Best Things to Do in Ubud 2026 for Every Traveler

Planning your Ubud trip? You're in for a treat, Sob!

Ubud is way more than just rice terraces and monkeys. This place packs serious punch with temples, waterfalls, art markets, and activities that'll make your Instagram feed jealous. Whether you're into adventure, culture, or just vibing in nature, there's something here for everyone.

Let's dive into the best things to do in Ubud Bali that you absolutely can't miss.

Quick Tips Before You Start Exploring

🕐 Timing Matters

• Start your day early (6-7 AM) to beat crowds and heat
• Visit temples in the morning, waterfalls in the afternoon
• Book popular activities like rafting and swings in advance

💰 Money & Budgeting

• Carry cash—many ubud attractions only accept IDR
• Budget $30-50 USD daily for mid-range activities
• Always bargain at markets (start at 50% asking price)

🛵 Getting Around

• Rent a scooter (80k IDR/day) or hire a driver (500k-600k IDR/day)
• Download Gojek/Grab apps for easy rides
• Central Ubud is walkable but attractions are spread out

👗 What to Pack

• Sarong for temples (or rent at entrance for 10k-20k IDR)
• Swimsuit for waterfalls and holy springs
• Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen

📱 Respect Local Culture

• Don't point feet at altars or people
• Ask permission before photographing ceremonies
• Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites

Now let's get to the good stuff!

Must-Visit Ubud Attractions

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Monkey Forest is probably Ubud's most famous spot for a reason. Over 700 long-tailed macaques call this jungle temple home, and trust me, they run this place like they own it (because they kinda do). You'll wander through ancient moss-covered temples while cheeky monkeys swing overhead, groom each other, and occasionally pull off the heist of the century with someone's sunglasses. The forest itself is magical—giant banyan trees, stone statues covered in offerings, and that mystical Bali vibe cranked up to 11. Just remember: these monkeys are cute but they're wild animals with zero respect for personal boundaries.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
• 💰 Entry fee: 80,000 IDR for adults, 60,000 IDR for children
• 📸 Best time to visit: Early morning (8-9 AM) when monkeys are calm and crowds are thin
• 🚫 What NOT to bring: Loose jewelry, food, plastic bags, or dangling items
• ⚠️ Pro tip: Keep belongings in zipped bags and don't make eye contact if a monkey approaches you

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Instagram heaven alert! These emerald-green rice paddies are carved into hillsides like nature's staircase, and honestly, no filter can do them justice. The view is absolutely stunning, especially during sunrise when the light hits just right or late afternoon when everything glows golden. You can walk through the terraces on bamboo pathways (locals might ask for a small donation—it's cool, they maintain the paths), or just grab a coffee at one of the cafes perched on the hillside and soak it all in. Fair warning: this place is popular, so expect some "photo queue" situations at the best spots.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• 💰 Entry fee: 20,000 IDR per person (donations requested for walking paths)
• 📸 Best time to visit: Sunrise (6-7 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) for perfect lighting
• 🅿️ Parking: Available nearby (5,000-10,000 IDR)
• ⚠️ Tip: Wear proper shoes for walking through terraces—it can get muddy and slippery

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Right in the heart of town sits this traditional Balinese palace, and it's basically a crash course in royal architecture. The intricate stone carvings and golden details are everywhere—gates, walls, pavilions—each telling stories from Hindu epics. During the day, you can wander through the courtyard (just the public areas, the royal family still lives here!), but the real magic happens at night. Come back around 7:30 PM to catch traditional Legong dance performances in the courtyard, where dancers in elaborate costumes tell ancient stories through precise movements and dramatic expressions. It's pure Balinese culture, and way better than any dinner show.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM (free to walk around during day)
• 💰 Entry: Free for palace grounds; dance performances 80,000-100,000 IDR
• 🎭 Dance shows: Usually 7:30 PM nightly (check schedule as it varies)
• 📸 Best time: Sunset for photos, evening for cultural performances
• ⚠️ Tip: Book dance tickets in advance during peak season—shows sell out

