Do you have a travel plan to Bali in the near future? Make time to visit Ubud. Ubud is the most popular tourist area in Gianyar Regency, Bali. Tourists can enjoy various tours in Ubud, ranging from natural beauty to art and culture.
Ubud has a charm that is different from that of other cities in Bali. It does not have the beautiful beaches that characterize Bali, Ubud is famous for its shady nature, rice terraces, and cool air.
It’s no surprise that Ubud has captured the hearts of many foreign tourists. In fact, it was crowned the best city in the world 2023 by the prestigious travel magazine Travel+Leisure, outshining global cities like Tokyo, Istanbul, Bangkok, and Mumbai.
Many argue that Ubud is home to some of the most extraordinary natural beauty in Bali. The landscape, adorned with rice fields and forests, retains its pristine charm, making Bali’s beauty a joy to behold.
What to do in Ubud
Ubud, often referred to as the cultural heart of Bali, is a hub of artistic expression. Ubud known for its numerous art galleries, traditional dance performances, and handicraft workshops make it a treasure trove of Balinese cultural heritage.
Around Ubud, there are traditional villages such as Penglipuran and Tenganan, which maintain the authenticity of Balinese culture. Travellers can experience traditional Balinese life and get to know the local people.
Apart from its rich natural charm, Ubud is also known for its food diversity. Of course, it is also one of the reasons tourist visitors always want to return to the area.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ubud’s history dates back to the 8th century when the Gunung Lebah Temple was founded by the priest Rsi Markandeya. The temple, located behind Campuhan Hill, is believed to be a sacred area with a strong spiritual aura.
Rsi Markandeya also found a strategic land contour area for rice terraces, namely Tegallalang which is now very popular with its beautiful terracing system. The land of Ubud is also known to be suitable for growing various medicinal plants, which Balinese people call “ubad”. From the word ubad, people from outside Bali Island call it Ubud.
31 Top Things to do in Ubud
If you need recommendations for things to do in Ubud, here are the recommendations to explore Ubud.
1. Taman Saraswati Temple
Pura Taman Saraswati or known as Ubud Water Palace is a Hindu temple in Ubud dedicated to the goddess Saraswati. This tourist destination in Ubud is famous for its charming terrace pool. This temple is located on Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali.
2. Tirta Empul Tampaksiring Temple
Tirta Empul Tampaksiring Temple is located in Manukaya Village, Tampaksiring District, Gianyar Regency. This Bali temple is one of the tourist attractions in Ubud, and tourists often visit it. Tirta Empul Tampaksiring Temple is famous for its holy water, which is where Balinese Hindus seek purification.
3. Gunung Kawi Cliff Temple
Gunung Kawi Cliff Temple or Candi Tebing Gunung Kawi is a protected archaeological site in Bali. This tourist spot in Ubud is located on the Pakerisan River, Penaka Hamlet, Tampaksiring Village, Tampaksiring District, and Gianyar Regency. Gunung Kawi Cliff Temple is a temple building built from carved stone cliff walls on the riverbank.
4. Alas Harum Bali Swing
One of the best things you can do in Ubud is try Bali Swing. The first Instagramable swing spot in Ubud that you can visit is Alas Harum. This place provides a variety of interesting swing spots. There is also a swing for couples with a height of 20 meters above ground level.
Apart from swings, Alas Harum also has other rides, such as Sky Bike and Flying Fox. Alas Harum is also known for its excellent luwak coffee. Here, you can see firsthand the process of making civet coffee until it is served in the cafe.
5. River Tubing Ubud
One of the most exciting experiences is river tubing in Ubud. This activity offers excitement and spectacular views that will make your vacation even more memorable.
This is shown in @alexandertannenbaumm‘s TikTok video, which shows the thrill of the tubing experience on the river in Ubud.
@alexandertannenbaumm I felt like a child again 😂🇮🇩✨ #fyp #fy #indonesia #exchangestudent #traveltiktok #traveltok #bali #uluwatu #ubud #ubudbali ♬ Red Bellied Black Snake – The Beefs
The video shows that during the trip, the account owner will feel the sensation of following the river flow, with various bends and rapids that add to the excitement. There’s no need to worry because a guide will always accompany you to ensure your safety.
