Best Things to Do in Ubud

Wildlife Park$$$$$

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Alongside Ubud's urban center is a section of pure jungle, home to over 1,000 Balinese monkeys. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is located on spiritually-significant ground, constructed around 3 Hindu temples dating back to the 14th century. While tourists delight in watching the furry critters frolic and get into all sorts of mischief, measures are in place to protect visitors and also preserve the monkeys’ natural way of life.

PalaceFree

Ubud Palace

The definitive example of traditional Balinese culture and art located within the heart of Ubud. The palace is the traditional home of the Sukawati royal family who still reside in the rear of the compound today. The front of the compound is open for visitors to wander and marvel at the Hindu-inspired architecture, sculptures and landscaped tropical gardens.

Religious$$$$$

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

An 11th century place of meditation, now made of 2 parts. 1 man-made cave contains small offering alters. Continue downstairs to a Hindu temple. Discover relics of stone carvings, bathing pools and water fountains. The site is full of moss-covered rocks with Indiana Jones vibes.

Nature$$$$$

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Part of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Bali Province Cultural Landscape. Stunning views with plenty of photo opportunities on giant swings and bird nests. Watch farmers and see the traditional irrigation system, Subak, at work.

TrailFree

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Ubud's jungle-like greenery, deep valleys, trickling rivers, and wooden chalets are best admired from Campuhan Ridge Walk, a 1.7-kilometer-long (1-mile) trail. The walk is inclusive for all fitness levels, with the most difficult section being the steep southern steps up the Wos river valley to the start of the ridge. The trail winds above two jungle-filled valleys as the East and West Wos rivers rush towards their confluence with the Cerik River, below the beginning of the trail.

MarketFree

Ubud Art Market

Artisan markets selling locally-made products. Items include clothing, jewelry, homewares, and souvenirs. Venders never offer their best price first, expect to have barter for a bargain.

CulturalFree

Alas Harum Bali

A 1-stop-shop for Bali’s most iconic tourist attractions. The upper level is a coffee plantation, specializing in Luwak coffee, made from coffee beans discarded in the droppings of civet cats. Visitors can see the coffee-making process from plant to roasting to sampling a range of hot beverages. The café area looks out over an Instagrammer’s playground, with giant swings soaring over traditional rice terraces, large stone sculptures, and even a zipline course.