When I was in Bali, I made Ubud my base as I explored around the island. From here you can choose to do waterfall hikes, temple explorations, day trips and more.
Table of contents
- Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest
- Take a day trip and hike Mt. Batur
- Watch a cultural show
- Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terrace
- Visit all of the waterfalls that you possibly can
- Go to the ARMA Art museum
- Take a workshop
- Visit Pura Tirta Empul Temple
- Take a day trip to Nusa Penida
- Where to eat in Ubud?
- Helpful Tips for Planning your Trip to Indonesia
How do I get to Ubud from the airport?
Download the mobile app Grab or Gojek. This is Asia’s equivalent to Uber. You can request drivers and pay via the app to get from one destination to the other. Ubud is only 23 miles away from DNS airport. However, Bali is known for its horrible traffic. You can expect to sit in traffic for at least 2 hours whether you are going to Ubud, Canggu or Uluwatu.
This is my favorite hotel that’s located close to the airport. I always stay here if my flight is at an odd time.
Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest
There are monkeys everywhere! When you go to visit, you wander around through the forest along multiple pathways. If you plan your trip accordingly there’s a show two times in a day. Check the official website for the exact times.
Take a day trip and hike Mt. Batur
Watch a cultural show
There’s a performance every day, but the venue changes daily, so be sure to check the details. Arrive early to secure a good seat, as the view can be blocked if you’re late. Buying tickets in advance also lets you enter the venue ahead of the crowd.
Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Indonesia is sprinkled with rice fields. The Tegallalang fields are a stunning showcase of Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system. Located along the pathway are cheesy photo spots which include the famous swings.
Visit all of the waterfalls that you possibly can
Go early! Early bird gets the worm. Don’t forget to bring cash to purchase your entrance fees as card is typically not accepted.
Tibumana Waterfall
⚲ Jl. Setra Agung, Apuan, Kec. Susut, Kabupaten Bangli, Bali 80661, Indonesia
Just a few of my notes about Tibumana:
Significantly less crowded than other waterfalls in the area.
Kanto Lampo Waterfall
⚲ Jl. Kaliasem lingk.kelod kangin, Beng, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80513, Indonesia
Just a few of my notes about Kanto Lampo:
It’s a small area available for swimming.
It can become very crowded, very fast since it’s a popular “Instagram” spot
Tegenungan Waterfall
⚲ Kemenuh, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Just a few of my notes about Kanto Lampo:
The most popular waterfall in Bali and for a reason. It will always be busy no matter what.
Go to the ARMA Art museum
The museum showcases traditional Balinese art alongside contemporary Indonesian and international works, set in a lush garden complex. Every entrance ticket gets you a beverage that you can redeem at the cafe.
Take a workshop
There are plenty of rainy days in Bali even during dry season. Take a workshop and learn a new skill. You can choose from woodworking to custom making your own silver ring.
Visit Pura Tirta Empul Temple
You can take part in or observe traditional ceremonies at the outer courtyards, where locals still gather for offerings and rituals.
Do not drink the water… the locals do. Please do not drink the water for your own sake.
Take a day trip to Nusa Penida
If you’re short on time, I recommend visiting this island on a day trip. I managed to see the entire island in just one day using my Polarsteps GPS tracker, and it was the perfect way to make the most of a short visit.
Where to eat in Ubud?
If you want to try local Indonesian food, I recommend visiting a warung, where you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals. If you’re craving Western food instead, here are some of my favorite restaurants.
- Amsterdam (Breakfast Spot)
- Blend Cafe Ubud
- Merlin (Dinner Spot)
- Casa Taco Mexican Grill
- Mamma Mia Pizza and Pasta
Helpful Tips for Planning your Trip to Indonesia
Are you also planning on visiting?
Book your Flight
Start by comparing airfare early to get the best deals.
Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price trends and flexible travel dates.
Book your Accommodation
Whether you’re looking for hostels or boutique hotels the Indonesia has a wide range of options.
Booking.com is great for hotels and guesthouses across the country.
Hostelworld is ideal for backpackers and budget travelers.
Travel Insurance for the unexpected
Always, always have travel insurance! Travel insurance is essential. It protects you from unexpected events like flight delays, illness, theft, or accidents.
I recommend SafetyWing, which offers flexible and affordable plans perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
Best Resources to book Tours and Activities
GetYourGuide is great for booking everything from city tours and museum tickets to outdoor adventures. It’s easy to use, has tons of reviews, clear pricing, and offers free cancellation on most bookings.
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