River tubing involves going down a river using a round boat that fits one person. Without paddles, you will flow with the current of the river. This activity is very popular in Ubud because of the swift flow of the river and the charming natural scenery.
6. Aloha Ubud Swing
Aloha Ubud Swing tourist destination can provide an exciting vacation experience. Here are the attractions of this tourist destination:
There are various types of swings with different heights ranging from 10 meters to 60 meters. These various types of swings make the atmosphere more exciting and provide many choices to visitors.
7. Monkey Forest Ubud
One of our favorite destinations is the unspoiled areas of Ubud, where you can see in Ubud Monkey Forest or Mandala Suci Wenara Wana. There are hundreds of monkeys that can be found there. In addition, there are also many rare plants that can be used for rituals and educational institutions.
The location is in the traditional village of Padangtegal, Ubud. In the forest there is Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal which is an ancient and artistic temple. This temple is believed to be the source of sanctity for other temples.
The entrance ticket during the weekday is IDR 80.000 for adults and IDR 60.000 for children. On the weekends, the price is IDR 100.000 for adults and IDR 80.000 for children. This tourist attraction is open every day from 9 am – 6 pm.
8. Bali Bird
Tourists can see around 100 species of birds. 30 of these species are endemic to Indonesia, such as the black-winged starling and the red-headed woodpecker. This bird conservation center has been established by Wayan Sumadi for 25 years.
The location is in Penestanan Kelod, Tjampuhan Ubud, Bali. In addition to birds, tourists can watch butterflies that are bred there. For USD 37 or around IDR 555 thousand (conversion of Rp 15 thousand per US dollar), you will get food, coffee and tea, and a limited number of binoculars are available.
9. Neka Art Museum
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
As one of the largest museums in Ubud, the Neka Art Museum records the various phases of art development in Bali, as well as the influence of artists from Indonesia, China, and the Europe.
In this museum, visitors can find pavilions dedicated to maestros such as I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Affandi.
The Neka Museum displays not only paintings, but also sculptures and photography that are fascinating and stunning. The collections on display are neatly and nicely organized, creating an alluring atmosphere for visitors.
With a wide range of interesting collections from Indonesian masters, Museum Neka is a must-visit place to enjoy Bali’s rich art and culture.
10. Nyuh Kuning Ubud Tourism Village
For those of you who love Balinese culture, remember to visit this tourist village. You can experience the culture and customs of Nyuh Kuning Village residents, who are still traditional, making it one of the cultural tourism sites in Bali.
Here, the houses can be used as places to stay. You can also mingle with local residents and feel the atmosphere of old Bali. There are also places to eat that serve traditional Balinese food. Sometimes, there are also Balinese dance performances.
11. Tegenungan Kemenuh Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is located in Kemenuh Village, Sukawati District, Gianyar Regency. The waterfall has a height of 15 meters. Its heavy water discharge and clean and clear water are natural attractions for tourists.
12. Kanto Lampo Waterfall
The next tourist spot in Ubud is the Kanto Lampo waterfall. This waterfall in Bali has small steps that make the waterfall exotically. The water in this waterfall used to be a source of irrigation for residents.
This water was then clogged and overflowed. The overflow eventually became a waterfall. Kanto Lampo Waterfall is located in Banjar Kelod Kangin, Beng Village, Gianyar District, Bali.
13. Manuaba Waterfall
Manuaba Waterfall is located in Kendran, Tegalalang, Gianyar. This tourist spot in Ubud still receives relatively few visitors. This secluded waterfall offers a tranquil atmosphere suitable for those who want to relax after a tiring day.
14. Campuhan Ridge Walk
Campuhan Hill, or Campuhan Ridge Walk, is located on Jalan Bangkiang Sidem, still in the same area as Gunung Lebah Temple. Actually, this area is a small hill with a 2 km long path that started from central Ubud.
On the path, tourists can enjoy the view of green grass and a calm atmosphere.
From a distance, you can see terraced rice fields that also make you feel peaceful. Tourists can also do recreation while exercising here.
There are two creeks in the vicinity that add to the cooler atmosphere.