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Need a morning workout with killer views? This 2-kilometer trail runs along a ridge between two rivers, and it's honestly one of the best free things you can do in Ubud. The path is super easy—basically a paved walkway—surrounded by tall grass waving in the breeze and palm trees dotting the hills. You'll pass locals doing their morning jog, couples on romantic walks, and probably a yoga instructor leading an outdoor class. The views over the valley are stunning, and there's something peaceful about being surrounded by green in every direction. Just don't show up at noon unless you want to become a human puddle.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Best time: 6:00-8:00 AM before the heat kicks in
• 💰 Entry fee: Completely FREE
• 📏 Distance: 2 km one way (about 1-1.5 hours round trip at leisure pace)
• 👟 Difficulty: Easy—paved path with gentle slopes
• 🍹 Tip: Bring water and end your walk at Karsa Kafe for breakfast with a view

Waterfalls Worth The Trip

Tegenungan Waterfall

Just 15 minutes from central Ubud, this powerful waterfall is a crowd favorite for good reason. The water crashes down 15 meters into a shallow pool that's perfect for swimming—and yeah, it's as refreshing as it sounds after climbing down all those stairs. The setting is gorgeous: jungle surrounds you, mist sprays everywhere, and there's this constant roar of water that drowns out everything else. It gets packed during midday (everyone has the same idea), but if you time it right, you can have some space to enjoy it. There are also viewpoints at the top if you just want photos without getting wet.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• 💰 Entry fee: 20,000 IDR per person; parking 5,000 IDR
• 🏊 Swimming: Allowed—bring swimsuit and towel
• 📸 Best time: Early morning (7-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) to avoid crowds
• ⚠️ Warning: About 100 steps down (and back up!)—not wheelchair accessible

Tibumana Waterfall

Want something quieter? This hidden gem is your spot. Tibumana is less touristy but equally beautiful—maybe even more so because you can actually hear yourself think. The waterfall drops about 20 meters into a calm, emerald pool surrounded by jungle and cliffs. It's one of those places where you can actually relax without fighting for space or dodging selfie sticks. The water is cool and clear, perfect for a swim, and there are rocks to sit on if you just want to chill. Local kids sometimes jump off the rocks—it's all very laid-back and authentic Bali.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• 💰 Entry fee: 15,000 IDR per person
• 🛵 Location: 20 minutes north of Ubud (easy scooter ride)
• 🏊 Swimming: Totally allowed and encouraged
• ⚠️ Tip: Bring waterproof phone case for photos and watch your step on wet rocks

Cultural & Spiritual Experiences

Tirta Empul Temple (Water Purification)

This is where spiritual Ubud gets real, Sob. Tirta Empul isn't just a temple you walk through and leave—it's an active purification site where Balinese Hindus come to cleanse their bodies and souls in holy spring water that's been flowing for over 1,000 years. You'll see locals in traditional white clothing moving through a row of fountains, praying at each one, fully immersed in ritual. And here's the beautiful part: you can join too. It's not just "allowed"—it's welcomed, as long as you come with respect and follow the guidelines. You'll wade through the pool, move from spout to spout, dunking your head under each fountain while making prayers or setting intentions. The experience is powerful, emotional even, and gives you a deep connection to Balinese spirituality that you can't get from just observing.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
• 💰 Entry fee: 50,000 IDR (includes sarong rental)
• 👙 What to wear: Bring/rent a sarong; swimsuit underneath; modest clothing
• 🚿 Purification ritual: Optional but recommended—hire a guide (100,000 IDR) for proper protocol
• ⚠️ IMPORTANT: Skip the first two spouts—they're reserved for the dead/funeral ceremonies
• 🎒 Bring: Towel, dry clothes, waterproof bag for phone/valuables, and respect

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

One of Ubud's oldest archaeological sites dating back to the 9th century, and let me tell you, the entrance alone is worth the trip. You're greeted by this massive carved demon mouth—think open jaws with fangs and a wild expression that's both creepy and cool. You literally walk through the mouth into the cave, which is way smaller than you'd expect—just a T-shaped corridor with niches carved into the walls where ancient monks meditated. The real treasures are outside: beautiful bathing pools with water spouting from six female statues, stone relics scattered around, and that whole "lost civilization" vibe. The surrounding gardens are peaceful, perfect for wandering after exploring the cave.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• 💰 Entry fee: 50,000 IDR per person
• 🏛️ Historical note: The name means "Elephant Cave" but no elephants ever lived here
• 📸 Must-see: The demon mouth entrance and ancient bathing pools
• ⚠️ Tip: Combine with nearby Yeh Pulu relief carvings (10 min walk) for a full historical tour

