Unmissable Things to Do in Ubud: A Local's Guide to Bali's Cultural Heart
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 11
- 17 min read
If you’re thinking about heading to Bali, don’t skip Ubud. It’s right in the centre of the island and has this laid-back vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Ubud is where you see the real Bali—temples everywhere, rice fields stretching out for miles, and art on every corner. Whether you’re into nature, culture, food, or just want to relax, there’s something here for everyone. Here’s my take on the best things to do in Ubud, especially if you want to get a feel for the place like a local would.
Key Takeaways
Catch a Balinese dance show or check out the Ubud Palace to see culture up close.
Wake up early and walk the Tegalalang Rice Terraces before the crowds roll in.
Take a dip at Tegenungan or Tibumana Waterfalls—perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Don’t miss the Sacred Monkey Forest; just keep an eye on your snacks and sunglasses.
Try the local food, sip coffee at a plantation, and maybe even join a yoga or meditation class.
Explore Ubud's Vibrant Art and Culture Scene
There’s something about Ubud that just makes you want to slow down, watch what’s happening around you, and soak it all in. This is the place in Bali where art, performance, and tradition are a part of everyday life. Whether it’s catching a dance, gawking at ornate temples, or popping into a tiny gallery on a sleepy afternoon, Ubud’s creative pulse is truly infectious.
Admire Traditional Balinese Dance Performances
Watching a dance show in Ubud isn’t like attending a performance anywhere else – the energy is different, the costumes are unreal, and every movement means something. These dances take place in open-air temples or even village courtyards after dark, complete with gamelan music and vibrant costumes. The performers are locals, often from families who have passed these traditions down for generations. Want to experience it for yourself? Here’s what you can expect from a typical evening:
Pre-show stroll around a temple, often filled with the scent of incense
Performers preparing, chatting, and getting into costume out in the open
Dance styles such as Legong, Kecak (the famous fire dance), and Barong
Venue | Dance Style | Schedule | Entrance Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
Ubud Palace | Legong, Barong | Nightly, 7:30pm | IDR 100,000–150,000 |
Pura Dalem Ubud | Kecak, Barong | Multiple weekly | IDR 75,000–100,000 |
Batuan Village Temple | Kecak Fire Dance | Weekly | IDR 30,000 |
The atmosphere at these shows is something you’ll want to remember, even if you can't follow the story. Everyone gets swept up by the rhythm and the flicker of torchlight.
Visit the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple
The Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is right in the middle of the town, and it really is the model of a royal Balinese home. It’s usually buzzing with street life, and you can wander through the front courtyards for free, admiring the traditional architecture and intricate stone work. Inside, old heirlooms and royal photos give a glimpse of Ubud’s history.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find Saraswati Temple. This spot is pretty magical – everyone remembers the lotus pond, which is edged by tall temple gates and carved statues. Saraswati Temple is used for regular ceremonies and, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a dance show with the pond all lit up at night.
Must-see features:
Ornate traditional gates and sculpted sandstone
Daily offerings laid out by locals
Early morning or twilight light (honestly, the best time for photos)
Bring a sarong for temple visits; you’ll stand out less and it’s just respectful. Some places lend them out, but it never hurts to have your own.
Wander Through Local Art Galleries and Museums
If you’re keen on art, Ubud is really something special. Walk a few blocks in any direction and you’ll bump into a little gallery or shop with paintings, wood carvings, batik, or sculpture. Some big names to know:
ARMA (Agung Rai Museum of Art): A full-on museum, garden, café, and regular workshop spot for everything from painting to dance.
Neka Art Museum: Huge collection of Balinese painting styles, plus old photos of village life.
Threads of Life: Focused on local weaving traditions, traditional dyes, and gorgeous hand-woven textiles.
If you want to see artists at work (or even try something yourself):
Head over to Batuan Village, known for its distinctive style of painting.
Chat with local painters or take a short class – lots of places let you join in for an afternoon.
Buy directly from the artists – it means more to both you and them.
