The Best Things to Do in Ubud, Bali
Looking for the top activities in Ubud, Bali? This vibrant town is filled with rich culture, featuring numerous temples, bustling flea markets, and delightful open-air dining spots. Ubud also hosts some of Bali’s major attractions, like the famous Monkey Forest, Pura Tirta Empul, Tibumana Waterfall, and the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk. There’s truly an abundance of experiences awaiting you.
Since Ubud is centrally located, you’ll find it’s conveniently close to many of the island’s breathtaking natural sites. This makes it an ideal starting point for day trips to some of Bali’s most spectacular temples, waterfalls, lakes, and volcanic wonders.
In this article, we’ll explore the top things to do in Ubud, along with recommendations on where to dine, stay, and how to make the most of your time in Indonesia’s healing capital.
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7 Best Things to Do in Ubud
While there are countless attractions in Ubud, we’ve curated a list of the absolute must-visit spots. Some of these attractions are grouped based on their locations or themes.
For instance, a visit to Ubud would be incomplete without exploring the Hindu temples. Although Ubud is dotted with hundreds of temples, we’ll highlight a few of the most popular ones to enrich your itinerary.
1. Explore Ubud’s Temples
A visit to Ubud wouldn’t be complete without spending time discovering the region’s stunning temples. Here’s a quick overview of some of the most impressive temples surrounding Ubud.
TOP TIP: Dress appropriately when visiting any temple in Bali. Women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and skirts or shorts that reach below the knee.
While some temples offer sarongs for rent at the entrance, we recommend purchasing your own. This not only enables access to temples but can also serve as a beach towel, skirt, or even a privacy curtain when changing.
Pura Tirta Empul: Known as the water temple, Tirta Empul is located about half an hour north of Ubud. The temple complex is home to over 30 sacred fountains where locals and visitors purify themselves of evil spirits and suffering.
This temple is famous for its pools and fountains located near the entrance, but be sure to allow time to explore its extensive grounds, which are more expansive and beautiful than you might expect.
If you’re planning to partake in the cleansing ritual, strict guidelines must be followed. It’s advisable to hire a guide at the entrance to assist you through the process.
Pura Besakih: Although not located in Ubud (it’s about an hour and a half to the north), this temple is a highly recommended day trip destination that should be on your itinerary. Allocate 2-3 hours to explore the temple complex.
Pura Besakih is the largest and holiest Hindu temple in Bali, situated against the stunning backdrop of Mount Agung. The entrance fee is approximately 60K IDR ($4 USD), or you could find guided tour options that include the entrance fee.
Pura Taman Saraswati: This temple is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the Ubud Market, making it easily accessible. It’s also one of the few temples in Ubud that offers free entry.
The temple’s courtyard features beautiful lily ponds, bridges, ancient trees, and intricate carvings at the entrance. Visit early in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and capture stunning photos in the perfect light.
2. Explore Ubud’s Markets
The streets of Ubud are lined with various markets and shops offering an array of items such as clothing, bamboo dishware, jewelry, incense, essential oils, and other unique souvenirs. While some items can be repetitive, like the popular round straw Bali bags that have taken social media by storm, there’s plenty of variety to be found.
For those looking to shop, the Ubud Market and its surrounding areas are packed with stalls to browse. If you prefer a quieter shopping experience, consider visiting the collection of shops just outside the north entrance of the Monkey Forest.
3. Take a Waterfall Trek
Ubud serves as a gateway to some of Bali’s most stunning waterfalls, many of which are within an hour’s drive from the town. To fully appreciate these natural wonders, consider dedicating a day to waterfall hopping. You can either rent a scooter or use a car and input the waterfall locations into Google Maps.
Some easily accessible waterfalls include Kanto Lampo, Tegnungan, Tukad Cepung, Suwat, and Tibumana, all under 30 minutes from Ubud. For more adventurous travelers, waterfalls like Banyumala Twin Waterfall and Sekumpul are just an hour to the north and offer breathtaking views along with cliff-jumping opportunities at Aling Aling Waterfall.
For those who prefer organized trips, several tours offer comprehensive day trips to the various waterfalls. Alternatively, renting a motorbike or car allows for a more personalized and flexible experience tailored to your itinerary.
4. Indulge in Spa Treatments
Ubud is renowned for its tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and wellness retreats. As a result, you’ll discover some of the best and most affordable spas in the world here! Many offer a variety of services including massages, facials, and nail treatments, usually starting at just $6 USD per hour.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive pampering experience, consider the 4-hour treatment package at Nick’s Spa, which includes a full-body massage, body scrub, facial, flower bath, tea, and smoothie for just 350K IDR ($24 USD). There are various other reputable spas to choose from as well.
Typically, masseuses are thorough when addressing knots in your muscles, so don’t hesitate to communicate if you feel discomfort.
Some recommended spas in Ubud include the Four Seasons Hotel, Chapung Sebali Spa at Jungle Fish, and Bali Botanica Day Spa.
5. Discover the Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest is one of Ubud’s most popular attractions. If it’s your first visit to Ubud, you’ll find it intriguing to be surrounded by numerous monkeys, both friendly and cheeky. However, entrance can be a bit pricey compared to other Bali attractions, and you will encounter monkeys elsewhere in Ubud without needing to enter the forest.
