Ultimate 4-Day Ubud Travel Itinerary: Culture, Nature, and Adventure

Indonesia
Written By Anna Rooker

Immerse yourself in the heart of Bali as I guide you through the cultural richness, lush landscapes, and hidden gems of Ubud. From ancient temples to vibrant markets and luxurious spa experiences, this 4-day Ubud travel itinerary ensures you make the most of your time in this island-city paradise. This guide focuses specifically in Ubud. There is a plethora of things to do outside the city (and I highly recommend you do leave to see more of this beautiful island) so here is also a list of day trips from Ubud to expand your Bali discovery. Read on for the best of Ubud in just 4 days!

 

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Best Time to Visit Ubud & How Many Days

For warm and sunny days, visit Ubud from May - September. July and August are the most busy with higher tourist traffic and travel costs generally. The rainy season is November - March but do not let rain scare you off visiting during this time of the year! I personally have visited Bali three times and each time has been during the rainy season. The temperatures are cooler, there are fewer crowds, and it typically rains at least once a day in the afternoon so it’s possible to schedule your travel and explore around the weather (with the knowledge that some days can bring all-day storms and torrential rains).

I recommend staying in Ubud for at least 2-4 days. It’s doable to see all of the best attractions around Ubud in those few days. There is much more to Bali than just Ubud so unless you wish to base yourself in Ubud and take day trips around the island from Ubud (which I have done and is an excellent, central location to do so), I wouldn’t spend longer than 4 days here.

How to Get to Ubud from the Airport

The international airport of Bali, Indonesia, I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport or Denpasar International Airport, is located in the Southern region of the island of Bali in the capital city of Denpasar. There are two main routes from the airport to Ubud; via JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai or via JI. Imam Bonjol. Both routes can take anywhere from 1-2 hours one-way depending on traffic which is heaviest in the mornings and evenings. Get directions on Google Maps.

The best and most convenient source of transportation to get you from the airport to Ubud is by taxi though you do have a few more transportation options depending on your budget

 

Private Taxi

By far the most abundant, trustworthy, and easy option to get around Bali is to grab a taxi. Many accommodations in Ubud will offer to schedule a pickup for you or you can go to the Taxi counters at the airport to get one after your arrival. Have enough Indonesia Rupiah on you for this option! Taxis can cost anywhere from 500K-900K IDR on average ($20-$60 USD).

 

Grab

An alternative option to a taxi is utilizing the Grab App (the Asia equivalent to Uber and Lyft) to get a ride from the airport to Ubud immediately. There is no need for cash with this option.

Bus

While there are no direct bus stops at the Denpasar Airport, you can catch a Grab or walk to the nearest bus stop in Kuta to catch a bus to a drop-off point in Ubud. There are 2 top options - Kura Kura Bus and Perama Tour. This option can cost anywhere from 100K-200K IDR on average ($7-$14 USD). Note that these buses typically drop off in Ubud at a central location so you may need further transportation to get to your accommodation after you have been dropped off.

 

Hotel Shuttle

Some larger hotels and resorts have shuttle buses that transport their guests from the airport straight to their accommodations. This is typically a more cost-effective option though may not be ideal for everyone given the circumstances of this transportation.

Scooter Rental

If you have minimal luggage and are already confident and eligible to drive a scooter, then this could be an option for you! Companies like BIKAGO and Dewa Motor Bali Rental can drop off a scooter at the airport for you to pick up and they will also meet you there again at the end of your trip.

 

NOTE: As of May 2023, the Balinese Government has issued a new proposed law for tourists renting scooters. This law would not allow tourist rentals anymore without an International Motorcycle License and only rent from registered agencies. The latest update I could find on this topic was by The Bali Sun which you can read about here. It seems the government has taken the first steps to put these laws into effect but could already be cracking down on this. My recommendation is to hire private drivers and taxis as this is the safest form of transport anyways.