Ubud’s artists and dancers aren’t in it for quick fame – it’s about community, tradition, and creating something lasting. If you spend a bit of extra time talking to them, you end up learning a lot more than you bargained for.
Discover Iconic Rice Terraces and Natural Beauty
Ubud’s scenery is the stuff of postcards – everywhere you look, there’s green on green, and you really feel surrounded by nature. Here are three absolute must-dos for anyone who wants to see what makes Ubud so special when it comes to its rice terraces, natural landscape, and all those views you just can’t help but stop for.
Walk the Tegalalang Rice Terraces at Sunrise
If you can get up before the sun, you’re in for an experience that just doesn’t get old – the light first thing in the morning over the Tegalalang Rice Terraces is pretty unreal. Those layered fields stretch as far as you can see, and the way the morning mist hangs around makes everything feel even more peaceful. Arrive early – before the big crowds – for the best photos, and remember to wear decent shoes. The paths can be slippery and muddy, and some bits can get steep. You might sometimes be asked for a small donation by the farmers or locals walking about; it’s a nice way to help keep the area tidy.
Head out while it’s still cool (just after dawn)
Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging crops
Say “hello” to the local workers – a small smile goes a long way!
If you want to explore more, check out Bali’s many unique rice terraces dotted around the island. Every spot has its own charm and local stories.
The air is fresh, everything is still damp from the night before, and you might even catch the sound of ducks or farmers starting their day. That sort of moment just sticks in your memory.
Experience the Ubud Swing with Jungle Views
Alright, I know swings sound a bit cheesy, but honestly? There’s something about launching out over a valley, legs dangling, that makes you feel like you’re flying. The jungle views as you swing are pretty wild. There are a bunch of spots with swings these days, often found at little cafes overlooking the terraces. It’s a thrill, even if you’re not usually into that sort of thing. Plus, you’ll get an epic photo – trust me, your friends back home will love it.
Some tips for the Ubud swing:
Check the safety harness before you get on (don’t be shy to ask!)
If heights aren’t your thing, start with the lower mini-swings first
There’s usually a fee, but it tends to include a coffee or juice
Relax in Scenic Cafes Overlooking the Paddies
After a walk or swing, nothing beats a slow brunch or just a chilled drink overlooking the fields. There are loads of little cafés and warungs (local restaurants) with views you’ll daydream about later. Grab a seat, order a kopi (Balinese coffee) or a fresh coconut, and just watch the world go by. Sunsets are especially good from these spots – the fields get that soft glow you see in travel magazines.
A few things to keep in mind:
Popular cafés get busy at lunch, so go early for the best view
Try local snacks like fried banana beside your tea or coffee
Bring a book (if you have time), or just chat and unwind
Table: Typical Costs for Ubud’s Rice Terrace Experiences
Experience | Cost (IDR) |
|---|---|
Tegalalang Rice Terrace entry | 25,000–50,000 |
Jungle Swing photopack | 150,000–300,000 |
Scenic café drink (coffee) | 20,000–40,000 |
Keep some small bills handy. Tips and small purchases go a long way in these spots.
By the end of your time in the terraces and natural spots, you’ll understand why so many people say Ubud feels like the heart of Bali. Every viewpoint and green slope really invites you just to slow down and take it all in.
Reconnect with Nature at Waterfalls and Canyons
Swim at Tegenungan and Tibumana Waterfalls
There’s just something about chasing waterfalls in Ubud that lifts your mood. Tegenungan Waterfall stands out for its powerful cascade and easy access from the centre of town. It only takes about 15 minutes by scooter or taxi to reach. Steep steps lead down to a wide pool at the base, where the cool water is a relief from the humidity. On weekdays, you’ll find it quieter and you can even pick your own shaded spot beside the rocks. Not far away, Tibumana Waterfall is tucked behind trees and is far more relaxed, with lovely clear water – great for a refreshing dip if you’re not into big crowds. For some extra inspiration about where to go, see this list of rated Ubud waterfalls.
Here are a few practical tips:
Bring a dry bag to protect your phone and camera.