You can do activities such as jogging on this hill or cycling while enjoying the sunset. Of course, during the trip, you can hunt for aesthetic photos for your feed.
15. Ubud Art Market
Want to buy Balinese souvenirs? Then the Ubud art market is the right choice. Here there are also many cafes, jewelry shops, clothing stores and Balinese souvenir shops. As a traditional market, haggling over prices is a fun process.
Ubud Art Market is located on Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud District, Gianyar Regency, Central Bali. In the morning, people use this market as a grocery market, while in the afternoon they use it to sell souvenirs.
Some time ago in September 2024, Ubud Market suffered a severe fire, but you can still buy goods in other parts of the market.
16. Ubud Royal Palace
Located in the center of Ubud is the magnificent Ubud Palace. This palace was once the official residence of the Ubud Royal family as well as the center of government.
Today, this historic building complex in the heart of Ubud functions as a museum and center for traditional Balinese art.
This palace is still ruled by the King of Ubud, and if there is a ngaben process, it is usually carried out there. In addition to seeing areas that are allowed to be touched by tourists, you can also enjoy traditional performances.
However, to see traditional performances, you are charged IDR 100,000. Facilities here include a money changer, Balinese restaurants. Even up to the palace rooms that visitors can use to stay.
17. Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah is an artificial cave that serves as a place of worship. This cave is located in Bedulu Village, Blahbatuh District, Gianyar Regency, Bali. The name Goa Gajah probably comes from the giant face carved above the mouth of the cave, which is thought to resemble the face of an elephant.
Goa Gajah is a Hindu and Buddhist heritage that was first discovered by a Dutch East Indies government official, L.C. Heyting, in 1923.
Heyting in 1923. In his report, he mentioned that there was a cave with an outer wall full of sculptural ornaments, so it was named Goa Gajah.
In this area, there are two worship complexes that symbolize two religions (Hinduism and Buddhism) and are located side by side.
In addition, there is also a stone carving in the shape of a giant face with eyes glancing to the right, a large nose, and a gaping mouth at the mouth of the cave. Motifs of leaves, giants, pigs, and monkeys decorate the giant face. Don’t forget to take a photo in this area as a reminder of your vacation in Bali.
18. Puri Lukisan Museum
Bali is also famous for its art, including painting. Well, in Ubud there is the oldest painting museum in Bali, the Puri Lukisan Museum located on Jalan Raya Ubud. The museum’s collection is divided into several categories, namely wayang kamasan paintings, wood carvings by Pitamaha members, paintings by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, and modern Balinese paintings.
There are four galleries in this museum, namely the Pitamaha Gallery, which contains Balinese paintings from between 1930 and 1945, as well as works by I Gusti Nyoman Lempad.
Then the Ida Bagus Made Gallery, which contains Balinese paintings from 1945-current and Ida Bagus Made paintings. Third is the Wayang Gallery, which contains Balinese paintings from 1945-current and Wayang Kamasan paintings; the last is a gallery that displays historical information on the founders of Puri Lukisan Museum.
The entrance ticket price is set at IDR 50,000 for adults. Children under 15 years old are free of charge. In this museum, there are art workshop facilities as well as a restaurant. For group visits, please contact the manager to get a discount.
19. Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Tegalalang has a stunning panoramic beauty. It consists of rice fields with a terracing system combined with a cool atmosphere. People also know this location as the Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
Uniquely, the agricultural system here is still traditional, namely with subak irrigation. In addition to seeing the natural scenery, tourists can also try the Bali Swing ride with the Tegalalang rice fields in the background.
To be able to enjoy this amazing view is free of charge. Around the location there are several tourist attractions that provide various paid facilities, such as lodging, rides, and restaurants.
20. Sukawati Art Market
This place is a paradise for shopping lovers. Sukawati Art Market is one of the best markets in Bali and is a place for Balinese art goods. Many tourists look for souvenirs in this market. In this art market there are hundreds of art vendors gathered selling handicraft goods, ranging from wooden sculptures, paintings, t-shirts, shorts, bags, sandals, and many more.
