Best Things to Do in Ubud, Bali: A Complete Guide for You!

Located at the very heart of the island, Ubud stands as Bali’s spiritual, artistic, and cultural center. This vibrant town is brimming with markets, historic palaces, artist studios, and yoga shalas, while lush rice terraces, magnificent waterfalls, and ancient temples lie just a short distance away.

Whether you’re bargaining for a good deal, relaxing at a beautiful jungle club, or engaging in one of the many thrilling adventure activities around town, there are countless incredible things to do in Ubud to every traveler’s preferences. Ubud is one of our favorite places on the island, and we find ourselves visiting regularly to experience all that it has to offer.

Things To Do in Ubud Bali, Indonesia

Spending a few days in Ubud is a must for anyone visiting Bali, especially for first-timers eager to explore the island’s top attractions. When considering the best things to do in Ubud, you’ll discover a blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and local charm that make this area a standout destination.

1. Learn the Balinese Art of Batik

The first things to do in Ubud is learn the traditional Balinese art of Batik in Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. While many artisans have moved to more affordable nearby villages, Five Art Studio remains a hidden gem nestled amidst lush jungle vibes.

Batik involves intricate fabric painting using wax and dye, a practice steeped in ancient Indonesian traditions. Creating your masterpiece here not only offers a hands-on experience but also a deep insight into the meticulous and time-honored craft of Batik.

Read Also: 10 Tips You Should Know Before Traveling to Indonesia

2. Explore the Stunning Rice Paddies

Among the top attractions things to do in Ubud are its expansive rice paddy fields that envelop the town. While popular tourist spots like the Bali swing may not appeal to everyone seeking authenticity, there are alternative ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of these fields.

Opting for a bicycle tour offers a more genuine experience, allowing you to venture into less-traveled rice paddies and nearby villages. This way, you can truly embrace the local culture and witness daily life unfolding around you while exploring the picturesque landscapes of Ubud.

3. Engage in a Purification Ceremony

In Ubud, Bali, participating in a Melukat ceremony is a traditional way to purify the mind, body, and soul, while seeking blessings from gods and ancestral spirits. Regardless of your religious or spiritual beliefs, you can find serenity in this ritual amidst nature.

While Pura Tirta Empul Temple is renowned for Melukat, for a more authentic and off-grid experience, consider exploring lesser-known alternatives. These experiences are among the many enriching things to do in Ubud, offering a deeper connection to Balinese culture and spirituality.

4. Ubud Monkey Forest

Ubud Monkey Forest is a must-visit attraction for those exploring things to do in Ubud. Interacting with the playful Bali monkeys ranks high on the list of experiences here. Capture memorable moments with the Balinese macaques amidst the lush jungle backdrop.

Home to hundreds of these monkeys, the forest offers a chance to observe them up close in their natural habitat, where they generally exhibit a friendly demeanor toward visitors.

5. Make Yummy Tempeh

When exploring things to do in Ubud, one of Bali’s cultural gems, Dive deeper into the local culture by learning the art of making tempeh, a traditional Indonesian food that has gained global recognition for its nutritional benefits and sustainability.

Join workshops where local experts share their centuries-old techniques for fermenting soybeans into this protein-packed delight. Not only will you learn the intricacies of tempeh production, but you’ll also gain insights into its cultural significance within Indonesian cuisine.

6. Enjoy the Sunset on Campuhan Ridge Walk

One of the must-have things to do in Ubud is to embark on the serene journey of Campuhan Ridge Walk. This tranquil hiking trail, conveniently accessible with a simple stroll from central Ubud, provides visitors with breathtaking vistas of lush green rice paddies and serene forests.

Whether you’re in comfortable flip-flops or sturdy walking shoes, the mostly paved path ensures an easy and enjoyable hike for all. The Campuhan Ridge Walk not only offers a refreshing escape into nature but also serves as an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture Ubud’s natural beauty in its golden hour.

7. Explore the Serenity of Saraswati Temple

When planning your itinerary for Ubud, don’t miss the serene beauty of Saraswati Temple, a pivotal stop for those exploring the cultural heart of Bali. Dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and arts, this temple is renowned for its stunning lotus pond, which exudes tranquility amidst the bustling tourist activity.

Despite being a popular attraction, the temple’s architecture and serene ambiance make it a tranquil oasis in the heart of Ubud. Visitors are greeted by intricately carved stone gates adorned with mythical figures, leading to a pathway flanked by lotus ponds that symbolize purity and spiritual awakening.

8. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Campuhan Ridge Walk provides a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Jalan Raya Ubud, known for its boutique shops, guesthouses, and restaurants. This scenic 9-km trail begins near the picturesque Gunung Lebah Temple, offering breathtaking views of the lush Sungai Wos River valley and winding through the hills toward Payogan.

Despite its popularity, the trail often allows visitors to enjoy peaceful solitude, although encounters with fellow hikers and joggers are not uncommon. For those exploring things to do in Ubud, embarking on the Campuhan Ridge Walk promises not only spectacular views but also a serene retreat into Bali’s natural beauty.

9. Puri Saren Agung 

Located in the heart of Ubud, Bali, the Puri Saren Agung, also known as the Ubud Royal Palace, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Built during the lordship of Tjokorda Putu Kandel in the early 19th century, this palace is not just a residence for the Ubud royal family but also a significant cultural landmark.

Its architecture, characterized by intricate Balinese designs and a serene garden setting, offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Balinese aesthetics and lifestyle. One of the standout features of the Ubud Royal Palace is its role as a cultural hub for traditional arts.

Tourists and locals alike flock to its performance stage each evening to witness captivating Balinese dance performances accompanied by the melodious sounds of gamelan orchestras. It serves as a gateway to understanding the traditional dances, music, and rituals that are integral to Balinese culture.

Whether you’re captivated by the graceful movements of the Legong dance or the dramatic storytelling of the Barong dance, these performances offer insights into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Bali.

10. Elephant Cave

Nestled in the heart of Bali, Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, stands as a testament to the island’s rich archaeological heritage. This historical site, located just 5 km southeast of central Ubud near Bedulu village, offers visitors a glimpse into Bali’s past through its intricate carvings and sacred structures.

As you approach Goa Gajah, you’ll descend a staircase leading to a courtyard adorned with relics, setting the stage for the main attraction, an 11th-century cave adorned with fascinating rock-wall carvings. Inside, the cave reveals a meditational site, providing a serene atmosphere for contemplation and reflection.

11. Spiritual Guidance from a Healer

In Ubud, Bali, seekers of spiritual guidance can immerse themselves in the rich tradition of Balinese healing practices. One of the most profound experiences is consulting a healer, a revered figure in Balinese culture known for their wisdom and ability to provide spiritual insight and guidance during times of transition or uncertainty.

The tradition of seeking guidance from healers has deep roots in Balinese society, embodying centuries-old beliefs and rituals. Made famous by the movie “Eat Pray Love,” this practice has garnered global interest, albeit with mixed results from commercialization attempts.

12. Explore Farming Practices

things to do in Ubud, offers a unique opportunity to delve into traditional farming practices, making it a must-visit destination for eco-conscious travelers. Discover the intricate balance between ancient wisdom and modern sustainability efforts by participating in workshops hosted on local farms. These workshops not only showcase traditional techniques, such as the use of handmade tractors and plows but also provide hands-on experiences in the harvest process.

13. Craft Your Bamboo Furniture

When things to do in Ubud, Bali, there’s a wealth of cultural experiences waiting to be discovered, and crafting your bamboo furniture is one of the most enriching activities you can engage in.

Ubud, renowned for its artistic community and traditional craftsmanship, offers visitors the chance to delve deep into the local culture through hands-on experiences. Bamboo Creative provides a unique opportunity to not only learn about the significance of bamboo in Balinese homes but also to actively participate in its creation.

Here, you can collaborate with skilled local craftsmen who will guide you through the process of crafting bamboo furniture. This experience allows you to appreciate the sustainability and versatility of bamboo, a material deeply rooted in Balinese culture and daily life.

14. Experience Sunrise on Mount Batur

Waking up in the early hours might seem daunting, but witnessing the sunrise from the summit of Mount Batur is an experience you’ll cherish forever. It’s undeniably one of the top things to do in Ubud for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The trek up Mount Batur under the starlit sky adds an element of thrill and anticipation as you make your way to the peak.

Upon reaching the peak, the awe-inspiring vista unfolds as the sun gradually ascends, painting Mount Agung and Mount Abang with its initial rays, creating a truly captivating scene. Consider a thrilling jeep ride that takes you through rugged terrain, offering panoramic vistas along the way.

15. Discover Local Balinese Wine

When things to do in Ubud, especially in Bali, there’s a myriad of surprising and delightful activities beyond the expected cultural and natural wonders. One unexpected gem we stumbled upon is Sababay Winery, where local Balinese wine is crafted with a noble mission in mind.

Situated amidst serene gardens, Sababay Winery not only offers a chance to taste fine local wines but also supports local farmers by ensuring better returns for their grape harvests. This unique experience adds a sweet note to any picnic or garden wine-down, knowing you’re contributing to local empowerment while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of Ubud.