27 Things To Do in Ubud Bali - Ubud Travel Guide

27 Best Things To Do in Ubud Bali

Last Updated : Mar 2023

AMAZING
THINGS TO DO IN
UBUD

Ubud Travel Guide & What To Do in Ubud Bali

A trip to Bali would not be complete without a stop in Ubud, the island's artistic and cultural capital. Find out the popular ubud tourist attractions and what best things to do in ubud so that you don't get confused when you get there.

Ubud has been one of Bali's most popular cities for as long as the island has been a tourist destination. If you arrived at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport, the trip to Ubud will take about 1.5 hours. You will pass through Kuta tourist attractions, Denpasar city, and Sanur tourist attractions on your way to Ubud. As you approach Ubud, you wonder how such a hotspot can exist among the dense jungle that surrounds you. A small bustling city emerges through the giant trees with overhanging branches.

Ubud's center is just a few streets, but they cram as much as they can into them. Even though the traffic is insane and the shops are crammed in right next to each other, Ubud manages to be a haven of calm. Unlike the wild party town of Kuta or the laid-back surfer vibe of Canggu, Ubud is all about wellness, clean living, and reconnecting with oneself.

There are several ways to get around Ubud. If you are staying in ubud, the easiest way to explore ubud is by renting a scooter. If you can’t ride a scooter, another option is by a private car taxi which is comfortable but a bit slow and can be more expensive.

If you've never visited Ubud in Bali, you're probably wondering what the best things to do in Ubud are. Ubud Bali offers a variety of activities and is well-known for outdoor activities such as rice field trekking, ATV Ride, cycling, and white water rafting Bali, also known as Ayung Rafting Ubud. Ubud Bali is also well-known for art and culture performances such as painting, sculpture, carving, and Balinese choreography such as the Kecak dance Ubud.

There are many interesting markets, palaces, jungles, temples, waterfalls, and rice terraces to visit in Ubud, as well as many great cafes, restaurants, and luxurious hotels.

We recommend getting a taste of everything, from exploring the beautiful natural sights to experiencing the local culture.

27 Amazing things to do in Ubud Bali

Here are the popular ubud tourist attractions and the best things to do in Ubud to fulfiil your holiday in Bali

1. Ayung River rafting Ubud

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Adventure Fun Families Photos

Ayung River is located in Payangan Village in Ubud, Bali. It is about 10-15 minutes fron central Ubud. Ayung River Rafting is one of the highest recommended watersport recreations during vacations on the island of Bali. it is suitable for you who are looking for of fun and adventure activities. Don't worry about safety, because this activity is safe for everyone from 6 to 60 years old, even those who can't swim.

In the normal condition, ayung river rafting is always crowded every day. But since the pandemic conditions, this activity is not so crowded anymore due to the reduced number of tourists visiting Bali, and this is good for social distancing with other travelers.

The Journey of Ayung River Rafting Adventure

River Rafting in Ubud takes about 2 hours, with a track or river length of about 12 kilometers. During the rafting trip on the Ayung River in Ubud, you will be taken to enjoy the Ayung river rapids while taking pictures on the edge of the Ayung River in Ubud, which has a background of carvings along the river wall. Carvings on the river walls are a feature of rafting activities on the Ayung River in Ubud.

The journey of rafting adventure nature tourism on the Ayung River in Ubud is quite enjoyable; an adventure in the wild along the swift Ayung river in Ubud will add a new dimension to your vacation on the island of Bali.

Location : Jl. Kedewatan and Payangan Ubud Bali
Open Hours : Every Day, early check-in 9am - Late check-in 2.15pm

2.ATV Ride or Quad Bike Adventure

Photo: ATV ubud - Ubud Quad Bike Adventure through waterfall and tunel

GOOD FOR Adventure Fun Families Photos

Ubud ATV Ride tour or A quad bike ride is an exciting, sensational, beautiful, and safe adventure tour. It is a good way to explore the inner side ubud nature in diferent way. The trail is 90% off-road and 100% pure fun! Leave the beaches, discos, bars, shopping malls, and the hustle and bustle of the city center behind for a while and come enjoy the serenity of nature.

