34 Best Things To Do in Ubud: Culture, Adventure & Food (2024)

Things to do Ubud

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Not only are there countless things to do in Ubud itself, but its central location makes it perfect for further adventures. Must-see places like Mount Batur and Lempuyang Temple are much closer to Ubud than Canggu or Uluwatu.

People often compare Ubud and Canggu, describing Canguu as more ‘liveable’ and Ubud as a place for ‘tourists’. Yes, it does feel touristic and it has done for quite some time. That’s not a bad thing: it’s a great spot for a first 2 week Bali itinerary because you can reach almost anywhere easily.

If you don’t like the hard-sell of tours and souvenirs in the heart of town, nip out to the countryside and see what this island paradise is all about!

BALI ESSENTIALS

Bali SIM card (30 days, 6GB)

Copy of Lonely Planet Bali

Pre-book your airport to hotel transfer

Accommodation: Hotels on Booking.com // hostels on Hostelworld

Ubud activities & tours: GetYourGuide / Viator

Travel insurance: True Traveller (European travellers) / Hey Mundo (other nationalities) / Safety Wing (digital nomads)

Read next: the perfect 3 day Ubud itinerary

How to get around Ubud

Hire a scooter: If you feel confident, hiring one is the very best way to get around since there’s no public transport and the government discourages apps like Grab and Uber. Book your scooter here.

Taxi tours: If you don’t want to drive a scooter, consider taking taxi tours. If you can get a group together, they become affordable. Book a half-day tour or full-day tour. Get your money’s worth by packing in as many Ubud activities as possible!

Day tour: I’m a fan of GetYourGuide tours. They offer tours to all the attractions near Ubud as well as fun, cultural tours like cooking classes and craft activities. They’re also a good way to meet other people when travelling solo. You can also compare tours with Viator and Airbnb Experiences.

How long to spend in Ubud

How long is a piece of string, and how long does your Southeast Asia itinerary allow for? You could explore the main things to do in Ubud in two days. For a day trip to Lempuyang and Tirta Gangga temples, add an extra day. Add one more for Mount Batur.

I stayed for three weeks and explored at my leisure while working online. You’d need at least that long to get through all the great brunches in Ubud!

Where to stay in Ubud

There’s a huge range of accommodation options for budget backpacking hostels and also nicer ones for flashpackers, alongside luxury resorts and homey guesthouses. It just depends on your travel style.

Hostels:

  • Greenview Inn – for a relaxed hostel in traditional Balinese style, this is a friendly place for budget and solo travellers in Bali. Bunks have privacy curtains, chargers and lockers. Check availability from $6.
  • The Onion Collective – perfect for flashpacking, this gorgeous hostel is built in Balinese style with elegant details, a pool and work-friendly areas. Don’t miss the smoothie bowls! Check availability from $10.

Hotels:

  • Budget hotel – Balimas Guest House: stay here for comfy double and twin rooms with swimming pool access, and let the friendly team serve you tasty breakfasts. Check availability from $15pn.
  • Midrange hotel – Jati Cottage: for a peaceful escape with rice terrace views and swimming pool access, this is a lovely option close to all the key places in Ubud. Check availability from $50pn.
  • Luxury accommodation – Sebali Resort: for an unforgettable experience, stay in a 5* villa with spectacular nature views. The enormous rooms are enhanced by Balinese decor and an infinity swimming pool. Check availability here from $200pn.

Browse all hotels on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld.

Things to do in Ubud

Okay so without further ado, here are my top activities in Ubud, Indonesia. Enjoy!

1. Visit the market… before 7.30am

Morning market Ubud things to do

I hate it when blogs persuade me to do things at ungodly hours but I know it’s the right thing to do. On my last day in Vietnam, I went to a 5am morning market and vowed not to do it again soon. On my second day in town, Wayan offered to take me to the local Ubud morning market… at 7am!

Not only is the fruit cheaper at that time, he told me, but it’s a better place to see local life.