Go early in the morning to beat the heat (and selfie sticks).
Flip-flops are fine, but the stone paths can be slippery when wet.
Hike Through Beji Guwang Canyon
If you’re up for a walk that’s a little offbeat, the Beji Guwang canyon is perfect. The trail follows a river through massive, sculpted rock formations that glisten with moss. Walking here isn’t really about the destination – it’s the feeling of water trickling over stones underfoot, the echo of your voice bouncing off ancient canyon walls, and discovering rock pools that feel secret. It definitely helps if you don’t mind getting your shoes wet.
Steps for the hike:
Reach the starting point early – the sun can get intense.
Wear something old as you’ll be wading through streams.
Take a waterproof torch, especially if the light is low.
Immersing yourself in the gorge, with cool air and the gentle rush of water, is the kind of raw nature experience Ubud quietly hides away.
Unwind Amidst Jungle Scenery
Sometimes all you need is to slow down and just listen to the jungle. The area surrounding Ubud’s waterfalls and canyons is thick with birdsong, leafy trees, and distant water sounds. If you’re not keen on getting wet, grab a spot on a boulder, or set up a picnic as you watch others braving the pools. Locals often come here, too, escaping for family gatherings or a quiet nap.
A few favourite ways to relax here:
Lay out a mat and read your book beneath the cool shade.
Meditate next to the sound of tumbling water.
Sketch the scene, even if you’re not an artist (somehow, no one ever judges).
You walk away from these places feeling washed out and oddly light—it’s hard to leave, actually. And that’s what keeps people coming back to Ubud’s wilder side.
Meet the Wildlife and Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest
Just on the edge of central Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is where nature takes over and the locals sometimes leave the monkeys to their own business. It’s not just a zoo—you'll walk through thick jungle, past twisted roots and stone guardians, as hundreds of long-tailed macaques leap in the trees above. It's the one place in Ubud where the wildlife makes the rules and tourists just have to keep up.
Wander the Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Buy your entry ticket at the gate (check the price—it's higher at weekends).
Sarongs aren’t required, but bring decent shoes for uneven paths.
Stick to the main walkways and keep your snacks in your bag—trust me on this.
Give yourself about two hours to really look around, but some people stay less if it's crowded.
Day | Entrance Fee (IDR) | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
Weekdays | 80,000 | 09:00 – 18:00 |
Weekends | 100,000 | 09:00 – 18:00 |
Observe Long-tailed Macaques
This is their patch. The monkey troupe numbers hover around 700, divided into a few big groups. Some folks worry about aggressive behaviour, but usually the monkeys will ignore you unless you have visible food, sunglasses, or anything shiny. These macaques are endlessly entertaining to watch:
Grooming each other and lazing in the sun
Teasing tourists (they love grabbing hats and bottles!)
Jumping in and out of the stream
If you’re worried, just keep moving and don’t stare at them directly—they read that as a challenge!
Stroll Ancient Temple Grounds
Inside the sanctuary you’ll find several old temples, all mossy and half-hidden under banyan trees. Most people swing by Pura Dalem Agung, the biggest, near the main entrance. You can’t go in, but you can admire the shrines and stone carvings from outside.
Listen for the gamelan music if there’s a ceremony on
Check out the dragon bridge and statue-lined paths
Snap a few photos near the ancient bathing pool (but don’t wander off—some parts are for temple staff only)
The Monkey Forest is where everything feels a bit slower, like the jungle’s in charge here. No busy roads, no phone signal—you’ll only hear the rustle of leaves and the monkeys chattering away above your head.
So, if you want up-close time with Ubud’s wild side, you really can’t miss this bit. Just be ready for a little mayhem, and maybe leave your sunglasses at home this one time.
Experience Ubud's Unique Culinary Delights
If you're into healthy food (or just want to try something different), Ubud is your place. Loads of cafés here focus on plant-based meals with a local twist. You walk down the main street and immediately spot breezy spots like Sage, Seeds of Life, and Clear Cafe. They serve some of the freshest salads, smoothie bowls, rice dishes and cakes—all with a focus on nutrition and flavour.
