If you’re travelling to Bali, Ubud will be at the top of your places to visit. So with plenty of options, here’s our ultimate things to do in Ubud blog.
1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Possibly the most popular of the things to do in Ubud and definitely the most famous rice fields in Asia.
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are located in the centre of the island and are just over a 20 minute drive from the town centre.
It will make for an early wake up call, however, sunrise amongst the lush green fields and palms make for an epic way to begin any day of exploring Ubud.
The natural sun rays peaking through the palm trees and bouncing off the rice paddies is truly magical.
Take a walk around, see the local farmers at work, even jump on the zip lines and jungle swings if you’re feeling adventurous!
There’s a specific sunrise spot that has become quite popular for photo opportunities. Once you enter the grounds of Tegalalang, head to the back of the fields.
There’s a local farmer who charges 50,000 IDR to open his gate, allowing you to walk through the rice terraces and grab that famous Bali Instagram shot.
2. Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest will have you entertained for hours, not only because of the monkeys, but the forest too.
It’s also a great place if you want to get a real feel for the true culture and nature of Bali.
Home to a troop of grey, long-tailed macaques, it’s another of Ubud’s most popular attractions.
The monkeys at Ubud Monkey Forest are definitely the tamest we’ve seen in Asia. They have grown up around people their whole lives, so they are used to the constant flow of humans passing through, day in day out.
However, it’s no secret that people HAVE been bitten in Ubud Monkey Forest! We’ve personally never experienced any problems, and have visited a handful of times with friends.
You can really have a great time if you do your research and follow the safety precautions provided.
You’ll be able to explore the forest and observe the monkeys at ease if you just remember they are not pets, they are wild animals.
Monkeys can become territorial and aggressive in the blink of an eye, so it’s important to follow the precautions.
Please don’t let this put you off though as it’s definitely a ‘must visit’ on your things to do in Ubud list.
3. Visit The Waterfalls Near Ubud
Some of the waterfalls near Ubud are known as the best waterfalls in Bali.
If you hit them on a hot day, they can be absolute heaven. Take a dip in the water, capture some photos and venture out with friends for an awesome day out.
The most popular of the waterfalls in central Bali is Tegenungan Waterfall. Tegenungan is a social place and is super family friendly.
There’s a part where you can play around with the funny signs and create photos with the waterfall in the backdrop.
Plus there’s also a swing that’s been created for the perfect Bali Instagram photo.
Another couple of our favourite waterfalls near Ubud are Leke Leke Waterfall and Tibumana Waterfall. Both simple yet relaxing waterfalls accessible to the whole family.
4. Hidden Canyon Bali
The Hidden Canyon is no joke when it comes to climbing, jumping and clambering.
With chest high water from the get go, be prepared to get wet and for your feet to go through the trenches on this adventure.
The trek takes 1-2 hours depending on speed and we recommend taking some wet shoes with you if you have some.
So for those that are ready for an adventure, this could be something to add to your things to do in Ubud itinerary.
5. Mount Batur Hike
One of the highlights of our entire time in Bali was trekking Mount Batur.
Although Mount Batur is not located in Ubud, it’s around 40km North, most people choose to do their Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking from Ubud as it’s convenient for early morning pick ups.
We set off with our Mount Batur trekking guide at around 2am in order to reach the summit for sunrise!
A testing climb at points, but well worth the early wake up, it’s a great team bonding experience to say you’ve climbed an active volcano.
The trek takes on average 1 hour 30 mins to reach the summit, with the aim of arriving at the top for sunrise slightly before 6:30am.
Our amazing Mount Batur Sunrise Trekking experience was organised through Your Bali Trekking Tours and we can highly recommend them.
6. Ubud Art Market
The Ubud Art Market is located smack-bang in the centre of Ubud town and is another of the most popular things to do in Ubud.
Here you can find beautiful silk scarves, handmade woven bags, baskets, hats and many other hand-crafted goods.
Open daily between 8:00am – 5:00pm, if you’re on holiday in Bali the Ubud Art Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs to take home.
The items sold are typically Balinese, unique and some are unavailable elsewhere. They are locally made in the neighbouring towns, so this makes the market all the more special.