Attend a Traditional Balinese Ceremony

If you're lucky enough to witness a local ceremony during your stay, don't miss it—this is Bali at its most authentic. Balinese people celebrate something almost daily: temple festivals (odalan), cremations (ngaben), tooth filing ceremonies (mepandes), purification rituals, you name it. The streets fill with processions of people in traditional dress carrying towering offerings, gamelan orchestras play hypnotic music, incense fills the air, and there's this collective spiritual energy that's impossible to describe. Just remember: you're a guest in someone's sacred moment. Be respectful, dress modestly (sarong and sash required), stay on the sidelines unless invited closer, and always ask before taking photos. Some families welcome curious travelers—they're proud to share their culture—but read the room and follow local cues.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 When: Check Ubud Palace schedule or ask your hotel—ceremonies happen frequently
• 💰 Cost: FREE to observe (donations welcomed if invited to participate)
• 👗 Dress code: Sarong and sash mandatory; modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
• 📸 Photography: Always ask permission first—some moments are too sacred for cameras
• ⚠️ Cultural tip: Don't stand higher than priests, don't point feet toward altars, and never walk in front of people praying

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

White Water Rafting on Ayung River

Get your adrenaline pumping with class II-III rapids that are exciting without being terrifying. The Ayung River rafting trip takes you through lush jungle canyons, past hidden waterfalls cascading down cliff walls, and under stone carvings etched into the rock faces. You'll paddle hard through rapids with names like "Hair Shampoo" and "Surprise" (you can guess what happens there), then float through calm sections where you can actually enjoy the scenery. Your guide will point out wildlife and local plantations along the way. It's wet, wild, and one of the most fun Ubud activities for adventure lovers. Most tours include lunch and transport, so it's basically a full morning or afternoon sorted.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Duration: 2 hours on water; 3-4 hours total with briefing and lunch
• 💰 Price: 350,000-550,000 IDR per person (includes lunch, transport, insurance)
• 🏊 Requirements: Age 7+; basic swimming ability; moderate fitness
• 📸 Photos: Photographers at rapids capture your experience (available for purchase)
• ⚠️ Book ahead: 1-2 days advance booking recommended; includes hotel pickup

11. Bali Swing

You've seen the photos—now experience the real thing. Swing over jungle valleys and rice fields at spots like Bali Swing or Aloha Ubud Swing, and yeah, it's as thrilling as it looks. The swings range from chill (just a gentle sway over pretty views) to intense (you're literally launched out over a canyon, screaming optional but likely). Most venues have 15+ different swings and photo spots: bird nests perched in trees, heart-shaped frames, floating platforms—basically an Instagram playground. It's touristy, sure, but also ridiculously fun and photogenic. Plus, watching other people scream their way through the big swing never gets old.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (arrive early for best light)
• 💰 Price range: 250,000-350,000 IDR with unlimited swings and photos
• 🎯 Popular spots: Bali Swing (original), Aloha Ubud Swing, Zen Hideaway
• 📸 Photos: Included—staff are expert photographers who know all the angles
• ⚠️ Tip: Wear flowy dresses or shirts for dramatic photos; secure your belongings

Mount Batur Sunrise Trek

Okay, this is technically north of Ubud, but it's a top Ubud tourist attraction that you can't skip if you're up for adventure. Wake up at 2 AM (yeah, brutal, but worth it) to hike an active volcano by headlamp. The trek takes about 2 hours, scrambling over volcanic rocks with stars overhead, following the line of headlamps snaking up the mountain. Reach the summit by sunrise to see the sun paint the sky orange and pink over the clouds, with Mount Agung rising in the distance. Breakfast is cooked using volcanic steam—eggs and bananas steamed in the ground, which is surreally cool. The hike down reveals the landscape you climbed in darkness: black volcanic sand, scattered craters, and panoramic views that make the early alarm totally worth it.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Pickup time: 2:00-3:00 AM; summit by 6:00 AM for sunrise
• 💰 Tour cost: 350,000-550,000 IDR (includes guide, breakfast, transport)
• 👟 What to bring: Warm layers, headlamp/flashlight, good hiking shoes, camera
• 🥾 Difficulty: Moderate—steep sections but no technical climbing required
• ⚠️ Book with: Reputable tour companies only; avoid random hostel offers

