Ubud

Overview

While the coast gets the surf crowd, Ubud has built its reputation on Bali's inland side - a town wrapped in rice terraces and jungle ravines, with a genuine, ongoing Balinese Hindu culture running underneath the yoga studios and juice bars. Temple ceremonies happen constantly, often visible right from the street.

Getting There

Most travelers fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) near Denpasar, then take a private car or hired driver about 90 minutes north to Ubud, depending on traffic.

Top Experiences

• Walk the Tegallalang Rice Terraces early morning, before both the heat and the tour groups arrive
• Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, home to several troops of long-tailed macaques and a genuinely atmospheric temple complex
• Take a traditional Balinese dance performance at the Ubud Palace in the evening
• Hike or bike out to the Campuhan Ridge Walk at sunrise for views over the surrounding valleys

Local tip: If you see a ceremony taking place at a temple, you're often welcome to observe respectfully from the edges - just dress modestly and ask before taking photos of participants.

Food to Try

Look for babi guling (Balinese suckling pig) if you eat pork, nasi campur for a well-rounded sampler plate, and fresh coconut straight from a roadside stand. Ubud's cafe scene is also genuinely excellent for smoothie bowls and plant-based food.

Practical Info

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Getting around: Hire a driver for the day for temple- and terrace-hopping; scooters are common but traffic is chaotic
• Dress: A sarong is required at most temples - many rent them at the entrance
• Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water