Ubud Bali Guide: Top Things to Do, Where to Stay & Best Time to Visit

Planning Your Ubud Bali Adventure? Let's Make It Easy.​ Here, you will never lack things to see and do. This article will tell you Ubud Bali attractions, where to stay and best time to visit Ubud Bali! To help you explore the essence of Ubud Bali, here is the guide for a better travel.

Is Ubud Bali Worth to Visit?

Ubud

Yes, Ubud is highly worth visiting. Often referred to as the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, it offers a refreshing contrast to the coastal scenes in Canggu or Seminyak. It is the perfect destination if you are looking for lush jungles, ancient temples, and wellness retreats.

Why You Should Go

• Culture & Art: It's the best place on the island to experience traditional Balinese dance performances, visit art museums, and shop at the local art markets.
• Nature & Views: You'll be surrounded by steep, emerald-green valleys, including the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and stunning nearby waterfalls.
• Wellness & Food: Ubud is world-famous for its yoga studios, meditation retreats, and incredible vegan and international dining scenes.

Things to Consider

• No Beaches: Ubud is entirely inland. If you want to surf or spend your days lounging on the beach, you will need to stay in coastal areas.
• Traffic & Crowds: Central Ubud can be heavily congested and chaotic. Many travelers suggest staying slightly outside the town center in neighboring villages like Penestanan or Nyuh Kuning for a quieter experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit Ubud Bali & What to Expect

brown and green temple near lake and green mountain under blue sky during daytime Via Unsplash (by Mahmud Ahsan)

The best time to visit Ubud is fromMay to June and September to October. During these shoulder months, you will enjoy the ideal dry weather, clear skies, and lower humidity without the massive tourist crowds of the peak summer months.

Choosing the right time to visit depends on what you want out of your trip:

1. Shoulder Season (May, June, September, October) — Best Overall

• The Vibe: The perfect balance. Weather is warm and sunny with very little rain, making it excellent for outdoor activities like trekking the Campuhan Ridge Walk or exploring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.
• Events: You catch the early cultural buzz and beautiful events before the peak rush.

2. Peak Season (July and August) — Best for Festivals

• The Vibe: Sunny, dry, and cool. However, this is the busiest time of the year globally, and Ubud's central streets and attractions get highly congested.
• Events: Major events like the Bali Kite Festival and the Bali Arts Festival take place. Book accommodations and tours far in advance.

3. Wet Season (November to April) — Best for Wellness & Budget

• The Vibe: Higher rainfall and humidity, but showers usually come in short, heavy bursts, leaving plenty of dry time. The surrounding jungles and rice terraces become intensely lush and vibrant.
• Perks: This is the best time for budget-conscious travelers, as flights and hotels offer great deals. It's also perfect for enjoying Ubud's indoor charms, like world-class yoga retreats and spas.

Top Things to Do in Ubud Bali: Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Scenic view of Bali rice terraces bathed in golden sunrise light. Via Pexels (by AHMAD GHANI)

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Often revered as the birthplace of Balinese art, Ubud Palace preserves the rich history of the region dating back to the 1800s. Originally built in the 19th century, Ubud was once merely an area enveloped by dense tropical rainforests. To boost the local economy and manage a turbulent political climate, the ruling king established his residence here and invited artists to travel and explore the area, dedicating his efforts to transforming Ubud into a prominent hub for Indonesian art. Although damaged by a devastating earthquake in 1917, the palace was carefully rebuilt while preserving its signature Hindu-style stone carvings.

Ubud Market (Pasar Ubud)

Located directly opposite Ubud Palace, Ubud Market started as a traditional market for locals. Today, it has evolved into a unique "morning market, afternoon bazaar" experience, where visitors can find an array of handcrafted goods, souvenirs, and local crafts. If you want to experience the authentic local lifestyle, plan your visit between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM to immerse yourself in the exotic, lively morning market scene!

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Situated just north of central Ubud, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are approximately a 30-minute drive from Ubud Palace under normal traffic conditions. The stunning landscape features emerald-green rice paddies carved seamlessly along the sweeping hillsides.

In 2012, this breathtaking landscape was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Interestingly, it was recognized not just for its scenic beauty, but for Bali’s unique "Subak" traditional irrigation system. Developed in the 9th century, the Subak system was born out of Bali's distinct geography. Because farming communities rely on a single water source flowing from upstream, households must cooperate closely to ensure a stable food supply. This shared responsibility created a localized, democratic irrigation network that shaped the island's unique landscape. Deeply rooted in Balinese Hinduism, farmers also built water temples at every river intersection to pray for good weather and a pest-free, bountiful harvest. When visiting Tegallalang, be sure to walk down to these intersections to explore the temples and learn about the local spiritual culture.

Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)

After being captivated by art in his youth, ARMA founder Agung Rai dreamed of establishing a museum. He began by helping local artists sell their paintings and dedicated his life to promoting Balinese artwork. Thanks to his decades of relentless effort, the Agung Rai Museum of Art officially opened in 1996. Inside, visitors can admire a rare collection of both traditional and contemporary Balinese art, and participate in various cultural workshops and hands-on activities. What makes ARMA truly special is the opportunity to see local artists painting live on-site. For travelers staying in Ubud who want to truly appreciate the soul of Balinese art, this museum is an absolute must-visit.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a lush, tranquil jungle oasis nested right in the heart of Ubud. It is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, which are considered sacred by the local Balinese people.

Spanning over 27 hectares, the sanctuary features dense forest canopies, ancient Hindu temples, and winding rivers. The temples within the forest remain active places of worship for local residents to this day. Beyond the sacred monkeys, the reserve boasts a rich variety of flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered plant species. Committed to environmental conservation and preserving the surrounding natural beauty, the Sacred Monkey Forest is a highly recommended destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts alike.

Where to Stay in Ubud Bali?

Ubud

When people talk about Ubud, they are usually referring to a collection of smaller surrounding villages. Some of the absolute best neighborhoods to base yourself in are actually tucked away in nearby areas like Padang Tegal, Nyuhkuning, Pengosekan, Campuhan, Penestan, Sayan, Sanggingan, Kedewatan, Peliatan, Sambahan, and Tirta Tawar. You don’t need to memorize this list—they will all pop up when you search for accommodations online—but understanding the vibe and location of each district makes choosing a place to stay much easier.

Top Streets to Book in Central Ubud:

• Jalan Goutama: Becomes pedestrian-only in the evenings, making it a delightfully quiet spot for a stroll or a stay.
• Jalan Kajeng: A picturesque, tranquil street incredibly close to the action that leads straight into the scenic Kajeng rice field walk.
• Sari Organik Rice Field Walk: An easy walk from town, this area features magical rice paddy backdrops and unique stays like Dragonfly Village, which stands out for its beautiful, traditional Balinese architecture.
• Jalan Bisma: Running parallel to Monkey Forest Road, this strip offers a much more serene vibe and hides fantastic upscale options like Bisma Eight.
• Jalan Jembawan: A peaceful residential alternative running parallel to Jalan Hanoman, home to the exceptional Adiwana Resort Jembawan.

How to Get to Ubud Bali: Transport & Getting Around

gray concrete statue Via Unsplash (by Paolo Nicolello)

How to Get to Ubud Bali

Ubud is located in the uplands of Bali, roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours away from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) or popular southern beach towns (Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta), depending on traffic.

1. Private Car Charter / Private Driver (Most Recommended)

Hiring a private car with a driver is the most seamless and stress-free way to reach Ubud, especially if you have luggage.

• Cost: Approximately $40 to $60 AUD (400,000 to 600,000 IDR) for a full-day charter or a direct airport transfer.
• Best for: Families, couples, or anyone arriving late at night. You can book these easily on platforms like Trip.com or Klook ahead of time, or arrange one directly through your hotel.

2. Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab & Gojek)

Ride-hailing is incredibly popular and cheap in Bali. You can book a private car via the Grab or Gojek apps.

• Cost: Around $25 to $35 AUD from the airport to Ubud.
• Pro-Tip: If you are leaving from Ngurah Rai Airport, Grab has an official lounge at the international arrivals terminal where you can book and wait for your ride comfortably.

3. Tourist Shuttle Buses (Perama Tour)

If you are a solo traveler looking to save money, shared shuttle buses are a reliable alternative.

• Cost: Around $10 to $15 AUD per person.
• How it works: Perama Tour operates scheduled buses connecting Kuta, Sanur, and the airport to central Ubud. You will be dropped off at their central Ubud terminal, from where you can walk or catch a local ride to your hotel.

How to Get Around Ubud Bali

What we call "Ubud" is actually a collection of smaller surrounding villages and districts (like Padang Tegal, Nyuhkuning, Pengosekan, or Sayan). Depending on where you choose to stay, your transport needs will vary.

Scooter Rental (Best for Solo Travelers & Couples)

Renting a scooter gives you ultimate freedom to beat the traffic and explore outer attractions like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces.

• Cost: Roughly $7 to $12 AUD per day (70,000 to 120,000 IDR).
• Important: Only rent a scooter if you are an experienced rider. You must wear a helmet, carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a motorcycle endorsement, and ensure your travel insurance covers scooter accidents.

Local Ride-Hailing (Grab/Gojek Scooter Taxis)

If you don't want to drive a scooter yourself, you can use Grab or Gojek to hail a scooter taxi (GrabBike/GoRide).

• Cost: Incredibly cheap, usually only $1 to $3 AUD for short trips around town.
• Note on the "Ubud Taxi Taxi Monopoly": In certain parts of central Ubud and outside major attractions (like the Sacred Monkey Forest), local taxi cooperatives ban ride-hailing apps from picking up passengers to protect local drivers. You can always be dropped off anywhere by a Grab, but to catch one out, you may need to walk a few minutes away from the main exclusion zones.