If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, you’re in the right place. We’ve got 43 amazing attractions in this awesome town in Central Bali for you to enjoy!
From rice terraces to the Ubud Art Market to the Ubud Water Palace, to the sacred monkey forest, there’s something for everyone in Ubud!
Our 43 Top Things To Do In Ubud
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces And Surrounding Rice Paddies
Perhaps, the most famous rice terraces here in Bali are those in Jatiluwih but they’re a long drive out into the lush jungles of the countryside and it’s much easier to reach the beautiful rice terraces just outside of Ubud, instead.
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces (or Tegallalang Rice Terraces, there’s no difference between the two – spellings just aren’t that consistent here) are considered to be very nearly as lovely.
The only downside is that because they’re close to town, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces can get quite busy – so we’d advise getting there early in the day if you can.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561
Online: Guide To Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The Markets (And What Happened To Ubud Art Market)
There are plenty of markets in Central Ubud including a street market that occupies a lot of the space in the town’s streets.
The most famous local market is the Ubud Art Market but that burned down in 2024 and while there is an Ubud Art Market that has sprung up to take its place, it’s not very authentic and is now the one Ubud Market that is packed with Chinese rather than local products.
If you want an authentic Ubud Market for art, don’t go to Ubud Art Market, go to Sukawati Art Market, instead. It’s not far from the center of Ubud and it’s still 100% authentic and specializes in Balinese art.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Guide To Ubud Art Market
Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is one of Bali’s best-known and best-loved attractions.
It’s a part of the local jungles just beyond the rice paddies and rice fields where there are several temples and a number of tribes of monkeys happily sharing space.
We should point out that the monkeys in the monkey forest are wild monkeys. Please don’t try and interfere with them and if you value your possessions we recommend hanging back away from them as they will steal from you.
However, assuming you stay at a sensible distance, the creatures are charming and fascinating to watch. The earlier in the day that you get to the monkey forest, the fewer people you will have to share them with.
Where Is It? Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Guide To Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Water Palace
Tjokorda Gde Ngoerah was one of the more important royal figures in Ubud and Sukawati and he founded both the Ubud Water Palace and Saraswati Temple.
The water palace is an ornate affair that pays tribute to the healing and nourishing properties of water as well as serving as a sort of summer residence for the royal family.
The grounds regularly host traditional Balinese art and cultural performances, particularly dances.
While there is no “royalty” in Bali any more (Indonesia is a republic) the old families survive and this remains a place for quiet contemplation away from the busy city.
Where Is It? Jl. Suweta No.6, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Ubud Water Palace
Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
Ubud Palace is in the centre of Ubud, Bali and it’s one of the most famous sights in the town. The former royal family are still in residence here and can often be found wandering the grounds and chatting to visitors.
The royal family may have no official status anymore but they are very well respected and well regarded locally.
The grounds of this palace are also often used for dance performances and Ubud Palace should be a must-see stop on your visit to Ubud.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Ubud Palace Guide
Pura Gunung Kawi
Pura Gunung Kawi is Bali’s answer to the Valley of the Kings and while it’s not quite as majestic. It’s a fascinating place that’s very much worth a trip out through the rice fields to find it.
It’s set in a valley with the carvings of previous kings of Ubud set into the walls of the valley above. You can get a fabulous view of the local rice terraces from here and then climb down into the valley itself.
It won’t take long to wander around this site but it’s one of the most dramatic places to capture some photographs during your time in Ubud, Bali.
Where Is It? Pura Gunung Kawi, Jl. Gn. Kawi, Tampaksiring, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80552
Online: Gunung Kawi Temple Guide
Goa Gajah – The Elephant Cave
Goa Gajah or the “Elephant Cave” is one of the more curious places in Ubud. Some people think it’s overrated as it’s not that big and there are no elephants (except a few representations of Ganesha) in the area.
However, it was only recently rediscovered after being lost to history and the attractive entranceway showcasing Balinese stone carving talents is worth the trip, we feel.
We should note that until the Balinese government withdrew every site from UNESCO World Heritage site consideration, this cave was high on the list of nominees for that accolade.