With guided chases through local forests and beautiful farmland, through mud, rice fields, rivers, cave/tunel, plantations, bamboo forests, jungle, villages, picturesque scenery, and across tributaries in our epic multi-kilometer tracks, let's have fun, be honest, and dirty! You will travel to rural areas of beautiful Bali that are rarely visited by tourists.

Enjoy a few hours of high-octane entertainment with adrenaline while riding an incredible ATV through Ubud's stunning rural landscape. ATV rides on Ubud Bali are daily trips, and whether it is dry or raining, the activity challenge must continue, depending on your personal preferences. Don't worry when it rains because you will be provided with a rain coat and it's even more fun and challenging.

Location : Jl. Payangan, Ubud, Bali
Open Hours : Every Day, early check-in 9am - Late check-in 2.15pm

3.Bali Swing - Hottest Instagram Spot

Photo: Ubud Swing Bali with river scenery

GOOD FOR Photos Fun Scenery Adventure

Bali is an island with a variety of activities, such as swinging with breathtaking views in the background. And it should be on your Bali bucket list. The Bali Swing is a new tourist attraction in Bali that has quickly grown in popularity. However, Ubud is the original and best, but hundreds of others with breathtaking views have sprung up all over Bali in recent years.

This is a must-see if you want to feel the freedom and thrill of swinging high above the trees. Get a rush of adrenaline, unforgettable experiences, and one-of-a-kind photos.

4.Visit Tegalalang Rice Terraces

Photo: Tegalalang rice terraces ubud

GOOD FOR History Fun Scenery Photos

Tegalalang Rice Terrace is one of the most photogenic and popular destinations in Bali, twenty minutes north of Ubud. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has large and modulated rice paddies, kept alive by an ancient sophisticated system of irrigation and farmers who tend their terraces in a way that generations have always been.

This area can be freely explored. Take your short stroll to the bottom slopes (if farmers don't care), take another viewing point, or sit in an outdoor café when you have to break. or sail for another viewing point. The famous "Love Bali" swing will not be difficult to find; the swarm of the pictures will give it away.

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Location : Jl. Raya Tegalalang Gianyar
Open Hours : Every Day, Every Time (6.00am-6.30pm)

5. River Tubing

Photo: Ubud river tubing

GOOD FOR Adventure Fun Families Photos

This exciting half-day tubing adventure in Bali takes you down the River. Take in the scenery as you float downstream through the jungle, passing through small rapids and waterfalls to get your adrenaline pumping.

See a different side of Bali on this all-inclusive tubing adventure and visit a hidden canyon on the island. This excursion is ideal if you want to spice up your trip to Bali or simply enjoy the lush environment and beautiful nature of this tropical paradise.

6.Ubud Rice Field Walk

Photo: Ubud Rice Field Walk

GOOD FOR Scenery Exploring Families Photos

The gorgeous sprawling countryside just a few steps from the center of town is one of the best things about visiting or living in Ubud. The favorite thing to do in the area was to go on one of the many nearby Ubud walks through rice fields and rice terraces. It is about 45 minutes walk to explore the route, enjoy the nature, birds, ducks, fields, palm trees that give you a quiet and peaceful village feel.

7.Visit The Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest

Photo: Monkey Forest ubud

GOOD FOR Exploring Families Photos

Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, also known as Ubud Monkey Forest, is a Balinese long-tailed macaque sanctuary and natural habitat. It is in Padangtegal, Ubud, Bali. This is their natural living environment. Here the monkeys are living and sleeping in the banyans. You go to their beloved living quarters of monkeys. Your palace of jungles, if you want to.

If you're going to stay in Ubud for a few days, It's simple. It's probably about a 20-minute walk south from the main tourist area, at the end of the conveniently named Monkey Forest Road. To get directions, simply click on the map below.

You can still feed or take photos of the monkeys. You can interact with them easily.

