Ubud, located in the heart of Bali, Indonesia, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, lush landscapes, and tranquil ambiance. This detailed itinerary explores Ubud’s multifaceted attractions across eight key sections: landmarks, food, entertainment, culture, outdoor activities, shopping, history, and wellness. Each section delves into must-visit spots and activities that will make your stay in Ubud an unforgettable experience.
Landmarks
Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
Ubud Palace, located in the heart of Ubud, is a cultural treasure trove. The palace, dating back to the 19th century, served as the residence of the royal family. It is a stunning example of Balinese architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and ornate gates. Visitors can explore the beautifully manicured gardens and witness traditional dance performances held in the courtyard in the evenings. The palace is also a hub for cultural events and festivals, offering a glimpse into Balinese royalty and traditions.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
A visit to Ubud would be incomplete without exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. This lush forest sanctuary is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and features three ancient Hindu temples. The dense foliage, winding pathways, and stone carvings create a mystical atmosphere, making it a serene place for a leisurely walk. Visitors can observe the playful monkeys in their natural habitat, but it’s important to follow the guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful interaction with the animals.
Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a quintessential Balinese landmark, offering breathtaking views of terraced rice paddies carved into the hillside. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the island’s traditional subak irrigation system. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the rice cultivation process, walk along the narrow pathways between the terraces, and capture stunning photographs of the lush green landscape. Several cafes and viewpoints provide perfect spots to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Food and Cuisine
Locavore
Locavore is a must-visit restaurant in Ubud, renowned for its innovative approach to Indonesian cuisine. The restaurant emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and sustainability, offering a unique dining experience. The tasting menus, which change seasonally, feature dishes that blend traditional flavors with modern techniques. Highlights include the duck breast with Balinese spices and the beetroot carpaccio. The elegant setting and impeccable service make Locavore a perfect spot for a memorable meal.
Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner)
Bebek Bengil, also known as the Dirty Duck Diner, is an iconic restaurant in Ubud famous for its crispy duck dishes. The restaurant is set in a beautiful garden overlooking rice fields, providing a tranquil dining environment. The signature dish, Bebek Bengil, is a crispy fried duck served with steamed rice, Balinese vegetables, and sambal (chili sauce). Other popular dishes include smoked duck and nasi campur (mixed rice). The relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka
For an authentic taste of Balinese cuisine, head to Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka, a local favorite specializing in babi guling (suckling pig). The tender, flavorful pork is marinated with a blend of Balinese spices and roasted to perfection. The dish is served with steamed rice, crispy skin, and a variety of traditional side dishes. The casual, open-air setting allows you to enjoy your meal while observing the bustling activity of Ubud.
Entertainment
Ubud Traditional Art Market
The Ubud Traditional Art Market, located in the town center, is a vibrant marketplace where you can find an array of handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products. The market is divided into two sections: the western part, which focuses on traditional art and handicrafts, and the eastern part, which sells everyday goods and produce. Bargaining is expected, and it’s a great place to purchase unique items such as batik clothing, woven bags, and silver jewelry. The market is also an excellent spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with artisans.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is an annual event that attracts literary enthusiasts from around the world. Held over five days, the festival features a diverse program of panel discussions, workshops, book launches, and cultural performances. It’s an opportunity to engage with renowned authors, poets, and thinkers, and to explore contemporary issues through the lens of literature. The festival also showcases Balinese arts and culture, making it a unique cultural experience for visitors.
ARMA Museum (Agung Rai Museum of Art)
The ARMA Museum, founded by Agung Rai, is a cultural center dedicated to preserving and promoting Balinese art. The museum houses an extensive collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese paintings, as well as works by international artists. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, attend art workshops, and watch traditional dance and music performances. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, providing a comprehensive introduction to Balinese art and culture.
Culture
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is an archaeological site of significant cultural and historical importance. The cave dates back to the 9th century and features intricate stone carvings at its entrance. Inside the cave, visitors will find a small worship area with stone idols and a sacred bathing pool surrounded by stone fountains. The site is surrounded by lush greenery and ancient ruins, creating a serene atmosphere for exploration. Guided tours are available to provide insights into the history and significance of the site.
Pura Taman Saraswati
Pura Taman Saraswati is a beautiful water temple dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and the arts. The temple is located in central Ubud and features an ornate lotus pond and traditional Balinese architecture. The serene setting makes it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation. Visitors can also attend traditional dance performances held at the temple in the evenings, showcasing Balinese culture and storytelling through dance.
Neka Art Museum
The Neka Art Museum, founded by Balinese art collector Suteja Neka, is a prominent cultural institution in Ubud. The museum’s extensive collection includes traditional Balinese paintings, contemporary Indonesian art, and works by foreign artists who were inspired by Bali. The museum is divided into several galleries, each dedicated to different styles and periods of art. The tranquil garden setting and well-curated exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Balinese and Indonesian art.
