Looking for the best things to do in Ubud, Bali? Start with the Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Royal Palace, Tirta Empul Temple, and the scenic Campuhan Ridge Walk. Then, if you have more time, add a Balinese cooking class, river rafting, or a countryside cycling experience.

Ubud is famous for its temples, art, tropical landscapes, and traditional villages. However, not every attraction is within walking distance of the town center. Some of the best experiences are in nearby areas of Gianyar, including Tampaksiring, Tegallalang, Kemenuh, and Batubulan.

This guide brings together 17 things to do in and around Ubud, with practical details to help you decide what fits your interests and itinerary. It also includes ideas for a one-day visit, tips for first-time travelers, and a few ways to explore with Mai KeBali Tour.

Best Things to Do in Ubud at a Glance

• For first-time visitors: Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Palace, and Tirta Empul Temple.

• For nature lovers: Campuhan Ridge Walk, Tegenungan Waterfall, and the rice terraces.

• For adventure seekers: Ayung River rafting, ATV riding, and countryside cycling.

• For culture and art: Saraswati Temple, traditional dance, Goa Gajah, and Ubud’s museums.

• For hands-on experiences: Balinese cooking classes and guided cultural experiences.

• For a relaxing day: Yoga, a traditional massage, or a quiet walk through central Ubud.

1. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of Ubud’s most recognizable attractions. This leafy sanctuary in Padangtegal is home to Balinese long-tailed macaques, moss-covered statues, and three temples that remain important to the local community. Its shaded paths make the forest a welcome break from Ubud’s busier streets.

As you walk through the sanctuary, you can observe monkeys grooming, climbing, and moving around their forest habitat. Yet this is not a petting zoo. The animals are wild, and the site’s religious and conservation roles deserve respect.

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• Location: Padangtegal, central Ubud.

• Time to allow: About 1–1.5 hours.

• Best for: First-time visitors, wildlife observation, and forest photography.

• Local tip: Keep sunglasses and small items inside your bag. Never feed, touch, or provoke the monkeys.

2. Walk Through Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Tegallalang is the classic Ubud-area landscape: steep green rice terraces curving around a tropical valley. Visitors come for the viewpoints, short walks, and beautiful photographs. The scene changes with the planting cycle, so the fields will not be equally green throughout the year.

Beyond the views, the area offers an introduction to subak, Bali’s traditional cooperative irrigation system. Look for designated walking routes, and remember that these terraces are working farmland, not simply a photo backdrop. Some nearby businesses offer swings or elevated photo spots for separate fees.

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• Location: Tegallalang, north of central Ubud.

• Time to allow: About 45–90 minutes, longer for a swing or café stop.

• Best for: Landscapes, photography, and rice-field walks.

• Local tip: Visit early for cooler weather; use proper footwear on wet or uneven paths.

You can combine Tegallalang with the Monkey Forest and Tirta Empul on Mai KeBali Tour’s Ubud Culture & Highlights Day Tour.

3. Visit Ubud Royal Palace and Ubud Art Market

In the heart of town, Ubud Royal Palace—also called Puri Saren Agung—offers a close look at traditional Balinese gates, courtyards, and royal architecture. Public access is limited to designated areas, but even a short visit gives you a sense of Ubud’s artistic heritage.

Across the road, Ubud Art Market is a lively place to browse woven bags, clothing, woodcarvings, and handmade souvenirs. Visiting these two attractions together is easy because they are so close to each other. For travelers staying in central Ubud, this is also one of the simplest sightseeing combinations to do on foot.

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Location: Jalan Raya Ubud, central Ubud.

• Time to allow: About 1–1.5 hours for both stops.

• Best for: Architecture, shopping, and a short cultural walk.

• Local tip: Bring small cash notes for market stalls, and bargain politely where appropriate.

4. See the Sacred Springs of Tirta Empul Temple

Tirta Empul is an important Balinese Hindu water temple in Tampaksiring, outside Ubud’s town center. It is known for spring-fed purification pools used in melukat, a ritual associated with prayer and spiritual cleansing. The temple also has richly carved stonework and peaceful courtyards worth exploring.

Visitors may observe the ceremony from appropriate areas. Those who want to participate should follow temple guidance and understand that the fountains have specific religious meanings. A respectful visit is more rewarding than treating the ritual as a photo opportunity.

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• Location: Manukaya, Tampaksiring, northeast of Ubud.

• Time to allow: Around 1–1.5 hours, or longer for a permitted ritual.

• Best for: Temples, history, and cultural learning.

• Local tip: Wear modest clothing and follow the site’s sarong, sash, and access rules.

5. Enjoy a Morning Walk on Campuhan Ridge

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a peaceful alternative to Ubud’s busy shopping streets. The path rises above a green valley, with views of palms, hills, and countryside along the way. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want an easy nature-focused activity without spending most of the day on a tour.