8.Visit Blanco Renaisance Museum

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR History Fun Shoping

Blanco Renaissance Museum is the late Don Antonio Blanco's home gallery and studio. The maestro, who was born in the Philippines, was well-known for his lithographic works depicting naked Balinese women. It houses paintings, collages, and illustrated poetry by Blanco and his son Mario and is located on a hilltop overlooking the lush valley of Campuhan.

Inside the Blanco Renaissance Museum, there is a studio where Blanco used to paint as well as a gallery displaying Mario's works. Within the grounds, you'll also find a gift shop, a café, and the Blanco family temple. The café has a relaxing Balinese atmosphere and serves European and Asian cuisine.

The gallery's provocative collection primarily appeals to adults and art enthusiasts. If you're traveling with children, they'll love the palatial gardens and courtyard, which are home to beautiful parrots and exotic birds.

9.Visit Goa Gajah Temple (Elephant Cave)

Photo: Goa Gajah Temple ubud

GOOD FOR History Unique Photos

Goa Gajah Temple, or Elephant Cave, is a cave on the Indonesian island of Bali near the town of Ubud. It served as a sanctuary when it was built in the 9th century.

Although the exact origins of the cave are unknown, it is thought to have been built as a place for spiritual meditation. According to folklore, it was formed by the legendary giant Kebo Iwa's fingernail. However, based on its design, the sanctuary was most likely built during the 11th century in the Bali Kingdom. The complex contains both Hindu and Buddhist imagery, as the cave contains lingam and yoni, Shiva's symbols, and the image of Ganesha, while by the river are carved images of stupas and chatter, Buddhist imagery.

Goa Gajah is a significant Hindu archaeological site located just 10 minutes outside of Ubud in Bali.

10.Downhill Cycling Tour

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Adventure Fun Families Exploring

The Downhill cycling tour is one of the most recomended to do while you visit ubud bali. Discover the Natural Beauty of Bali's Countryside, feel the rhythm of local life and learn from the ancient ancestors' wisdom. This Downhill cycling tour gives you diversity of experiences in just one tour, in addition of the cycling it self.

Visit the coffee & fruit plantation to see the making process of Balinese coffee and tasting of numerous teas, coffees and chocolate, then serve you with a light breakfast with a magnificent view overlooking Mt Batur volcano and Lake Batur. After that organised the bikes and proceeded with the cycling.

The cycling duration is about 2.5 hours, downhill through rural roads, plantations, fields, and rice terraces, inhale the fresh air, with stops at a traditional compound home, temple, amazing mountain-top complete with fresh coconut waters, sacred Banyan tree, feel the unique spirit and feel the magic of rural Bali.

Read more for Ubud Downhill Cycling Tour ...

Location : Start from Mount Kintamani - Finish at Ubud
Open Hours : Every Day, Start in the morning finish Afternoon

11.Dine With a View

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Food Family Couples

It goes without saying that Ubud is home to some of the best restaurants in Bali. It is home to two of Indonesia's most prestigious fine-dining establishments. Ubud's food and restaurant scene are as varied as its lush, jungle-covered landscape. So, take a break from temple hopping, boutique shopping, and bucket list adventures for a moment, because you'll want to sample the best restaurants in Ubud.

Kubu at Mandapa Restaurant & Swept Away At The Samaya Ubud

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Location : Ubud and Surroundings
Open Hours : Every Day, early check-in 9am - Late check-in 2.15pm

12.Join Yoga Class

Photo: Yoga House ubud

GOOD FOR Relaxing Health

Many people visit Bali to escape the hustle and seek serenity from its nature and culture.

Bali offers a complete package of tourist attractions: there are beautiful beaches, nightlife, adventure, and amazing cultures. Besides that, you can also calm yourself by taking a yoga class in the middle of Bali's nature.

Ubud Yoga House

Ubud Yoga House is a quiet yoga studio, surrounded by beautiful views of rice fields and jungle. This friendly studio offers small personal classes for everyone, from beginners to advanced.

It is located on the famous ricefield walking route in ubud "Sari Organik Walk", about 10 minutes walk from the main road of central ubud.