Where Is It? Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Online: The Ultimate Guide To Goa Gajah Temple
Pura Tirta Empul (Tirta Empul Temple)
Pura Tirta Empul or Tirta Empul Temple is one of the most iconic temples in all of Bali and it’s most famous for the purification rituals that take place here.
The Balinese believe that the local spring water, when used as part of a ritual, can refresh and renew your mind, body and soul and help you better live in harmony with the planet and the spirit realm.
Unusually for a Balinese temple ceremony, foreign visitors are allowed to participate in this ritual as long as they are respectful and follow the temple’s rules.
Where Is It? Tampaksiring, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80552
Online: Tirta Empul Guide
Neka Art Museum
The Neka Art Museum was founded by Pande Wayan Suteja Neka who was a famous Balinese art dealer.
He worked in conjunction with local and international artists (most notably Arie Smit and Rudolf Bonnet) to create one of Bali’s premier art destinations.
The museum was extensively reworked during the Covid era and it reopened to the public on April 22, 2022, as a showcase of Balinese culture and art.
Where Is It? G753+2F7, Jalan Raya Sanggingan Campuhan, Jl. Raya Sanggingan Jl. Raya Campuhan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Neka Art Museum
Celuk Village
The area around Ubud, Bali is famous for its craftsmen and talented artists and in the rice fields, you will find the amazing Celuk Village just outside of Sukawati.
This village is famous for its metal smiths and they work almost exclusively in silver and gold.
So, if you were looking for some interesting jewellery in Bali or fancied trying your hand at making your own bespoke jewellery, this is a great place to come.
Where Is It? Jalan Raya Celuk, Sukawati 80582 Indonesia
Online: Celuk Village Guide
Bali Swing
A Bali Swing is a simple contraption rather like a giant version of a child’s swing and they originate in Ubud, Bali though you can find them in many places in Bali and the Nusa Islands.
In Ubud, you will be able to enjoy a Bali swing over the jungle and rice fields while your friends take amazing photographs of you for your Instagram feed.
These rides are definitely not for the faint-hearted, mind you and while there haven’t been any accidents on the Bali Swings, so far, we can’t guarantee your safety on them, either.
Where Is It? Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352
Online: Ultimate Guide To Bali Swings
A Balinese Dance Performance
While the Kecak Dance (Fire Dance) is Bali’s most famous dance performance, it’s best witnessed at the world-famous Uluwatu Temple a long way from Ubud.
But you can see the Legong Dance which is one of the other famous dances here and a very intricate form of dance.
We’d recommend heading to the Ubud Palace or Water Palace grounds to enjoy watching this dance or visit Cafe Lotus near Sukawati Temple and enjoy a show for free as long as you eat and drink there.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Legong Dance – Ultimate Guide
Setia Darma House Of Masks And Puppets
If your kids are bored of the rice paddies, they might enjoy a trip to the Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets.
This is the best collection of Southeast Asian masks and puppets on the planet and yes, there are several interactive exhibits.
It’s not far from the town center of Sukawati and has a lovely tropical garden environment and it’s right next to an attractive private villa.
Where Is It? Jalan Tegal Bingin, Banjar Tengkulak Tengah, Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80582
Online: Setia Darma House Guide
White Water Rafting On The Ayung River
What better way to leave the luxury resorts behind and enjoy a fast-paced ride through the lush landscapes and rice paddy fields of Ubud than to get white water rafting?
The Ayung River is one of three spots for rafting in Bali but it’s the easiest trip to master.
If you want to see beautiful Bali flash before your eyes as you race through the local countryside, you can’t beat this experience.
Where Is It? Various
Online: White Water Rafting Bali Guide
Tegenungan Waterfall
Other than rice paddies, one thing that Ubud is absolutely blessed with is waterfalls and you can see some of the best waterfalls in Indonesia in the local area.
One really popular tourist destination is Tegenungan Waterfall as it’s a sight of outstanding natural beauty.
It’s also not far from the rice fields of Tegallalang if you want to combine the two into a single trip, which can keep your transport costs down.
Where Is It? Tegenungan Waterfall, Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Online: Tegenungan Waterfall Guide
Yoga Class
Ubud is famous for its hippy trail vibe and while there’s definitely a more commercial edge to the town center than there once was, you can still find the hippies too.
