Ubud is a small town located in central Bali, known for its lush green rice paddies, spirituality, and traditional arts and crafts. This town is a hub for artists, yogis, and spiritual seekers, with a plethora of wellness centres, yoga studios, and meditation retreats. However, Ubud also has a lot to offer to travellers looking for adventure, culture, and nature. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places to visit in Ubud, Bali.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a must-visit attraction in Ubud. It is a lush forest home to over 600 long-tailed macaques, considered sacred by the locals. Visitors can walk through the forest and observe the playful monkeys swinging from trees, grooming each other, and interacting with visitors. However, visitors should be careful not to touch or feed the monkeys, as they can be aggressive.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a stunning rice terrace located in a valley north of Ubud. The terrace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers panoramic views of the rice paddies. Visitors can walk along the terraces and take in the breath-taking scenery, or even try their hand at rice planting. There are also many restaurants and cafes in the area where visitors can enjoy a meal with a view.
Ubud Art Market
The Ubud Art Market is a traditional market located in the centre of Ubud. Here, visitors can find a variety of goods, including handmade crafts, clothing, jewellery, and souvenirs. The market is a great place to shop for unique gifts or souvenirs to take back home. Visitors should be prepared to bargain for the best prices.
Goa Gajah
Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, is a historical site located in Bedulu village, six kilometres from Ubud. The site features a cave with intricate carvings and a bathing pool. The cave is believed to date back to the 11th century and was used by Buddhist and Hindu monks for meditation. Visitors can explore the cave and the surrounding area, which includes a beautiful garden and a small waterfall.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a scenic trail located in the outskirts of Ubud. The trail offers stunning views of the lush green hills, rice paddies, and the Ayung River. The walk is about two kilometres long and is relatively easy, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Visitors can stop at one of the many cafes along the way for a refreshing drink or a snack.
Ubud Palace
The Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, is a historical palace located in the centre of Ubud. The palace was the residence of the royal family of Ubud and dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the palace and admire the beautiful traditional architecture and intricate carvings. The palace also hosts traditional dance performances in the evening, which are a must-see for visitors.
Ubud Monkey Forest Street
The Ubud Monkey Forest Street is a vibrant street located in the heart of Ubud. The street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering visitors a glimpse of the local culture and cuisine.