Pineapples at Market

Visit before 9am as after that, the market is full of tourists and sarongs. The fruit goes out and the prices go up! Beforehand, it’s a fantastic place to see in Ubud with colourful religious offerings, fresh fruit and local food.

Venture deep into the inside section for some of the cheapest local cuisine you’ll find. Whether you can stomach meat and rice before 9am is up to you, of course…

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud No.14 Kecamatan.

2. Visit Ubud Palace

Balinese Palace
One of the more popular places to visit in Ubud
Gargoyle statue

If you’re new to Bali, a free and quick thing to do in Ubud is visit Ubud Palace. It’s a good introduction to Balinese architecture with its intricate details and gargoyles full of expression. You don’t need to spend long here but it’s a good spot to start your Ubud sightseeing.

Address: Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Kecamatan.

Opening times: 7am-5pm daily.

Entry price: free.

Foodie tip – it’s right beside Milk & Madu, known for healthy brunches, speciality coffee and fantastic pizzas. How they do so many things well, I’ll never know!

3. Take the plunge at Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple

My early morning trip to Tirta Empul was probably my favourite experience in Bali. If you have just one day in town, I’d recommend you start it early by dipping into the holy water baths at this sacred site.

Tirta Empul Water Temple Ubud attractions
A fun and cultural thing to do in Ubud

Tirta Empul is a temple complex built around a mountain spring that locals have been visiting for centuries. The holy water pool is the main focus and today, locals and tourists alike climb in for the experience. The Balinese will be busy praying but they welcome visitors, so jump in and join them!

My Airbnb host, Wayan, took me for the opening time of 7am and we’d explored and left before any other tourists arrived. Apparently, by 11am the pools are totally rammed.

There are lockers for your valuables whilst you’re in the water. You need to be wearing a sarong but if you don’t have one, they’re available to rent.

Tirta Empul Water Temple

Address: Jl. Tirta, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar.

Entrance fee: just 50,000 IDK ($3).

Opening times: 7am-5pm.

Related activity: tour to Tirta Empul & Gunung Kawi temple

4. Do some yoga

Yoga is one of the most popular things to do in Ubud; some would say it wouldn’t be a trip to Bali without a session! The main place to get all Eat Pray Love is The Yoga Barn where there are daily sessions for all levels of ability.

It’s the only yoga studio I’ve been to but I also like the look of the Yoga House up in the northern rice fields. Prices are similar (135,000 IDR/$9 a session) and the location looks more peaceful.

5. Wander the Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Tegallalang Rice Terraces what to do

Drive 20 minutes from busy Ubud and you’ll be surrounded by greenery. The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are probably the overall most popular thing to do in Ubud and you won’t want to miss them… Saying that, they’re high on everyone’s Southeast Asia bucket list and therefore busy every day!

The entry fee is low at 15,000 IDR but you’ll have to walk through a ‘donation’ station (where you don’t really have a choice but to pay something) lined with overpriced ice cream stands.

Then there are the various swings that charge 100,000 IDR per five-minute go. Basically, it’s a bit of a tourist trap but still cheaper than the Bali Swing!

Tegallalang Rice Terraces Ubud what to do

All that said, this is one of the top attractions in Ubud. If you miss the rice terraces, you’ll be forever answering ‘no’ when people ask you about your time in Bali. We wouldn’t want that, right? As with all the Ubud sightseeing activities, visit early to beat the crowds.

Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561.

Opening times: 7am-6pm.

Entry fee: 15,000 IDR ($1), additional 5,000 IDR for parking. Have small bills for additional tip stations.

6. Take a cooking class

Bali cooking class
Eating my heart out

Read next: complete Bali food guide

What an absolute spread! I love cooking classes so I knew I wanted to do one in Bali. Experience tells me you end up with a lot more food when doing a cooking class solo than in a pair or group. Do what you will with that info!

Ubud cooking class

For a fun activity in Ubud, look no further than Siboghana, my favourite local warung. The family who run it are so kind and friendly, plus the food is fantastic. For Rp. 350,000, you make four dishes from the menu, unless you choose nasi campur which counts as three dishes.

