Top Things To Do In Ubud: Experience The Best Of Balinese Culture And Nature

The Ubud Water Palace used to be the home of the Royal Family of Ubud, Indonesia

Ubud, often referred to as Bali’s cultural heart, is a quaint town offering unrestrained tranquillity amid lush green hills, rice paddies, and ancient temples. Things to do in Ubud boasts a richly artistic heritage, invokes spiritual vibes, and is surrounded by lush topography and natural beauty. Whether visiting ancient temples or indulging in Balinese traditions, Ubud has a variety of cultural experiences amplified by natural wonders.

10 Best Things To Do In Ubud

If you’re interested in knowing the heart of Bali, the things to do in Ubud, with complete information, is given in this blog to help you plan for your trip.

1. Visit The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The crab-eating monkey in the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Indonesia

Photo: Philip Nalangan / Wikimedia Commons

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is among the top attractions in Ubud and is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. This lush forest is a wildlife reserve and a spiritual site comprising several sacred temples. You can wander the paths lined with towering trees and ancient stone statues, to encounter aggressive monkeys roaming freely. The forest plays an important role in the Balinese Hindu faith and provides you with valuable insight into the spiritual heritage of Bali.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: Rp 80,000 / ₹427.95
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6 PM

2. Explore The Ubud Art Market

The picture market of Ubud in Indonesia where you can shop at a reasonable price

Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Ubud Art Market is a vibrant marketplace where traditional Balinese crafts, artwork, and souvenirs can be found. It is filled with local artisans selling everything from handmade jewellery and paintings to woven baskets and textiles. It is also the perfect opportunity to get some unique gifts for your family and friends. Visit the Ubud Art Market to experience Bali’s artistic past and enjoy the vibrant street culture.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

3. Hike The Campuhan Ridge Walk

The beautiful picture of Campuhan Ridge Walk surrounded by fields in Ubud, Indonesia

Photo: Fabio Achilli / Wikimedia Commons

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of Ubud’s most scenic and peaceful hiking experiences. It is free and easy, following a ridge with stunning views of green hills, rice paddies, and coconut groves. The path starts near the town of Ubud, which makes it easy to get to, whilst the walk comprises a distance of about 9 kilometres, making it perfect for the mostly recreational outdoor runner. You can explore this place to benefit from the coolness and scenery. It is a must-do for nature enthusiasts in Ubud.

Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Timings: 24*7

4. Visit The Tegalalang Rice Terraces

A picture of the rice fields in Tegalalang rice terraces popular in Ubud, Indonesia

Photo: Anggabuana / Wikimedia Commons

This rice-terraced hillside is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic sights in Bali. Be mesmerised by the stunning views over the verdant and feathery landscape, epitomised by their elegant terracing. You are allowed to walk through the fields, take some stunning photographs, and begin learning about rice cultivation with the help of the farmers. This must certainly be one of the most tranquil and aesthetically beautiful things to do in Ubud, yet a peek into Bali’s agricultural history and natural beauty.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: Rp 15,000 / ₹80.24
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

5. Discover The Tirta Empul Temple

Image of a beautiful Tirta Empul temple which holds the rituals in its holy springs

Photo: Saranabhi / Wikimedia Commons

Tirta Empul Temple is one of the holiest water temples in Bali, famous for its holy spring where Balinese Hindus come for ritual purification. You are given the option of witnessing these cleansing rituals or even participating in them as a way to immerse yourself in Bali’s culture and religious practices. The temple’s serene beauty, intricately carved stoneworks, and placid pools brings a sense of tranquillity and spirituality to life. Located near Ubud, Tirta Empul Temple is a must-visit for anyone who wants to explore the deep spiritual roots.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: Rp 50,000 / ₹267.47
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM

6. Attend A Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

A cultural dance, Balinese traditional dance performing the elements of Ramayana

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons

Witnessing traditional Balinese dance performances is one of the cultural highlights in Ubud. Often performed at the Ubud Palace, these dances feature intricate movements and colourful costumes and are backed by live gamelan music. Some dances relate their roots to Hindu mythology, featuring many gods, heroes, and legends. It is an extraordinary spectacle of Bali’s artistic heritage and offers a lovely glimpse into its culture.

