5 best things to do in Ubud, Bali? For first-time visitors, the highlights include exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest, walking through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, enjoying the Campuhan Ridge Walk, visiting Tirta Empul Temple, and experiencing Balinese culture through a traditional cooking class. These experiences offer a great mix of Ubud’s nature, spirituality, and local culture.
If you are wondering where to start, here are five of the best things to do in Ubud, Bali.
1. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of Ubud’s most famous attractions. This peaceful forest is home to more than 1,000 long-tailed macaques, ancient temple complexes, and giant banyan trees. Visitors can walk along shaded pathways while exploring the spiritual atmosphere of this unique site.
To enjoy a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when there are fewer crowds. Keep your belongings secure, as the monkeys are known to be curious.
2. Explore the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
No trip to Ubud is complete without visiting the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Located around 25 minutes north of central Ubud, these beautiful green rice fields showcase Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system, which is recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage practice.
The best time to visit is early morning, before tour buses arrive. You can walk through the rice fields, enjoy a coffee with scenic views, or try the popular jungle swings nearby.
Visiting several attractions around Ubud? Hiring a private driver in Bali can be a convenient option, especially if you want to explore multiple places in one day.
3. Walk the Campuhan Ridge
For travelers who enjoy nature, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the best free activities in Ubud. This easy walking trail offers stunning views of green hills, tropical trees, and peaceful valleys. It is especially beautiful at sunrise or in the late afternoon.
The walk takes around 1–2 hours and provides a relaxing escape from the busy streets of central Ubud.
4. Experience Tirta Empul Temple
Tirta Empul Temple is one of Bali’s most important Hindu temples, famous for its sacred spring water purification ritual. Visitors can observe or participate in the traditional cleansing ceremony, which has been practiced for centuries.
Remember to wear appropriate clothing and follow local customs when visiting temples in Bali.
5. Join a Balinese Cooking Class or Cultural Experience
Ubud is not only about beautiful landscapes but also rich Balinese culture. Joining a cooking class is a great way to learn about traditional ingredients and local dishes such as satay, nasi goreng, and lawar. Many experiences also include a visit to a traditional market.
Alternatively, visitors can watch a traditional Legong dance performance, visit the Ubud Art Market, or explore local art galleries.
These are some of the best things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors, especially if you want to experience a mix of Bali’s nature, culture, and spiritual traditions. You can also combine several of these attractions into a day trip around Ubud to make the most of your time.
6. Is Ubud Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Ubud offers a perfect combination of culture, nature, spirituality, and adventure. Most travelers spend two to four days in Ubud to fully explore its attractions and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you are visiting Bali for the first time or returning for another trip, Ubud remains one of the island’s must-visit destinations.
7. FAQ: Things to Do in Ubud, Bali
Q: What are the best things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors?
A: The best things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors include exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest, visiting the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, walking along Campuhan Ridge, visiting Tirta Empul Temple, and experiencing Balinese culture through a traditional cooking class. These attractions offer a good mix of nature, culture, and local experiences.
Q: How many days do you need in Ubud?
A: Two to three days is usually enough to experience the main attractions in Ubud at a comfortable pace. This gives you time to explore the rice terraces, temples, Monkey Forest, cultural experiences, and nearby attractions without rushing.
Q: How do you get around Ubud?
A: You can get around Ubud by scooter, taxi, ride-hailing services, or private driver. If you plan to visit several attractions in different parts of Ubud in one day, a private driver can be a convenient option because you do not need to worry about navigating between locations or parking.