How to Get Around Ubud

Ubud has what few transportation options they have figured out well for tourists! They are easy, efficient, and vary enough to provide good options for anyone needing transport around the city for any reason or group size.

Walking

Ubud is mostly walkable with some caveats and tips that I will share below. If you are staying in Central Ubud, getting around to select attractions and restaurants is quite simple. It’s very common to see many tourists around on the roads walking from place to place. Even at night, I have always felt safe walking around Ubud. There are a few things to know about this option though:

  • Watch out for monkeys! They mostly leave you alone if you leave them alone. If you are walking past, put your valuables away and do not feed them.

  • Watch your step as you walk around Ubud. Sidewalks and paths around the city can be uneven, covered in moss which becomes slick, or even have portions of concrete missing exposing a deep hole to the underground drainage system. Ubud is not wheelchair/stroller friendly.

  • Many streets around Ubud do not have street lights so at night these roads can be very dark. You may need to whip out your flashlight on your phone to see where you are stepping & also alert drivers passing by that you are on the road!

  • Not all streets have sidewalks. Stay flushed to the sides of the road to allow space for vehicles to pass and stay alert of your surroundings.

  • You may want to walk to that restaurant that is just on the next street over. It shouldn’t take long, right? Not always the case! Many streets do not have cut-through streets because of rice fields or homes so it requires you to walk the entire way around the block to get to your destination. What looks like should take maybe a 5-minute walk to get to, could take 20. Take a look at Google Maps before leaving your hotel for your destination!

 

Grab

As mentioned above, an alternative option to a taxi is utilizing the Grab App (the Asia equivalent to Uber and Lyft). Grab is reliable, quick, and you can pay for your car ride with a card through the app or cash directly with your driver. They have car and scooter rides available.

 

Gojek

Gojek is an Indonesia-owned company where you can book a scooter ride to your destination instead of a car. Scooters are the only vehicle option through Gojek. This is best for single people with minimal belongings who also want a fun and Bali-authentic way around.

 

Taxi/Private Driver

Just about anywhere you are in Ubud you can find a taxi driver on the side of the road. The good thing about using a taxi driver to get around is you are directly benefitting a local and can haggle the price with them more than you can through an app (though I usually just accept their rate).

Many taxi drivers may offer you their card for day hire. This is where you can hire them as a private driver for however long to explore the island for a price. I have found some great drivers this way.

 

Scooter Rental

If you are a confident scooter driver with experience and/or a motorcycle license, you can find local scooter rental shops all over Ubud and Bali. Please note the new proposed scooter laws for tourists I mention above. The government would like to ban scooter rentals from tourists with few exceptions. While scooters arguably round out the Bali experience, I highly recommend relying on other transportation options especially just around Ubud for your safety.

Left: Prabhu Ubud Villa; Right: Bali Moon Guesthouse

Where to Stay in Ubud

Ubud being the popular and affordable destination that it is, means the city is packed with a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury, homestays to resorts. There is something for everyone!

Something else you may be asking yourself is what part of Ubud should I stay in? The most popular region to stay in for people who are in Ubud for a short time is Ubud Center for its location. This is where most of the Ubud attractions are, where a good selection of restaurants and shops lie, and where you really feel the pulse and bustle of Ubud. Two more excellent areas to stay in Ubud are on Monkey Forest and Bisma.

Here are some top accommodations in Ubud, Bali for every budget that are scattered all around the city. (You can also read my blog post with 15 Incredible Hotels & Villas for Every Budget in Ubud). (❤︎ = I stayed here & loved it!)

 

Hostels in Ubud

  • Pillow Inn Ubud is best for solo travelers looking to socialize and meet new, like-minded travelers.

  • Arya Wellness Retreat is a females-only hostel with wellness and community at its core.

  • The Wayan House is a traditional Balinese-style hostel with the option of dorms or private rooms with a terrace, wifi, AC, and a community pool.

