Best Things To Do
Visit Rice Terraces
Ubud, located in central Bali, is renowned for its stunning rice terraces, showcasing the island's lush landscapes and traditional agricultural practices. Here are some notable rice terraces you can explore in the Ubud area:
Tegallalang Rice Terraces:
Location: Situated approximately 15-20 minutes north of Ubud town.
Features: Tegallalang is one of the most famous and picturesque rice terrace landscapes in Bali. Its iconic stepped terraces offer mesmerizing views of the lush greenery and intricate irrigation systems.
Exploration: Visitors can wander through the terraces, take scenic walks along designated paths, and enjoy panoramic views from various vantage points. There are also swing experiences available overlooking the terraces for a thrilling perspective.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces:
Location: Located further northwest of Ubud, approximately a 1 to 1.5-hour drive.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Jatiluwih is a UNESCO-designated site known for its expansive and well-maintained rice terraces. It showcases traditional Balinese Subak irrigation, highlighting harmony between agriculture and the environment.
Trekking and Cycling: Visitors can explore Jatiluwih through guided treks or cycling tours, immersing themselves in the breathtaking scenery and learning about Balinese agriculture and culture.
Campuhan Ridge Walk:
Location: The Campuhan Ridge Walk is situated close to Ubud town.
Scenic Walk: While not solely rice terraces, this walk offers stunning views of lush valleys, river gorges, and small rice fields. It's a relatively easy hike and provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Ubud town.
Cultural Experience: Along the way, you'll pass by villages, temples, and local residents engaging in daily activities, offering a glimpse into rural Balinese life.
Tips for Visiting Rice Terraces:
Best Time to Visit: The rice terraces are at their greenest during the rainy season (November to March). However, they maintain their beauty year-round.
Respectful Behavior: When visiting these areas, be respectful of the local farmers and their land. Stick to designated paths and avoid damaging the rice crops.
Photography: Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views and vibrant landscapes.
Get Lost in the Monkey Forest
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, commonly known as the Monkey Forest, is a renowned nature reserve and Hindu temple complex nestled in the heart of Ubud, Bali. Spanning approximately 12.5 hectares (30 acres) of lush forest, this sanctuary is home to hundreds of Balinese long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and visitors seeking unique cultural experiences.
Pristine Natural Habitat:
The Monkey Forest is not only a haven for playful monkeys but also a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The dense forest is teeming with towering trees, tropical plants, and moss-covered stone pathways, creating a serene and verdant environment. Streams and ancient stone carvings are scattered throughout the forest, adding to its mystical allure. Visitors can wander along well-maintained trails that wind through the sanctuary, offering an immersive experience in nature's embrace.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
Amidst the natural beauty lies the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, a 14th-century Hindu temple complex revered by the local community. The temples within the Monkey Forest are integral to Balinese spiritual beliefs and ceremonies. Ornate stone carvings, statues, and moss-covered structures adorn the temple grounds, adding a sense of ancient mystique. Visitors can observe intricate Balinese architecture and witness devotees engaging in religious rituals, offering insight into the island's rich cultural heritage.
Interaction with Macaques:
The charismatic Balinese macaques are the stars of the Monkey Forest. While they can be playful and curious, visitors are advised to exercise caution and adhere to the guidelines provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Feeding the monkeys is discouraged as it can disrupt their natural behavior and create dependency. However, observing these primates in their natural habitat, playing among the trees or grooming each other, provides an unforgettable and intimate encounter with Bali's wildlife.
The Monkey Forest in Ubud offers a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and spirituality, providing visitors with an opportunity to connect with Bali's natural landscapes and witness the intricate relationship between humans and wildlife in a sacred setting.
Visit the Best Temples
There are several temples that showcase the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. Here are some of the best temples to visit in Ubud:
1. Pura Taman Saraswati (Lotus Temple):
Location: Located in the heart of Ubud, near the Ubud Palace.
Highlights: Known for its stunning lotus pond and Balinese architecture, this temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, Saraswati. Visitors can admire the lotus flowers, the intricate stone carvings, and the serene ambiance.
2. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave Temple):
Location: Situated just outside Ubud in Bedulu village.
Highlights: Goa Gajah is an ancient archaeological site featuring a cave carved with intricate stone figures and reliefs. The temple dates back to the 9th century and is known for its historical significance and unique rock carvings.
3. Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu (Sebatu Temple):
Location: Located in the village of Sebatu, a short drive from central Ubud.
Highlights: Set in a lush garden setting, this water temple is dedicated to the Hindu trinity. It features shrines, bathing pools, and tranquil surroundings ideal for meditation and spiritual contemplation.
4. Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal (Monkey Forest Temple):
Location: Situated within the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud.
Highlights: This temple is part of the Monkey Forest complex and is revered by locals. It features intricate stone carvings and offers a glimpse into Balinese Hindu rituals and ceremonies.
5. Pura Tirta Empul (Tirta Empul Temple):
Location: Located in the village of Tampaksiring, not far from Ubud.
Highlights: Known for its holy spring water and purification pools, this temple is a significant religious site where visitors can witness traditional Balinese cleansing rituals and partake in the purifying waters themselves.
Tips for Temple Visits:
Dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
Follow local customs and guidelines, such as removing shoes before entering temple grounds.
Be respectful of worshippers and avoid disrupting religious ceremonies or rituals.
Engage with local guides or temple staff to learn more about the cultural and spiritual significance of each temple.