The price includes two drinks and a slice of banana bread making it better value than most classes in Ubud.

They don’t have an online presence so if you’d rather book something in advance, browse cooking classes on GetYourGuide.

7. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Campuhan Ridge Walk

I donned my trainers and backpack to spend a couple of hours at Campuhan Ridge Walk which in retrospect was unnecessary. You can do the walk in 20 minutes and plenty of people were doing it in flip-flops. Some people will tell you to go all the way to Karsa Cafe before turning back.

Honestly, after the main ridge section pictured, you’re just walking on a small street with shops and cafes so I think that’s just a marketing ploy.

Views of forest Campuhan Ridge Walk
Lizard at Campuhan Ridge Walk Ubud attractions

I’d suggest doing a quick trip to the Campuhan Ridge Walk early in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cool. Don’t set aside a half day or expect to feel totally off-grid, but it’s a fun thing to do in Ubud with lovely views.

Address: Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan.

Entry fee: free.

Opening times: 24 hours but don’t go in the dark.

8. Hang out at Clear Cafe

Colourful interior Clear Cafe

There are so many gorgeous cafes in Ubud but one of my favourites is Clear Cafe. As I ducked past a Ganesha statue and through the ornate circular door at the entrance, I knew I was in for a treat.

Read next: Where to find the best coffee in Ubud

Not only is the food really good, the comfy cushions and colourful details make for a great chill or work sesh.

9. Climb Mount Batur

Hiking Mount Batur sunrise what to do near Ubud

How stunning is the view from the top of Mount Batur? Reaching this point requires a disgustingly early wake up (the 2am kind) and a fairly tough hike to the top… but it’s so worth it!

Read next: Trekking Mount Batur for sunrise

Mount Batur is a 1.5-hour away but it’s much easier to reach than from most other places in Bali. Your easiest option is taking a tour which will include pick-up, drop-off, breakfast and your trekking guides.

Book a classic tour including a Bali coffee plantation on the way back, a tour including a swim in natural hot springs or, if hiking isn’t your bag, a Jeep tour to the summit.

10. Sample the coconut ice cream at Tukies

Tukies coconut ice cream

On a hot day when I was tired, Tukies was my oasis. I genuinely think it was the best coconut ice cream I’ve ever had. It was topped with fresh coconut meat and dried coconut chips.

11. Take a day trip to Lempuyang Temple (East Bali)

Lempuyang Temple attractions near ubud
A famous – although fake – Ubud attraction

Lempuyang Temple is an ancient mountain temple most famous for the Gates of Heaven with their view of Mount Agung on a clear day.

Read next: Visiting the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple

Set off early if you hope to pose at Lempuyang’s Gates of Heaven. We arrived at 9am to wait for 30 minutes in a queue which had doubled in size by the time we left! Crazy stuff.

We hired a cheap and cheerful scooter and did the trip independently but you could also arrange a taxi tour from Ubud or take a dedicated Lempuyang Temple day tour including two other temples and a buffet lunch. 

Address: Jl. Pura Telaga Mas Lempuyang, Tri Buana, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852.

Opening times: 7am-5pm.

Entry fee: 100,000 IDR ($7).

12. Visit Tirta Gangga Water Palace (East Bali)

Lempuyang from ubud things to do

Visiting Tirta Gangga is one of the best things to do near Ubud. This serene water palace features carved stepping stones across manmade ponds filled with fish. Rather than an ancient temple, it was built in the 1940s by a former raj of the Karangasem regency for the royals to relax and unwind in beautiful surroundings.

There’s a public pool at the back so don’t forget your swimwear if you fancy a dip. Even if you don’t, this lovely complex is one of the loveliest attractions near Ubud.

Tirta Gangga is a 20-minute drive from Lempuyang Temple in East Bali so consider visiting them as part of the same trip, by scooter, taxi tour or as part of a Lempuyang & Tirta Gangga organised tour.

Address: Jalan Raya Abang Desa Adat, Ababi, Kec. Abang, Kabupaten Karangasem, Bali 80852.