 

Budget Guesthouses in Ubud

  • Bali Moon Guesthouse is a family-owned Balinese-style guesthouse adjacent to rice fields with mountain views, large terraces, and free breakfast every morning. ❤︎

  • Umah Dangin Guest House is a highly rated, small Ubud accommodation near rice fields and the cultural Ubud Centre.

  • Suka’s House Bed & Breakfast is located a short walk from one of Ubud’s most beautiful rice terraces - Kajeng Rice Fields.

Mid-Range Hotels in Ubud

  • Prabhu Ubud Villa (pictured above) was the very first villa that we stayed in during our first time in Ubud. It has held a special place in my heart not only for the cozy rooms, rice field views, shared pool, and in-room breakfast included every morning - but the relationships built with the owners and staff here. ❤︎

  • Villa Sonia Bisma is a gem of a hotel tucked away between Bisma and Monkey Forest in the heart of Ubud. These pristine and ultra-comfortable rooms have private balconies, large bathrooms, and views of Monkey Forest Sanctuary across the street. ❤︎

  • Meruhdani Boutique Hotel Ubud boasts affordability in Ubud while offering top-tier services like scooter rentals, island tour arrangements, and bike rentals, and is one of the many Ubud accommodations with a pool.

 

Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Ubud

  • Komaneka at Monkey Forest is another accommodation that I have personally stayed at in Ubud that went above and beyond. Large suites with private, lush balconies, soaking tubs, an infinity pool, incredible staff, and an ideal location. ❤︎

  • Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites at Monkey Forest is a 5-star hotel where beauty and comfort combine with suite or one-bedroom villa options, a spa, gym, restaurant, and in-room breakfast.

  • The Udaya Resorts are a tropical, luxury resort located in Northern Ubud away from the traffic and noise. They offer suites and villas - some with private pools, flower baths in their spa, and island tour packages with a trusted local guide.

 

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Ubud: 15 Incredible Hotels & Villas for Every Budget (2023)

 

Where to Eat in Ubud

Ubud is a modern cafe paradise with eats and drinks for every palate. From local Balinese cuisine to international dishes, health/dietary-conscious and tropical meals. Indonesian dishes such as nasi campur, babi guling, mie goreng, and satay are must-try foods in Bali at a local warung. Ubud has a wide range of restaurants other than those that are Balinese-focused so everyone can find something they enjoy here. Proof below!

I also have a blog post filled with 21 Restaurants & Cafes in Ubud for digital nomads. Here is a diverse range of favorites!

  • WARUNG GAURI | Local family-owned warung off the bustling Bisma street facing quaint rice fields. Here you can find traditional Balinese/Indonesian dishes ranging from meat-based to vegetarian. The vegetarian nasi campur is my favorite dish on the menu. Bonus: a sweet little pug lives here and wanders around the restaurant.

  • SUDI MAMPIR WARUNG | Also on Bisma this is THE local spot you want to come to for drinks and a late-night, cheap meal. Serving plates of mie goreng and nasi goreng and Balinese liquor.

  • THE ELEPHANT | Eco vegetarian restaurant overlooking Camphuan Ridge Walk serving salads, Asian fusion dishes, and all-day breakfast.

  • THE SAYAN HOUSE | South American/Japanese Fusion restaurant with stunning views of a valley and rice fields below. Dinner with a view!

  • ZEST | If you are looking for a bohemian-style, plant-based restaurant, in the treetops of the surrounding jungle, this is it. They offer more than a wide range of healthy eats, but also spiritual fests, and community events.

  • DONNA | Aesthetic tapas restaurant on Monkey Forest. Also serves larger plates and a significant cocktail list. (Try the buffalo cauliflower).

  • L’OSTERIA | Authentic pizza and pasta in Ubud. Try the vegan risotto! It does not disappoint.

  • PESONA LOUNGE UBUD | The best Indian food in Ubud! They strive for the best and freshest, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that caters to anyone’s dietary preferences and constraints while staying authentic to Indian cuisine.

  • RAMEN DINING KAZUMI | Excellent ramen shop in a cozy dining space.