Try the coconut cake or a dragon fruit bowl if you fancy a sweet treat without the guilt.
Most places source their veggies daily from nearby farms, so everything tastes fresh.
Don’t be put off by the idea of vegan food—even the sceptical usually find something they love.
Eating at one of Ubud's wellness cafés is less about following a trend and more about experiencing how locals use simple ingredients to make tasty, satisfying meals.
Sample Local Balinese Specialities
You can't visit Ubud and miss tasting its classic dishes. Ubud is one of the best places in Bali to try authentic Balinese food made by locals who know their stuff. Dive into crispy duck at Bebek Bengil (even if the hype puts you off, it’s still worth a go), wander little warungs for tipat cantok (rice cake with peanut sauce), or try babi guling (roast pig) if you're meat-inclined. Street-side stalls and family-run restaurants cook their specialities every night—don’t skip the satay sticks and lawar (spiced minced veg or meat).
Here’s a quick list of must-try Balinese bites:
Sate Lilit (spiced, skewered meat)
Nasi Campur (mixed rice with toppings)
Gado-Gado (vegetables in creamy peanut sauce)
Dish | Notes | Typical Price (IDR) |
|---|---|---|
Bebek Goreng | Fried duck, crispy skin | 80,000–150,000 |
Babi Guling | Roast pork w/ herbs | 70,000–130,000 |
Sate Lilit | Spiced minced meat on lemongrass stick | 40,000–90,000 |
Nasi Campur | Rice & assorted sides | 30,000–75,000 |
Enjoy Coffee Tasting at Plantations
Coffee culture is serious business in Ubud. Small roasteries and cafés roast local beans daily, many grown right in Bali’s volcanic soil. Anomali and Seniman are local favourites—you can pop in for a flight of single origin brews, or just sip ice coffee while you people-watch. If you’re keen, join a plantation tour just outside town and see first-hand how beans go from bush to brew.
Most coffee shops offer some kind of sampler—it’s fun and gives you a real feel for the different roasts.
Kopi luwak—the famous ‘civet coffee’—is also available, though not everyone is a fan, so ask the staff about how it’s made first.
Baristas here love to chat and will happily talk you through what’s in your cup.
Spending an afternoon coffee tasting in Ubud isn’t just about the caffeine—it’s about slowing down and letting the day drift by.
Immerse Yourself in Holistic Wellness and Yoga
If you're coming to Ubud hoping for some headspace or a bit of healing, this is really the town for it. Ubud is the centre of Bali’s wellness scene, where a slower pace and a green, peaceful backdrop make it easy to switch off from ‘normal life’. Whether you’re new to yoga or have packed up your mat and meditation cushion, you’ll find something here.
Join a Class at The Yoga Barn
The Yoga Barn is a bit of an icon – it’s busy, friendly, and welcoming, with classes and workshops every day. It’s not uncommon to hear over 15 different languages in the communal area, with everyone waiting for their next class or grabbing some herbal tea. There are:
Group yoga sessions for all levels (Hatha, Vinyasa, Kundalini, Yin)
Meditation and mindfulness workshops
Drop-in classes so you’re not tied to a schedule
Special events (think ecstatic dance, talks, breathwork)
Want to make a day (or week) of it? There’s on-site accommodation and a little healthy café too.
The Yoga Barn is probably the place in Ubud where you’ll meet people from every walk of life, all looking for a bit of meaning or some downtime from everyday stress. The energy here can be a bit contagious, in a good way.
Try Traditional Balinese Healing Sessions
What’s unique about Ubud is the connection to traditional medicine and spirituality. You’ll find local practitioners and respected ‘Balian’ (healing priests) who do private sessions using surprisingly simple methods – herbal compresses, massage, prayer, or water ceremonies. A lot of travellers swear by the cleansing rituals (Melukat), especially at sacred springs and temples.