Outdoor Activities
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular outdoor activity that offers stunning views of Ubud’s natural landscape. The walk begins near the Gunung Lebah Temple and follows a scenic trail along a ridge, providing panoramic views of lush green hills, rice paddies, and distant mountains. The trail is relatively easy and can be completed in about two hours. It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Ayung River Rafting
For adventure enthusiasts, white-water rafting on the Ayung River is a thrilling experience. The river winds through the lush rainforest, offering stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and rice terraces. The rafting trips are suitable for beginners and include safety briefings and professional guides. Along the way, you’ll navigate exciting rapids and enjoy the natural beauty of Bali’s interior. It’s a great way to combine adventure with sightseeing and experience the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces Cycling Tour
Exploring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces on a cycling tour is a fantastic way to experience Ubud’s stunning landscapes and traditional agriculture. The guided tours take you through narrow paths between the terraces, allowing you to see the intricate subak irrigation system up close. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, temples, and lush countryside. The tours often include stops at local warungs (small eateries) where you can sample traditional Balinese snacks and drinks.
Shopping
Jalan Monkey Forest
Jalan Monkey Forest is one of Ubud’s main shopping streets, lined with a variety of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Here, you can find everything from traditional Balinese crafts and souvenirs to contemporary fashion and accessories. Highlights include wood carvings, batik textiles, silver jewelry, and handmade bags. The street is also home to several art galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. It’s a great place to shop for unique items and support local artisans.
Ubud Artisan Market
The Ubud Artisan Market is a smaller, more curated market compared to the traditional art market. It features a selection of high-quality, handmade products by local artisans. The market offers a range of items, including ceramics, home decor, organic skincare products, and clothing. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a pleasant shopping experience. It’s an excellent place to find unique, one-of-a-kind items and learn about the craftsmanship behind them.
Sukawati Art Market
Located just outside Ubud, the Sukawati Art Market is a popular shopping destination for both locals and tourists. The market is known for its wide variety of traditional Balinese arts and crafts, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and souvenirs. The prices are generally lower than in Ubud’s markets, and bargaining is expected. The market is a great place to buy gifts and mementos, as well as to experience the vibrant local culture and interact with artisans.
History
Museum Puri Lukisan
Museum Puri Lukisan, located in central Ubud, is the oldest art museum in Bali. It was established to preserve and showcase Balinese art and culture. The museum’s collection includes traditional Balinese paintings, wood carvings, and sculptures. The exhibits provide insights into the evolution of Balinese art, from classical styles to contemporary works. The museum’s lush gardens and traditional architecture create a serene atmosphere for exploring the rich artistic heritage of Bali.
Blanco Renaissance Museum
The Blanco Renaissance Museum, located on a hilltop overlooking the Campuhan River, is dedicated to the works of Spanish artist Don Antonio Blanco. Blanco made Bali his home and was deeply inspired by the island’s culture and beauty. The museum showcases his eclectic and vibrant paintings, which often depict Balinese women and landscapes. The museum itself is a work of art, with its ornate architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. Visitors can also see Blanco’s studio and learn about his artistic process.
Gunung Kawi
Gunung Kawi, located in the Tampaksiring area near Ubud, is an ancient temple complex dating back to the 11th century. The site features 10 rock-cut shrines, known as candi, carved into the cliffs along the Pakerisan River. The shrines are believed to be memorials to the Balinese royal family. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes lush rice terraces, sacred springs, and stone carvings. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make Gunung Kawi a fascinating site to visit.
Wellness
Yoga Barn
The Yoga Barn is one of Ubud’s most renowned wellness centers, offering a wide range of yoga and meditation classes, workshops, and retreats. The center is set in a tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Classes are available for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. The Yoga Barn also offers holistic treatments, including Ayurvedic therapies, massage, and detox programs. It’s a perfect place to unwind and connect with your inner self.
Taksu Spa
Taksu Spa, located in the heart of Ubud, is a luxurious wellness retreat offering a variety of spa treatments and holistic therapies. The spa features beautiful tropical gardens, private treatment rooms, and a tranquil ambiance. Services include traditional Balinese massages, facials, body scrubs, and energy healing sessions. The spa also offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as wellness consultations. Taksu Spa is an ideal place to indulge in some self-care and experience the healing benefits of traditional Balinese therapies.
Fivelements Retreat
Fivelements Retreat, located on the banks of the Ayung River, is a wellness sanctuary that focuses on holistic healing and sustainability. The retreat offers a range of wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, detox, and plant-based cuisine. The luxurious eco-friendly villas provide a serene and comfortable environment for relaxation. Fivelements is also known for its signature Healing Journeys, which combine traditional Balinese healing rituals with modern wellness practices. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking a transformative and rejuvenating experience.
Ubud, Bali, is a destination that offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its cultural landmarks and vibrant arts scene to its stunning natural landscapes and wellness retreats. This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring Ubud’s many attractions, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of this magical place. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Ubud has something to offer every traveler.