Art, Markets & Shopping

Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)

Shopping time, Sob! This market is packed with handmade crafts, paintings, sarongs, and souvenirs, all crammed into a two-story maze of stalls where bargaining is not just expected—it's part of the fun. Vendors sell everything from hand-painted fans and woven bags to silver jewelry and wooden masks. The quality varies wildly, so look carefully and don't be afraid to walk away—there's always another stall with similar stuff. Best time to shop is early morning (around 8 AM) when vendors are more willing to negotiate and the crowds haven't arrived yet. By noon, it's packed with tour groups and the deals dry up.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
• 💰 Bargaining tip: Start at 40-50% of asking price; settle around 60-70%
• 🛍️ What to buy: Hand-painted fans, woven bags, traditional paintings, sarongs, jewelry
• 📸 Photography: Ask before taking photos of vendors or their products
• ⚠️ Tip: Bring cash in small bills; quality check items carefully before buying

ARMA Museum (Agung Rai Museum of Art)

Not your boring museum experience—ARMA is where you actually want to spend a few hours. The museum showcases traditional and contemporary Balinese art in beautiful gardens with lily ponds and pavilions. The collection includes works by famous Indonesian masters and foreign artists who fell in love with Bali (looking at you, Walter Spies). You'll see everything from classical Kamasan paintings to modern abstract pieces, all with detailed explanations. It's air-conditioned too, which is honestly a huge bonus when Ubud's heat gets intense. The museum also hosts cultural workshops, gamelan performances, and dance shows—check the schedule when you visit.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
• 💰 Entry fee: 80,000 IDR for adults; includes guided tour
• 🎨 Highlights: Walter Spies collection, traditional Kamasan art, beautiful gardens
• 🎭 Events: Dance performances and workshops (check schedule)
• ⚠️ Tip: Allow 2-3 hours to fully enjoy; on-site café for refreshments

Visit Local Art Galleries in Penestanan

Ubud's art village vibe is strongest in Penestanan area, just a short walk from central Ubud across the Campuhan Bridge. Wander through small galleries featuring works by local and expat artists who've made Bali their creative home. Many artists have studios you can visit—you'll literally watch them paint, sculpt, or create while you browse. It's one of those authentic things to do in Ubud that guidebooks often miss because it's not a single "attraction"—it's a whole neighborhood vibe. The art ranges from traditional Balinese styles to contemporary mixed media, and prices are often better than tourist shops because you're buying directly from creators.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Best time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM when most studios are open
• 💰 Entry: FREE to browse; artwork prices vary widely (50,000 IDR - millions)
• 🎨 Gallery highlights: Agung Rai Fine Art, Komaneka Fine Art, numerous independent studios
• 🗣️ Tip: Chat with the artists—they love sharing stories behind their work
• ⚠️ Note: Some studios open by appointment; ask locals for recommendations

Food & Wellness Experiences

Take a Balinese Cooking Class

Learn to make legit Balinese food from scratch, and trust me, it's way more fun than it sounds. Most classes start with a market tour to buy fresh ingredients—your instructor will show you how to pick the best lemongrass, what real fresh turmeric looks like, and which chilies will blow your head off. Then you head to the kitchen (usually an open-air pavilion with killer views) to cook traditional dishes like sate lilit, lawar, or nasi goreng. You get to eat everything after—and recipes to recreate at home, though good luck finding half these ingredients outside Bali. It's hands-on, social, delicious, and you'll actually learn techniques you can use.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Duration: 4-6 hours including market tour and cooking
• 💰 Price: 350,000-550,000 IDR per person
• 🍽️ What you'll make: 4-6 traditional Balinese dishes plus sambal and dessert
• 🏫 Popular schools: Paon Bali Cooking Class, Casa Luna, Bali Asli
• ⚠️ Tip: Book 2-3 days ahead; morning classes include market tour; afternoon classes skip to cooking