Visiting these temples in Ubud provides a deeper understanding of Balinese Hinduism, architectural beauty, and the spiritual essence that defines the island's cultural identity.
Go see a Balinese Tradicional Dance
Balinese traditional dance is a mesmerizing art form deeply ingrained in the island's cultural fabric, serving as a vibrant expression of Bali's spirituality, mythology, and communal rituals. These dances, accompanied by the melodious tunes of gamelan music, evoke a captivating spectacle that narrates stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata or showcases Balinese folklore. Each dance carries its own distinct style, gestures, and costumes, reflecting the intricate traditions and values woven into Balinese society.
The performances often feature graceful movements, elaborate costumes, and precise hand gestures known as mudras, all meticulously choreographed to convey narratives of love, conflict, triumph, and spiritual devotion. The Legong dance, performed by young girls with intricate finger movements and vivid expressions, or the dramatic Barong dance depicting the eternal struggle between good (Barong) and evil (Rangda) through elaborate costumes and spirited choreography, are emblematic examples of the depth and artistry of Balinese traditional dance. These dances serve not only as entertainment but also as a medium through which Balinese culture, beliefs, and values are preserved and passed down from generation to generation, continuing to enchant audiences worldwide with their beauty and cultural significance.
Interact with the Locals
Interacting with the locals in Bali offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the island's rich cultural tapestry, fostering meaningful connections and gaining insights into the Balinese way of life. Balinese people are known for their warmth, hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions, making it a rewarding experience to engage with them during your visit.
Embrace Cultural Etiquette:
Respect for Balinese customs and traditions is key when interacting with locals. A warm smile and a simple greeting in Bahasa Indonesia, the national language, such as "Selamat pagi" (good morning) or "Terima kasih" (thank you), can go a long way in initiating conversations. Demonstrating interest and respect for their customs, such as participating in temple ceremonies or traditional rituals if invited, showcases appreciation for their culture. Additionally, dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas, is a sign of respect for Balinese traditions.
Engage in Local Activities:
Participating in local activities provides an immersive experience in Balinese culture. Visiting local markets, known as "pasar," offers a chance to interact with vendors, sample local produce, and learn about traditional ingredients used in Balinese cuisine. Joining traditional dance or music classes,
trying your hand at crafting offerings or learning to make traditional Balinese dishes through cooking classes are excellent ways to engage with locals and learn firsthand about their customs and artistic practices.
Seek Authentic Encounters:
Venture beyond tourist hubs to explore authentic Balinese villages and rural areas. Engaging with locals in these settings allows for genuine interactions. Strike up conversations with artisans creating traditional crafts, farmers tending to rice paddies, or locals in warungs (small eateries) for a taste of authentic Balinese cuisine. Balinese people are often open and eager to share stories about their culture, family traditions, and daily life, offering a deeper understanding of their heritage and community values.
Interacting with the locals in Bali fosters cultural exchange, broadens perspectives, and creates cherished memories, as these encounters offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Balinese culture beyond its picturesque landscapes and tourist attractions.
Practice Yoga
Ubud, offers a serene and spiritually enriching experience amidst the island's lush landscapes and vibrant cultural ambiance. Ubud is renowned as a global hub for yoga and wellness, attracting yoga enthusiasts and practitioners from around the world seeking a tranquil setting to deepen their practice. The town's serene environment, surrounded by rice terraces, lush forests, and spiritual energy, creates an ideal backdrop for immersing oneself in yoga and holistic well-being.
Ubud hosts numerous yoga studios, retreat centers, and wellness resorts that cater to practitioners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned yogis. These establishments offer a diverse range of yoga styles and classes, including Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, and Kundalini, among others. Whether practicing in a traditional studio setting, in serene jungle surroundings, or overlooking picturesque landscapes, practitioners can find an array of classes and workshops tailored to individual preferences and interests. Additionally, many retreat centers in Ubud offer holistic experiences, combining yoga sessions with meditation, spa treatments, and wholesome organic cuisine, providing a holistic approach to rejuvenation and self-discovery amidst Bali's spiritual energy.
The yoga community in Ubud is not just about physical postures but also emphasizes mindfulness, self-reflection, and spiritual growth. Beyond the physical benefits, practicing yoga in Ubud allows individuals to embrace the island's cultural richness, connect with like-minded individuals, and embark on a journey of self-exploration and inner peace in a setting renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual allure.
Explore Ubud on a Bike
Exploring Ubud on a motorbike offers an exhilarating and flexible way to navigate through the town and its surrounding areas, providing adventurers with the freedom to discover Bali's cultural heartland at their own pace. Renting a motorbike in Ubud grants visitors the opportunity to traverse the town's winding streets and venture into the scenic countryside, granting access to hidden gems, picturesque landscapes, and cultural attractions. With its network of roads leading to lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and off-the-beaten-path destinations, riding a motorbike allows for an adventurous and immersive exploration of Ubud's diverse offerings.
The convenience and agility of a motorbike make it easier to access Ubud's surrounding areas, offering the flexibility to create personalized itineraries and explore places beyond the town center. Riders can embark on scenic rides to iconic sites such as the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), or further afield to the stunning water temples of Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi. Navigating the narrow village roads or venturing through lush landscapes on a motorbike brings a sense of freedom and adventure, enabling travelers to witness the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ubud and its neighboring regions in an immersive and exciting manner.