The ridge is particularly pleasant early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Much of the path is exposed, so the midday sun can feel strong. Rather than rushing, leave time to enjoy the views and stop for a drink if you continue toward the cafés farther along the route.

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• Location: Campuhan, close to central Ubud.

• Time to allow: Around 45–90 minutes, depending on how far you walk.

• Best for: Free activities, light exercise, and landscape photography.

• Local tip: Bring water and comfortable shoes; there is limited shade on parts of the ridge.

6. Discover Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the best-known waterfalls south of Ubud. From the upper viewpoints, visitors can see water dropping into a tropical river valley. You can also descend the steps toward the lower viewing areas for a closer look, although the climb back up takes effort.

Waterfalls are especially dramatic after rainfall, but stronger currents and slippery surfaces can also make them more dangerous. Therefore, treat swimming as condition-dependent rather than an activity that is always available. If you prefer photography, the upper viewpoints offer a rewarding visit without needing to descend all the stairs.

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• Location: Kemenuh, south of Ubud.

• Time to allow: About 1–1.5 hours.

• Best for: Waterfall scenery and nature photography.

• Local tip: Follow posted safety restrictions, particularly after heavy rain.

7. Admire the Lotus Pond at Saraswati Temple

Pura Taman Saraswati is a striking temple in central Ubud, best known for the lotus pond leading toward its elaborately carved entrance. Dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess associated with learning and the arts, it is a beautiful reminder of Ubud’s strong cultural identity.

Because it is close to Ubud Palace and the market, Saraswati Temple fits naturally into a short town-center walking route. Take time to appreciate the architecture and pond, while respecting any areas or ceremonies that are not open to visitors.

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• Location: Central Ubud, near Ubud Palace.

• Time to allow: Around 20–40 minutes for a brief visit.

• Best for: Temple architecture and photography.

• Local tip: Access rules can vary; follow signage and staff instructions.

8. Explore Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave

Goa Gajah is an archaeological and religious site in Bedulu, a short drive from Ubud. Its most recognizable feature is a cave entrance framed by dramatic stone carvings. Within the grounds, visitors can also see bathing pools, older stone structures, and greenery around the site.

This is a good stop for travelers who want to go beyond Bali’s most photographed attractions. The cave itself is small, so allow time to explore the rest of the complex. As with other sacred places, respectful clothing and behavior matter.

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• Location: Bedulu, east of Ubud.

• Time to allow: Around 45–60 minutes.

• Best for: History, archaeology, and cultural sightseeing.

• Local tip: Wear suitable shoes for uneven surfaces and follow the temple dress code.

9. Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

A Balinese dance performance is one of the most memorable ways to experience Ubud’s artistic traditions. Some evenings, Ubud Palace hosts performances featuring graceful movements, expressive storytelling, elaborate costumes, and live gamelan music. The specific program changes, so it is worth checking the schedule ahead of time.

Another popular cultural performance is the Barong and Keris Dance in Batubulan, south of Ubud. It tells a symbolic story of opposing forces through music and dramatic characters. Because Batubulan is outside the town center, it works best as part of a broader sightseeing route.

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• Location: Ubud Palace for some evening shows; Batubulan for many morning Barong performances.

• Time to allow: About 1–1.5 hours.

• Best for: Traditional performing arts and Balinese culture.

• Local tip: Confirm the showtime and performance type before planning your day.

Barong Dance is one of the stops included in Mai KeBali Tour’s Ubud Culture & Highlights Day Tour.

10. Go White-Water Rafting on the Ayung River

If you want an adventure day in Ubud, rafting on the Ayung River is a popular choice. Guided trips travel through a lush river valley with jungle views, rock formations, and sections of moving water. Routes and difficulty vary with conditions and the operator, so always take the safety briefing seriously.

Rafting is also a practical way to combine activity and sightseeing. For example, Mai KeBali Tour offers an Ayung River Rafting Experience with a private hotel transfer and a visit to other Ubud attractions. Note that the rafting boat itself is shared with other participants under that package.

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• Location: Ayung River, Ubud area.

• Time to allow: Set aside a substantial part of the day, including preparation and transfers.

• Best for: Active couples, friends, and adventure travelers.

• Local tip: Bring dry clothes and check age, health, and river-condition requirements.

11. Ride an ATV on an Off-Road Track

ATV quad biking is another option for travelers searching for exciting things to do in Ubud. Depending on the chosen operator, off-road routes may include muddy trails, tropical scenery, riverside sections, or man-made tunnels. The experience is more about riding and having fun than traditional sightseeing.

Choose a reputable operator and pay attention to the safety briefing, protective equipment, and riding rules. Track features differ between providers, so check the actual route rather than assuming every ATV package includes the same obstacles.

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• Location: ATV activity venues around the wider Ubud region.

