Ubud Travel Guide: Explore Bali’s Cultural and Spiritual Heart

Nestled in the cool hills of central Bali, Ubud is a sanctuary for seekers, artists, and adventurers alike. Known for its emerald rice terraces, sacred temples, vibrant art scene, and tranquil atmosphere, Ubud has become Bali’s cultural soul and spiritual center.
 

Let me guide you through the best of Ubud—from hidden waterfalls and jungle trails to the rhythmic pulse of Balinese dance and healing retreats.

📍 Where Is Ubud?

Ubud is located about 35 km north of Denpasar Airport (DPS). Unlike Bali’s busy southern beaches, Ubud offers a quieter, more reflective experience surrounded by jungle, rivers, and traditional villages.

🌍 Island: Bali

🛫 Nearest airport: Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

🚗 Travel time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours from the airport, depending on traffic

📅 Best Time to Visit Ubud

Dry Season (April to October): Best for trekking, sightseeing, and festivals

Rainy Season (November to March): Lush landscapes, quieter atmosphere

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival: Held annually in October, a great time to engage with global and local creatives

🌾 Top Things to Do in Ubud

1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces

A UNESCO-listed cultural landscape

Great for sunrise walks or short treks

Don’t miss the “Bali Swing” experience for epic photos

Visit a traditional “subak” irrigation system guided by locals

2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

A lush, protected forest home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques

Walk under ancient banyan trees, past moss-covered temples

Respect the monkeys—don’t feed or touch them

3. Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Historical royal residence in the center of town

Balinese architecture and nightly traditional dance performances

A great place to learn about royal family traditions and local arts

4. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Free and easy nature trek along a scenic ridge

Best in the early morning or late afternoon

Peaceful views of rice paddies and jungle valleys

5. Tirta Empul Temple

Sacred water temple in nearby Tampaksiring

Join locals in a traditional purification ritual in holy spring pools

Dress modestly—sarongs are often provided at the entrance

🧘‍♀️ Wellness & Spirituality

Ubud is a global hub for yoga, meditation, detox, and healing retreats. Whether you're a beginner or advanced practitioner, the energy here is truly unique.

Popular wellness spots:

The Yoga Barn – Famous for diverse classes and healing therapies

Radiantly Alive – Creative yoga flows and breathwork

Fivelements Retreat – Riverside luxury focused on plant-based wellness

Taksu Healing Haven – Offers reiki, sound baths, and traditional Balinese healing

🛍️ Shopping & Art in Ubud

1. Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)

Local crafts, silk scarves, wooden carvings, rattan bags

Bargaining is expected—go early for fewer crowds

2. Peliatan Village

Known for classical Balinese dance and gamelan music

Watch performances or take lessons with local artists

3. Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) & Neka Museum

Explore traditional and contemporary Balinese art

Peaceful gardens and curated exhibits

🍲 What to Eat in Ubud

From street warungs to fine dining with jungle views, Ubud’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant.

Must-try local dishes:

Babi Guling (suckling pig)

Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck in banana leaf)

Gado-Gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce)

Nasi Campur (mixed rice plate with small portions of meats and veggies)

Top places to eat:

Locavore – Award-winning fine dining with an Indonesian twist

Sari Organik – Farm-to-table in a rice field setting

Warung Bintangbali – Affordable Balinese food with a view

Alchemy – Bali’s first raw vegan café, also known for juices and elixirs

🏨 Where to Stay in Ubud

Luxury

Viceroy Bali – Jungle villas with infinity pools

Komaneka at Bisma – Elegant suites and spa

Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – Riverside luxury

Mid-range

Tegal Sari Accommodation – Rice field views and comfort

Adiwana Svarga Loka – Wellness-focused with jungle setting

Budget

In Da Lodge – Backpacker-friendly with pool and social vibes

Bambu Indah – Eco-resort with unique bamboo architecture

🛶 Day Trips from Ubud

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) – 9th-century sanctuary with rock carvings

Tibumana Waterfall – Easy hike to a scenic jungle waterfall

Gunung Kawi Temple – Ancient rock-cut shrines near a peaceful river valley

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek – Start early from Ubud for an unforgettable sunrise climb

🚗 Getting Around Ubud

Walking: Central Ubud is walkable but watch for narrow sidewalks

Scooter rental: Common and cost-effective (if you're confident driving)

Private driver: Recommended for day tours or comfort

Taxi/ride-hailing: Use Grab or Gojek (some limitations in central areas)

📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots

Swing over the jungle at Tegalalang

Holy waters of Tirta Empul

Misty waterfalls like Tukad Cepung

Sunset at Campuhan Ridge

Bamboo bridges and river cafes near Ayung River

🛡️ Travel Tips

Carry cash for markets and small warungs

Respect local customs—don’t touch offerings on the ground

Always cover your shoulders and legs when entering temples

Avoid the monkey forest with food or shiny objects

Drink bottled or filtered water—don’t drink tap water

✨ Final Thoughts

Ubud is a place that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you come seeking spiritual connection, artistic inspiration, natural beauty, or a restful escape, Ubud offers something magical for every traveler.

With ancient temples, friendly locals, soul-soothing wellness retreats, and a slow pace of life, it’s easy to see why Ubud is the heart of Bali.