Yoga & Wellness Retreat

Ubud is basically the yoga capital of Southeast Asia, and for good reason—where else can you do downward dog overlooking rice fields? Studios like Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive offer classes for all levels, from "I've never done yoga" to "I can put my foot behind my head." You'll find everything: vinyasa flow, yin, aerial yoga, even ecstatic dance sessions. Pair it with a spa treatment (Balinese massage is life-changing), sound healing session, or cacao ceremony for the ultimate reset button. The whole wellness scene here isn't just trendy Instagram stuff—locals have been doing this for centuries, just without the Lululemon.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Class times: Multiple sessions daily from 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• 💰 Drop-in classes: 150,000-200,000 IDR; packages available for better rates
• 🧘 Top studios: Yoga Barn, Radiantly Alive, Intuitive Flow, Ubud Yoga Centre
• 🎫 Tip: Book popular classes online ahead; mat rental available (20,000 IDR)
• ⚠️ First-timers: Most studios offer beginner-friendly classes—just tell the instructor

Taste Authentic Indonesian Food

Time to eat like a local, Sob! Ubud has amazing Indonesian restaurants serving traditional Balinese dishes you won't find anywhere else—this is the real deal, not the watered-down tourist versions. Try bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck wrapped in banana leaves with crazy spices), babi guling (suckling pig that's crispy on the outside, tender inside), or lawar (minced meat salad with spices, grated coconut, and fresh blood—yeah, it's intense but delicious). These are real Bali flavors that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance. The sambal alone is worth the trip—Balinese chili paste is life-changing, especially sambal matah with its raw shallots and lemongrass.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Best meal times: Lunch (11 AM-2 PM) for best selection; many dishes sell out
• 💰 Price range: Warungs 25,000-50,000 IDR; restaurants 80,000-150,000 IDR per dish
• 🍽️ Must-try spots: Warung Biah Biah (nasi campur), Ibu Oka (legendary babi guling), Bebek Bengil (crispy duck)
• 🌶️ Spice level: Always ask—Balinese spicy is NO JOKE
• ⚠️ Tip: Order sambal on the side if you're spice-sensitive; eat with your right hand for authentic experience

Unique Day Trips From Ubud

Explore Sidemen Valley

Escape the Ubud crowds with a day trip to Sidemen, and seriously, this is where you'll see the Bali that travel influencers don't post about (yet). This valley offers the same stunning rice terraces as Tegalalang but with way fewer tourists—like, you might be the only foreigner there. You can trek through traditional villages where life moves at a slower pace, visit workshops where women weave traditional songket fabric using ancient techniques, or just chill at a café with mountain views that'll make you forget Instagram exists. Mount Agung looms in the background, rice paddies stretch in every direction, and it's peaceful Bali at its finest. No swings, no crowds, just pure scenery.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Best time: Full day trip; leave Ubud by 9 AM
• 💰 Cost: Transport 400,000-500,000 IDR private driver; minimal entrance fees
• 📍 Distance: 1 hour east of Ubud (beautiful drive through villages)
• 🎯 Highlights: Rice terraces, weaving villages, Mount Agung views, local coffee farms
• ⚠️ Tip: Combine with visit to Besakih Temple or Tirta Gangga water palace

Kintamani Highland Tour

Combine multiple attractions in one day if you're short on time and want to see what to do in Ubud and beyond. Most tours hit the greatest hits: coffee plantations where you'll try the famous (and controversial) luwak coffee made from beans eaten and pooped out by civets, Tirta Empul temple for those purification rituals, Tegalalang rice terraces for the mandatory photos, and viewpoints over Mount Batur and its volcanic lake. It's efficient, hits all the spots you see on Instagram, and takes the stress out of navigating yourself. Just know it's touristy—you'll stop at places designed for tour groups—but it's a solid option if you've only got a day or two and want to maximize sights.

📍 Essential Information:

• 🕐 Duration: Full day (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM approximately)
• 💰 Tour cost: $35-50 USD including driver, petrol, and most entrance fees
• 🎯 Typical stops: Coffee plantation, Tirta Empul, Tegalalang, Kintamani viewpoint, village tour
• 🚐 Group vs private: Private tours more expensive but flexible schedule
• ⚠️ Tip: Bring extra cash for optional activities and souvenirs at stops

