Top 10 Things to do in Ubud, Bali

Are you looking for the best things to do in Ubud, Bali? From shopping at art and craft markets to visiting temples, exploring beautiful rice terraces and waterfalls. Our guide on what to do in Ubud details all the best Ubud attractions to help you plan your trip!

We’ve visited Ubud too many times to remember. It’s one of our favourite places in the whole world (one of many!). If visiting Ubud (or Bali) is not on your travel bucket list, we suggest you add it asap! There is such a diverse range of things to see and do in Ubud.

Below we’ve detailed 10 must-see places to add to your Ubud sightseeing itinerary, including cost, how to get there, and recommended tour options. And if that’s not enough, we’ve also added a list of a few other popular things to do in Ubud at the end of this article!

Here’s our recommendation of the top 10 things to do in Ubud for your next visit to Bali!

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Top 10 Things to do in Ubud

#1 | Go Shopping at Ubud Traditional Market

If you’ve heard of Ubud, then you’ve probably heard of the Ubud Markets. It is, after all, the reason why many people visit Ubud, and it’s arguably the best market in all of Bali. 

Located in the heart of town, the markets are filled with a variety of artisan products, most of which are made locally in Bali. From paintings to sculptures, jewellery, handbags, and wood carvings – there is so much variety at the Ubud Art Markets, that you’ll probably need to buy a new suitcase to take home all the goodies you buy (they sell those too)!

The markets are open every day from early morning until late at night, and the atmosphere is always vibrant and festive. Haggling is expected and is part of the fun! 

Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or just browsing, the Ubud Art Markets is a great place to spend your morning.

#2 | Explore Tegalalang Rice Terraces

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are one of the most visited Ubud tourist attractions. Located in the Tegalalang district, about a half-hour drive north of Ubud, this is one place you cannot miss on your Ubud itinerary.

The terraces are spread over a hillside and offer stunning views of the surrounding rice fields and mountains. There are several small villages in the area, and visitors can explore the rice terraces and traditional farms. 

The rice terraces are managed by different farmers and as you make your way between the terraces, the local farmer may ask for a small payment to explore their plot. It’s usually around 5,000 IDR, which works out to around 50 cents and is a small donation, considering the farmers get paid very little. 

The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a great place to learn about Balinese culture and agricultural traditions. Going on a guided tour is also a great way to get the most out of your visit. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at rice farming!

#3 | Play with Monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest

On the southern side of Ubud town, you’ll find the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. It’s home to over 1000 cheeky long-tailed macaques. The sanctuary is a natural habitat, and the monkeys are free to come and go as they please. Sometimes they can even be seen playing on the roads around the forest.

The Monkey Forest surrounds a stunning moss-covered 14^th Century Hindu temple and is only a short walk away from central Ubud. It’s one of the best family-friendly things to do in Ubud and one of the most stunning temples I’ve seen in Bali.

You can buy bananas to feed the monkeys and take photos with them. They are fun to interreact with. Be aware though, that the monkeys are wild animals and are sometimes unpredictable. A lot of people are very cautious around the monkeys, as they can jump or run near you (and sometimes jump on you) as they play around the forest. If you would rather avoid them coming too close, then we recommend you don’t carry any food items.

#4 | Sunset Stroll Along Campuhan Ridge

A few years ago, Campuhan Ridge was somewhat of a hidden gem in Bali. But thanks to Instagram, it has quickly become one of the most popular things to do in Ubud.

Campuhan Ridge is only a short distance from the centre of Ubud but can be a little difficult to find. Simply head towards the Warwick IBAH Luxury Villas, where the road splits into two. Keep to the left, walk past the carpark, across the bridge over the river, and around past the temple.

The walk is around 2-3 km, depending on how far you go (but of course, we recommend going all the way). There are plenty of shops and cafes along the walk.

Sunset is the most beautiful time to take a wander along Campuhan Ridge, but if you want to avoid the crowds then we suggest going at sunrise!

#5 | Visit Ubud Palace

The Ubud Palace is a beautiful, historic building surrounded by lush greenery. It is the former home of the royal family of Ubud and is now a museum and cultural centre.

The palace grounds are open to the public and there is a small entrance fee. Visitors can explore the grounds and the museum at their own pace. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, art, and clothing from the royal family, as well as a library with historic documents and books. 

The palace grounds are peaceful and serene, with a pond, gardens, and a courtyard. The Ubud Palace is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of Bali.

#6 | Visit Tirta Empul Temple

Set amongst the rice paddies and lush jungle of central Bali, the ancient water temple of Tirta Empul is a place of pilgrimage for Balinese Hindus. For over a thousand years, devotees have come to this sacred site to bathe in the purifying waters of the holy spring, said to have been created by the Hindu god Vishnu. 

The temple complex is made up of a series of interconnected courtyards and pavilions, with the centerpiece being the large rectangular pool filled with crystal-clear water. Around the pool, there are 10 showers fed by the spring, each one with a different carving of a Hindu deity. 

Like many temples in Bali, you will be required to wear a sarong to enter. But, if you didn’t bring one with you, don’t worry. You can easily hire one for around 1,000 IDR.

Tirta Empul is a place of great spiritual power and something you must add to your Bali bucket list! As you wander around the complex you can feel the history and energy of this sacred site. We recommend taking some time to explore the temple grounds and soak up the unique atmosphere of this special place. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also partake in a traditional Balinese water cleansing ritual.

#7 | Try a class at Yoga Barn

If you’re looking to find your zen while on vacation in Ubud, then Yoga Barn is the place to do it. Tucked away in the lush greenery of Ubud, Yoga Barn is the perfect place to connect with nature and disconnect from the outside world.