One great way to meet people of a spiritual nature is to take up yoga and there are a wealth of schools in Ubud where you can enjoy a yoga class or two.
Or you can head out to one of the wellness resorts and enjoy some yoga in lush nature while eating fresh fruit from one of the local villages.
Where Is It? Various
Online: Yoga In Ubud Guide
Cooking Class
Speaking of food, if you love to eat Balinese cuisine then Ubud is one of the best places to learn to cook that food.
You can enjoy a trip to a local market, to purchase the ingredients from the local community (and often from a fully organic farm) before returning to the kitchen to transform them into a wonderful meal.
And, of course, the best part of the day comes when you get to eat the creations you made in the cooking class!
Where Is It? Various
Online: Guide To Cooking Classes In Ubud
Sound Healing At The Pyramids Of Chi
There’s nothing traditional about this place and it has nothing in common with places like the Pura Tirta Empul Temple or the shrines carved into the Valley of the Kings.
Instead, it’s a mock-up of three Egyptian pyramids (built exactly to scale) where you can receive “sound healing”.
They also offer light therapy, chocolate ceremonies and much more. If you want some new-age experiences, these pyramids have got you covered.
Where Is It? Banjar Bentuyung Ubud, Jalan Kelebang Moding No.22, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Pyramids of Chi
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is Ubud’s most talked about walk and we’d be remiss if we didn’t include it on our list.
However, if you want an amazing walk through lush jungles and rice terraces, this isn’t it.
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is probably the most over-touristed spot in Ubud and we’d recommend taking a few hours out to enjoy a more remote hike.
However, the small temple, Pura Gunung Lebah, at the start of the ridge walk is worth checking out.
Where Is It? Kelusa, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Online: Campuhan Ridge Walk Guide
The Angels Of Taman Dedari
Taman Dedari is a resort cum restaurant in the rice fields above the Ayung Valley.
However, people come for the giant statues of angels and the wonderful gardens replete with attractive fish ponds.
As long as you buy something in the restaurant, you’re welcome to take photos and wander about as your heart desires here.
Where Is It? Kedewatan, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571
Online: Instagram
Ceramics At Serayu Pottery
You can learn to make your own pottery at Serayu but we should warn you that firing times often make it impossible to take larger pieces home with you.
So be careful with what you choose to make. We’d recommend seeking guidance from the workshop before you commit to a project.
You can also purchase some of the pottery made by local craftspeople here and if you’re looking for something interesting to add to your collection, we recommend that you do.
Where Is It? Jl. Gn. Sari No.3, Peliatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Instagram
Mas Village
Mas Village is to wood carvings as Celuk Village is to metalsmithing. They make some of the most intricate carvings that you’ve ever seen at this place.
You can, of course, take some lessons from the master craftspeople here, but we’d recommend that you just buy some of their wares – it takes a lifetime to be this good.
We really enjoy watching the families here at work, though, there’s something very soothing about it.
Where Is It? F749+RRJ, MAS, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Online: Guide To Mas Village
Batik Making At Five Arts Studio
If you’re feeling in a creative mood after a relaxing soak in your hotel room following a wander in the rice fields of Ubud, Bali then why not try your hand at Batik Making?
Batik is an Indonesian textile and it’s excellent for both artistic and practical purposes.
The Five Arts Studio has some excellent teachers who can help you get the most out of your learning experience.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Keliki, Keliki, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561
Online: Five Arts
ATV Adventures
Ubud, Bali is a great place to jump on an ATV and get out into the wilds. We love zipping through local villages and rice fields on one of these exciting vehicles.
However, we must stress that the safety records of providers for ATV experiences vary wildly and you should do your homework before opting for any tour company.
We’d also advise that you keep young children away from ATVs, accidents aren’t uncommon here and you don’t want your kids going home from holiday damaged.
Where Is It? Various
Online: Guide To ATV Tours In Bali
The Magic Menu Of Merlin’s Restaurant
This is a very unusual restaurant and as far as we know it’s the only one like it in Indonesia.
