23 Incredible Things To Do In Ubud, Indonesia

For a ticket price of just $18, you can gain access to the sophisticated Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.

Home to more than 1,260 monkeys, the forest is considered sacred by locals, hence the name. While visiting the sanctuary, make sure to be on your best behavior. Also, the monkeys are not tamed, so always keep your backpacks and food items safe.

The monkey sanctuary is located in Padangtegal Ubud, Bali; the forest is located at walking distance at walking distance from most areas in Bali. Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter and drive to the sanctuary, if you have the proper directions.

Usually, the sanctuary only takes about 2 hours to complete, giving you plenty of time to explore other tourist destinations.

If there's heaven on earth, it'd be the Tegenungan Waterfall. This natural waterfall was formed thousands of years ago from the water flowing from the Petanu River.

Located around 10 km away from the Ubud Center, you can climb 168 stairs to reach the top of the waterfall. The waterfall itself is only around 15 meters high, allowing visitors to dive into the waterfall's bottom.

Besides the waterfall, the attraction also hosts multiple human-sized bird nests. These nests are ideal for taking photographs or for a quick rest on the way to the top.

Visiting the Elephant Cave is like taking a trip to the past. With a history of over a thousand years, the cave is iconic for the giant entrance statue that was called from a single rock.

The Elephant Cave entrance leads to a narrow path that goes nearly 15 meters deep. Visitors are known to offer their prayers to Hindu gods or light up an incense stick as a way to show their faith.

Similarly, tourists are known to feel a spiritual connection as they walk through the cave's path. Meanwhile, the cave's architecture is unique and gets a lot of attention from art enthusiasts worldwide.

Named after the Hindu goddess of learning, Saraswati Temple is a place of worship and a spiritual hub. Also known as the Water Palace due to the adjacent water pond, the temple is small but a pretty spot to explore.

While visitors are not allowed to enter the main temple due to religious reasons, they are still able to visit the Padmasana shrine or stroll along the beautiful pond. The scene is also perfect for photography; in fact, many of the visitors are simply there to take a decent photo.

The Neka Art Museum isn't just a place to collect traditional art pieces; the facility has also worked to preserve and promote the pieces made by legendary Indonesian artists, including Affandi Koesoema, Abdul Azia, and Hendra Gunawan, among others.

While all of the art displays at the museum are invaluable, a few exhibits attract more curious minds than others. For instance, traditional paintings use the Wayang style to tell intricate storytelling scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Similarly, the  Arie Smit Room is renowned for exhibiting the art of a Dutch artist named Arie Smith, who was a notable figure from the Young Artists Movement.

Besides the rich greenery and terraced landscapes, the Kajeng rice field has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.

Enjoy the views of the beautiful rice paddies, coconut trees, and irrigation canals, as you walk along the narrow paths of the fields.

Along the trails, visitors can find stone carvings and handmade decorations, reflecting the area's spiritual significance. Farmers working in the fields will be happy to share wisdom about their traditional farming techniques, particularly the Subak irrigation system.

If you are looking for interesting things to do in Ubud, then the Museum Puri Lukisan is where you should go. As the oldest art museum in Bali, the facility hosts a collection of traditional and modern Balinese artworks.

Established in 1956, the museum shows how Hindu traditions and modern scientific movements provide insight into the island's artistic evolution.

The traditional painting collection showcases classical Kamasan-style paintings, characterized by depictions of Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

At the same time, modern art also has a designated section in the museum. These art pieces show the influence of foreign artists who introduced new techniques and themes.

Officially known as Puri Saren Agung, this royal palace was built during the reign of Tjokorda Putu Kandel in the 18th century. Architecturally, the palace is a masterpiece, with tiered roofs, stone carvings, and landscaped courtyards.

Within the palace grounds, visitors can marvel at ornate gateways, known as candi bentar, decorated with floral and mythical carvings. Or, you can also join to watch the evening traditional dance performances, flawlessly reimagined by the local actors.

These performances are not just dedicated to promoting local culture but also to providing an entertaining experience at the royal palace.

Did you know that there are pyramids in Asia? But, unlike the Pyramids of Giza, there is no confusion about the construction of the Pyramids of Chi.

In fact, these pyramids were opened only recently in 2016, as a center for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation.

These unique pyramids were mostly made of environment-friendly materials like bamboo, stone, and other sustainable elements, designed to emulate the sacred geometry of structures including the Egyptian pyramids.

You can visit the Pyramids of Chi for meditation and sound healing; calm the body and mind sessions, using gongs and didgeridoo to produce vibrational frequencies.

Taman Dedari makes two promises: enjoy a hearty meal and a scenic view of the majestic garden, and it lives up to its commitments.

The Angels' Garden is truly magnificent, especially during the night when it can be against a backdrop of a clear sky. The garden features art sculptures as its centerpiece, that represent celestial maidens or apsaras.

While Taman Dedari is a must-visit for people traveling to Ubud, the place's reputation also makes it too crowded and almost impossible to enjoy during a busy tourist season. Meanwhile, a few have criticized the "slow" service, but it's up to you to turn your experience into a positive memory.

To enjoy fresh coffee or learn about the process of growing it, visit the Satria Coffee Plantation. The plantation offers visitors a chance to explore the art of coffee production and enjoy an escape into nature.

The plantation harvests the famous Kopi Luwak, also known as civet coffee. Scheduled tours allow visitors to see coffee beans being harvested, roasted, and ground using traditional Balinese methods.

While at the premises, guests can sample a variety of locally produced coffees and teas. For a small additional free, you can also savor a cup of some of the most exotic coffees in the world.

