Things To Do In Ubud: 10 Experiences You Must Try in Ubud

Ubud, located on the island of Bali, is a mystical location that captured my heart as soon as I arrived. Described as a cultural and spiritual heartland, Ubud, Bali, has everything a visitor might want, including a perfect mix of nature, culture, and experiences. From the stunning rice fields to the markets and adventures, this guide shows the best things to do in Ubud, Bali, to make your experience there simply unforgettable.

Visiting Ubud Art Market

Review:

The Ubud Art Market is a colorful and vibrant marketplace where local artisans display their handcrafted goods, crafts, and souvenirs.

As I strolled through the market, which was bustling with activity, I was drawn to the variety of goods being offered, from woven bags to intricately carved wooden items, batik, and silver jewelry, to name a few. The market was alive with energy, and around every corner, there was something interesting to see.

My Experience: I spent several hours browsing around, talking to the vendors, and listening to the tales behind each of their crafts. I purchased a lovely handwoven basket and a colorful sarong as souvenirs. Haggling was part of the experience, and the vendors were very open to it.

Addres:

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud

Open Hours: 10AM - 5PM

Parking Fee: 

- IDR 2,000 (Motorcycle)

- IDR 3,000 (Car)

Exploring Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Review:

The Sacred Monkey Forest is a vibrant and interesting spot where you can get close to the playful macaques of Bali. Taking a walk through the forest was like entering another world, with ancient temples nestled among the giant trees.

The monkeys were curious and playful, often approaching me (one even attempted to snatch my water bottle!).

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud

Hours : 9AM - 5PM

Ticket Price :

- IDR 100,000 (Weekend)

- IDR 80,000   (Weekday)

Buy Ticket Here

Visiting Coffee Plantation

Review:

One of the most unique experiences I had in Ubud was visiting a local coffee plantation. Bali is famous for its coffee, especially Kopi Luwak, one of the most expensive and unique coffees in the world. At the plantation, I learned about the coffee-making process, from harvesting the beans to roasting them.

The highlight was the coffee tasting session, where I got to try a variety of flavors, including vanilla coffee, ginseng coffee, and the famous Kopi Luwak.

My Experience: Drinking coffee in the middle of a lush green environment is an experience that I will never forget. The service was also excellent, and the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Even if you are not a coffee lover, the experience of being in nature is well worth it.

Address: Jl. A.A. Gede Rai, Lodtunduh, Kecamatan Ubud

Hours : 9AM - 7PM

Walking the Campuhan Ridge Walk

Review:

The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a beautiful trail that provides a breathtaking view of the Ubud countryside, with lush valleys and hills.

I took a walk early in the morning when the weather was cool, and the sunlight was perfect for a photo shoot. The trail was quiet, with a few other travelers, and I enjoyed the feeling of being in nature.

Address: Kelusa, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali

Hours : 24 Hours

Parking Fee : 

- IDR 2,000 (Motorcycle)

- IDR 3,000 (Car)

Visiting Bali Zoo

Review:

The Bali Zoo, which is just a short drive away from Ubud, is an excellent place to experience the wildlife of Bali and interact with the animals in a beautiful and well-manicured environment.

I had the opportunity to spend the day exploring the beautiful grounds of the zoo, which are more akin to a tropical jungle than your average zoo. The best experience of my time at the Bali Zoo was the Breakfast with Orangutans experience.

My Experience: I really enjoyed the interactive experience of the Bali Zoo, where I got to feed the elephants, pet the deer, and even hold the exotic birds. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, making it an educational experience as well.

Address: Jl. Raya Singapadu, Singapadu, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar

Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM

Ticket Price:

- Adult : IDR 355,500

- Children : IDR 252,000

Buy Tickets Here

Sunrise at Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Review:

The Tegallalang Rice Fields are one of the most photographed attractions in Ubud, and visiting these fields at sunrise is an experience that is nothing short of magical. I was there when the first rays of the sun touched the emerald green fields.

The atmosphere was cool, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. Walking through the fields, I felt a sense of connection to nature and the island’s rich agricultural heritage.

Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar

Best Time To Come : 6AM

Parking Fee : 

- IDR 2,000 (Motorcycle)

- IDR 3,000 (Car)

Watch Kecak Dance

Review:

On one occasion, I attended a traditional Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace. The elaborate costumes, facial expressions, and trance-like movements of the dancers left me mesmerized. The gamelan music added magic to the performance, which was both vibrant and enchanting.

Address: Jl. Suweta No.32, sambahan, Kecamatan Ubud

Day & Hours: Every Thursday & Sunday (7.30PM - 8.30PM)

Ticket Price: IDR 100,000

Buy Tickets Here

Rafting on the Ayung River

Review:

Seeking a dose of adventure, I opted to participate in a white water rafting tour on the Ayung River. The experience of paddling through the rapids was exhilarating, and the scenery of the jungle, waterfalls, and hidden carvings along the river was breathtaking. It was a thrilling experience to get a glimpse of a different side of Ubud.

Addres: Jl. Raya Bunutan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud

Hours : 9AM - 2PM

Ticket Fee: IDR 560,000/Person

Buy Ticket Here

Trying Tukies Coconut Ice Cream

Review:

If you’re a coconut lover, Tukies Coconut Ice Cream is a must-visit spot in Ubud. This small shop is dedicated to all things coconut, and their ice cream is a tropical treat.

I ordered their signature coconut ice cream, topped with toasted coconut flakes and chunks of fresh coconut meat. The flavors were rich and authentic, and it was the perfect remedy for the hot Balinese sun.

My Experience: I enjoyed eating my ice cream outside the shop, people-watching in the vibrant streets of Ubud. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the crunchy coconut toppings was heavenly. Tukies is more than just an ice cream shop; it is a coconut heaven.

Addres: Jl. Raya Ubud No.14, Ubud

Hours: 9AM - 11PM

Ice Cream Price: IDR 25,000 - 35,000

Conclusion

Ubud is full of wonders and things to do. There's still many things to do in the area besides the 10 things listed above. All of the activities I did created memories that I will cherish for a long time and I will be able to enjoy the culture of Bali once again.

If you will be visiting Ubud soon, I hope this article encourages you to discover, engage and make some wonderful memories of your own. It's an amazing place that will make you feel like coming back again and again.