  • PHO. SARABONG | You can find Vietnamese food at Pho. Sarabong with authentic pho and a uniquely decorated seating area on the second level.

  • THE SOUVLAKI BAR | Street food stall on Monkey Forest serving Greek-style wraps and sandwiches. The owners are actually from Greece so you know you are getting some good Greek food here. All the way in Bali!

 

READ ALSO: Ubud Cafe Culture: 21 Best Restaurants & Cafes in Ubud

Map

Suggested 4-Day Ubud Itinerary

There are a number of fulfilling ways to spend your time in Ubud because it is such a tourist-focused town. The stops in the itinerary below are an excellent use of a limited amount of time that show you the diversity, culture, and sights of Ubud and nearby areas. Each day is packed full but doable and rewarding!

Day 1: Temples, Markets, and Monkeys, Oh My! Fire Kecak Dance

Day 1 is a good day to get acquainted with the busy center of Ubud, and see some of the most Ubud temples and landmarks that tourists flock to (but are still very worth checking out). Today you can visit some of the most notable temples and markets in Ubud Centre, walk some of the most popular Ubud streets, see the precious wild monkeys in the Sacred Monkey Forest, and end the evening with the unforgettable Kecak Fire Dance.

First Stop: Saraswati Temple & Ubud Palace

Starting in the heart of Ubud, visit Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati) and Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung).

Saraswati Temple is a stunning royal water temple surrounded by lily pads and lotus flowers and is known for its grand and ornate architecture and details. The temple is an important place of worship for Balinese Hindus and if you are lucky, you may even be able to catch a religious ceremony. In the evenings there are cultural performances at the foot of the temple such as Kecek, Legong, and Janger which you can view the schedule for here.

Ubud Palace was the home of Ubud’s royal family. It now is a historical landmark in Bali, a museum, and a cultural center for Balinese performances attracting tourists and locals year-round. You can view the performance schedule here.

TIP: Be respectful of these sacred places. Dress modestly (cover knees and shoulders) and respect local ceremonies or offerings/prayers occurring during your visit. Tourists are not allowed inside Saraswati Temple.

Cost: Both are free

📍Location: (Saraswati Temple)F7V6+PJ4, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

(Ubud Palace) Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Left: Newly built covered market; Right: Ubud Street Market

Second Stop: Ubud Street & Art Market

Following your visits to Saraswati Temple and Ubud Palace, make your way across the street to the Ubud Street & Art Market. There are two locations now for this - a newly built open-air complex with vendors directly across the street from Ubud Palace that was finished in early 2023, and the traditional street market experience just around the corner. I recommend checking out both!

You will find endless booths of locals selling an assortment of souvenirs, clothing, bags, artwork, and more.

TIP: Don’t be afraid to haggle a little (but not too much). Bring cash (Indonesian rupiah). You are likely to be approached by most booths you walk by. If you aren’t interested, just smile, say thank you, and keep walking!

Cost: Free

📍Location: (Ubud Art Market) Jl. Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

(Ubud Street Market) F7R7+V5F, Jl. Karna, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Third Stop: Walk Down Monkey Forest Rd, Shop, Eat, Explore

Monkey Forest Rd is a well-known and popular street in central Ubud for shops, restaurants, cafes, homestays, and the occasional temple. The whole street is a little over 1km (0.62 miles). You can easily spend some time walking around this area popping into local shops and grabbing a bite to eat.

Some of my recommendations on Monkey Forest Rd include:

Cost: Free

📍Location: Get directions on Google Maps

 

Fourth Stop: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

You will find at the very end of Monkey Forest Rd, the reason the street got its name - Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. This is a rainforest nature preserve and temple that is home to nearly 1,300 sacred macaque monkeys. You can stroll through the forest and enjoy the lush vegetation and adorable monkeys around you.

If you are interested in supporting the conservation and preservation efforts of Monkey Forest, you can make a donation on their website here.