21. ATV Ride
One of the popular activities in Ubud is ATV riding. This attraction is 35 kilometres from Ngurah Rai Airport and can be reached in about an hour’s drive. One of recommendation is ATV Ride, that is open every day from 07.00 Wita to 23.00 Wita. The best time to play ATVs here is from morning to evening.
22. ATV Wahana Bali Adventure
ATV Wahana Bali Adventure offers trips through rice fields, jungle, rivers, villages, and caves. This tour is about 25 kilometres from Ngurah Rai Airport.
This extreme tourist destination is located on Jalan Kalangan Number 12, Singapadu. Travelers need 47 minutes drive from Badung Regency.
Various package options are offered, starting from IDR 365 thousand with a two-hour adventure time. Bali Adventure rides are open every day from 8 am to 7 pm.
23. Walk along the viral Jalan Goutama Ubud
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
Jalan Goutama is popular Ubud street for tourists who want to try various Balinese souvenir products or just take a leisurely stroll in the middle of Ubud’s hustle and bustle.
This 500-meter-long road is perfect for a traveler to explore on foot. Along Goutama Street, tourists will find various cafes and restaurants that offer dishes that spoil the tongue. There are many Instagrammable cafes with aesthetic decorations that are easy to find here.
24. Eat beautifully at Pison Ubud
Pison is a restaurant in Ubud that gives visitors a stunning view of the rice fields.
The concept of the place is beautiful, typical of tropical restaurants. You can see the dried leaves on the roof and the wooden ornaments that dominate the building.
Both local and foreign tourists are attracted to come here to feel the vibe and the food. If you want to have breakfast, you can try many Western specialities, such as sunrise, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes, and brioche French toast.
25. Eat a traditional Balinese menu at Bebek Bengil
Bebek Bengil is a restaurant in Ubud that serves Balinese specialities.
Some of the best-selling menu items you can try here are Bebek Bengil and Satay Lilit.
For those of you who are vegetarians, don’t worry. This restaurant in Ubud also serves a vegetarian-friendly menu with delicious portions, such as vegetarian mixed rice, vegetarian fried rice, and vegetable stir-fry.
26. Healthy food at Bali Buda
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
Ubud is also a haven for tourists who love to eat healthy food. One place to get that healthy food intake is Bali Buda. This outlet sells healthy food such as gluten-free bread and also a variety of jam without preservatives and harmful flavors.
27. Seniman Coffee
Tasting good coffee in the Central Bali area is very possible. One of the popular coffee shop recommendations is Seniman Coffee. This coffee shop roasts its own coffee.
So, for those who want to buy coffee and take it home to brew at home, there is an enormous selection of coffee beans whose enjoyment is no doubt. This coffee shop is more than just a place to drink coffee. It’s a ‘mini gallery’ of creativity and coffee rolled into one.
28. Ayung river rafting
Want to enjoy Ubud’s nature in a different way? Tourists can try rafting on the Ayung River, the longest river in Bali. Rafting here is safe for beginners because the current is not too heavy.
You will enjoy the rafting terrain on the river for about 10 km or approximately 1.5-2 hours. Several rafting operators are in Ubud. Each sets a different price and offers different facilities.
29. Blanco Renaissance Museum
Ubud has many museums to visit, one of them being the Blanco Renaissance Museum.
Founded by Antonio Blanco, the museum is 20,000 square meters and has three floors. The three floors symbolize the Balinese belief that they represent the lower, middle, and upper worlds.
30. Bali Safari and Marine Park
Bali Safari and Marine Park is located southeast of Ubud, Bali. This tourist spot has more than 100 species of wildlife, such as komodo dragons, orangutans, and more. In addition, Bali Safari offers various tour packages.
31. The Yoga Barn
Lihat postingan ini di Instagram
The last on the 31 best things to do is joining a yoga class in Ubud. The Yoga Barn is one of the famous yoga studios in Ubud. It offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere and a wide range of yoga classes.
In addition to a spa, holistic health clinic, and organic restaurant, the Yoga Barn also offers a wide range of yoga classes.
The studio offers morning and evening classes suitable for all skill levels, from those new to yoga to those who have taken yoga classes many times. The Yoga Barn is a big proponent of healthy living and going green, so it’s great to share and exchange ideas about health with the instructors, too.
