There are simply a wealth of places to visit in Ubud that it’s difficult to decide. For those who love nature and would like to see a different side of Bali more than just the beaches, then Ubud is a great place to start. It’s also a place famous for its promoting health and detox if you’re a fan of them. There’s just so much Ubud has to offer. Here are some ideas on places you can visit in Ubud.
Visit Pura Taman Saraswati Ubud
The Saraswati Temple in Ubud is one of the few tranquil places located on the major roads of Ubud. In Hinduism, the Goddess of Saraswati is the Goddess of education, a deity this temple is named after. The temple is a small, but gorgeous space with a large lotus pond. You may not be able to get inside the temple’s inner compound. But simply being there and admiring the architecture in a quiet place amidst the busy Ubud is an experience in itself. The place is mostly tranquil and it’s a good place to get away from the busy main roads of Ubud.
Places to visit in Ubud: Air Terjun Tegenungan
The Tegenungan Waterfall is another Ubud attractions that remind you of Bali’s natural charm seemed to be without ends. The Tegenungan Waterfall is located in Sukawati. So if you happen to visit the famed Sukawati art market then stopping by to the waterfalls is a solid option. The place itself can be reached in approximately 30 minutes motorcycle ride from Ubud. The Tegenungan Waterfall is only about 15 meters high. This makes it a popular place for waterfall-jumping activities. Enjoy the surrounding lush greenery that is so different from the Southern Bali with its numerous beaches.
Read more: Bali Off the Beaten Track: Discover Bali Beyond Beaches
Visit the famed Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah literally means “Elephant Cave” because the entrance to the small cave is thought to resemble an elephant. Although you won’t find any elephant statues here. Except for the statue inside that is thought to be Ganesh It’s one of the most popular destinations in Bali. Goa Gajah is one of the most notable historic architectures in Bali dating back to the 11th century. It was discovered in 1923 by a group of Dutch archaeologist. But only decades after that the sacred giant bathing pool was discovered. Both locals and international tourists alike often visit the place and it is particularly busy during the weekends.
Places to visit in Ubud: Tegalalang Rice Terrace
One of the most famous rice terraces in Bali, the Tegalalang rice fields are a delight to view. Remember that this place has become very touristy and as such, hundreds of people flock here every day. Locals took advantage of the fact that it’s popular these days to charge you with virtually anything. That includes taking a photo of the rice field with them on it—even if you didn’t ask them to. Some people sometimes lend their farming prop and ask for you to pay as well. Be a bit more mindful of your surroundings if you don’t like to be asked for money for the little things. Do remember that things like this may happen in popular places to visit in Ubud and Bali in general.
With that said, because of tourism, the Tegalalang rice terraces have many shops and warungs lining the road. You can easily enjoy a meal with a gorgeous view here. Prices would surely be a few times higher than an actual warung (not in a touristy place) in Bali. It’s best to explore Ubud on a scooter to find places that are not as touristy as Tegalalang. Scooter is the most affordable and most convenient means to get around in Bali.
Visit the Ubud Palace and see dance performances
The Ubud Palace is a representative of how Balinese traditional houses are until now, with separate compounds each has different purposes. It’s the resident of the royal family of Ubud. It isn’t exactly a “palace” in its most traditional sense. Some people are surprised that the place is small. Most of the places are often closed from the public. Enjoy the traditional Balinese dance performances in the evening. People would gather for the performance around 6.30 pm and the show starts at 7.30 pm. It’s better to come early as seats are very limited and would be gone within the hour.
Popular places to visit in Ubud: Campuhan Hill
This hill used to be a place that only locals know. It’s now one of the places to visit in Ubud that seemed to be on everyone’s list. The Campuhan Hill of Ubud is quite a well-traveled path that both locals and tourists love to pass through. Enjoy the view at a leisurely pace as the rolling hills and green landscape filled your vision.
Visiting the Campuhan Hill ridge is a great option if you love walking amidst nature. Bali has a very hot climate so keep in mind that early morning or late afternoon around 5 pm – 7 pm is the best time to go. Even 9 am – 11 am in Bali you can feel the heat of the sun quite strongly. So make sure to rise early or plan a solid hour during the time the sun’s going down to get the best view!
Stop by at Blanco Renaissance Museum and Private Residence
For those who wish to see a slightly different art scene in Bali, this is definitely one of the places to visit in Ubud. The Blanco Museum is only 5 – 7 minutes drive away from the Ubud Palace. The architecture makes it easily spotted. The private residence houses the late Don Antonio Blanco. He was a Maestro born in the Philippines whose favorite subject is the nude Balinese women of the past.
The nude Balinese women were notably among the favorites of painters in Bali. Long before Bali is discovered and tourism flourish, the Balinese women are all bare-chested. The Blanco Renaissance Museum in Ubud is a great place to visit for art lovers. The Spanish architecture would greet you from the entrance, mixed with Balinese sculptures. Entrance fee is 50,000 IDR (less than 5 USD at the time of this writing) and it gets you a welcome drink. It’s definitely worth a visit for regular museum-goers.
Read more: Where to Find the Best Souvenirs from Bali
Take a look at the Ubud art market
If you love rattan bags, the Ubud art market seemed to have everything the world has to offer. Numerous rattan works from summer bags, document holders, baskets, kitchenware, find what you like! The market is also conveniently located just across the Ubud Royal Palace. It’s located at the busy Jalan Raya Ubud.
Sometimes it can be overwhelming to be surrounded by the sheer size and business of the market. But if you love the vibrant atmosphere, then it may be one of the perfect places to visit in Ubud for you. Another alternative is the Sukawati traditional market that sells a lot of things like ones in Ubud. The Sukawati art market is closer to reach if you’re from Denpasar or the Kuta area.