If you’re trying to save on costs, consider exploring the roads and pathways surrounding the forest where you can photograph the local monkeys. Just remember to secure your belongings; monkeys are known to snatch items from unsuspecting tourists and may scratch if provoked. Keep everything tucked away in a bag or purse, especially your phone and sunglasses. If you hold food, be prepared to lose it!
6. Stay in a Jungle Resort
If you’re inquiring about accommodation options in Ubud, you’ll find a range of incredible hotels, resorts, and jungle villas that offer stunning views of rice terraces and lush mountains, all at relatively low prices compared to Western standards. Ubud caters to all types of travelers and budgets.
You can find affordable guesthouses and villas, complete with pools, for around $25-40 USD per night. For those willing to spend a bit more, Ubud is home to luxurious resorts starting just above $100 USD per night, some even featuring private pool villas.
7. Go on a Day Trip from Ubud
Ubud’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Bali. Many guided tours offer pick-up in Ubud, which makes it easy to venture outside the city. If organized tours aren’t your style, consider renting a motorbike or a car, leaving plenty of time to explore spontaneously. Here are some excellent day trip options:
Padang Bai: This beautiful turquoise lagoon is located on the east coast. It’s a fantastic spot for sunbathing and snorkeling. While you can enjoy the main beach, the secluded Blue Lagoon beach is even more stunning and less crowded. Snorkeling gear rental costs about 30K ($2 USD), and local guides can help you discover the best underwater spots.
Mount Batur Sunrise Trek: Bali’s most famous volcano, Mount Batur, attracts hundreds of tourists early each morning. While not the highest peak, it is one of the most accessible. Since hiking at night can be risky, it’s advisable to join a guided tour, which is usually quite affordable. Booking in advance can help you find the best deals.
White Water Rafting on the Ayung River: Rafting may not be the first activity that comes to mind when visiting Bali, but it’s an exhilarating option in Ubud. The Ayung River traverses one of Southeast Asia’s most picturesque canyons, surrounded by verdant jungle and cascading waterfalls. It’s a magical experience, though it can be busy. Tickets start from under $25 USD, which generally includes snacks, gear, transportation, and a local guide.
Best Places to Eat in Ubud
Atman Cafe: Enjoy a plant-based meal at Atman Cafe, which features a cozy ambiance with bamboo seating and low lighting. The food is fresh and delicious, earning it the reputation as one of Ubud’s favorite cafes. They even have a gift shop, Atman Collections, where you can find unique homeware, jewelry, incense, and yoga supplies.
Dian Restaurant: Combining a spa and restaurant, Dian offers delightful outdoor seating and a lively atmosphere. Favoring authentic Indonesian cuisine alongside international options, their menu includes Mediterranean, Italian, and Japanese dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Taksu Restaurant: Taksu is a budget-friendly eatery in Ubud, providing a range of classic Indonesian dishes, with most offerings costing less than 75K ($5 USD). The restaurant also features a full-service spa and wellness programs, along with special menus for lunch and dinner.
Warung Little India: A small yet vibrant spot not far from the main street, Warung Little India serves delicious and affordable Indian cuisine, including curry, lentil dal, lassi, and naan.
Honorable Mentions: Don’t miss Yellow Flower Cafe, Zest, Sage, Bebek Tepi Sawah, and Alchemy Cafe.
Three Ways to Get Around Ubud
If you’re flying into Bali, your journey begins at the airport before you make your way to Ubud. One of Ubud’s greatest advantages is its walkability; if you stay near the town center, you’ll find it easy to explore many bustling restaurants, vibrant markets, and relaxing spas on foot.
If you wish to venture outside the town center, there are several transportation options available. Many visitors favor renting a scooter, which is the most popular choice for getting around. However, if you’re uncomfortable driving yourself, there are alternatives.
Ride-sharing Apps: Download apps like Grab or Go-Jek upon arrival in Bali for convenient taxi services. While these apps are officially restricted in certain areas, including Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta, they remain accessible without legal consequences.
Take a Public Taxi: Taxis are generally the most expensive transportation mode on the island, costing around 10-15K IDR ($1 USD) per kilometer. Riding from the airport to Ubud (about 37.5 kilometers) may set you back 350-400K IDR ($20-25 USD).
You can also use the My Bluebird app to locate nearby taxis or taxi stands.
Rent a Motorbike: Renting a scooter is highly recommended for experienced riders. You’ll only require a spirit of adventure and Google Maps to find fascinating spots around Ubud. Motorbike rentals are conveniently available at roadside stands, although your accommodation provider may have more favorable rates or direct you to trustworthy vendors. You can also reserve one online for doorstep delivery.
The longer your rental duration, the better you can negotiate the price, with safe bikes typically costing no more than 150K IDR ($10 USD) per day.
Final Thoughts: The Best Things to Do in Ubud
Ubud is a diverse destination that deserves a place on every Bali itinerary. Spending about 4-5 days here allows you to explore the town extensively, embark on waterfall treks, and take day trips to either Mount Batur or Pura Besakih, both of which require a full day for exploration.
These are our top recommendations for places to see and enjoy around Ubud, Bali. We hope this guide inspires you to visit this enchanting locale!
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