Ubud is the place in Bali where the modern most meet the traditional. Some might think of it as the “Love” leg of Eat, Pray, Love, the novel that inspired so many to travel the world. That is the reason you will always find the hippie-chic types around here, somehow searching for enlightenment in the middle of the motorbikes’ buzzes. No judgement, as I probably fit that stereotype too. And yes, it has became very touristic, and in addition many foreigners are moving there long-term. But still, the native culture is pretty much alive here, preserving the roots of what makes this place special.
If you have 3 days in Ubud, you can dedicate to its most iconic sights: temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, and maybe even watch the sunrise from Mount Batur. But if you have 5 days or more, you can slow down, take a workshop, pamper yourself at a spa, and let the island work its quiet magic on you.
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Day 1 – Temples, Traditions & a Water Ceremony
Start your trip with something meaningful — a traditional Melukat water purification ceremony. The most famous spot is Tirta Empul Temple, about 30 minutes from central Ubud. A local guide can explain the ritual, help you rent a sarong, and walk you through the steps. You’ll wade into the cool spring water, moving from spout to spout, cleansing your body and mind. It’s a humbling and beautiful way to begin your Bali journey.
Afternoon:
Back in Ubud, spend a few hours temple hunting in the city center. You will be surprised by how many beautiful gems you can find! My favorite is the Dalem temple, and Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati is also worthy not to skip. I also recommend the Agung Rai Museum of Art, which is not only a great way to learn about balinese culture but also a green oasis, perfect to take some afternoon rest.
Evening:
Catch a traditional dance performance at the Ubud Palace – it is so beautiful and touching!
Day 2 – Rice Terraces & Waterfalls
Morning:
Rise early and head to Tegallalang Rice Terraces before the crowds (and heat) arrive. The terraced green hillsides are postcard-perfect, and you can wander along the small paths between paddies. Wear a hat! And don’t forget sunscreen, if you don’t want a t-shirt tan – the sun over there is stronger than you think!
Late Morning to Afternoon:
Waterfall time! You will be craving a refreshing at this point, and Ubud is the perfect place for that.
Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the easiest to reach from Ubud. If you prefer something more tucked away, try Tibumana Waterfall or Kanto Lampo Waterfall for great photo spots. Warning: everybody wants to go there for the same reason, so expect to wait in line for a pic rather than pure refreshing. For a beautiful hidden gem, and probably quitter moment, head to Goa Raja.
Lunch:
Stop at a café overlooking the jungle — Ubud is full of places where you can sip an iced latte with a view that looks like a screensaver. My recommendation for you is the Kumulilir café, which also offers some good photo opportunities.
Evening:
Back in town, stroll through Ubud Art Market for handmade crafts, woven bags, and colorful sarongs. Bargaining is part of the experience — smile, be polite, and don’t be afraid to walk away.
Day 3 – Mount Batur Sunrise Hike & Relaxation
Very Early Morning:
If you’re up for an adventure, today’s the day for the Mount Batur sunrise trek. You’ll be picked up around 2:30 am, drive to the base, and hike under the stars. As the sky turns gold and pink, you’ll look out over Lake Batur and Mount Agung — and feel very glad you traded your sleep for this. You have to trust!
One important tip: wear layers. It’s chilly at the top, but you’ll warm up on the hike.
Afternoon:
Spend your afternoon exploring smaller temples, or take one more ride a bit far from the center to Pura Goa Gajah temple. That is where the iconic Elephant Cave is located. You can do a light walk (I know you are still recovering from the hike this morning) to find a stream by the jungle.
If You Have 4–5 Days: Slow Down & Indulge
With extra days, you can lean into Ubud’s creative and healing side.
Day 4 – Workshops & Hands-On Fun
Ubud is well known for some specific arts, and you can learn them here:
- Cooking class: Learn how to make lawar, sate lilit, and gado-gado. Many classes include a market visit.
- Silver jewelry making: Create your own ring or pendant in a local artisan’s studio.
- Batiking workshop: Try this traditional wax-resist fabric dyeing technique.
Day 5 – Spa Day & Healing Arts
Ubud is synonim with wellness. You could spend an entire day hopping from massage to flower bath to herbal steam room. Specially if you did Mount Batur, take your time and enjoy a balinese spa!
The Monkey Forest: Fun or Ethics Dilemma?
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of Ubud’s most visited spots — a jungle temple complex home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. It’s fun to watch them leap between trees or sneak snacks. But here’s the ethical question: is it good for them? Although I have visited it myself, I didn’t include it in this itinerary because I’m not sure how I felt about it.
While the sanctuary is part conservation area and the monkeys roam freely, human interaction can encourage bad habits — like stealing food or getting aggressive. Yes, they are free and well-treated, but it is still interference on their habitat… If you go, keep your distance, don’t feed them, and secure your belongings. That way, you can enjoy their cuteness without contributing to behavior that harms them in the long run.
Best Time to Visit Ubud
The best time to visit is the dry season from April to October — sunny skies, warm days, and cooler evenings. July and August are peak tourist months, so visit in May, June, or September for fewer crowds.
The wet season (November to March) brings amazing green landscapes and fewer tourists, but expect afternoon downpours. Sometimes, it can be really strong. If you don’t mind the rain, it can be a magical time to visit, specially if you go with time and flexibility.
How to Get to Ubud
The nearest airport is Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, about 1.5 hours from Ubud (depending on traffic). You can arrange:
- Grab: Grab is the main taxi app in Bali. Comfortable and cheaper. Make sure to download the app before traveling. The price should be around IDR 200,000.
- Airport taxi: There will be drivers in the airport as well, charging around IDR 300,000–400,000.
- Shared shuttle: They exist technically, but it is not trivial. You can look to book one online.
How to Get Around Ubud
- Walking: It is easier to walk on the central area of Ubud than it is in Canggu. But don’t expect sidewalks.
- Scooter rental: Around IDR 70,000/day — but only if you’re confident in Bali traffic. It is a very unique traffic system, trust me – you don’t want your first time driving a bike to be here.
- Private driver for the day: Perfect for temple and waterfall hopping.
- Grab or Gojek apps: Affordable ride-hailing for short distances. Depending on your disposition, they can take you in longer rides as well – like 40 min ones. Make sure to leave a good tip.
FAQ – Planning Your Ubud Trip
Is 3 days in Ubud enough?
Yes, 3 days in Ubud is enough to see the main highlights like Tirta Empul Temple, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a waterfall or two, and even a Mount Batur sunrise hike. But if you want to enjoy Ubud’s workshops, spas, and even its vibe, aim for 4–5 days.
What is the best month to visit Ubud?
The best months to visit Ubud are April, May, June, and September. You’ll enjoy dry weather, fewer crowds, and green landscapes without the intense high-season rush of July and August.
How do I get from Denpasar Airport to Ubud?
The easiest way to get from Ngurah Rai International Airport to Ubud is by private driver (around IDR 300,000–400,000). You can also book a shared shuttle or use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek, though travel time may be longer.
How do you get around Ubud?
In central Ubud, you can walk to many attractions. For day trips to temples, rice terraces, and waterfalls, hire a private driver or rent a scooter. Ride-hailing apps are also available for short trips.
Is the Monkey Forest in Ubud ethical?
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a conservation area, and the monkeys roam freely. However, human interaction can lead to unhealthy behavior. If you visit, keep your distance, don’t feed them, and secure your belongings.
I hope this guide was helpful, let me know if it was useful!
