From Culture to Adventure: 10 Ultimate Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

Best Ways to Make the Most of Your Time in Ubud, Bali

All of Indonesia is beautiful. But, if you're looking for one destination that includes everything from exotic art and culture to nail-biting adventure, Ubud, Bali, is THE place for your next trip. We've handpicked 10 top-notch, bucket-list-worthy things (in no particular order) to do in Ubud, just for you. Are you up for it?

Your Bucket List Guide to the Best Things to Do in Ubud

The Iconic Rice Terraces of Tegallalang

Of all Ubud attractions, the paddy fields and rice terraces are something the whole world has been talking about for decades. The stunning beauty of Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is so captivating that you won't want to leave this place.

This gorgeous central Bali landscape deserves an entire day to be fully appreciated. While enjoying the lush greens here, you can also explore several ancient temples, villages, and hidden gems. There's no better way to see the rice terraces than a thrilling electric bike tour.

Timings: Open daily, 8am to 6pm

Address: l. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561 (map)

Rafting in The Ayung - Adrenaline Junkies Ahoy!

Of all Indonesia's rivers, Ubud's Ayung River takes the top spot for adrenaline junkies. Known to be the safest for beginners, it's a popular spot for thrill-seeking travellers and attracts scores of tourists every year.

Experts consider the Ubud Stream as the best for white water rafting in all of Bali. The stream length (about 68km!) makes it a great choice - you can cover many rapids of varying difficulty levels. No wonder, then, that this was the first river used for rafting adventures in Bali. Strap in for a truly unique adventure here - and don't forget to ask your guide about hidden waterfalls and brilliant wildlife!

Address: Jl. Gn. Andakasa No.9, Padangsambian, Kec. Denpasar Bar., Kota Denpasar, Bali 80116 (map)

Pura Gunung Kawi - A Deep Dive into History

Bali's 'Valley of Kings' sits nestled amid paddy fields. The unique setting gives this archaeological marvel an intriguing, mysterious feel. You will find detailed carvings on steep rock cliffs dating back to the 11th century.

The carved temple complex houses 12-metre-tall shrines of ancient Balinese royalty - it is still unknown how this incredible task was completed. Spend an afternoon marvelling at the wonderful architecture, or explore the many hidden, secret passageways in the temple complex.

Timings: Open daily, 8am to 6pm

Address: Sebatu, Tegallalang, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80511, Indonesia (map)

'Melukat' - Rejuvenate Your Soul The Balinese Way

You haven't been to Bali until you have experienced their traditional purification ceremony. Melukat is an ancient bathing ritual performed at springs and sacred temples, that has been around for almost 5000 years.

This true Balinese tradition includes meditation, prayers, ritualistic jungle smudging, and dipping in pure springs at ancient temples. This is believed to rejuvenate you by cleansing your aura and clearing negative energies. Leave your worries at the doorstep, and immerse yourself in ultimate peace.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

At this sanctuary, you'll see over 500 playful long-tailed macaques jump and roam around joyfully greeting visitors in their natural habitat.

Picture this - from a cave-like entrance, you enter a rather ancient, mysterious-looking thick forest. Beautiful banyans, dragon bridges, ancient temples with moss-covered relics, and barely any sunlight because of dense foliage - sounds exciting, doesn't it?

Here, you can also learn how the locals practice the ancient philosophy of Tri Hita Karana (three causes of well-being) to preserve life in the park.

Timings: Open daily, 9am to 5pm

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571 (map)

Alas Harum - Be Prepared to Be Stunned!

In Bali, there's no shortage of surprises for adventure seekers like you.

And if there's one thing you absolutely can't miss, it's swinging high above the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. At Alas Harum Swing, one of the best swing spots in Bali, they'll welcome you with open arms and a quick safety chat before you take the leap.

Once you're all set, get ready for some epic photos as you swing out over the edge of that stunning cliff. Trust us, it's an experience you won't soon forget on your Bali adventure!

Timings: Open daily, 8am to 9pm

Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561 (map)

Exotic Balinese Art Haven

Be it painting or handicrafts, Bali has no dearth of exotic arts. Ubud, in particular, is known for its many galleries that house authentic paintings. The exotic Balinese painting style, with Hindu-Javanese origins, still carries the essence of its 14th-century roots.

Wayan Gama Art School, Komaneka Gallery, and Gaya Fusion are some art galleries you can visit to check out Ubud's thriving art scene or see rare paintings by Indonesian artists. And what better souvenirs to take away than traditional Balinese woodcarvings and curios? Whether you're an artist or not, Ubud's unique art will enthral you.

Traditional Balinese Wine Tasting

Located about 18km from Ubud, the award-winning Indonesian winery, Sababay, is a top favourite amongst tourists and locals alike. Visiting this winery is the best way to add to your wine trivia knowledge and enjoy sampling some of their bests.

This interactive experience lets you discover the process of traditional winemaking, talk to wine experts, and taste their finest wines.

Timings: Open daily, 9:30am to 5:30pm

The Mount Batur Adventure

A mountaineers' favourite, Gunung Batur or Mount Batur, is a magical experience. Home to an active volcano in Kintamani, hikers often spend 24 hours here - and they still can't get enough!

You can set up your tents at Seronnga village at the mountain base. After that, enjoy the surreal blanket of the stars, savour fish you can catch and grill at the campfire, or witness the most magical sunrise! You can even dip into the volcano's natural hot springs (believed to heal aches and pains).

Address: Jl. Raya Penelokan, Batur Tengah, Kintamani, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80652 (map)

Ubud Waterfalls - Heaven on Earth

Imagine spending an entire day surrounded by pristine natural beauty and soaking in the freshest, purest waterfalls. If this isn't paradise, what is?

The magnificent waterfalls in Ubud are an 'instant zen' experience - soaking in pure bliss amid breathtaking, cascading waterfalls like Tibamuna, Tukad Cepung, Teganungan and more. The most popular is the Cepung Waterfall, known for its superb nature trails and (it goes without saying) endless photo-ops!

Plan Your Perfect Ubud Experience

Ubud has unending possibilities for the curious traveller to explore and enjoy, depending on how you wish to spend your time here. Spend your time amidst nature, or immerse yourself in art, culture and history - whatever you wish for, a well-planned itinerary guarantees a memorable holiday in this beautiful town.

To make your Ubud experience even more relaxing and hassle-free, consider getting an airport pass for a seamless arrival/departure experience. Or leave all your worries behind the moment you step foot in Bali by pre-booking your airport transfers.

Commonly Asked Questions

Is there anything I need to know while visiting Ubud for the first time?

If you have all your essential travel documents in place, there's nothing to worry about.

How can I reach Ubud from Bali?

From Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport, you can get a local taxi for a 40-45 minute drive to Ubud. Or take the public bus, which takes about an hour and a half

Can I use euros or USD in Bali?

It is best to have the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) with you. You can get IDR from the many currency exchange offices available almost everywhere in Bali.

How is the phone/data connectivity in Ubud?

The most recommended practical option is getting an eSIM or a pre-paid SIM card for uninterrupted connectivity.