Yoga Barn is a huge drawcard for expat yogis from all over the world. Some of the world’s most experienced and respected yoga teachers call Ubud home and run regular classes at the Yoga Barn. There’s a huge hippy vibe going on, but that’s all part of the experience. Their Sunday Ecstatic Dance sessions are next level, but so much fun.

No matter what your level of yoga experience is, there is a class for you at then Yoga Barn. From beginner to advanced, there are classes for everyone. New to yoga? Don’t worry! You’ll receive expert instruction as you perform each pose, ensuring that you get the most out of your practice.

#8 | Climb Mount Batur at Sunrise

Mount Batur is an active volcano located in North Bali. Climbing to the peak to watch the sunrise is a total bucket list experience and one of the most popular things to do in Bali. the hike offers breathtaking views of Mount Agung (the tallest and most active volcano in Bali) and across the island. 

As the sun slowly rises above the horizon, it casts a beautiful orange hue over the entire mountain. The active volcano is surrounded by a sea of clouds, making it look like you are floating on a cloud. Climbing Mount Batur is an unforgettable experience.

The mountain is not too challenging to climb, but it is still a workout. The view at the top is well worth the effort. Seeing the sunrise from the top of the mountain is an amazing experience. The entire mountain is illuminated by the beautiful orange hue of the sun. Climbing Mount Batur is a must-do when you are in Bali. The experience is unlike anything else in the world.

#9 | Watch a Kecak Dance Show at Pura Batukaru Ubud temple

The Kecak Dance Show at Pura Batukaru Ubud temple is an outdoor performance of traditional Balinese music and dance. It’s one of the top things to do in Ubud featuring on most visitors’ itinerary, so it books out early!

 The Kecak dance is a form of storytelling that is performed by a group of a large male chorus. The dance tells the story of the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic. 

The performance begins in the late afternoon, as the sun begins to set behind the temple. The men sit in a circle on the ground, chanting and clapping rhythmically. As they chant, they tell the story of the Ramayana, using their bodies and voices to create the sounds of battle and conflict.  

The Kecak dance is a mesmerizing performance, and the Pura Batukaru Ubud temple is the perfect setting for it. The temple is located just a short walk from Ubud town centre and watching a dance performance here is the perfect way to experience the traditional culture of Bali.

#10 | Go Chasing Waterfalls

The best way to experience the natural beauty of this region in Bali is to visit one of the many waterfalls in the area. It’s an adventure that will take your breath away. 

While there are literally hundreds of waterfalls around Bali, the ones we recommend near Ubud are Tukad Cepung, Tegenungan, and Tibumana.

Tibumana is a very well-known spot and features on most people’s Ubud sightseeing itinerary, as it is the closest swimming hole near town. It’s possible to swim here in the dry season, but if you visit shortly after mass rainfall, the waterfall is off-limits for safety reasons. Tegenungan waterfall is another stunning and popular option and the subject of thousands of viral Instagram photos.

Tukad Cepung on the other hand is a bit more of a hidden gem. It’s located inside a cave and is a bit of effort to reach – one of the reasons a lot of people avoid it. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, it’s well worth the energy to get there.

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Other Things to Do in Ubud

• Fly through the jungle on the Bali Swing
• Learn about the art of bamboo houses and sustainability at the Green Village
• Stay in a villa with an infinity jungle pool
• Visit Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave)
• Eat your way around Ubud’s fabulous dining scene
• Do a day tour to North Bali
• Kanto Lampo Waterfall
• Try a traditional Balinese cooking class
• Visit the instagrammable Handara Golf Resort Gate
• Visit Pura Gunung Kawi temple
• Enjoy a flower bath and spa session at an Ubud day spa
• Cycle down Kintamani volcano
• Go white water rafting down the Agung River

Did we miss anything? Can you recommend any other awesome things to do in Ubud? Leave a comment below for our readers to see!

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Where to Stay in Ubud

There’s a huge variety of accommodation options around Ubud to suit all budgets. From 5-star jungle resorts to private pool villas and homestays with locals. We recommend using Booking.com because of their Price Match Guarantee, and they also offer free cancellation on many hotels, just in case your plans change.

Here is our pick of the best places to stay in Ubud. All these hotels are located within a short car ride or motorbike ride from the majority of the Ubud attractions listed in this guide:

Budget:

• Pertiwi Bisma 2
• Ubud Sari Health Resort
• Padma Ubud Retreat

Mid-range:

• Honai Resort
• The Apartments Ubud
• Santun Luxury Private Villas

Splurge:

• Four Seasons Resort at Sayan
• Maya Ubud Resort & Spa
• COMO Uma Ubud

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Ready to Book Your Trip to Ubud? 

Ubud truly is an amazing place to visit with so many things to do and unique experiences to offer. If you’re looking for a culture-rich trip filled with traditional Balinese experiences, stunning landscapes, and unique adventures, then we have no doubt you will love Ubud as much as we do. 

To make the most of your trip, be sure to check out what’s on in Ubud by visiting the official Indonesian tourism website. And don’t forget to take a look at our other Bali travel blog articles for handy tips and tricks to help you on your journey:

•  6 Common Tourist Traps to Avoid in Bali
• Top 10 Things to do in Ubud, Bali
• The Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Bali
• The Ultimate Two Week Bali Itinerary
• 30 Bucket List Experiences Not to Miss in Bali
• A Guide to Visiting Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud
• Bali Food Guide: 40 Places to Eat & Drink in Ubud
• 15+ Bali Hidden Gems & Secret Spots Revealed!

Last but not least… Have a great trip to Ubud!

Feeling inspired? Here are 10 amazing destinations you must add to your Travel Bucket List!

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