Yoga Saraswati Ubud

An Amazing yoga studio located in the central of Ubud. Yoga Saraswati is a smaller studio and is a lot more intimate and personal than other studio in the area. Compared to the others in Ubud, Saraswati is cheaper and less busy.

13.Rent a Motor Bike Explor Ubud

Photo: Rent Motor Bike in Ubud Bali

GOOD FOR Exploring Fun

Renting a motorbike in Ubud / Bali was an excellent way to explore the island. It was also a fantastic mode of transportation. The freedom to explore the island on a motorbike was the most enjoyable aspect of the motorcycle rental in Bali experience.

In Ubud, renting a motorbike is simple. In most cases, you can rent a motorbike in Ubud through your hotel or lodging host. You can also find a company that rents out motorbikes.

You will not be able to rent a motorbike in Bali unless you have an International Driver's License (IDL). Make sure you have this before leaving your home country!

14.Enjoy View at Campuhan Ridge Walk

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Fun Scenery Photos

In Ubud, there are a plenty of of fantastic things to do. There are some nice walks, whether through the village, rice fields, or just a beautiful nature walk. The Campuhan Ridge walk is unquestionably at the top of the list of must-do walks in Ubud. It's a lovely walk through greenery and hills. It's more of a jungle or forest walk, so if you just want to see rice fields and terraces, there are other walks you can take.

This is a nice paved path along the Ridge of Campuhan. This walk illustrates Ubud's natural side. The Campuhan Ridge Walk, with its many trees and hills, resembles a jungle or forest rather than rice terraces and fields.

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Location : Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Ubud Bali
Open Hours : 24 hours, best time in morning and afternoon

15.Visit Gunung Kawi Temple

Photo: Gunung Kawi Temple Ubud

GOOD FOR History Photos

Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple and funerary complex in Tampaksiring, Bali, Indonesia. It consists of ten rock-cut Candi (shrines) carved into 7-meter-high (23-foot) sheltered niches in the sheer cliff face.

Gunung Kawi Temple, also known as Bali's "Valley of the Kings," is one of the island's oldest and most remarkable archaeological temple complexes.

This one-of-a-kind collection of ancient shrines carved into the cliffs and weathered by time provides a glimpse into another era. These magnificent temples are among the most fascinating in Bali.

16.Visit Saraswati Temple

Photo: Saraswati Temple ubud

GOOD FOR History Photos

Pura Taman Saraswati (also known as the Ubud Water Palace) is an old Hindu temple built by one of the Ubud princes in central Bali. It may not be built on a lake like Lake Bratan temple, but it does have a lovely lotus pond and some of Bali's best stone carvings.

The large ornate doorways with old traditional Balinese architecture and artistic wall patterns are my favorite features of this place. When you get close to the doors, the designs become incredibly detailed. Tourists are not permitted to pass through these doors to reach the main temple, but it still makes for a great Instagram photo opportunity!

This temple is simple to visit and can be combined with other nearby attractions such as the Ubud Royal Palace.

17.Visit Gunung Lebah Temple

Photo: Gunung Lebah Temple Ubud

GOOD FOR History Photos

Gunung Lebah Temple is a central landmark temple in Ubud. The 8th-century temple is located at the western end of Jalan Raya Ubud's main road, overlooking the eastern side of Ubud's Campuhan valley. In old Balinese, the name loosely translates to "mountain valley temple."

Most of the hotels in the area are within walking distance of the temple. The path to the temple's right leads down to the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk, which provides a pleasant light trek or a refreshing jog with lush green views of the Campuhan valley.

The temple complex is divided into three courtyards. The first outer courtyard is easily accessible, and you can admire the Balinese temple features. From the center, you'll notice the Padmasana's towering shrines. During ceremonies, the two inner courtyards are usually open. Even so, you can try your luck at any time as long as you wear proper temple attire (a sarong and sash around your waist at a minimum).

