Guide to Ubud Bali: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit

If Bali is the heart of Indonesia, then Ubud is its soul. Nestled in the lush highlands of Gianyar Regency, Ubud has long been considered the cultural and spiritual hub of the island. Known for its emerald rice terraces, ancient temples, vibrant art scene, and holistic wellness culture, this small town attracts travellers seeking more than just beaches and nightlife.

This guide to Ubud will walk you through the best things to do, where to stay, how to get around, and what makes this place so special for visitors from all over the world.

Why Visit Ubud?

Ubud is often described as the artistic and spiritual centre of Bali. While areas like Seminyak or Canggu are known for their beaches and nightlife, Ubud offers something different. Here, you’ll find peaceful landscapes, centuries-old traditions, and a thriving wellness community. It is the perfect destination for those who want to balance adventure with relaxation, cultural exploration with mindful living.

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Best Things to Do in Ubud

Ubud is full of experiences that blend culture, nature, and wellness. From exploring sacred temples to wandering through rice fields, the town offers activities that suit every kind of traveller. Here are some of the highlights you should not miss.

Explore the Rice Terraces

The famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces are just a short drive from central Ubud and remain one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes. The lush green steps stretch across the valley, creating a breathtaking view that has captivated travellers for centuries. 

You can enjoy a gentle walk through the terraces, stop for coffee at one of the cafés overlooking the paddies, or join a guided tour to learn about the subak irrigation system. The subak irrigation system is a UNESCO-recognised tradition of cooperative farming unique to Bali. Sunrise or late afternoon visits offer the most magical light for photos.

Visit Ubud Monkey Forest

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is not only home to hundreds of playful long-tailed macaques but also an important spiritual and conservation site. Ancient moss-covered temples and towering trees create an enchanting backdrop, making it a favourite for photographers. 

While watching the monkeys is entertaining, keep a close eye on your belongings, as they are known for their cheeky behaviour. Visiting early in the morning is a good way to avoid crowds and experience the forest at its calmest.

Source: Ubudmonkeyforest

Discover Ubud’s Temples

Ubud is surrounded by some of Bali’s most significant temples, each with its own history and charm. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) features intricate stone carvings and meditation chambers dating back to the 9th century. 

Tirta Empul Water Temple is famous for its holy springs, where visitors can take part in traditional purification rituals. Gunung Kawi, with its massive shrines carved directly into cliff faces, offers a serene escape from the busier parts of town. Visiting these sites gives you a deeper understanding of Bali’s living spiritual traditions.

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Walk the Campuhan Ridge

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of Ubud’s most scenic and accessible outdoor experiences. This gentle hiking trail winds along a narrow ridge, offering sweeping views of rice fields, jungle valleys, and distant hills. It takes about one to two hours to complete, making it a perfect morning or late afternoon activity. 

The golden light at sunrise or sunset adds to the beauty, and the peaceful atmosphere provides a welcome break from Ubud’s bustling centre.

Take a Yoga or Wellness Class

Ubud has earned its reputation as a global hub for wellness, attracting visitors from around the world seeking balance and rejuvenation. Studios such as The Yoga Barn offer daily classes in yoga, meditation, sound healing, and breathwork. 

Beyond classes, you will also find retreats focused on detox, Ayurveda, and holistic healing practices. Spas and wellness centres throughout Ubud provide massages and treatments that combine traditional Balinese techniques with modern therapies, making self-care an essential part of your stay.

Visit the Local Markets

No guide to Ubud would be complete without mentioning the bustling markets. The Ubud Art Market is the best place to shop for unique souvenirs, from colourful batik fabrics and handmade jewellery to intricately woven baskets and wood carvings. The atmosphere is lively and vibrant, with friendly vendors offering their crafts. 

Remember that bargaining is part of the local shopping culture, so don’t be shy about negotiating prices in a respectful and good-humoured way. Exploring the market is as much about soaking in the atmosphere as it is about finding treasures to take home.

Food and Dining in Ubud

One of the highlights of Ubud is its food scene. You’ll find everything from traditional Balinese warungs serving nasi campur and babi guling to health-focused cafes with smoothie bowls and raw vegan dishes. Popular spots include:

• Kafe Ubud for fresh, healthy meals

• Seeds of Life for raw food and herbal elixirs

• Warung Bintangbali for affordable local favourites with rice field views

• Clear Café for a mix of local and international options

Coffee lovers will also enjoy Ubud’s growing café culture, with artisanal brews available at places like Seniman Coffee Studio and Temu Coffee.

Where to Stay in Ubud

Ubud offers accommodation for every type of traveller.

• Luxury Villas and Resorts: Many are set among rice paddies or jungle valleys, perfect for a private, serene escape.

• Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable and stylish stays are available close to the centre of town.

• Budget Guesthouses and Hostels: Affordable options with friendly hosts make it easy for solo travellers and backpackers to enjoy Ubud.

Neighbouring villages such as Penestanan and Nyuh Kuning also provide peaceful alternatives, still within easy reach of central Ubud.

Getting Around Ubud

Central Ubud is compact enough to explore on foot, but many attractions lie just outside the main town. The most common ways to get around include:

• Scooter rental: Affordable and convenient for exploring at your own pace.

• Private driver or taxi: Ideal if you prefer not to drive yourself.

• Bicycles: Great for shorter rides and eco-friendly exploration of nearby villages.

Budget Tips for Ubud

Ubud can be surprisingly affordable. Meals at local warungs cost only a few dollars, and even yoga classes are reasonably priced compared to Western countries. For budget-conscious travellers:

• Stay in guesthouses instead of resorts

• Eat at local warungs for authentic, low-cost meals

• Use a scooter or shared rides to get around

A Cultural Note

Respect is highly valued in Bali, and Ubud is no exception. Temples are not only tourist attractions but sacred spaces where Balinese Hindus come to pray and make offerings. When visiting, dress modestly by wearing a sarong and sash, which are often provided or available for rent at the entrance. It is also polite to cover your shoulders and avoid entering restricted areas reserved for worshippers.

If a ceremony is taking place, observe quietly from a respectful distance. Small offerings known as canang sari are often placed on the ground, so take care not to step on them. These simple gestures of cultural awareness will help you connect more deeply with the spiritual side of Ubud and ensure your visit is meaningful for both you and the local community.

Your Journey into the Heart of Bali

This guide to Ubud has only scratched the surface of what the town has to offer. From sacred temples and lush rice terraces to vibrant markets and rejuvenating wellness retreats, Ubud is a place that touches both body and soul. Whether you are seeking culture, adventure, or relaxation, you will find it here.

If you are planning a trip to Bali, make sure to give yourself enough time in Ubud to slow down and truly experience its magic. And if you dream of staying longer or even making Ubud your second home, Red Lotus Bali Property.