Ubud Area
Located in the heart of Bali, Ubud is surrounded by waterfalls, rice terraces, temples, and lush jungle.
With its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, Ubud offers an authentic glimpse into the soul of Bali.
The town itself is a hub for Balinese markets and day spas as well as yoga, meditation and spiritual retreats.
Ubud offers a diverse and vibrant food scene - from traditional Balinese warungs to world class fine dining and modern cafes focusing on vegan or organic options.
There are many great accommodation options around Ubud - in the jungle, on a rice terrace or right in the heart of town.
I love Ubud and can chat with you about the kind of holiday you’re wanting to experience. I can offer recommendations on which part of Ubud to stay, cafes, restaurants and day spas or other experiences that might be a good fit for your time there, what you love and your budget.
Ubud Tour Options
Build your own itinerary by choosing from the following options. Or feel free to suggest your own itinerary.
Tirta Empul Temple
Located in Tampaksiring, Tirta Empul is a sacred water temple known for its spring-fed pools used in purification rituals. Built in 962 AD, it remains an active place of worship where visitors can join locals in the melukat cleansing ceremony. The temple combines cultural tradition with a serene natural setting.
You can come and enjoy the peace and tranquility this sacred space offers or participate in your own water purification ritual here.
Gunung Kawi Temple
Set in a lush river valley near Tampaksiring, Gunung Kawi features towering stone shrines carved into cliff faces. Believed to honor Balinese royalty of the 11th century, the site is reached by descending through rice terraces and jungle paths, creating a sense of discovery and peace.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
North of Ubud, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces showcase Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system in stunning stepped landscapes. You can stroll the trails, enjoy sweeping views, or relax in hillside cafés here
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Dating back to the 11th century, Goa Gajah is an ancient archaeological site just outside Ubud. Its dramatic entrance, carved to resemble a menacing face, leads to a small meditation cave, while the surrounding grounds feature bathing pools, fountains, and moss-covered relics. It’s a tranquil place to explore Bali’s history and spirituality.
Sacred Monkey Forest
Home to over a thousand long-tailed macaques, Ubud’s Monkey Forest combines wildlife, culture, and nature. Shaded paths wind past ancient temples and moss-covered statues beneath towering trees. It’s both a spiritual sanctuary and a conservation area where visitors can observe the monkeys up close.
Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
In the centre of Ubud, the Royal Palace offers a glimpse of Balinese heritage with its ornate architecture and gardens. Once home to Ubud’s royal family, it remains a cultural hub, especially in the evenings when traditional dance performances bring the courtyard to life.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
Just minutes from central Ubud, the stunning Campuhan Ridge Walk is a scenic trail that winds along a hilltop with sweeping views of rice fields and jungle valleys.
The easy walk is especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the air is cooler. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy town and a favourite spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Located just outside Ubud, Tegenungan is one of Bali’s most popular waterfalls, known for its powerful cascade surrounded by lush jungle. Easy to access, the site offers viewing platforms, photo spots, and a refreshing pool at the base if you’d like a swim. Best visited early in the day before it gets busy, it’s a scenic stop that combines nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Kanto Lampo Waterfall
Tucked away in Gianyar near Ubud, Kanto Lampo is a picturesque waterfall where water cascades down a series of rocky steps into a shallow pool. Surrounded by lush jungle, it’s a popular spot for cooling off, taking photos, and enjoying a more relaxed waterfall experience. The short walk to the falls makes it easily accessible for all visitors.
Batuan Temple
Located just south of Ubud, Batuan Temple is a traditional Balinese village temple known for its intricate stone carvings and ancient architecture. Over a thousand years old, it remains a vibrant place of worship for the local community. Visitors can admire its ornate gates, shrines, and pavilions, offering an authentic glimpse into Balinese Hindu spiritual life.
Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation
Just a short drive from Ubud, Bali Pulina offers a full coffee experience amidst lush jungle and rice terrace views. Visitors can see the entire coffee production process, from planting to roasting, and sample a variety of coffees, including the famous Kopi Luwak. The plantation also provides cultural insight into traditional Balinese farming, making it a scenic and educational stop for coffee lovers and travellers alike.
Tour Details
Distances may be short, but driving times in Bali can be long. Depending on your itinerary, if you’re not staying in Ubud our drivers generally suggest basing your itinerary on one major site/activity and then a couple of smaller activities in addition to stopping for lunch.
Day Tours Include
English speaking, local Balinese driver
Flexibility to change the tour as you go
Air conditioned comfortable vehicle
All fuel and vehicle expenses
Day Tours Exclude
Entry fees and costs for activities
Meal and personal expenses