18.Shop at Ubud Art Market

Photo: Ubud Market

GOOD FOR Shoping Fun

The Art Market of Ubud is an excellent place to find lost of souvenirs: beautiful silk scarves, lightweight shirts, statues, kites, handmade woven bags, squares, and hats. There are also lots of little cafes within the market to cool down and take a break. It is a must-go in Bali. The market, known locally as Pasar Seni Ubud, is located opposite the Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace and is open daily.

'Shopping' in this context does not always refer to a physical purchase. Viewing the various items on display from one stall to the next is a highlight in and of itself, demonstrating Balinese craftsmanship and artistry. It is rare to be able to visit all of the shops and stalls in a single day. So, if you see something you like, you can come back another day to bargain or settle the deal.

The market is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some stalls staying open until late at night. The market is divided into two sections. The western block is the main art market, while the eastern block is a traditional market that sells daily groceries and necessities.

19.Spa or Message

Photo: Ubud Spa

GOOD FOR Relaxing Health

Imagine taking a relaxing flower bath while inhaling the scents of frangipani and jasmine essential oils, immediately following a pampering massage performed by expert hands – that's what's on offer at Ubud's best spas and massage parlors.

Balinese massages are well-known throughout the world. Getting to a spa should be one of the first things you do after getting off the plane and arriving at your Ubud accommodation. Here are some of the best places to pamper yourself while enjoying the balmy Bali breeze.

Jembawan Spa Ubud

Jembawan Spa offers its guests authentic Balinese spa treatments in a peaceful and beautifully fitted out setting. The treatments are delivered by trained staff who genuinely care for your satisfaction. Not just massage, here also serve for waxing, facial, manicure and pedicure.

Jembawan Spa located in centre of ubud, Jl. Jembawan no.29 Ubud. You can come directly to the location for a massage, but we recommend to contact them in advance to make an appointment.

Visist our top 5 spa ubud page for more detail.

20.Visit Neka Art Museum

Photo: Neka Art Museum ubud

GOOD FOR History Fun Shoping

Neka Studio is one of the famous museums in Ubud. Its name is taken from the founder, Mr. Suteja Neka. The Neka Art Museum has a Balinese and foreign art collection inspired by the natural beauty, life and culture of Bali.

At first, this museum as a means of documenting Balinese art. Nowadays the museum has a great selection of works from many famous Balinese artists and expats who have lived here.

21.Ubud Mas Village - Wood Carving Center

Photo: Mas Village Carving Center

GOOD FOR Antique Fun Shoping Knowledge

Ubud Mas Village is famous for various wood carvings & sculptures, It is the wood carving capital of Bali. So, it is the perfect place to source for high quality wood carvings with affordable price or just to see the collection of various wood crafts that might interest for you. if you lucky, you will be able to see the sculptors working diligently & attentively on small items right up to big bulky ones.

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Location : Jl. Raya Mas, Ubud
Open Hours : 7AM - 7PM

22.Join Bali Cooking Class

Photo: Ubud Cooking Class

GOOD FOR Knowledge Cooking Fun

Experiencing the Balinese way of cooking during your visit to Ubud can be a wonderful experience.

Balinese cuisine has a distinct flavor, and spices play an important role in achieving it. You will learn the traditional methods for preparing Balinese food, as well as how to use the unique tropical plants, roots, and herbs found on the "Island of the Gods."

Balinese dishes (especially in Ubud) and recipes are intimately connected to the community's culture and way of life, and cooking provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the local way of life. Discover the best cooking classes in Ubud for tourists who want to learn more about Balinese culture or foodies who want to make those spicy delicious meals themselves.

Paon Bali

The Paon Bali team believes that food is an important part of the diverse and rich Balinese culture. Attendees at the Paon Bali Cooking Class will get a firsthand look at traditional village life and understand the context in which those delectable Balinese dishes were created. There are vegetarian and meat classes available, as well as morning and afternoon classes. The coconut oil-making program is one of Paon Bali's highlights.

