Ubud Travel Guide: Temples, Rice Terraces & Jungle Vibes

Why Ubud Is Unlike Anywhere Else in Bali

While Canggu has surf and nightlife and Seminyak has luxury, Ubud has something harder to define — a soul. Nestled in Bali's highlands, surrounded by jungle and terraced rice fields, Ubud is where Bali's artistic and spiritual traditions run deepest. It's where you go to slow down, eat well, practice yoga, watch a Kecak fire dance, and reconnect with something quieter.

It's also increasingly popular, so managing your expectations around crowds is important — but the right timing and approach still rewards.

Top Attractions in Ubud

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

The most photographed landscape in Bali — emerald green stepped terraces carved into the hillside just north of Ubud. Go early (before 8am) to beat the tour buses and get the best light. A small entry fee applies. Walking through the terraces is free once you're past the entrance points.

Tirta Empul Temple

A sacred Hindu water temple where Balinese pilgrims come to purify themselves in the holy spring pools. You can participate in the purification ritual (dress appropriately — sarong required). Incredibly moving and not overly touristy if you arrive at opening.

Pura Besakih (Mother Temple)

The largest and holiest temple complex in Bali, perched on the slopes of Mount Agung. A full day visit — stunning architecture, deep spiritual significance, and mountain views if the clouds cooperate.

Ubud Monkey Forest

A dense jungle sanctuary home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques. Atmospheric and fun, but guard your belongings — the monkeys are bold. Entry fee required.

Ubud Palace & Art Market

The Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) hosts nightly Kecak dance performances against a spectacular backdrop. Right next door, the Ubud Art Market has batik, wood carvings, and silver jewelry — arrive in the morning before the tour groups.

Best Restaurants in Ubud

• Locavore — Bali's most acclaimed fine dining restaurant. Book weeks ahead.
• Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka — The legendary suckling pig warung. Local institution.
• Moksa Plant-Based Restaurant — Outstanding vegan food on a permaculture farm.
• Sari Organic — Farm-to-table in the rice fields. Organic produce, stunning views.
• Naughty Nuri's — Famous ribs and cocktails. A crowd-pleaser for a reason.

Yoga & Wellness in Ubud

Ubud is one of Asia's top yoga destinations. The Yoga Barn is the most well-known studio, with classes throughout the day in a beautiful jungle setting. Radiantly Alive is another favorite for serious practitioners. Most hotels also offer in-house yoga or can arrange private sessions.

Where to Stay in Ubud

• Budget (0–70/night): Komaneka at Rasa Sayang area guesthouses, Bisma area homestays
• Mid-range (0–200/night): Komaneka at Bisma, Maya Ubud Resort
• Luxury (00+/night): Four Seasons Sayan, COMO Uma Ubud, Alaya Resort