They do have a menu, but most people who eat at this place opt to let the tarot decide on their meal.
You draw three cards (a starter, main course and a dessert) get a bit of your fortune read and then eat. (You can swap anything you don’t like with other dishes on the menu – you’re not forced to follow the cards).
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Pengosekan Ubud No.108, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Merlin’s
JungleGold Bali Chocolate Workshop
If you have a sweet tooth then why not visit a chocolate workshop in Ubud, Bali?
JungleGold allows you to get involved in creating some delicious chocolates that you can also take home for your friends and family.
It’s not the cheapest day out on the island but it’s a lot of fun and something you probably can’t do at home.
Where Is It? l. Suweta No.5, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: JungleGold
Sumampan Waterfall
You need to hike into the jungle near Ubud, Bali to find Sumpaman Waterfall but it’s very much worth the trip if you have the right footwear.
Once you ford the river (don’t bring anything that can’t get wet), you will find one of the most beautiful waterfalls you’ve ever seen.
There are also some amazing carvings by a local artist, Nyoman Retana at the base of these falls.
Where Is It? Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80581
Online: Guide To Sumampan Waterfall
Taman Neji Griya Waterfall
This is a very attractive waterfall and temple complex where you can find peace and harmony with nature a short drive from Ubud, Bali.
They offer a full water purification ceremony at this place and your fee covers clothing and instruction on how to participate.
The views from here are absolutely magical and everyone who visits comments on what a spiritual experience it is.
Where Is It? Jl. Mawar, Punggul, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352
Online: N/A
Kanto Lampo Waterfall
The iconic natural rock formation at this waterfall is something that needs to be seen to be believed.
Fortunately, it’s not far from Ubud, Bali and that means you should easily be able to fit in a visit while you’re in town.
Just be warned that it’s quite a long walk along the river bank to get to this site, it’s not a place that is easily accessible or for those with motion disabilities.
Where Is It? Jl. Kaliasem link.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513
Online: Kanto Lampo Waterfall Guide
Hiking The Sweet Orange Trail
Instead of the often trod Campuhan Ridge Walk, why not opt for the Sweet Orange Trail though the jungle and rice terraces of Ubud, Bali?
This area is absolutely beautiful and unlike with the Ridge Walk, you’re likely to have it all to yourselves when you visit.
It’s not a hard trek, but we would recommend sensible footwear and a little caution especially around dusk when there may be a few snakes in the vicinity.
Where Is It? F7W6+652, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571
Online: Wikiloc
Pura Saraswati
This temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess of learning, Saraswati and it’s one of the most beautiful places in the area around Ubud.
You can walk here from the Royal Palace, so there’s no need to take a Grab or Gojek. You should know it’s a working temple and it’s vital to be respectful to worshippers on the grounds.
We recommend getting some great Instagram shots by the lotus pond here which offers some lovely reflections for your photos.
Where Is It? F7V6+JHX, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: Saraswati Temple Guide
Balinese Massage
There’s nothing better than a Balinese massage after a day of exploring Ubud, Bali.
The town is home to some of the very best spas on the island and the local massage techniques are very soothing and gentle.
They also incorporate a lot of aromatherapy to ensure that you feel relaxed and contented by the time your visit is done.
Just be aware that while there’s no real tipping culture in Bali, you are expected to tip after a massage.
Where Is It? Various
Online: Guide To The Best Spas In Ubud
Try A Local Dishes At A Warung
Balinese food is amazing and if you don’t fancy a cooking class, you should still head out and sample the food at the local warungs.
A warung is a Balinese/Indonesian restaurant and you will find that they sell great food for very reasonable prices in most warungs.
We can recommend trying some babi guling (roast pig) and the perennial favourite nasi goreng (fried rice) at a minimum.
Where Is It? Various
Online: The Best Ubud Warungs
Mason Elephant Park
Mason Elephant Park is, as with all elephant parks in Bali, slightly controversial because not everybody approves of elephants in captivity.
We’d note that these animals are Javanese elephants that have been reduced and without the park, they simply wouldn’t exist at all.
Mason has been praised by a wide-variety of international standards organizations for its level of care for the animals too.