Casa Luna

Casa Luna is a hospitality and culinary establishment consisting of guesthouses, restaurants, and a cooking school. Janet de Neefe, who has lived in Bali for decades and founded the Ubud Food Festival as well as the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, is the inspiration behind it also about the customs and culture surrounding food in Balinese society.

Casa Luna Cooking School also offers market tours, where visitors can choose their ingredients from nearby traditional markets. This cooking school is more than just a culinary class; it is a window into life as a local in Ubud.

23.Watch Kecak Dance Performa

Photo: Kecak Dance ubud

GOOD FOR Fun

Ubud Bali is also well-known for art and culture performances such as painting, sculpture, carving, and Balinese choreography such as the Kecak dance Ubud.

Many visitors to Ubud Bali are drawn to the Bali Kecak & Fire Dance performance. Of course, it is not difficult for visitors to see a Balinese dance performance in Ubud.

As a result, if you want to see Kecak & Fire dance, you must go at night. The Kecak & Fire dance usually begins at 19:00. There are two popular places in Ubud to watch Kecak & Fire Dance: Dalem Ubud Temple and Padang Tegal Kaja Ubud.

24.Visit Bali Bird Park

Photo: Bali Bird Park Ubud

GOOD FOR Fun Families Photos

The Bali Bird Park is a one-of-a-kind and educational family attraction. With 2 hectares of fine tropical gardens, it provides a stroll through a rich collection of nearly 1,000 exotic birds from all over the Indonesian archipelago and around the world.

In each of their dedicated enclosures, Bali Bird Park allows you to get up close and personal with, touch, feed, and view a variety of tame birds from various species, as well as admire rare and exotic collections.

25.Visit Tegenungan Waterfall

Photo: Tegenungan Waterfall ubud

GOOD FOR Fun Scenery Photos

A visit to Tegenungan waterfall while in Ubud is one of the best things to do in Ubud. When thinking of Ubud and the surrounding areas, two words come to mind: culture and nature. Tegenungan waterfall is a great choice among the waterfalls in the surrounding area because it is not far from Ubud. It is a popular waterfall for a reason, and it is well worth a visit on your Bali vacation, especially if you are staying in Ubud.

Tegenungan waterfall is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., according to the ticket office. Try to arrive as early as possible. Because Bali is hot all year, a morning swim is still enjoyable. It is only getting busier as the day progresses. Alternatively, late afternoon will be preferable to midday.

26.Dine at Bebek Bengil (Crispy Duck)

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Food Scenery Families

There isn't a single Bali food guide that doesn't include duck. Is it difficult? This is because it is nearly impossible. And it's all thanks to the legendary Bebek Bengil restaurant, Bali's first to serve crispy duck.

The idyllic tourist destination is no stranger to delectable culinary establishments, and Bebek Bengil has become one of them. Since its inception in 1990, this establishment has become a must-see for all visitors to Ubud. Their time-honored recipe for Balinese-style duck has enticed locals, foreigners, presidents, and even rock star Mick Jagger.

Location : Jl. Hanoman, Ubud
Open Hours : Every Day, 11AM - 8PM

27.Seniman Coffe Studio

Photo: Ayung river rafting ubud

GOOD FOR Food Fun Families

Seniman Coffee Studion is the great place for coffee lovers in ubud. Located in the centre of ubud so it's not hard to find it. They have a variety of quality coffees with different types of brewing methods, and a unique customer experience. And also there are various food menus for your breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Many of their customers purposely stay nearby just because they love this place. Normaly they are open from 7.30 AM - 8 AM, and open until late on weekends (until 10 PM on sautrday dan sunday).

Here you can also learn various coffee brewing techniques by attending their workshops. Please contact them in advance to inquire about schedules and workshop reservations.

Location : Jl. Sri Wedari No.5 Ubud
Open Time : 7.30 - 8.00 PM (Monday - Friday) and 7.30 - 10.00 PM (Saturday & Sunday)

We hope you enjoy the list of things to do in Ubud Bali above, and can help you plan your trip to Ubud. Ubud bali is always be waiting for your visit!

Updated on: 23 Mar 2023