A Day in Ubud – Art, Culture & Nature

 


Welcome to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. Surrounded by lush rice terraces, ancient temples, and an artistic community, Ubud offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning explorer, you’ll find that spending a day here is not enough. Still, in just one day, you can soak in the soul of Ubud through its art, nature, and traditional life.

If you're wondering about the best things to do in Ubud, this blog post covers it all—artistic corners, spiritual sites, local flavors, and nature spots that will leave you in awe. Get ready for a journey through the heart of Bali that connects you with its roots.

As we begin to explore, it’s essential to understand how Ubud fits into the larger picture of Tropical Bali – Exploring the Mountains & Beaches. Unlike the popular southern beach towns like Kuta or Seminyak, Ubud lies in the uplands. Here, mountains rise gently, waterfalls cascade, and the rhythm of life slows down. It’s the serene counterpart to Bali’s bustling coastlines.

Morning: Embracing Ubud’s Spiritual Essence

1. Start Your Day with a Visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Located at the southern end of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is not just a tourist spot—it’s a spiritual, ecological, and cultural site. Home to over 1200 long-tailed macaques, the sanctuary is also dotted with ancient temples and lush greenery.

  • Entry Fee: IDR 80,000 (adults)

  • Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Wander through moss-covered stone paths, greet the monkeys (with caution!), and marvel at temple sculptures hidden within the forest. It’s peaceful yet wild—an experience that captures the essence of Ubud.

2. Explore the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Just a 10-minute walk from the Monkey Forest, the Ubud Palace stands as a symbol of Balinese heritage. Built in the 1800s, this palace is still home to the royal family. Though certain areas are off-limits, visitors can admire the architecture, intricate stone carvings, and traditional Balinese decor.

  • Tip: Come early to avoid crowds and capture great photos.

Late Morning: Dive into Ubud’s Artistic Soul

3. Discover Local Talent at Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)

Right across the palace is the famous Ubud Art Market. It’s a perfect place to shop for handcrafted souvenirs like batik fabrics, silver jewelry, paintings, rattan bags, and wood carvings. More than shopping, this market is an expression of Ubud’s artistic culture.

  • Bargaining is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate respectfully.

4. Visit the Blanco Renaissance Museum

Located on a hill with a sweeping view of the Campuhan River, this museum was the home of Don Antonio Blanco—a Spanish painter who made Bali his muse. His works are passionate, surreal, and often provocative.

  • Entry Fee: IDR 100,000

  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Here, art meets nature. The gardens are tropical, the studio is untouched, and the gallery feels like stepping into another world.

Lunch: A Taste of Traditional Balinese Flavors

5. Eat at a Warung with a View

Try a local warung (family-owned café) offering panoramic views of rice paddies. Warung Bintang or Sari Organik are great picks. Order classics like:

  • Nasi Campur (rice with assorted sides)

  • Bebek Betutu (slow-cooked duck)

  • Tempeh Manis (sweet soy-glazed tempeh)

Pair your meal with a fresh coconut or turmeric juice. It’s a simple yet soul-satisfying experience.

Afternoon: Explore Ubud’s Natural Beauty

6. Walk the Campuhan Ridge

This scenic trail is a must-do. The Campuhan Ridge Walk offers a quiet escape through rice fields and tropical forests. The 2-km path is mostly flat and takes about 45 minutes to complete.

  • Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

Bring your camera, a bottle of water, and wear comfy shoes. Along the way, you’ll pass by charming cafes and artist studios.

7. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

No visit to Ubud is complete without seeing the iconic rice terraces of Tegallalang. These layered green steps are a UNESCO-listed cultural heritage site and showcase traditional Balinese irrigation methods known as Subak.

  • Entry Fee: IDR 15,000

  • Don’t miss the “Love Bali” swing for a panoramic photo op!

Local farmers may offer to guide you through the paddies, and it's worth tipping them for a short walk and stories of their daily lives.

Evening: Unwind with Culture & Wellness

8. Catch a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

Return to Ubud Palace or Saraswati Temple in the evening for a traditional dance performance like Legong or Barong. These dances are centuries-old and are accompanied by a live gamelan orchestra.

  • Shows typically begin at 7:00 PM

  • Tickets: Around IDR 100,000 – 150,000

The colorful costumes, symbolic movements, and rhythmic music transport you into the mystical world of Balinese mythology.

9. Relax with a Spa Treatment

End your day with a soothing Balinese massage. Ubud has numerous spas offering everything from reflexology to flower baths. For luxury, try Karsa Spa or Cantika Zest. For budget-friendly options, local massage parlors also offer excellent service.

Optional Add-Ons If You Have More Time

  • Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) – A 9th-century sanctuary with stone carvings and meditation spots.

  • Bali Swing – For adventure lovers and Instagrammers.

  • Cooking Classes – Learn to prepare traditional dishes using farm-fresh ingredients.

  • Yoga Barn – A haven for wellness seekers with classes, retreats, and healthy meals.

Practical Tips for Exploring Ubud

  • Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

  • Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season)

  • Transportation: Rent a scooter, hire a local driver, or use ride-hailing apps like Gojek

  • Dress Modestly when visiting temples

  • Stay Hydrated and carry sunscreen

Final Thoughts

Ubud is not just a place—it’s an experience. It connects you with art, nature, history, and humanity in a way few destinations do. From temple walks to rice fields, from monkey forests to majestic dance shows, Ubud is a cultural gem in the crown of Bali.

FAQs about Ubud

Q1: Is one day enough to explore Ubud?

One day gives you a beautiful glimpse, but ideally, stay for at least 2–3 days to explore at a relaxed pace.

Q2: Is Ubud suitable for families and kids?

Yes! Places like the Monkey Forest and rice terraces are fun for all ages. Many restaurants also offer kid-friendly menus.

Q3: Is Ubud more expensive than other parts of Bali?

Ubud offers a wide range of options—from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Food, activities, and transport can suit all budgets.

Q4: What’s the vibe of Ubud compared to Bali’s beaches?

Ubud is more spiritual and cultural, while the beaches are laid-back and party-oriented. Both have their unique charm.

Q5: Can I do a day trip to Ubud from Seminyak or Canggu?

Yes, but it’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive each way, so start early and plan well.

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