Ubud is a town in the hills of Bali, Indonesia, known for its traditional art, dance, and crafts. The area is surrounded by green rainforests and terraced rice fields, along with many Hindu temples and shrines. Famous ancient sites include Goa Gajah, with its carved cave, and Gunung Kawi, known for its stone shrines. Ubud is full of yoga centers, healthy cafes, and art galleries. Local museums like Neka and Agung Rai show both traditional and modern Balinese art. Visitors can watch Balinese dance at the Royal Palace. At the Ubud Monkey Forest, monkeys roam freely around the jungle and old temples. Nearby villages like Mas, Celuk, and Batubulan are known for wood carving, jewelry making, and stone sculpture.
Ubud – places to visit in Ubud
Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is a lush sanctuary in Padangtegal, Ubud.
It is home to over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed monkeys (Macaca fascicularis).
The forest also has ancient temples and winding pathways through tall trees.
Visitors can watch monkeys in their natural setting.
It’s a peaceful place that blends nature, wildlife, and culture.
The forest is an important spiritual and conservation site.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
Goa Gajah is an ancient temple site located near Ubud.
It was built in the 9th century and served as a place of meditation.
The entrance is carved with faces and figures in stone.
Inside the cave are small shrines and a bathing pool.
The site is surrounded by lush greenery and stone relics.
It is both a historical and spiritual destination.
Puri Lukisan Museum
Puri Lukisan Museum is the oldest art museum in Bali.
It is located in the heart of Ubud.
The museum displays traditional Balinese paintings and wood carvings.
It showcases works from local and well-known artists.
The garden setting makes the experience calm and inspiring.
It helps visitors learn about Balinese culture and creativity.
Saraswati Temple (Ubud Water Palace)
Saraswati Temple is a beautiful temple in central Ubud.
It is dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and arts.
The temple features a lotus pond and elegant carvings.
Visitors walk across a pathway surrounded by blooming flowers.
The temple often hosts traditional dance performances.
It’s a peaceful and artistic place to explore.
Tirta Empul
Tirta Empul is a sacred water temple near Tampaksiring, Bali.
It is known for its holy spring water used for purification rituals.
Balinese Hindus visit to bathe in the cleansing pools.
The temple complex includes traditional shrines and pools.
Visitors can also enjoy views of nearby rice terraces.
It’s one of Bali’s most spiritual and serene spots.
Gunung Kawi
Gunung Kawi is an ancient temple complex in Tampaksiring.
It was built in the 11th century along the Pakerisan River.
The site features 10 large shrines carved into cliff walls.
Surrounded by rice fields and lush jungle, it’s very scenic.
A stone stairway leads down to the peaceful valley.
It is both a historic and spiritual place to visit.
Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace, or Puri Saren Agung, is in the center of Ubud.
It was once the home of the royal family of Ubud.
The palace features traditional Balinese architecture and art.
Visitors can admire ornate carvings and gardens.
Cultural events and dance shows are held in the courtyard.
It’s a key spot for experiencing local traditions.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan Waterfall is located near Ubud in Gianyar.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush green jungle.
It’s a great place for a refreshing dip or nature photos.
A short hike leads down to the falls and pool.
There are cafés and viewpoints nearby for relaxing.
It’s one of the most visited waterfalls in Bali.
Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal
This temple is part of the Ubud Monkey Forest area.
It is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
The temple is surrounded by tall trees and jungle.
Monkeys often roam the temple grounds freely.
The structure features detailed stone carvings.
It is a sacred place for ceremonies and worship.
Batuan Temple
Batuan Temple is a traditional Balinese Hindu temple.
It is known for its detailed stone carvings and art.
Visitors must wear a sarong to enter the temple grounds.
The temple is used by local villagers for ceremonies.
It is rich in history and full of Balinese character.
A peaceful and cultural site to experience Bali’s heritage.
Best time to visit Ubud
The best time to visit Ubud is between May and September.
This is the dry season, so the weather is sunny and pleasant.
It’s a great time for exploring temples and rice fields.
Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are more enjoyable.
There’s less rain, so travel plans are easier to follow.
It’s the perfect season to enjoy Ubud’s natural beauty.
