Why Ubud Should Be on Every Bali Itinerary

Nestled among lush jungle and terraced hillsides in the center of Bali, Ubud is a world apart from the beach resorts of Seminyak or Kuta. It's a town that breathes art, ritual, and tradition — and it offers travelers one of the most immersive cultural experiences in all of Southeast Asia.

Whether you're coming for yoga retreats, traditional dance performances, or simply the peace of waking up surrounded by rice paddies, Ubud has something for every kind of traveler.

Getting to Ubud

Ubud is approximately 35–40 kilometers north of Ngurah Rai International Airport. The most convenient options to get there include:

  • Private driver: The most comfortable option; negotiate a flat rate before departing (typically 250,000–350,000 IDR).
  • Grab or Gojek: Ride-hailing apps work well from the airport but may have restricted pickup zones.
  • Shuttle bus: Budget-friendly shared shuttles connect major tourist hubs to Ubud daily.

Top Things to Do in Ubud

1. Walk the Campuhan Ridge

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a peaceful 9-kilometer trail through grassy hillsides and jungle canopy. Best done at sunrise or in the late afternoon to avoid the heat, this walk is completely free and rewards you with sweeping views over the Wos River valley.

2. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Home to over 700 long-tailed macaques and three ancient Hindu temples, the Monkey Forest is both a nature reserve and a spiritual site. Keep bags closed, avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys, and enjoy the shade of towering banyan trees.

3. Explore the Ubud Art Market and Royal Palace

Pasar Seni Ubud offers handmade crafts, textiles, woodcarvings, and jewelry. Directly across the street, the Puri Saren Agung (Royal Palace) hosts traditional Kecak and Legong dance performances most evenings.

4. Discover Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Just north of central Ubud, the UNESCO-recognized Tegalalang Rice Terraces are among Bali's most photographed landscapes. Visit in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds. A small donation is expected at entry points along the path.

Where to Eat in Ubud

Ubud's food scene ranges from humble warungs serving nasi campur to upscale farm-to-table restaurants. Don't miss:

  • Warung Ibu Oka – Famous for suckling pig (babi guling), a Balinese ceremonial dish.
  • Locavore – A celebrated fine-dining restaurant focused on local, sustainable ingredients.
  • Kafe – A long-standing favorite for healthy, plant-based meals.

Best Time to Visit Ubud

Ubud is enjoyable year-round, but the dry season (April through October) offers the most consistent weather for outdoor activities. The wet season brings lush, vibrant greenery and fewer tourists — a trade-off many experienced travelers prefer.

Practical Tips

  • Rent a scooter to explore villages beyond the town center (international driver's license recommended).
  • Most temples require a sarong and sash — many provide them at the entrance for a small fee.
  • Carry cash, as many smaller warungs and markets do not accept cards.
  • Respect ceremonies and ceremonies processions — step aside quietly and avoid pointing cameras without permission.

Ubud rewards those who slow down. Spend at least three to four days here to truly absorb the rhythm of this extraordinary place.