Ubud, located in central Bali, Indonesia, is a cultural and artistic hub known for its lush landscapes, traditional crafts, and spiritual charm. With its serene rice terraces, sacred temples, vibrant arts scene, and wellness offerings, Ubud offers a unique and enriching travel experience. Here’s a travel guide on things to do in ubud to help you make the most of your visit to Ubud, Bali:
- Explore Ubud Monkey Forest: Start your journey by visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, a nature reserve inhabited by playful monkeys. Explore the forest trails, visit ancient temples, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere.
- Visit Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Palace): Located in the heart of Ubud, the ubud palace showcases traditional Balinese architecture and serves as a cultural hub for dance performances and art exhibitions. Witness a captivating Balinese dance performance in the evening.
- Wander through Ubud Art Market: Explore the bustling Ubud Art Market, also known as Pasar Seni Ubud, to discover a wide range of traditional crafts, artworks, textiles, and souvenirs. Bargaining is common, so embrace the opportunity to negotiate for the best prices.
- Experience Balinese Culture at Puri Lukisan Museum: Visit the Puri Lukisan Museum, dedicated to Balinese art. Admire a collection of traditional and contemporary paintings, woodcarvings, and sculptures that depict Balinese culture and history.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Just a short drive from Ubud, Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views of terraced rice fields. Take a leisurely stroll across the fields or dine at a restaurant with a breathtaking view.
- Explore Sacred Temples: Discover the spiritual side of Ubud by visiting sacred temples such as Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), Tirta Empul Temple (known for its holy water springs), and Gunung Kawi Temple (a complex of ancient shrines carved into the rock face).
- Attend a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance: Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by witnessing a traditional dance performance, such as the captivating Kecak Fire Dance or the graceful Legong Dance. Many venues in Ubud offer nightly performances.
- Visit Tegenungan Waterfall: Enjoy the natural beauty of Tegenungan Waterfall, located in a lush green setting. Take a nice swim in the chilly water or just sit back and take in the view of the cascading falls.
- Indulge in Ubud’s Wellness Offerings: Ubud is known for its wellness and holistic healing practices. Explore yoga studios, meditation centers, and wellness retreats that offer various classes, workshops, and spa treatments to rejuvenate your mind and body.
- Try Organic Cuisine and Ubud’s Cafés: Ubud is a haven for food lovers. Explore the town’s vibrant café scene, with many establishments offering organic and healthy cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional Balinese dishes and sample the local delicacies.
- Take a Cycling Tour: Embark on a cycling tour through Ubud’s picturesque countryside. Ride through lush rice fields, visit traditional villages, and immerse yourself in the rural charm of Bali.
- Explore the Ubud Rice Field Walks: Discover the beauty of Ubud’s rice terraces by embarking on one of the many scenic walks available. The Campuhan Ridge and the Subak Juwuk Manis Walk are popular options offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Attend a Cooking Class: Learn the secrets of Balinese cuisine by joining a cooking class in Ubud. Visit local markets, learn to prepare traditional dishes, and savor the flavors of Bali.
- Visit the Blanco Renaissance Museum: Explore the fascinating artwork of the late Filipino artist Antonio Blanco at the Blanco Renaissance Museum. Admire his unique style and enjoy the stunning views of the Campuhan River.
- Take a Day Trip to the Surrounding Villages: Explore the neighboring villages of Ubud, such as Mas (known for wood carving), Celuk (famous for silver jewelry), and Batubulan (recognized for stone carving). Witness the artisans at work and purchase authentic handmade crafts.
Final Words
Ubud offers a delightful blend of art, culture, nature, and spirituality that appeals to travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ubud’s landscapes, engage with the local culture, and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting town in Bali, Indonesia.