Entry fee: 50,000 IDR ($3) and entry to the swimming area costs another 20,000 IDR.

Opening times: 8am-5pm.

13. Visit the Monkey Forest – or not!

Monkey Forest bali

Okay, this photo wasn’t taken at the Monkey Forest (I snapped it at Mount Batur) but this guy is probably one of their cousins. I visited the Monkey Forest during my first visit to Bali in 2016 and those critters are intense, climbing all over you and occasionally biting people. Not something the nurse would recommend!

I’m not sure the way they’re baited with food for the tourists is particularly ethical either. I passed this time around.

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan.

Opening times: 9am-5pm.

Entry fee: 80,000 IDR ($5).

14. Pop in to Saraswati Temple

Saraswati Temple
An Ubud sightseeing essential

For a quick and free thing to do in central Ubud, pop into Saraswati Temple. It’ll be busy unless you visit early but the temple is very pretty and surrounded by serene lily pads. Spend 10 or 15 minutes wandering around and snapping photos.

It’s been around since Ubud was a small, holy village never having been visited by a Westerner before… The things it must have seen!

Lily pad Saraswati Temple

Address: Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571.

Opening times: 7am-5pm.

Entry fee: Free.

15. Take a trip to North Bali

north bali day trip

Northern Bali is a region often forgotten, but it shouldn’t be! It’s full of treasures like hidden waterfalls, natural features and lesser-visited temples such as Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Temple and Banjar Hot Springs. The best way to visit from Ubud is with a North Bali day tour.

Read next: 16 best things to do in North Bali

16. Try Balinese cuisine at a local warung

Yes, the smoothie bowls and coffee culture are on point in Bali but you should really get stuck into the delicious Indonesian food, especially since a quarter of the price if you eat in the right places!

Gado gado balinese food
Eat gado gado as often as possible

Read next: The 9 best warungs in Ubud

One of the best places to go in Ubud for local food is Siboghana where I did the cooking class mentioned above. This family-run restaurant set in a peaceful garden serve delicious home-cooked veggie meals. Most are less than a dollar!

17. See the Kekak Fire Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud

Kekak Fire Dance at Pura Dalem fun things to do ubud bali

Funny story – I only went to this cultural show to meet a friend but in the last-minute rush we never found each other. I ended up watching it by myself and got a bit bored, but I have a terrible attention span so other people might enjoy it.

Tickets are 100,000 IDR ($6) and you should arrive 30 minutes before (no need to book, just turn up at Pura Dalem). Make sure to get there at least 15-20 minutes to get a good seat.

Pura Dalem Ubud is also lovely in the day!

Entrance is Rp. 10,000 and not many tourists seem to visit (maybe because it’s far smaller than the other temples?) so I had it virtually to myself early one morning. The giant tree roots creeping over the temples were almost Angkor Wat-like.

Pura Dalem Ubud

18. Eat brunch at Zest

Zest is the mother of all plant-based cafes. Massive coconut, mango and creamy chocolate pancakes… dragonfruit carpaccio…. Can I just move in?

This cafe on top of a hill is worth visiting for the aesthetics alone. The exterior resembles a temple while the spacious interior is full of colourful murals and plants. It doubles up as a great workspace if you’re doing the digital nomad thing like me.

Read next: Where to find the best brunch in Ubud

19. Visit Goa Gajah (The Elephant Temple)

Goa Gajah attractions in Ubud bali

The Elephant Cave Temple is a 10-minute drive from town and disclaimer: there are no elephants there. The first thing you see when you enter is the famous face built carved into the rock. You can walk through the mouth to a small, not particularly exciting shrine.

For me, the highlight was the lovely nature walk down some steps and into the forest. Find small temples, waterfalls and lily pads. The whole site will probably take you a little over an hour making it a quick addition to your Ubud sightseeing plans.

Address: Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar Regency.

Opening times: 24 hours.

Entry fee:
15,000 IDR ($1).

20. Spend an afternoon in the rice fields

The Tegellalang Rice Terraces are incredible but very busy: not the kind of place you’d spend a whole afternoon. One of my favourite days in Ubud was spent eating, blogging and chilling in the rice fields towards the north of town.