TIPS: Ensure you have a zipped bag to put all of your valuables in. The monkeys are known to steal things! So even things like your phone, glasses, and jewelry you are wearing you should be very vigilant with. Do not feed the monkeys and any food or drinks should also be put away. Dress modestly as there are temples in the forest.

Cost: 80k IDR/adult on weekdays ($5.18 USD) - 100k IDR/adult on weekends (~$6.50 USD)

📍Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Fifth Stop: Fire Kecak Dance Evening Performance at Pura Dalem Ubud

One of the must-see Balinese dance performances, and an opportunity to visit another Ubud temple (Pura Dalem), end your day by seeing the Fire Kecak Dance. A beautiful story told through chorus, dance, costume, and yes, fire. It’s truly astounding.

These spiritual and entrancing shows happen at 7:30 pm every Monday and Friday.

TIP: Get to your seat 30-40 minutes before it begins for the best selection of seats. I highly recommend either the first row or the top row where you are sitting higher above the crowd.

Cost: 100k IDR/adult (~$6.50 USD)

📍Location: Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

Day 2: Balinese Cooking Class, Art Museum, Rice Fields

Continue your exploration of Balinese culture and natural beauty on your second day starting with a morning Balinese cooking class. Visit the oldest art museum in Bali, the Museum Puri Lakisan, to appreciate the traditional paint and woodcarving pieces by local artists. End your day with a leaisurely and calming walk through some hidden gem rice fields in Ubud Centre. Let’s get into the details!

First Stop: Morning Balinese Cooking Class

What better way to indulge in local cuisine than to learn the ins and outs of the elements, any cultural significance, and get to eat it all in the end? A cooking class is the way to go. I personally attended a cooking class with Casa Luna Cooking School. We chose to do the Ceremonial class where you learn about and cook traditional dishes for ceremonial days in Balinese culture. Some classes offered by Casa Luna are even vegan or include a visit to the market to pick up ingredients.

Check out their website for the best culinary experience in Ubud for you!

 

Second Stop: Museum Puri Lakisan (Balinese Art Museum)

Museum Puri Lakisan is a Balinese art museum filled with traditional paint and wood carving pieces ranging hundreds of years old to modern, created by Balinese artists. This is the oldest art museum in Bali. There are 6 buildings around the grounds with beautiful gardens in between and a small cafe serving food and drinks.

Cost: 145k IDR/foreign adult for entry + lunch (~$9.40 USD)

📍Location: F7V6+W46, Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Third Stop: Kajeng Rice Field Walk (aka Sweet Orange Walk Trail)

An Ubud hidden gem that you NEED to visit is the Kajeng Rice Fields. Easily this is one of my favorite places in the city! Nestled behind the packed central streets, down an inconspicuous alleyway, an expanse of stunning rice fields open up with a well-maintained walking trail for visitors.

Along your walk on this trail you will pass an open art gallery, be surrounded by rice fields, pass a warung along the trail called Sweet Orange Warung for a bite to eat, and maybe even see some locals on the trails selling coconuts. The trail is easy, flat, 2.6 miles out and back and paved part of the way. I highly recommend visiting around sunset for cooler weather and dreamy lighting.

Check out the path on AllTrails.

Cost: Free

📍Location: (Trail entrance location - to the left of the The PAON International Restaurant) -8.505933, 115.260340 - Get directions on Google Maps

Day 3: Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Bali Swing, Waterfall

This area is the furthest outside of Ubud in this itinerary, though it is still not far. A short drive north into the Tegallalang, Gianyar Regency you can find some of the most notable rice terraces in proximity to Ubud, among other popular attractions for newcomers to Bali. While in the area, you might as well stick around for the day to see a nearby waterfall or two and take all the picture-perfect photos you desire in these hot Ubud photography spots!