Where Is It? Jalan Elephant Safari Park Banjar Desa Taro Tegallalang, Taro, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561
Online: Mason
Pura Dalem Temple
A “pura dalem” temple is dedicated to Rangda, the demon queen said to be the personification of evil here in Bali.
That makes this little temple on the main road in Ubud a fascinating place but not necessarily for the faint-hearted.
We’d recommend that everyone take a look in the courtyard here and explore the lovely terraced garden area too.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Online: N/A
Samuan Tiga Temple
This quiet temple is happy to allow tourists to participate in their purification rituals and it’s much less busy than some of the other temples in Ubud.
You must wear traditional clothing when you enter the grounds (you can buy or rent this close to the entrance) and be respectful while you spend time here.
There is no fixed entrance fee, unusually for temples here, and you just make a donation of your choice as you leave.
Where Is It? Jl. Pura Samuan Tiga, Bedulu, Kec. Blahbatuh, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 50581
Online: The Best Temples In Ubud
Goa Rang Reng Waterfall
Goa Rang Reng is an interesting waterfall as it’s not a classic waterfall but rather dozens of small waterfalls breaking their way across a number of rock formations.
It’s a popular area for cliff jumping (a hobby that we don’t recommend that you take up as it’s pretty dangerous).
There’s also a Goa Rang Reng cave complex nearby but if you want to explore that you will need to pay a second entrance fee as the waterfall entrance fee doesn’t cover the cave or vice-versa.
Where Is It? Jl. Goa Jl. Rang Reng, Bakbakan, Gianyar, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80515
Online: Guide To Goa Rang Reng Waterfall
Kemenuh Butterfly Park
This is the second largest butterfly park in Bali out of two. However, don’t let that put you off – this park is great.
They have over 500 species of butterfly on hand and this includes all the local species as well as some of the world’s most impressive butterflies.
It’s reasonably priced and we thought that watching the Atlas Moths emerge from their cocoons was one of the most extraordinary things we’ve ever witnessed.
Where Is It? C7GP+WMJ, Jl. Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali
Online: Guide To Bali Butterfly Parks
Bali Zoo
Bali Zoo is actively engaged in conservation efforts here in Bali and, in particular, is a good home to the Bali Starling the island’s most endangered and famous bird.
They have a nice program where you can enjoy breakfast with some orangutans and while it’s not cheap, you can feed the animals while you dine.
One notable recent success of their efforts for rewilding was the release of a live gibbon back into the wild from the zoo.
Where Is It? Jl. Raya Singapadu, Singapadu, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582
Online: Guide To Bali Zoo
Bali Bird Park
If you love birds, you’re bound to enjoy this bird park which is home to birds from all over the world and it offers the best chance to see the Bali Mynah.
One of the biggest draws here is the White Crested Hornbill a Sumatran bird which is incredibly interesting to look at and shares a habitat with the enormous Eagle Owl!
There is also a chance to see some Komodo Dragons at the bird park but they only put in an appearance on Tuesdays and Fridays at very specific times of day.
Where Is It? Jl. Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir Singapadu, Batubulan, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80582
Online: Bali Bird Park Guide
Bali Reptile Park
This park is right next door to the bird park and you can get a combination ticket for the two attractions if you want to save some cash.
Don’t miss the Serpent Cave here which is home to most of the world’s most interesting snake species.
We’d also recommend trying out the lizard petting zoo experience where you can get up close and personal with some local reptiles.
Where Is It? Batubulan, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80582
Online: Bali Reptile Park Guide
Sangeh Monkey Forest
If the Ubud Monkey Forest is too busy for you, you may enjoy the Sangeh Monkey Forest more.
It’s a little off the beaten path but it’s in a lovely spot with some really attractive temples.
But the warnings about monkeys being wild animals remain the same – though they are a little less mischievous here.
Where Is It? Jl. Brahmana, Sangeh, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80353
Online: Sangeh Monkey Forest Guide
Mount Batur Hike
Ubud, Bali is also a great starting point for a sunrise hike up Mount Batur the island’s second-largest active volcano.
We loved reaching the summit and cooking our morning eggs in the steam vents of the volcano before enjoying epic views of the rice feiilds and jungle below.