Pizza in rice fields

Read next: A day cafe-hopping in Ubud rice fields

I had lunch at Cafe Pomegranate, a chilled little cafe with beautiful surroundings and views.

21. Find the ancient carvings at Gunung Kawi 

Carvings at Gunung Kawi

If you’re not totally sick of temples already, take a trip to Gunung Kawi, a 35-minute drive from central Ubud. If you’re visiting Tirta Empul, it makes sense to combine the two as they’re just five minutes apart.

Gunung Kawi Temple

Gunung Kawi is an 11th-century temple with 10 shrines carved into the rock face. The whole site temple is worth a visit with gorgeous rice field views. The only annoying bit is climbing up and down a million stairs lined with souvenirs and touristy cafes.

When you arrive in the quiet village you’ll think you’ve found a totally hidden spot – not quite! It’s still one of the most worthwhile things to do in Ubud so I’d recommend braving the stairs and hard sell 😉

Note – there are two results that come up when you Google Gunung Kawi. You want Candi Tebing Gunung Kawi rather than Gunung Kawi Sebatu.

gunung kawi places to visit ubud

Related Ubud activity: tour to Gunung Kawi & Tirta Empul

22. Tegenungan Waterfall 

Tegenungan Waterfall 

Flanked by grassy cliffs, this 25m waterfall packs a punch. Like many famous places to visit in Ubud, this famous waterfall is known for the crowds, so head there early for a private swim in the plunge pool below the idyllic falls. Expect thunderous amounts of spray if you visit in the rainy season! 

While I’d avoid buying pricey souvenirs from Ubud tourist attractions, it’s a nice place to grab a cold drink with a view over the fall. However, at busy times the swarms of people can ruin the ambience.

In recent years, locals have constructed several ‘photo spots’ around the falls such as bird nests, a swing and colourful frames. So while Tegenungan Waterfall is stunning, be prepared for an artificial element.

On the steps down to the waterfall, don’t miss the second smaller waterfall on the left. This hidden cascade has a more secluded jungle feel.

Address: Jl. Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh, Kec. Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80581, Indonesia.

Opening times: 6.30am-6.30pm.

Entry price: 15,000 IDR ($1) for adults or 10,000 IDR ($0.67) for children. Buy tickets at the ticket counter in the parking area. Take additional small bills for drinks or to access higher viewing platforms looking down on the falls. 

Related activity: Ubud spectacular waterfalls tour

23. Kanto Lampo Waterfall

If you’re looking for unusual things to do near Ubud, Kanto Lampo may fit the bill. It was a hidden gem until not long ago, but it’s admittedly become more busy recently.

The path to the falls is beautiful, with vines overhead and a gentle river carving through the rock. It’s a bit of a scramble down the rocks when you reach the waterfall, so watch your step as it can be slippy.

What’s fun about Kanto Lampo is that you can wade through the water at the bottom and sit below the falls. Surrounded by nature and far from tourist stalls, it feels more peaceful than Tegunungen.

Please note that there might be a local offering to take tourist photos for a small fee! Thankfully, he had everyone giggling with his pose suggestions, so even those of us who declined didn’t mind waiting. 

Address: Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513.

Opening times: 7am-5.30pm.

Entry price: 10,000 IDR ($0.67). Buy tickets from the counter in the parking area opposite the waterfall entrance.

Related activity: Kanto Lampo & Blue Lagoon tour

24. Tibumana Waterfall

Tibumana Waterfall ubud places to go

Take a winding path across bamboo bridges and impressive greenery to reach the underrated Tibumana Waterfall. The natural pool below is relatively shallow and perfect for swimming.

Shaded by the lush jungle scenery, Tibumana Waterfall is often touted as Bali’s ‘best-kept secret’. Although the recent buzz is sure to bring in the crowds, unless it gets seriously restructured, it’s unlikely to bring in as many groups as other Ubud attractions. This natural setting has too much gorgeous foliage for many stalls.

