Ubud, Bali, often called the island’s cultural heart, is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty, rich traditions, and artistic expression. It is located in lush hills, offering a serene escape from beach towns and a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage.
- Art Enthusiasts: It is known for its vibrant arts scene, Ubud hosts galleries and workshops where local artisans showcase traditional Balinese paintings, wood carvings, and handcrafted textiles. The town celebrates its culture through various festivals, making it a hub for art enthusiasts.
- Nature lovers: They will be enchanted by Ubud’s stunning rice terraces, jungles, and rivers. The iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking views, while the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary allows visitors to connect with nature.
- Wellness seekers: Ubud is a wellness haven, featuring yoga studios, meditation centers, and traditional spa treatments for relaxation and self-discovery.
With its rich blend of culture, art, nature, and wellness, Ubud promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bali.
Getting to Ubud
To reach Ubud, most travelers fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar Airport). From there, Ubud is about a 1.5-hour drive. You can get to Ubud via taxis (Bluebird), e-hailing services (Grab and Gojek), private car rentals, or airport shuttle services (suntransfers, jayrides.com). Booking a private driver is a popular choice as it allows for flexibility and comfort. Local transport, such as the Kura-Kura Bus, can also take you to Ubud from other areas in Bali.
Local taxis are readily available and easy to find while hailing a Blue Bird, Grab, or Gojek taxi takes a bit more effort. In Ubud, you can simply stand by a busy street and use your phone for any purpose while waiting for a taxi to come by. Holding your phone by the street signals to drivers that you need transportation.
Best Time to Visit
Ubud experiences a tropical climate with two primary seasons:
- The dry season (April to September): The dry season is the best time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring rice terraces.
- The wet season (October to March): If you visit during the wet season, expect daily rain showers, which can add to the area’s lush scenery.
For art and culture enthusiasts, plan your visit around festivals like Galungan (a sacred Balinese festival, which is celebrated twice a year, every 210 days or 6 months, April 23, 2025) and Kuningan (Celebrated 10 days after Galungan Day, which takes place every six months, May 3, 2025) or the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (It is an annual four-day literary festival held every October, this year it is being held on 23-27th).
Top Attractions in Ubud
Here are some locations that I visited during my visit to Ubud and I absolutely recommend them to my readers.
Rice Terraces
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces: These stunning, layered rice fields offer breathtaking views. Arrive early to avoid crowds and explore nearby cafes for a scenic lunch.
- Jatiluwih rice terraces: It is famous for its natural beauty, cultural significance, and the unique water management system that maintains them. The terraces are a stunning panorama of rice fields that follow the topography of the Batukaru mountain range. The cool highlands and dramatic scenery make for great photo opportunities.
Waterfalls
- Nungnung waterfall: It is famous for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and the challenging hike to reach it. The 70-meter waterfall cascades into a clear pool, surrounded by dense greenery. The 600 steep steps down to the waterfall can be demanding, but some say it’s worth it.
- Tibumana waterfall: The waterfall is a stunning sight with water cascading into a clear pool, surrounded by lush jungle foliage. Tibumana is relatively secluded and doesn’t see many visitors, making it a hidden gem.
- Tukad cepung waterfall: The waterfall is surrounded by cliffs and set in a cavernous rock formation. The water is clear and the natural atmosphere is serene. The waterfall is illuminated by sunlight that shines through the rock formations, creating a magical effect. The journey to the waterfall involves hiking through a forest and along a riverbed. Some say the climb down to the waterfall is steep and slippery. This waterfall is a popular destination for photographers.
- Goa rang reng waterfall: The waterfall is surrounded by a vibrant jungle and beautiful light filtering through the trees. A unique bridge over the river is supported by the roots of two giant trees. There is a natural dipping or plunge pool where you can enjoy the scenery around the river.
Attractions
- Ubud Monkey Forest: This sacred sanctuary is home to hundreds of Balinese long-tailed monkeys. Keep your belongings secure and follow the visitor guidelines.
- Ubud Art Market: Known as Pasar Seni Ubud, the market is perfect for picking up local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Bargain politely to get the best prices.
- Puri Saren Royal Palace: The historical palace offers a glimpse into Balinese architecture and heritage. Enjoy traditional dance performances held in the evenings.
Cultural Experiences
- Traditional Balinese Dance: Experience mesmerizing performances at places like Saraswati Temple or the Ubud Palace. Look out for the famous Legong, Kecak, and Barong dances.
- Art and Craft Workshops: Participate in hands-on experiences like batik painting, wood carving, or cooking classes, which allow you to learn about local crafts and culture.
Wellness and Retreats
Ubud is a haven for wellness enthusiasts, with many yoga studios, spas, and holistic retreats. Places like the Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive offer daily classes and workshops. Enjoy a Balinese massage or participate in a multi-day detox retreat for a rejuvenating experience. Many wellness centers incorporate traditional healing practices and organic treatments.
Dining in Ubud
Ubud’s culinary scene is diverse, offering options for every taste. Try local dishes like nasi campur and babi guling at traditional warungs or savor fine dining at popular restaurants such as Locavore, known for its locally-sourced ingredients. For vegetarian and vegan travelers, cafes like Clear Cafe and Alchemy serve delicious plant-based meals.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking and Nature Walks: The Campuhan Ridge Walk provides a scenic trail with views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s a great spot for a morning or late afternoon stroll.
- Biking Tours: Rent a bike and explore the countryside, passing through villages and rice fields. Some tours include stops at local farms or coffee plantations.
- Water Activities: While Ubud isn’t coastal, nearby rivers like the Ayung River offer opportunities for white-water rafting and river tubing.
Tips for Travelers
- Safety Tips: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities. Use mosquito repellent to avoid bites, you will thank me later for this one.
- Currency and Payments: The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s wise to carry cash for small purchases. A 1.5-liter water bottle in Bali can cost between IDR 5,000 and IDR 15,000, which is about $0.35 to $1 in USD (insert banana for comparison meme).
Conclusion
Ubud offers an extraordinary blend of culture, nature, and wellness, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Bali. Whether you’re drawn by its artistic atmosphere, spiritual retreats, or the beauty of the rice terraces, Ubud provides a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.
FAQs
- What is the best way to get from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
The most convenient way is by booking a private driver or taxi, which takes around 1.5 hours. - When is the best time to visit Ubud?
The dry season (April to September) is ideal for outdoor activities. - Is it safe to visit the Ubud Monkey Forest?
Yes, but follow the guidelines to avoid issues with the monkeys. - Are there vegetarian and vegan dining options in Ubud?
Absolutely! Ubud, Bali has many vegan and vegetarian-friendly cafes and restaurants. - Can I use credit cards in Ubud?
Yes, most places accept credit cards, but it’s good to carry some cash. - What cultural activities can I try in Ubud?
Participate in dance performances, art workshops, and traditional cooking classes. - How do I stay healthy during my visit?
Drink plenty of water, use mosquito repellent, and choose healthy food options. - Is Ubud suitable for families?
Yes, with attractions like the Monkey Forest and rice terraces, it’s a great family destination. - Can I swim in Ubud?
While Ubud, Bali doesn’t have beaches, you can swim in rivers or at hotel pools.
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