Here are three things to know before booking a healing session:
It’s often best to get a recommendation locally rather than booking online
Healing styles vary: some focus on massage, others more on spiritual energy
Approach it with an open mind; sometimes it’s more about the mental reset than the result!
Participate in Meditation or Sound Therapy
Sound therapy has become something of a local favourite. Think: lying on a mat as gongs, bowls, and chimes fill up the space, supposedly calming your mind and nerves. Quite a few studios around Ubud offer guided meditation and sound baths, which can run for 45 minutes or longer. These are easy to book the day before.
A quick look at what’s usually on offer:
Activity | Duration | Typical Cost (IDR) |
|---|---|---|
Guided Meditation | 30-45 mins | 60,000 - 100,000 |
Tibetan Sound Bath | 1 hour | 130,000 - 200,000 |
Group Breathing Session | 1.5 hours | 170,000 - 250,000 |
Many people who try sound therapy say it helps with relaxation and even helps you sleep better for days after.
And remember, every studio, centre or spa has its own style – ask for a schedule, or simply show up and get a feel for the place. Ubud’s wellness atmosphere caters to all levels, from total beginners to daily practitioners, so no one needs to feel out of place.
Shop and Stroll through Bustling Local Markets
Exploring Ubud’s local markets is easily one of the best ways to get a feel for the town. Each stall, from tiny alleys to the larger Ubud Art Market, feels like a treasure hunt. On my first morning in Ubud, I wandered the streets with no plan, just letting the colours and buzz of shopkeepers steer me. Couldn’t resist picking up a hand-woven sarong (I now wear it as a makeshift tablecloth), and don’t even get me started on the silver rings—nearly impossible to choose just one.
Bargain for Handcrafted Souvenirs
If you’re a bit shy about haggling, don’t worry—the stall owners are mostly up for a friendly chat and a bit of banter. Here’s what you should know before you start bargaining:
Most prices in the market are not fixed, so it’s expected that you’ll make a counter-offer.
Start by offering about 60% of the initial price, then slowly work your way up.
Always bargain with a smile and be respectful—it really does go a long way.
Browse Ubud’s Traditional Market
The Ubud Traditional Market (Pasar Seni Ubud) is open every day, and the early morning hours are the best for a less hectic scene. Here’s what’s typical at the market:
Product | Typical Price Range (IDR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Woven Bags | 80,000 – 200,000 | Various shapes and patterns |
Batik Textiles | 60,000 – 300,000 | Great as wall hangings or scarves |
Silver Jewellery | 100,000 – 500,000+ | Handcrafted, check for real silver |
Wood Carvings | 50,000 – 250,000 | Often inspired by Balinese myths |
Paintings/Art Prints | 70,000 – 300,000+ | Prices vary based on artist and size |
Admire Local Textiles and Artwork
Ubud is brimming with creativity. Besides the usual trinkets, keep an eye out for:
Handmade batik fabrics and sarongs in bold patterns
Canvases by local painters (some do live demonstrations)
Unique homewares, like bamboo cutlery and painted bowls
It’s easy to lose track of time in Ubud’s markets. Even if you’re not shopping, the people-watching, smells of incense, and snippets of Gamelan music in the background make it a brilliant way to spend a lazy afternoon.
So, next time you’re in Ubud, leave your plans at the door and just walk—there’s something new in every lane.
Take Inspiring Day Trips Around Ubud
Looking for something fresh outside the main buzz of Ubud? Trust me, you don’t have to stray far to find some pretty amazing sights, sacred spots, and real village life. Day trips from Ubud are easy, affordable, and pack a lot into just one outing. If you can manage to tear yourself away from your favourite rice field café for a few hours, here’s what you shouldn’t miss.
Tour Nearby Temples and Spiritual Sites
Bali’s temples never really get old, especially around Ubud where history meets jungle. If you’re curious about Bali’s spiritual side, there are a handful of places you’ll want to see:
Tirta Empul Temple: Famed for its holy water ritual (Melukat), locals and travellers come here to cleanse and reset.
