What to do in Ubud | Temples, Rice Terraces & a Forest Full of Monkeys!

Located in the uplands of Bali is the scenic region of Ubud, famous for being a cultural center for traditional dance, natural attractions and local craftwork. Ubud also is known for the stunning terraced rice paddies that line the hillsides and Ubud Monkey Forest. Visitors looking to experience a piece of Balinese culture will love this area, as the countryside is filled with Hindu temples and shrines as well. Because Ubud is centrally located, it makes for a great base of operations for visitors who wish to explore the surrounding area and attractions.

Best Things to do in Ubud

Ubud is an escape from the everyday hustle and bustle of the busier areas in Bali, and many visitors stop in Ubud to enjoy its tranquil beauty. Though Ubud is busier and more popular than it used to be, it is still a beautiful place to visit, and tourists are sure to love the laidback atmosphere, beautiful jungle vistas, delicious cafes and restaurants, as well as the amazing assortment of locally-made goods. Because of its central location, Ubud is not only a great location for a home base, but it’s also close to other Bali attractions. The area is admired by wellness advocates and tourists, and its natural beauty makes it easy to see why.

Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary is the natural habitat and sanctuary of the Balinese long-tailed monkey. It also is home to three temples and provides visitors an opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts and the spiritual importance of the region. Monkeys are very active in this park, so it is a recommended visit for people who are comfortable with getting up close and very personal with nature.

Entrance fees to Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary are 80,000 IDR for adults and 60,000 IRD for children. The park is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

Agung Rai Museum of Art

Agung Rai Museum of Art is located within Ubud and was founded by Agung Rai, a Balinese man who made it his life’s mission to preserve and develop Balinese culture and art. Officially opened in 1996, the museum holds a permanent exhibition of Balinese and foreign paintings. With everything from contemporary to traditional, as well as classical Kamasan paintings on tree bark on display, there is a lot of art to see in this collection. The museum also features masterpieces from Batuan artists from the 1930s and ’40s, as well as art from 19th-century Javanese artists, Syarif Bustaman and Raden Saleh. The museum doubles as a cultural center and regularly features special temporary exhibitions, theatrical performances, music, classes, cultural workshops and more. Any visitor looking to get a snapshot of local culture will appreciate a visit to this museum.

Entrance fee to Agung Rai Museum of Art is 80,000 IDR. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a great way to see the countryside and enjoy some of the gorgeous local scenery. Located just outside of central Ubud, Campuhan Ridge Walk is known for its easy hiking trails and for having some of the best views in the area. It’s recommended that visitors start early on the hike, or enjoy an evening walk, especially in the dry season as the weather can get quite hot during the middle of the day. The entire hike should take about two hours for most walkers. The walk starts at Gunung Lebah Temple, and a combined visit to both is a lovely way to spend some time in Ubud

Entrance to Campuhan Ridge Walk is free, and the trail is open 24/7.

Kajeng Rice Field Walk

No trip to Ubud is complete without a walk through the iconic rice fields of the area, and Kajeng Rice Field is a beautiful place to have this adventure! Located just to the north of central Ubud, Kajeng Rice Field is a 45-minute walk through rice fields. Visitors are, of course, welcome to take more time to explore outlying areas. The best time of day to complete this walk is either during sunrise or sunset, and this will also be a great time to take some beautiful photos of the area. Visitors can stop by Sweet Orange Warung, a restaurant that is located along the way, which doubles as a place for massages and spiritual reflection.

There is no entrance fee to Kajeng Rice Field, and the area is always open.

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Popular temples in and near Ubud

Ubud is known for the thousands of temples situated in the area. These traditional Balinese-style temples are gorgeously crafted and are a real feast for the eyes. Visitors should dress modestly, in non-revealing clothes and look well-put-together when visiting temple sites. Some temples will offer shawls and other Balinese clothes for rent if visitors come unprepared. Visitors should also remember their manners and speak quietly when in temples, and generally, foreigners are not allowed to enter certain parts of temples which are reserved for local worshipers.

Pura Taman Saraswati

Pura Taman Saraswati, also known as the Ubud Water Palace, is a Balinese Hindu temple that is dedicated to the goddess Sarasvati and is one of the most popular landmarks in Ubud. Built in 1951, this temple features a beautiful lotus pond and water garden, which surround the outer area of the temple. A long pathway will guide visitors to the inner part of the temple which is decorated with Balinese stone figures. On select evenings (generally, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays), there are traditional dance performances that visitors can enjoy for an extra fee.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Entrance fee: Free for entrance, 80,000 IDR per person, per evening, to watch the dancers.

Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal

Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, also known as Padangtegal Great Temple of Death, is one of three temples located inside of Ubud Monkey Forest. This temple is dedicated to the Hindu god, Hyang Widhi, a personification of Shiva, and was built around the 14th century. This temple is within the territory of the local crab-eating macaque monkeys, features beautiful, intricate altars, and is also important for local practitioners of Hinduism.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday to Tuesday, closed Wednesdays

Entrance fee: None for the temple, but there is an entrance fee for the park: 80,000 IDR for adults and 60,000 IRD for children.

Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah is a remarkable temple that was built in the 9th century and acted as a sanctuary for spiritualists. This temple is visited because of its beautiful and intricate cave opening, which is decorated by carvings and serves as the entrance to the temple. Within the cave are many carvings that are influenced by both Buddhism and Hinduism and the interior likely served as a place of meditation. Nearby are examples of bathing temples which also are decorated by large figures. This site was only excavated in the 1950s and is a popular destination both for its beauty and proximity to the nearby river.

Hours: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

Entrance fee: 15,000 IDR

Tirta Empul Water Temple

Tirta Empul Water Temple is a famous Balinese Hindu water temple that’s located near Tampaksiring, which is about 30 minutes north of Ubud. This is one of Bali‘s most famous water temples and was built around a natural spring in the 10th century. The temple features freshwater pools that have more than 20 carved fountains, and locals and tourists visit the temple to bathe in the waters of the petirtaan, or bathing structure, which is said to have healing properties.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily

Entrance fee: 50,000 IDR

Pura Gunung Lebah

Pura Gunung Lebah, also known as Gunung Lebah Temple, is a temple that is centrally located in Ubud. The temple is set within a beautiful natural setting and overlooks the Campuhan Valley. At the temple are three courtyards, and contained within are Balinese shrines and structures. Decorated with colorful statues and ornate carvings, Pura Gunung Lebah is a great location to relax as well as get some great photos.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily

Entrance fee: By donation. Between 10 to 20,000 IDR is an appropriate amount.

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Best Restaurants in Ubud

Ubud is known for its culture and its local food. With quality, organic ingredients, many people head to this area just to experience the delicious local cuisine. Some restaurants are known for both their amazing dishes and also the views that come with them.

Sweet Orange Warung

Sweet Orange Warung is more than just a restaurant, it’s also a place where visitors can come, do some yoga or get a massage and walk along the path of Kajeng Rice Field. The café itself offers fresh daily meals that are generally sourced from local ingredients. From smoothies to specialty coffee, fresh juices, salads, breakfast dishes and more, there’s so much to enjoy at Sweet Orange Warung.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Restaurant Locavore

Restaurant Locavore is a locavore’s dream as it features locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that are blended into beautiful, delicious dishes. This fine dining experience is at the top of many foodies’ wish lists and with good reason. The restaurant features two menus – “locavore,” for individuals who eat everything, and “herbivore,” for visitors who eat plant-based foods only. Locavore is also committed to seeking out and preserving traditional cooking methods and regional specialties, which are often synthesized into their own menus. With an open kitchen, friendly and attentive staff, and wonderfully-cultivated dishes, the restaurant encourages guests to splurge on a visit and enjoy one of the top restaurants in Ubud.

Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday to Saturday, closed Sundays. Reservations are recommended.

Locavore To Go

Sister location to the popular upscale European-style restaurant, Locavore, Locavore To Go is a café that’s attached to a butcher shop and offers delicious options for breakfast, as well as wraps, sandwiches, and burgers. The same care and attention that goes into the fine dining menu at Locavore can be seen here, though on a smaller scale and with less of a price tag. Visitors who are looking for the Locavore experience without the cost can stop by Locavore To Go and enjoy. The location is quite small, so there may be a line.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily

Warung Pondok Madu

Warung Pondok Madu is serving up local BBQ pork ribs in addition to other mixed rice dishes, smoothies, and vegan and vegetarian meal options. Guests are sure to enjoy the restaurant’s tender, delicious BBQ offerings that feature meat sourced from local farmers and a homemade BBQ sauce that’s mixed with Balinese coconut to highlight the flavors. The menu also includes other traditional Balinese dishes, and the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily

Lumbung Restaurant

Lumbung Restaurant is an Indonesian dining experience like no other. Combining traditional recipes for a home-cooked feel, the restaurant features Indonesian comfort foods that are sure to be a delight for any visitor. The restaurant also employs indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques for authentic and delicious menu options. With a restaurant philosophy that’s based around helping visitors enjoy an authentic, welcoming Indonesian meal, Lumbung Restaurant does more than provide a meal: it provides a thematic experience that will leave customers dreaming of the restaurant long after they’re gone.

Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Reservations are recommended.

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How to Get to Ubud from Ngurah Rai International Airport

To get to Ubud from Ngurah Rai International Airport there are several options for transportation. Taxis from the airport will have a set rate for travel between the airport and Ubud (around 300,000 IDR), and the ride should take about 40 minutes, depending on traffic and the time of day. Travelers should look for the taxi desk after picking up their baggage.

Travelers can also elect to take a bus, which is a cheaper option. The ride to Ubud takes about an hour and a half. Travelers looking to take the bus can buy a ticket from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Batubulan Village, and from there they will need to take a small van into Ubud.

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Recommended Hotels and Resorts Near Ubud

Ubud is known for stunning vistas, nature reserves, and some of the most photo-worthy locations in Bali. When it comes to hotels, there are many types that suit most budgets, and because Ubud is centrally located, touring around the area from a home base should make things easier for travelers. Whether visitors are looking for tranquil bungalows or the resort experience, there’s something for everyone in Ubud.

The Kayon Resort by Pramana

The Kayon Resort by Pramana is the perfect resort for tourists who are looking for beautiful accommodations, lush scenery, and great amenities. Surrounded by tropical rainforests, guests will be able to find their own little piece of paradise within this five-star resort, and it is especially recommended for travelers who are on their honeymoon, looking for a romantic getaway, or need to relax and free their minds from stress. Located only 10 minutes away from central Ubud, this resort features wellness retreats, the Serayu Spa where visitors can book manicures, pedicures, and other beauty and relaxation treatments, rooftop yoga lessons, and traditional Balinese activities. The resort also offers on-site dining, a pool and cooking classes, in addition to private tours.

Tjampuhan Hotel and Spa

Tjampuhan Hotel and Spa is a spectacular and historic hotel that has been in Ubud since 1928. It has been a royal guesthouse, a tranquil stop for celebrities and has even been a source of inspiration for famous foreign artists, including German painter, Walter Spies. Visitors can retreat into the splendor of this beautiful hotel and spa with its traditional-style bungalows, as well as other guestrooms. On the premises is Tjampuhan Spa, which is located meters from the nearby river and offers up soothing sounds as visitors settle in and relax. Guests can choose from various Balinese beauty and healing treatments or take a soak in the special cold/hot Jacuzzi. There is also onsite dining.

Ketut’s Place Villas Ubud

Newly built in 2018, Ketut’s Place Villas Ubud is a great choice for travelers who are looking to have a royal experience during their stay. Located close to Ubud center, this hotel consists of a variety of luxury stay options, including deluxe rooms, suites, family suites, and Royal Villas, each specially designed by the owner, , Ketut, a lifelong resident of Ubud. With onsite spa services provided by Pancali Spa, visitors can experience the ultimate in relaxation at the spa, choosing from a variety of treatments based on the Balinese and Ayurveda methods. Also located onsite is a restaurant and bar. The Kunti Bar is located in the poolside area, and the second floor offers a great view.

Ubud Valley Boutique Resort

Ubud Valley Boutique Resort is the place to stay for stunning views, gorgeous rooms, and expert care from staff. Situated in the lush, green valley and overlooking Pakerisan River, the resort also provides gorgeous villas that are filled with modern amenities, as well as all-day dining onsite at Pakerisan Restaurant. If visitors are looking to relax, the Candra Spa is the place to do it at the resort. Here, guests can experience Balinese massages that promote inner wellness and relaxation. There are also free yoga activities available to guests, as well as a gorgeous infinity pool.

Mason Elephant Lodge

Mason Elephant Lodge is a stay like no other. Not only is there a lodge for guests, but it is also an award-winning elephant park that has been given a Gold Certification from the Asian Captive Elephants Standards, an independent organization that helps to ensure that captive elephants are being properly cared for. All the onsite elephants were rescues and never taken from the wild. Any visitor who loves wildlife should book a stay here as guests can actually watch as the elephant herd gets up close and personal to where visitors stay. Mason Elephant Lodge offers a variety of rooms to choose from, in addition to many lodge exclusives for guests, including elephant bathing sessions and wellness spa and gym access.

Viceroy Bali

Viceroy Bali is a great choice for visitors who are looking to have a very special experience. Though it may be on the pricier side for some visitors, the experience more than makes up for the cost. Family owned and operated, this five-star resort offers amenities including an infinity pool, stunning views, romantic and private villas, as well as several offsite dining options, some of which are exclusive to guests staying at Viceroy Bali. Guests can also look forward to other onsite experiences, including Balinese massage, cooking classes, yoga, cycling tours, and more.

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