The Bintang Supermarket is centrally located on Jalan Raya Sanggingan, just a short drive away from the Ubud Palace and other popular attractions. This retail hub caters to diverse shopping needs by blending convenience with local charm.

At the supermarket, tourists can purchase a wide range of products, from every day groceries to unique Balinese specialties. Besides fresh produce, you will also find popular local treats like tropical chips and Balinese coffee. 

The Peliatan Bali Museum was established to honor the artistic traditions of the region, renowned for classical dance, music, and craftsmanship.

The museum's serene atmosphere and traditional architecture enhance the immersive experience, as not just a place for learning but also for appreciating creativity and spirituality.

Tourists visiting the museum are likely to be impressed by the wood carvings, traditional paintings, ceremonial masks, and costumes used in dance and religious rituals. The museum also features gamelan instruments, producing unique music that accompanies Balinese ceremonies.

Teba Sari Bali Agrotourism has been instrumental in promoting the island's agricultural traditions and the production of its renowned coffee and spices. This eco-tourism site focuses on sustainable farming practices for producing crops like coffee, cocoa, and vanilla.

You can visit the eba Sari Bali Agrotourism to explore the production of Bali's famous Kopi Luwak (civet coffee) and other local beverages. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary tasting session featuring a variety of coffees, teas, and herbal drinks, all made from locally sourced ingredients.

Not all tourists want to go on adventures; some just want to have a relaxing time and enjoy the luxuries provided by the visiting nation.

As an old and well-reputed spa in Ubud, the Ubud Traditional Spa mostly attracts wealthy customers who can spend a significant amount of money.

However, a single session isn't that expensive either. You can get a massage or a flower path for a reasonable price. Also, the spa is fairly easy to reach, only 4 kilometers from Ubud. The company offers free rides for customers, so finding the place isn't an issue.

Established in 1995 by Nyoman Rudana, the Museum Rudana houses an impressive array of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. The museum's mission is to preserve Balinese culture while fostering appreciation for modern artistic expressions.

Visitors to Museum Rudana can explore three floors of exhibits that showcase over 400 artworks. The collection includes traditional Balinese paintings, as well as modern works that reflect contemporary styles.

Alternatively, you can participate in workshops, such as painting and traditional crafts, or attend cultural events and exhibitions held on-site.

A world-renowned wellness retreat, the Yoga Barn is a sanctuary for yoga, meditation, and holistic healing. Nestled in the heart of Ubud, the facility specializes in community and spirituality, and attracts visitors from around the world looking to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul.

The facility offers a variety of programs, including daily yoga classes, meditation sessions, and specialized workshops. Visitors can explore different yoga styles, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Kundalini, or join retreats focusing on detox, sound healing, or Ayurvedic therapies.

The Pondok Pekak Library & Learning Center is a community-based cultural hub that targets both locals and tourists, with a focus on educational programs, cultural exchange. The library serves as a resource center for children, adults, and visitors looking to explore Balinese culture, art, and language.

Additionally, the houses a wide collection of books in multiple languages; its historical and cultural offerings include materials on traditional Balinese arts, culture, and spirituality, as well as books about Bali's history and language.

You can expect to spend around 1-2 hours touring the library, exploring its collections, and engaging in any available workshops or activities.

Purchase a wide variety of handmade products and unique souvenirs at the Ubud Traditional Art Market. Tourists can explore and express their wonder at the wood carvings, handwoven textiles, and traditional clothing prepared by locals. 

Beyond shopping, the Ubud Market allows visitors a chance to experience the local culture and daily life of Ubud’s residents. Tourists can engage with local artisans, learn about their craft, and watch them demonstrate their skills, such as weaving or carving.

Dedicated to the life and work of Don Antonio Blanco, a celebrated Spanish-Filipino artist who made Bali his home, the Blanco Renaissance Museum overlooks the stunning view of the Campuhan River.

The museum is housed in a grand building that reflects Blanco's flamboyant personality. Inside, visitors can explore galleries showcasing his masterpieces, which often feature romantic themes.

Alongside the paintings, the museum displays personal artifacts, manuscripts, and tools that offer a look into Blanco's artistic journey.

The Bali Zoo, a fantastic destination for families and a fun-filled adventure for kids, combines education, entertainment, and a chance to connect with nature. The zoo shelters over 500 animals - including Sumatran tigers, African lions, orangutans, and sun bears.

Beyond the animals, the Bali Zoo also houses restaurants and the Jungle Splash Waterplay. The cozy Wana Restaurant serves a mix of local and international cuisine, while the water area is ideal for kids to cool down during hot days.

Perfect for couples and families alike, the Campuhan Ridge Walk allows you to explore the ridge that runs between two river valleys - the Wos Rivers.

The trail begins near the Campuhan Bridge, just a short walk from Ubud’s town center. Or, you can start at the Gunung Lebah Temple.

The Campuhan Ridge Walk stretches approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) one way, making it ideal for a leisurely walk, light jog, or morning hike.

The path is relatively flat and well-paved, with the best time to visit recommended as early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.

The Hanging Gardens is a high-end resort, renowned for its infinity pools and views of the Ayung River valley. The resort's unique architecture blends flawlessly with the surrounding jungle; the iconic design creates the illusion of an actual hanging garden. 

The luxury resort is quite expensive, with room rates starting at several hundred dollars per night. However, many guests find the experience well worth the price, given the privacy and once-in-a-lifetime experience it offers.

While the Hanging Gardens is primarily targeted towards couples and honeymooners, it is also suitable for families seeking a luxury retreat.