Things To Do In Ubud:
10 Experiences You Must Try in Ubud
Ubud, Bali is a magical place that stole my heart the moment I arrived. Known as the cultural and spiritual hub of the island, Ubud offers a perfect blend of lush nature, rich traditions, and unforgettable experiences. From breathtaking rice terraces to vibrant markets and unique adventures, this guide highlights the best things to do in Ubud that will make your trip truly memorable.
Visiting Ubud Art Market
The Ubud Art Market is a vibrant and colorful hub where local artisans showcase their handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. As I wandered through the bustling stalls, I was captivated by the wide array of items on display—woven bags, intricate wooden carvings, batik fabrics, and silver jewelry. The market felt alive with energy, and every corner had something unique to offer.
My Experience: I spent hours exploring, chatting with the friendly vendors, and learning about the stories behind their creations. I picked up a beautiful handwoven basket and a colorful sarong as keepsakes. Bargaining was part of the fun, and the vendors were kind and open to negotiation.
Jl. Raya Ubud No.35, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud
Hours : 10AM - 5PM
Parking Fee :
- IDR 2,000 (Motorcycle)
- IDR 3,000 (Car)
Exploring Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest is a lively and fascinating place where you can get up close with Bali’s mischievous macaques. Walking through the forest felt like stepping into another world, with ancient temples hidden among towering trees. The monkeys were playful and curious, often coming right up to me (one even tried to steal my water bottle!).
Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud
Visiting Coffee Plantation
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: Sitting in the middle of lush greenery while sipping freshly brewed coffee was an unforgettable moment. The staff were incredibly friendly and explained the process in detail, making it both educational and enjoyable. Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, the experience of being surrounded by nature is worth it.
Jl. A.A. Gede Rai, Lodtunduh, Kecamatan Ubud
Hours : 9AM - 7PM
Walking the Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of Ubud’s lush valleys and rolling hills. I started the walk early in the morning when the air was cool and the light was perfect for photos. The trail was peaceful, with only a few other travelers, and I loved the feeling of being surrounded by nature.
Kelusa, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Hours : 24 Hours
Parking Fee :
- IDR 2,000 (Motorcycle)
- IDR 3,000 (Car)
Visiting Bali Zoo
The Bali Zoo, located just a short drive from Ubud, is a fantastic place to experience Bali’s wildlife and interact with animals in a beautiful, well-maintained setting. I spent a day exploring the lush grounds, which felt more like a tropical jungle than a traditional zoo. The highlight of my visit was the Breakfast with Orangutans experience, where I enjoyed a delicious meal while watching these incredible creatures up close.
My Experience: I loved how interactive the zoo was—feeding elephants, petting deer, and even holding exotic birds. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational. It’s a great activity for families, couples, or solo travelers who love animals.
Jl. Raya Singapadu, Singapadu, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar
Sunrise at Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are one of the most iconic sights in Ubud, and experiencing them at sunrise is nothing short of magical. I arrived just as the first rays of sunlight kissed the emerald-green fields. The air was crisp, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds. Walking along the terraces, I felt a deep connection to nature and Bali’s agricultural roots.
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
One evening, I attended a traditional Balinese dance performance at Ubud Palace. The intricate costumes, dramatic facial expressions, and hypnotic movements of the dancers left me mesmerized. The gamelan orchestra added to the magic, creating an atmosphere that was both vibrant and otherworldly.
Jl. Suweta No.32, sambahan, Kecamatan Ubud
Rafting on the Ayung River
For a dose of adventure, I joined a white water rafting tour on the Ayung River. Paddling through the rapids was exhilarating, and the views of the jungle, waterfalls, and hidden carvings along the riverbanks were stunning. It was a thrilling way to see a different side of Ubud.
Jl. Raya Bunutan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud
Trying Tukies Coconut Ice Cream
If you’re a coconut lover, Tukies Coconut Ice Cream is a must-visit spot in Ubud. This little shop specializes in all things coconut, and their ice cream is a creamy, tropical delight. I ordered their signature coconut ice cream topped with toasted coconut flakes and chunks of fresh coconut flesh. The flavors were rich and authentic, and it was the perfect treat to beat the Bali heat.
My Experience: I loved sitting outside the shop, savoring my ice cream while people-watching in the lively streets of Ubud. The combination of creamy ice cream and crunchy coconut toppings was heavenly. Tukies is not just an ice cream shop—it’s a coconut paradise!
Jl. Raya Ubud No.14, Ubud
Hours: 9AM - 11PM
Ice Cream Price: IDR 25,000 - 35,000