Address: Jl. Setra Agung, Apuan, Kec. Susut, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80661.

Opening times: 7am – 6pm

Entry price: 15,000 IDR ($1) per person.

25. Go for a local massage or spa day

If you need something to soothe your muscles, why not go for a massage? Not only is it budget-friendly, but Balinese massage is a luxurious way to treat yourself on holiday. From reflexology and quick head & shoulders massages to 2-hour full-body massages, costs range from $6 to $100 for a full spa day. 

I’d recommend checking reviews in advance as there is a vast difference in quality. You can get everything from a private massage room in a decked-out spa to a rundown spot with a single room of masseuses.

The spas often offer more beauty and wellness treatments too. Perfect if you require a pick-me-up or self-care during your Southeast Asia travels.

Browse Ubud spas

26. Penglipuran Bamboo Forest

Bamboo Forest

Located behind the temple in Penglipuran Traditional Village, the Bamboo Forest is a quiet way to avoid Ubud’s crowds and cool off beneath the shaded bamboo canopy. It might not be one of the most impressive sights in Bali, but it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Address: Jl. Penglipuran, Kubu, Kec. Bangli, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80661.

Opening times: 24 hours.

Entry price: free (after the entrance to the village).

Related tour: Penglipuran Village and Bamboo Forest day trip

27. Bali Swing

bali swing ubud activities
An expensive but fun activity in Ubud

So, you’ve seen the photos from the Bali Swing and want to check it out for yourself? Fair enough.

Many of us avoid this ‘Instagrammable’ location and not just because it’s become synonymous with ‘going somewhere just to take a photo.’ But, honestly, you do you! And being on a giant swing DOES sound fun. The problem? This activity is outrageously overpriced.

At $35 (!), this is one of the priciest activities in Ubud. Since it only lasts a few minutes, you may wonder if it’s worth it. Still, if you visit, enjoy the lush green views of palm trees, distant rice fields, and various viewing platforms alongside the swing.

Address: Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352.

Opening times: 8am-5pm.

Entry price: Around 525,000 IDR ($35). Tours often include transport to and from Ubud. 

Related activity: Bali swing tickets & tours

28. Downhill Volcano Bike Tours

Cycling from Kintamani volcano down to the rice terraces below, this tour is a fun and alternative way to enjoy Bali’s ancient volcanic scenery. As the name suggests, the ride is downhill and easy enough for amateur cyclists.

Before visiting local rice fields and villages, you’ll get magnificent views from the top of the Kintamani volcano over Mount Batur and its crater lake. For active things to do in Ubud, it’s a winner!

Many Ubud tourist offices offer bike tours, so be sure to compare prices in-store or online. One of the top-rated companies is Bali Eco Cycling, whose mission is to provide a fun day out that educates on the ‘real Bali’.

Opening times: 7am-8.30pm.

Price: From 550,000 IDR ($37).

29. Agung Rai Museum of Art

Agung Rai Museum of Art

A few galleries around Ubud are worth visiting to get more information about the local culture. In addition, the museums are a great rainy day activity in the wet season and an excellent way to cool off year-round.

Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) is a cultural gem in the heart of town. You can easily spend 1-2 hours enjoying the exhibits here. The gallery is devoted to preserving Balinese art and culture alongside developing it with a new generation of locals.

The collection includes traditional and contemporary arts, with both permanent and temporary exhibitions. In addition, live dance and music performances take place regularly, putting ARMA at the forefront of Balinese cultural heritage. 

Address: Jalan Raya Pengosekan, Gianyar, Bali 80571.

Opening times: 9am-6pm.

Entry price: 100,000 IDR ($6.70), inclusive of a beverage and snack.

30. Neka Art Museum

Established in 1982, this gallery contains a selection of artwork from both Balinese artists and ex-pats. Neka Art Museum also contains information boards about the history of art in Bali and how it has developed over the decades.

Address: Jalan Raya Sanggingan Campuhan, Kedewatan, Kecamatan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571.

Opening times: 9am – 5pm

Entry price: 75,000 IDR ($5) or free for children under 12.