First Stop: Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Ubud has many rice terraces, but some of its most expansive and impressive is the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. There are several entrances and ways to view these terraces. Alas Harum Bali is an easy choice (pictured above), filled with other Balinese tourist attractions such as a Bali swing, coffee, pool club and restaurant, and Instagram-perfect photo spots. (It’s a tourist hot-spot, but if you are looking for a one and done type of thing - this is a good choice).

Alternatively, you can choose a restaurants along the hillside of the terraces that boast epic views. Some options for this include:

Lastly, trekking by trails into the fields. I highly recommend reading this blog post by Walk My World with the most up to date trekking access and details. I have not done this myself, but they have done the tried and tested research and are ultimately a great source for this if you want to venture deeper into the rice terraces.

TIPS: Stay on marked trails, trails may be muddy so come prepared with proper footwear, and try to visit in the early morning when the lighting is perfect for moody photos.

Cost: Depends on how you choose to visit!

📍Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Photo by Artem Beliaikin on Unsplash

Second Stop: Bali Swing

In and around the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are many Bali swing businesses that have popped up and expanded with the rise in popularity of the rice terraces and tourism in general on the island. Finding a swing with the perfect, dreamy views is simple! Most of these swings also come with the optional dress for women, usually long, dramatic, and stunning as it flows in the wind while you swing creating that perfect Instagram moment.

Here are some swing options in the area:

 

Third Stop: Manuaba Waterfall

Located close to the Tegallang area is the Manuaba Waterfall. There are actually 2 waterfalls here that are relatively simple to access on a trail though its worth knowing that there are steps and the trail can be muddy making it more difficult. This untouched oasis takes you through jungle, streams, and gorge to picturesque waterfalls away from the crowds.

TIP: Wear sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Part of the trail will be walking through shallow water.

Cost: By donation for upkeep of the area - starting at 20k IDR/adult (~$1.30 USD)

📍Location: Kenderan, Tegallalang, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80561, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Chandra Wati women’s dance & orchestra performance at Saraswati Temple

Fourth Stop: (Optional) Evening Performance at an Ubud Temple

End your busy day with a Balinese performance at an Ubud temple if you have some more energy in you! Depending on the day of your trip this lands on will determine what dances and performances are available that evening at which temple. You can view the performance schedule here which is broken down by temple > day/time > performance.

 

Day 4: Balinese Spa Day or Bali Bird Walk, Dinner with a View

Wrap up your last day in Ubud with some easy-going, optional destinations to fill in your day. I wanted to provide two big options for the final day of this itinerary because both are an excellent continuation of exploring Bali in a more relaxed setting.

Those two options I have chosen are either having a spa day and including the iconic flower bath Bali is known for, or going on a Bali Bird Walk with a local guide to learn about the critters, birds, and plants you can find in Ubud and around the island. Both of these could be done in the same day if you really wanted to as well!

Let’s go into some detail about these.

Left: Putri Bali Spa; Right: Flower bath at Putri Bali Spa

First Stop: Balinese Spa of your choice

Take your relaxation to the next level with a day at one of the many spas scattered across Ubud with a Balinese massage and beautiful flower bath.

A Balinese Spa is something your hotel or resort may offer. If so, great! Otherwise, here are some highly rated spas in Ubud (all offer flower baths):

 

OR, Bali Bird Walk

If you are looking to learn more about the local agriculture, animal species, and plants of Ubud this 3-4 hour walking nature tour with a knowledgeable and passionate local is a perfect way to spend a morning in Ubud. Lunch is included on your tour.

TIPS: Wear good walking shoes and bring water, bug spray, and sun protection.

📍Location: F6RX+P3Q, Jl. Penestanan Kelod, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

Second Stop: (Optional) Dinner Reservations in Ubud With a View

What a better way to end your time in Ubud than with a delicious dinner and a view to wish you farewell. Here are some of the best restaurants in Ubud with a view:

9 More Things to Do in Ubud

1. Hike the Campuhan Ridge Walk

A popular nature hike in Central Ubud is the Campuhan Ridge Walk. It is an out-and-back 2.3-mile trail that is paved with stones. During your walk, you are surrounded by tropical greenery and a quiet oasis in the middle of Ubud. I recommend visiting in the morning or evening as mid-day can be quite hot and there is no coverage from the sun. Learn more about this trail and track your hike on AllTrails.