Best Time To Visit: Evenings.
Entry Fee: Rp 100,000 / ₹534.94
Timings: 7 PM – 9 PM

7. Visit The Ubud Palace

The entrance that leads to the beautiful Ubud Palace of the Royal family in Indonesia

Photo: Chainwit / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the historic town of Ubud, the Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, is a courtyard in which traditions are passed on from one generation to another. This area is still home to a royal family. It has lovely courtyards and gardens that provide views of the magnificent carvings and statues. Traditional Balinese dance shows are held here in the early evening. The Ubud Palace gives an insight into the Balinese royal heritage and combines excellent culture with the entertainment of an evening.

Best Time To Visit: Morning, Evening
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM

8. Go On A Bali Swing Adventure

Image of a couple swinging in the jungle with a serene view of Bali island, Indonesia

Photo: Artem Beliaikin / Unsplash

The Bali Swing is an exciting adventure and a must-do for you in Ubud. These high swings are set way up above lush valleys and rice fields, leading to incredible views while also providing a heart-pumping experience of swinging over a jungle. Several swing locations existed around Ubud for you to select. Many swing sites also offer viewing platforms and nests for unique photo opportunities, making it a fun way to enjoy the natural beauty of Bali while still admiring history.

Best Time To Visit: Morning
Entry Fee: Rp 150,000 – Rp 300,000 / ₹802.41 – ₹1604.83
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

9. Visit Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Goa Gajah is located in the West of the Bedulu village worshipping Lord Ganesha

Photo: Reena Yadav / Unsplash

Goa Gajah or Elephant Cave is an ancient spiritual site located just a short distance outside of Ubud. The cave entrance features stone carvings of mythical creatures, which lead to a small temple inside. Lush gardens, fountains, and bathing pools surround the cave, providing a tranquil setting for reflection. Dating back to the 9th century, the site holds great significance to the religious sentiments in Bali. A visit to Goa Gajah will give you glimpses of the spiritual culture of ancient Bali, along with archaeological marvels.

Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon.
Entry Fee: Rp 50,000 / ₹267.47
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM

10. Take A Cooking Class In Ubud

Image of people cooking with colourful vegetables on the table - Cooking Class in Ubud

Photo: Maarten van den Heuvel / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

A cooking class in Ubud, Bali, is one of the best things you can experience about the local culture. The course elaborates by gathering at a local market, where you are educated on the use of traditional ingredients, followed by hands-on sessions enabling students to prepare authentic Balinese dishes-Dukan. After the course, you’ll enjoy the meal that you’ve just prepared. The experience of cooking classes provokes a culinary delight and is fun yet educational.

Best Time To Visit: Morning or afternoon
Entry Fee: Rp 350,000
Duration: 3 – 4 hours

Ubud is a perfect blend of rich culture, beautiful nature, and vibrant arts. Numerous things to do in Ubud cater to all sorts of travellers, and spend your time here to be educational and entertaining. Nature fills your eyes and your spirit with an invitation to enjoy being captivated by Ubud. For such a beautiful holiday experience, contact TripXL today.

Cover Photo: Mitch Hodiono / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time for you to go to Ubud is between May to September during the dry season to try various activities.
You can travel from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Ubud by taxi or shuttle service. The duration is an hour and a half.
Ubud is not an expensive place for tourists, it depends on what activities you do and which place you roam.
You can plan between 3-5 days to take all the attractions in Ubud, which will surely provide you with a complete experience of culture and natural beauty.
While visiting the temples, both men and women need to wear sarong that covers below the knee, one can find sarongs at the temple entrance to wear.

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