invalidate your travel insurance.

How to get there

There’s no sustainable way to get to Bali from the UK. The least-terrible flight route is with Turkish Airlines to Denpasar, with just one stop in Istanbul. Taking a few weeks or even a few months and making Bali one stop on an extended overland trip across Indonesia or southeast Asia spreads the emissions out over a longer period and generally delivers increased economic benefits to locals.

Money-saving tip

Eat like a local a at warung , the small cafes and shops you’ll easily find. A feast of babi guling (Bali’s signature sucking pig dish) with rice, soup, veggies and all the trimmings will cost around 25,000 Indonesia rupiah (£1.50) while  a plate of rice with five or so delicious vegan toppings will cost around 15,000 (under £1). Deep-fried stuffed tofu, spicy rujak fruit salad or banana fritters cost pennies from carts.

Why won’t my phone work in Bali?

The Indonesian government has barred your phone from accessing data on any SIM, including your UK SIM, because you’re using an Indonesian SIM in a foreign phone and didn’t register your IMEI code on arrival at the airport. All GraPARI outlets can help you sort this out, as can many businesses that sell SIM cards to tourists; in the meantime, you’re reliant on Wi-Fi.

What’s the weather like in Bali?

Bali has a tropical climate with roughly two seasons, wet (generally October–April) and dry (generally May–September); both are hot and humid.

What time zone is Bali in?

Bali is GMT+8. Be aware that Indonesia has three time zones and neighbouring Java, which includes the capital Jakarta, is on GMT+7.

What currency do I need in Bali?

Bali uses the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). ATMs are plentiful but island-wide outages have been known, so keep some cash just in case. Credit cards are accepted more widely than before but for most small purchases cash remains king.

What language is spoken in Bali?

The national language of Indonesia is Indonesian. Bali also has its own language, Balinese, which is not related to Indonesian; traditionally, it’s written using an entirely different script.

Read more on the best hotels in Bali

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