Cost: Free

📍Location: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia - Get directions on Google Maps

 

2. Attend a Balinese Ceremony

I had the privilege of attending a Ngaben - a Balinese Hindu Cremation Ceremony (yes, a funeral). It was an absolute highlight of my experiences in Indonesia. You can’t plan for one of these to happen, but rather just luck out with the timing. I recommend if this is something you are interested in, read my blog about Attending a Ngaben Balinese Hindu Cremation Ceremony as a Tourist and talk to your hotel or locals to see if there are any happening in their villages during the time you are there.

Other Balinese ceremonies and festivals:

  • Saka New Year - Nyepi day of silence

  • Omed-Omedan

  • Vesak

  • Galungun

  • Kuningan Day

  • Daily offering rituals of Balinese Hindus

 

READ ALSO: Attending a Ngaben Balinese Hindu Cremation Ceremony as a Tourist

 

Left: Agung Rai Museum of Art; Right: The Blanco Renaissance Museum

3. Stroll More Balinese Museums

Ubud is filled with incredible museums and galleries. Here is a list of must-visit museums in Ubud:

 

4. Join a Yoga Class

While in the land of wellness and spirituality, joining a yoga class is a great way to integrate with other expats while being active. There are several yoga studios all over Ubud, some even offered within your hotel (so definitely ask)!

Here are some top-rated yoga studios in Ubud:

 

5. Visit More Balinese Temples Near Ubud

While you can simply walk the streets and see tons of temples around Ubud, there are some very unique and visit-worthy temples within a 30 minute drive from Ubud Centre worth adding to your Bali bucket list.

 
 

6. Sip on a Balinese Coffee

Bali and its rich volcanic soil + wet climate = a unique coffee-growing environment rapidly expanding on the island. The plants mostly found in the popular Kintamani region are the Arabica and Robusta plants. What you get in your cup from a Balinese coffee is a high-caffeine, rich, citrus, herby flavor.

❗️IMPORTANT: Another coffee you will see often in Bali is the Luwak coffee (also known as civet coffee and kopi luwak). This is an expensive coffee because of its production. An adorable animal called a civet is fed coffee cherries. Their bodies can’t digest the coffee bean so they excrete it whole. Their poop is then harvested, and the beans are cleaned and brewed. It creates an interesting and unique flavored coffee.

The problem? It is entirely unethical. I did significant research trying to find an ethical source but did not succeed. I recommend avoiding it entirely instead. In their natural habitats, coffee cherries make up a very small percentage of their diets. However, in farms and plantations that produce Luwak coffee, their goal is to produce as much of this coffee as possible in order to turn over the expensive product to tourists who want to try “poop coffee.” Civets on these plantations are kept in tiny cages and fed mostly coffee cherries for a majority of their diet which is unnatural for them. Remember that if you do take a tour of a plantation and they show you civets in large cages with food other than coffee cherries, there is very likely an entire operation happening behind the scenes that you can’t see that is much worse than what you are being shown.

 

7. Walk the Busy Ubud Streets, Shop, and Dine

One of my favorite things to do in Ubud is to walk the picturesque, bustling streets. Ubud is busy. There is a lot to take in - street sellers, motorbikes, sights, smells, shops, cafes, maybe a monkey every now and then - creating a memorable sensory overload environment (but in a good way).

Here are some streets to check out (other than Monkey Forest Rd):

  • Penestanan Stairs / Gg. Pacekan - Steep, beautiful stairs leading to the Penestanan village and streets of villas and quaint cafes.

  • JI. Bisma - I LOVE this street. You get a mix of modern establishments and rice fields. The further down the road you go, the quieter it gets.