Gunung Kawi: Temples carved into rock faces, surrounded by swaying palms and rice fields. Wear comfy shoes – there are steps, and quite a few!
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): Ancient carvings and quiet, shady grounds. It doesn’t take long, but feels miles away from anything modern.
Early mornings are best if you want to avoid crowds and soak in a bit of the peace these sites are known for.
Venture to Mountain Villages and Hot Springs
Mountain air just hits differently, right? If you get tired of the humid Ubud streets, head up to higher ground. These spots reward the short trip with cooler weather and remarkable views:
Kintamani: Up in the hills with views of Mount Batur, plus small roadside stops selling fresh fruit (I’m a sucker for their sweet oranges!).
Toyabungkah Hot Springs: After trekking, soak your tired legs in warm pools by the lake. Completely worth it, especially if you’re not a fan of cold waterfalls.
Traditional village visits: Like Penelokan or Penglipuran, where time seems to stand still. You’ll find bamboo houses and age-old customs – not staged for tourists, just real daily life.
If you like travel that mixes a bit of everything – adventure, scenery, and local charm – there are more ideas packed into this Indonesia itinerary.
Chase Sunrises and Sunsets with Panoramic Views
I don’t care how many sunrises you’ve seen – watching one above Bali’s volcanoes is just different. Mount Batur offers a fairly doable sunrise trek, if you don’t mind an early alarm:
Trek | Starting Time | Duration (hours) | Difficulty | View at Top |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Mount Batur | 2:00 AM | 1.5 - 2.5 | Moderate | 360° lake and volcanoes |
Mount Agung | 10:00 PM (prev. night) | 4 - 6 | Hard | Above the clouds |
Go with a guide (locals know the mountain and keep you safe)
Bring a jacket: mornings up there are freezing
Watch your step coming down (volcanic gravel is slippery)
Sunset hunters, there are also plenty of low-key spots: try dining between rice fields on your way back, where you can tuck into something tasty as the sky turns orange.
These simple trips remind me that there’s always something new to discover right on your doorstep in Bali. Sometimes you just need to hop on a scooter and see where the road leads.
Conclusion
So, that’s Ubud in a nutshell. It’s a place that really sticks with you, whether you’re there for the temples, the rice fields, or just to eat your way through all the vegan cafes. I always find something new every time I visit, and honestly, it’s hard not to slow down and just enjoy the pace of life there. The locals are friendly, the scenery is unreal, and there’s a calmness you don’t get in the busier parts of Bali. If you’re planning a trip, make sure you give yourself enough time to wander, try a yoga class, and maybe even get lost a little. Ubud isn’t just a stop on your Bali holiday – it’s the bit you’ll probably remember most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ubud worth visiting if I’m not interested in yoga or wellness?
Yes, Ubud offers much more than yoga and wellness. You can enjoy its beautiful rice terraces, waterfalls, art galleries, markets, and learn about Balinese culture. There’s something for everyone, whether you like adventure, nature, food, or history.
What is the best time of year to visit Ubud?
The best time to visit Ubud is during the dry season, from May to August. The weather is sunny and cool, which is perfect for exploring outdoors. However, Ubud is nice all year round, but keep in mind it can rain more from November to March.
How many days should I spend in Ubud?
Most people find that 3 to 4 days is enough to see the main sights and enjoy the town’s vibe. If you want to relax, join a yoga class, or take day trips to nearby places, staying for a week is a good idea.
Are the rice terraces in Ubud easy to visit?
Yes, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are just a short drive from the centre of Ubud. You can walk around the fields, take photos, and even enjoy a drink at a café with a view. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and respect the farmers’ paths.
Can I see wild monkeys in Ubud?
Yes, you can visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where lots of long-tailed macaques live. You can walk among the trees and old temples, but be careful with your belongings as the monkeys can be curious.
Is Ubud expensive for travellers?
Ubud has options for all budgets. You can find cheap places to eat and stay, as well as more fancy restaurants and hotels. Many activities, like walking in the rice fields or visiting temples, are free or cost very little.