31. Sound Healing at the Pyramids of Chi

Formed mainly of two towering pyramids, this distinctive wellness centre is surrounded by green fields, ponds and palm trees. The idyllic setting has become home to sound healing and breath meditation.

There are various sound healing techniques and experiences to try at the Pyramids of Chi. So if you’re at a loose end wondering what to do in Ubud, this is the perfect spot to try something new whether you’re a wellness fanatic or just intrigued.

Address: Jalan Kelebang Moding No. 22 Banjar Bentuyung, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571.

Opening times: 10am-8pm.

Entry price: Free to enter the cafe and gardens or 300,000 IDR ($20) to take part in an ancient sound healing session.

32. Eat vegan food

Bali is a fantastic destination for vegan travellers, and there are many great places in Ubud to try vegan food no matter your diet. From quirky cafes to traditional warungs, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

I ate my way around Ubud’s warungs to try as many authentic dishes as possible. They’re also the best option for budget travellers, with full meals costing less than a couple of dollars.

My favourite vegan spots include the buffet at 9 Angels (Jl. Suweta) with a strong Wi-Fi connection, Siboghana Warung (Jl. Made Lebah) for all-vegan homecooked meals, and Sawobali Cake & Coffee Shop (Jl. Sukma Kesuma).

33. Drink coffee

While not as famous for cafes and restaurants as Canggu, Ubud still brings the goods regarding quality coffee. Some of the best include Ubud Coffee Roastery (Jl. Goutama Sel) for delicious coffee and speedy Wi-Fi, Gangga Coffee (Jl. Raya Andong) for colourful wall art and speciality beverages, and Sawobali Cake & Coffee Shop for vegan treats.

Read next: the best coffee shops in Ubud

34. Ubud Night Markets

Night Markets
Gianyar Night Market

Also known as Sayan Night Market, this local market is a local hangout often missed by tourists. However, Gianyar Night Market nearby is set up more specifically for travellers, so ensure you end up at the right one. It’s an excellent place to try low-cost local delicacies and sweet treats, selling cheap clothes or unique knickknacks.

Address: Jl. Raya Tebongkang No. 39, Gianyar, Bali 80571.

Opening times: 5-11pm.

Visiting the Ubud attractions early

Because I spent three weeks in town working from my laptop, I was able to visit most of the attractions on different days, all early in the morning. If you have just a couple of days to see all the sights, that obviously won’t be possible – but if you can go early, do.

After 9am, many of the tourist places in Ubud are packed out for the day. I’d recommend going before breakfast to the places you especially want to see and photograph.


Finally… enjoy Ubud! It’s a place where you can be completely indulgent on holiday, or get stuck into the culture for a totally different look at the world. Or you can mix it up and do both… It’s entirely up to you.

Have you been to Bali already? I hope you have a better idea of what to do in Ubud… Feel free to drop any other suggestions in the comments!

Thanks for reading my Ubud guide!

Check out my other Bali & Asia posts:

Ubud blogs:

Canggu blogs:

Nusa Islands:

See you next time for more adventures,

Rose

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Ps. Liked my guide to the best things to do in Ubud? Pin it for later!

Bali useful links

Flights – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going.

Stay connected with E-sim data plans that don’t require delivery or collection; just scan the QR code.

In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Copy of Lonely Planet Bali.

I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.

To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters, a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets.

For Ubud activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours.

Need travel insurance? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote.

For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing.

Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

2 thoughts on “34 Best Things To Do in Ubud: Culture, Adventure & Food (2024)

  1. Sandy says:

    Really great post! I wrote a similar guide to Ubud after spending a few months there last year and I’d love to mention that Tibumana Waterfall is also a beautiful place to visit near Ubud (probably my favourite waterfall in Bali!). I’ve never heard of Gangga Coffee so just added it to my list to check out when we’re back in Ubud. Thanks for sharing <3

  2. Madhu says:

    Loved this list..during our visit to Ubud we could see some of the things you mentioned.hope to cover the rest next time

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