Practical Tips For Your Ubud Adventure

Getting Around

Ubud is walkable in the center, but you'll need transport for most attractions. The main streets (Jalan Raya Ubud, Monkey Forest Road) you can stroll, but temples and waterfalls? Not happening on foot. Rent a scooter (80,000 IDR/day) if you're confident riding—it's the cheapest and most flexible option, plus you'll feel like a local dodging potholes. Otherwise, grab a driver for the day (500,000-600,000 IDR) or use Gojek/Grab for individual trips (usually 20,000-50,000 IDR within Ubud). Traffic can be crazy during peak hours (8-9 AM, 4-6 PM), and parking is tight in the center, so plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season (April-October) is ideal for outdoor Ubud activities—clear skies, less humidity, perfect waterfall conditions. July-August gets crowded with tourists (European summer holidays), so shoulder months (April-June, September) offer the sweet spot: good weather, smaller crowds, better prices. Rainy season (November-March) means cheaper accommodation and fewer people, but expect afternoon showers that can turn dirt paths into mud slides. If you don't mind occasional rain, it's actually beautiful—everything is super green and waterfalls are at their most powerful.

Money Matters

ATMs are everywhere in central Ubud, but many places to visit in Ubud only take cash, especially smaller warungs, market stalls, and temple entrances. Always carry small bills—vendors rarely have change for 100,000 IDR notes, and it gets awkward real quick. Budget around $30-50 USD per day for mid-range travel including activities, food, and transport. Street food and warungs are cheap (15,000-40,000 IDR per meal), while nice restaurants run 80,000-200,000 IDR per person. Activities range from free (Campuhan Ridge) to 550,000 IDR (rafting tours).

Cultural Respect

Bali is deeply spiritual—show respect everywhere you go, and locals will love you for it. Wear a sarong when entering temples (you can rent them at entrances for 10,000-20,000 IDR if you forget). Don't point your feet at altars or people—it's considered rude. If there's a ceremony happening, stand back and observe quietly unless invited to join. During Nyepi (Balinese New Year, usually March), the entire island shuts down—no lights, no noise, no leaving your hotel. Plan accordingly. Also, pointing with your index finger is considered aggressive; use your thumb or whole hand instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do I need in Ubud?

Three to five days is the sweet spot. Three days covers the main Ubud attractions like Monkey Forest, rice terraces, and temples. Five days lets you add waterfalls, day trips, and cooking classes without rushing.

Is Ubud good for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Ubud is super safe and social. You'll meet tons of travelers at yoga studios, cooking classes, and cafes. Just use common sense—don't leave valuables on your scooter and avoid walking alone late at night.

What's the best way to get around Ubud?

Scooter rental is cheapest and most flexible at 80k IDR per day. If you can't ride, hire a private driver for 500k-600k IDR daily or use Gojek/Grab for single trips. Central Ubud is walkable but attractions are spread out.

Do I need to book activities in advance?

For popular stuff like rafting, Bali Swing, and Mount Batur trek—yes, book 1-2 days ahead. Temples, waterfalls, and markets you can just show up. Cooking classes fill up fast during high season (July-August).

Is Ubud expensive?

Not really. Budget travelers can do $25-30 USD daily. Mid-range is $40-60 USD with nicer hotels and restaurants. Luxury travelers spend $100+ USD. Activities range from free (Campuhan Ridge) to $50 (rafting tours).

What should I wear in Ubud?

Light, breathable clothes for the heat. Bring a sarong for temples (or rent for 10k-20k IDR). Wear closed shoes for hiking and flip-flops for waterfalls. Pack modest outfits—shoulders and knees covered for sacred sites.

Can I drink tap water in Ubud?

Nope, stick to bottled or filtered water. Most hotels have refill stations. Avoid ice in local warungs unless you're sure it's from clean water. Brush teeth with bottled water to be safe.

Is Ubud crowded?

Central Ubud gets busy, especially Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Visit early morning (before 9 AM) to dodge crowds. Hidden spots like Tibumana Waterfall and Sidemen Valley stay peaceful all day.

Final Thoughts

Ubud is where Bali's soul really shines through.

From ancient temples to jungle adventures, cultural workshops to world-class food—this place delivers experiences you'll remember forever. The best things to do in Ubud Bali aren't just about ticking boxes on a list. It's about soaking in the creative energy, connecting with nature, and maybe finding a bit of yourself along the way.

Start with the classics like Monkey Forest and rice terraces, then dig deeper into the art scene and local villages. Mix adventure with relaxation. Eat everything. Talk to locals. Get lost in the green.

That's how you really experience Ubud.

Ready to explore? Your Ubud adventure starts