  • JI. Hanoman - Much like Monkey Forest Rd (but maybe a tad more chill), you will find a lot of shops, restaurants, and private temples.

  • Jl. Raya Ubud - The main street going through Ubud, home to the markets, Saraswati Temple, and Ubud Palace. Walk it in either direction to expand your exploration of this street.

  • JI. Suweta - Want something more relaxed that leads to rice fields? This is a good street. It mostly consists of local homes, homestays, some restaurants, and the beautiful Puri Langon Ubud temple with little to no tourists.

  • Every street in between! Trust me. Hidden gems are everywhere when you get off the beaten path!

 

Left: Leke Leke Waterfall; Right: Tegenungan Waterfall

8. Visit Nearby Waterfalls (a short drive away)

Bali has some of the most breathtaking waterfalls I have seen yet in my travels, many within an hour drive or less of Ubud. Below I have top Bali waterfalls listed in order of distance from Ubud. Many of these can be lumped into a single-day trip!

 

Left: Uluwatu; Right: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces

9. Take a Day Trip out of Ubud

One of the best things about Ubud is its central location on the island. Literally smack dab in the middle, you are a relatively short drive from many incredible attractions, beaches, waterfalls, rice terraces, and more. Personally, I think it’s a crime to NOT leave Ubud for a bit to explore more of the island, so if you have more time, I highly recommend doing so. I have a blog post just for the Best Day Trip Destinations from Ubud.

 

READ ALSO: Best Day Trip Destinations from Ubud: Exploring Beyond Ubud (Bali, Indonesia)

 

Tips for Visiting Ubud

  • Indonesia requires a tourist visa on arrival for US citizens. This visa grants you a 30-day stay. You can pay the visa fee with a credit card at immigration and costs about $35 USD.

  • As with the rest of Bali/Indonesia, do not drink tap water. Most hotels supply your room with bottled water. If not, you can order from restaurants or go to nearby convenience stores to grab some!

  • You can get an eSIM card ahead of your arrival in Bali using the app Airalo. Get $3 off your first eSIM card with my referral code, ANNA5384

  • The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah ($1 USD = ~15,300 IDR). Most restaurants and shops around Ubud accept credit cards but I recommend keeping some local currency on you just in case. Cash is needed for taxis, personal drivers, entry to some attractions, and some local restaurants.

  • English is widely spoken in Ubud. You will have little to no language barrier issues in the city.

  • Watch your step as you walk around Ubud. Sidewalks and paths around the city can be uneven, covered in moss which becomes slick, or even have portions of concrete missing exposing a deep hole to the underground drainage system. Ubud is not wheelchair/stroller friendly.

  • Many streets around Ubud do not have street lights so at night these roads can be very dark. You may need to whip out your flashlight on your phone to see where you are stepping & also alert drivers passing by that you are on the road!

  • Almost all restaurants, cafes, and even bars have WiFi available for customers so finding a place to spend a day on your laptop or grab wifi so you can quickly use your phone isn’t much of a task.

  • I’ve found on average booking a car through Grab is cheaper than a local taxi HOWEVER there is a bit of an unspoken rivalry between Grab and taxi drivers. Many tourists tend to use Grab for the convenience of booking a car through an app which has in turn caused the business of the local taxi drivers who have been drivers for years to suffer. There are areas around Ubud where Grab drivers are not allowed to make stops. Also around the more popular areas (Ubud Center/Saraswati Temple), taxi drivers have been known to be more hostile towards Grab drivers chasing them off from the areas in which they have the most business. We have mostly opted to use taxi drivers, even if it costs more, to support the community and locals directly vs a corporation being involved (Grab).

  • Many of these taxi drivers also offer private driving and tour guide services! They may offer you their card during your ride to contact later. I’ve found some amazing drivers this way!

  • Watch out for monkeys! They mostly leave you alone if you leave them alone. If you are walking past, put your valuables away and do not feed them. You can find large populations of monkeys around Monkey Forest.

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Anna Rooker
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