Where Is It? South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali
Online: Mount Batur Hiking Guide
FAQs
Is Ubud Really Worth Visiting?
Yes! Ubud is very much worth visiting. Sure, it’s not a sleepy backwater village on the hippy trail as it was 20-30 years ago, but it’s still the cultural heart of Bali.
If you love Balinese culture and you’re curious about art, dance, temples, etc. then there’s no better place to visit on the island than Ubud.
As you can see by our list of things to do in Ubud above, it’s very hard to get bored of this area and wandering in the lush rice terraces, taking in the markets of central Ubud, and exploring the highlights of the area and all the delicious food here never gets dull.
However, the one thing that Ubud is lacking is a beach and who would come to Bali and miss out on the best sunset view in the world over the Indian Ocean?
So, we always advise people to book a two-centre holiday here – spend half your time in Ubud and then half your time in Canggu, for example.
How Many Days Is Enough In Ubud?
There are so many things to do in Ubud and the surrounding rice paddies that you could visit Ubud for months and still not see and do everything.
However, if you want to enjoy the main attractions like the monkey forest Ubud, Ubud market, visit Ubud Palace, etc. then you could spend 3-4 days in Ubud, Bali and then move on.
This part of Central Bali has become very popular in recent years and you should know that it’s not always as easy to get around the area as it once was due to traffic. So, try not to be too ambitious with the number of things you want to squeeze into each day in this pleasant country town.
What’s Famous In Ubud?
There are lots of famous things in Ubud. Shoppers will already know Ubud Art Market (though as we said above, the Ubud Art Market was home to a catastrophic fire in 2024 and for now, it remains closed).
But the Ubud Monkey Forest, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, the Balinese Art and Balinese Culture, the delicious food of the local warungs, the elephant cave, etc. are all great reasons to spend some time in Ubud.
Is 2 Days Enough For Ubud?
If you’re only visiting Bali for a short period of time, we can understand that you’re going to want to see some highlights in each area and move on.
But as you can see from the list of things to do in Ubud above, there’s a lot to see and do in this area.
You could certainly make an enjoyable itinerary for a couple of days in Ubud and get to explore Ubud and its lush surroundings a little.
But you probably won’t get to see everything of interest in two days, even if the traffic is minimal.
Are Mosquitoes Bad In Ubud?
You will encounter mosquitoes throughout Bali. In North Bali, South Bali, Central Bali and everywhere in between.
The lush rice fields provide a wonderful breeding ground of still water for the creatures and yes, they bite.
The good news is that if your hotel has air-conditioning and you use it, they shouldn’t bother you too much in your room.
We’d also strongly recommend that you invest in some DEET-based bug spray and wear long sleeves and long trousers at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
There’s no real risk of malaria in Bali but dengue is a problem here on the island and while most tourists won’t get dengue even if they get bitten by a mosquito, why take any chances?
Is Ubud Too Touristy?
Ubud is no longer the hidden gem breathlessly described in Elizabeth Gilbert’s famous novel, Eat, Pray, Love but it’s still one of the best places to visit in Bali.
It really is considered to be the home of Balinese culture and the chance to enjoy Balinese art, cooking classes, purification rituals, walks in the sacred monkey forest, etc. is not something to miss out on, because other people want to enjoy this area too.
So, no, we don’t think Ubud is too touristy but yes, it can definitely get very busy in Ubud at certain times of the year and the best time to visit is in the rainy season when there are fewer tourists in Bali everywhere.
Final Thoughts On Things To Do In Ubud
Ubud is one of the best places to visit for things to do in Bali. Whether you want a hidden gem or a popular tourist destination such as Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah, you won’t be disappointed in this area.
The only downside is that there’s no beach in Ubud – it’s in Central Bali, so make sure to book a holiday that takes in, at least, one beach town like Canggu too and then you can experience FINNS Beach Club, the world’s best beach club.
Related blogs:
The Ultimate Guide To The Best Things To Do In Bali
The Best Ubud Hotels & Villas For Every Budget
The Best Ubud Restaurants: The Ultimate Guide To Dining In Bali’s Spiritual Heart