Ubud is the artistic region of the island, so you can find all the best handmade goods here.
Not only is the Ubud Art Market a great place for shopping but it’s also great for those who love street style photography.
There are opportunities everywhere you look to capture those typical ‘time passing’ shots. People come and go, and the backdrops are beautiful.
7. Take A Cooking Class
A must do in Bali, and where better for a cultural cooking experience than Ubud.
Honestly our afternoon at Paon Bali Cooking Class was one of the best Balinese experiences we ever had!
Classes start from 350,000 IDR per person, and there is generally a morning class at 8.30am or an afternoon class at 3pm with most cooking schools.
We cooked up an awesome feed, including tempe, spring rolls and vegetable curry, and took away a few recipes for home testing.
A cooking class is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Ubud.
8. Campuhan Ridge Walk
The perfect way to end your things to do in Ubud list, is with a beautiful stroll in the evening along Campuhan Ridge Walk.
With so many photo opportunities, this popular 2km walk take you from one end of Ubud to the other.
The full walk is along a smooth, paved track. So there’s no need to dress in your hiking gear as it can be just a simple stroll.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk leads you through the middle of Ubud and, at an average pace, takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
There are points that are uphill and downhill but nothing too strenuous.
It’s super family friendly, in fact it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends, and this spot has quickly become recognised for it’s windy block paved path and scenic vistas.
Sunset is the perfect time for visiting as it’s way cooler and the warm lighting that beams onto the trail makes for the perfect Bali Instagram photo.
Make sure to carry plenty of water, because the Bali humidity can be a little tiring.
Where To Stay In Ubud
Luxury – Alaya Resort
is in the heart of , the cultural centre of .
The resort is set amidst the , offering an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.
Guests enjoy free daily afternoon tea and tropical fruits.
The contemporary Balinese-style rooms all come with a flat-screen TV and a private terrace overlooking the natural greenery.
The private bathrooms, decorated in artworks, provide complete facilities.
Alaya Resort Ubud is just 200 metres away from the Monkey Forest and 700 metres away from Ubud Market.
Mid-Budget – Pertiwi Bisma 2
Featuring 2 landscaped pools and a restaurant, Pertiwi Bisma 2 offers guests a memorable stay, a 5-minute drive from Ubud Monkey Forest.
Free WiFi is available in all areas, and also free shuttles to Ubud Market.
Rooms in Pertiwi Bisma 2 come with air conditioning, a flat-screen cable TV, an electric kettle and a coffee/tea maker.
Nestled within tropical gardens, they all come with a private terrace. Complimentary bottled water is provided.
Balinese dance classes, trekking and hiking activities are also available.
Budget – Sila Urip Guest House
Nestled amongst lush garden, Sila Urip Guest House is located in the tranquil part of Ubud.
Each room here will provide you with a terrace and a seating area, where you can enjoy garden view from each room.
Featuring a shower and private bathroom, rooms also come with free toiletries. Guests can also order room service.
At Sila Urip Guest House you will find a garden and a terrace. The friendly staff can assist with bike hire, shuttle service and airport transfer at additional charges.
For more places to stay in Ubud, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.
More Bali Blogs
Bali Itinerary – Backpacking Bali + Where To Go
Best Waterfalls Near Ubud – A Complete Guide
Best Bali Instagram Spots – Ultimate Guide
Where To Stay In Bali – A Complete Guide
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Jigar
Wednesday 13th of March 2019
Hi Charlie and Lauren, thanks for the lovely post...very informative....we are couple with a 2 year kid...which waterfall near ubud will you suggest considering we will be travelling with a kid...
Charlie Pauly
Sunday 17th of March 2019
Hey, probably Tegenungan Waterfall would be the best with a kid. It's pretty tourists and not much of a walk down. Easy to see without too much effort :)
Julie
Saturday 5th of May 2018
We're planning a trip to Bali beginning of June. How many days/nights do you recommend in Ubud? :) Thanks a lot
Charlie Pauly
Sunday 6th of May 2018
Heyyy. For Ubud we’d recommend at least 2/3 nights to cover the main spots ???