• Time to allow: Usually a half-day once check-in, briefing, riding, and travel are included.

• Best for: Adventure seekers and groups of friends.

• Local tip: Wear closed shoes and clothes that can get muddy; confirm minimum ages and rider restrictions.

12. Learn to Cook Authentic Balinese Food

A Balinese cooking class offers a closer connection to daily life than simply ordering local food at a restaurant. Depending on the experience, you may begin at a traditional market, learn about aromatic herbs and spices, and prepare dishes with the guidance of a local host.

Mai KeBali Tour’s Balinese Cooking Class & Local Market Tour combines a market introduction with a visit to a Balinese family compound and a hands-on cooking session. After preparing the food, participants enjoy their own meal. The operator asks guests to book ahead and share dietary requirements when reserving.

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• Location: Rural Ubud area, depending on the class.

• Time to allow: Plan for a half-day experience.

• Best for: Couples, families, food lovers, and cultural travelers.

• Local tip: Mention allergies and dietary needs before booking.

13. Cycle Through Traditional Villages and Rice Fields

For a slower look at local life, consider a guided countryside cycling experience. Away from Ubud’s busiest streets, small village roads and rice-field paths pass family compounds, temples, and farmland. A guide can help explain the places you see and choose a route suitable for the group’s abilities.

Mai KeBali Tour’s Village Cycling, Stone Carver & Homemade Lunch explores the Batubulan countryside, south of central Ubud. The tour includes a traditional family-home introduction, village cycling, a visit to a stone carver, and a homemade lunch. Its published eight-hour duration describes the overall tour, not eight hours of continuous cycling.

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• Location: Batubulan countryside, south of Ubud.

• Time to allow: Check the full package duration, including transfers.

• Best for: Curious travelers who enjoy active, small-scale cultural experiences.

• Local tip: Expect some narrow paths and local traffic; basic cycling ability is useful.

14. Learn About Melukat at Mengening Temple

Visitors interested in Bali’s spiritual traditions may appreciate a guided visit to Mengening Temple in Tampaksiring. This sacred site is associated with spring-water purification, known as melukat. Participation should be approached respectfully, with attention to local customs and the guidance of temple staff or a qualified local host.

Mai KeBali Tour also offers a Balinese Healer and Mengening Purification Experience, which introduces visitors to spiritual practices and includes guidance about temple etiquette. This is a cultural experience, not medical care. As package itineraries can change, confirm the exact stops before booking.

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• Location: Tampaksiring, near Ubud.

• Time to allow: Depends on the guided experience and ceremony.

• Best for: Travelers interested in Balinese religion and cultural traditions.

• Local tip: Bring a towel and spare clothes if participating in a permitted water ritual.

15. Discover Traditional Balinese Art at a Museum

Ubud’s reputation as an arts center is not limited to its market stalls. Museums such as Museum Puri Lukisan and the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) help visitors understand the development of Balinese painting, sculpture, and artistic traditions. These are especially good options when you want a quieter afternoon or need a break from outdoor activities.

Museum visits also add depth to an Ubud itinerary. Rather than only seeing souvenirs and performances, you can learn how artists have represented Bali’s landscapes, mythology, and community life across different periods.

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• Location: Ubud town and nearby museum areas.

• Time to allow: Around 1–2 hours for one museum.

• Best for: Art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and a slower afternoon.

• Local tip: Check the museum’s current exhibition and opening hours before visiting.

16. Visit Bali Zoo for a Wildlife Experience Near Ubud

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do near Ubud, visiting Bali Zoo is an excellent option. Located in Singapadu Village, south of Ubud, this popular wildlife park offers visitors the opportunity to discover a variety of animals in a beautiful tropical setting. From exotic birds and reptiles to elephants and other fascinating wildlife, Bali Zoo provides an enjoyable experience for families, couples, and animal lovers.

As you explore the park, you’ll discover landscaped gardens, wildlife habitats, and educational animal presentations. In addition, Bali Zoo offers several optional experiences, including Breakfast with Orangutans and supervised animal encounters, depending on the selected package. Visitors can also learn interesting facts about different species and wildlife conservation. Whether you’re traveling with children or simply enjoy discovering animals, Bali Zoo is a worthwhile addition to your Ubud-area itinerary.

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• Location: Singapadu Village, Sukawati, Gianyar, south of Ubud.

• Time to allow: Approximately 3–4 hours, or longer for special experiences.

• Best for: Families with children, animal lovers, wildlife observation, and educational experiences.

• Local tip: Visit in the morning for more comfortable temperatures. Wear comfortable walking shoes, follow the animal keepers’ instructions, and check whether special experiences require advance booking or additional tickets.

17. Meet a Traditional Balinese Healer Near Ubud

For travelers interested in authentic Balinese spiritual traditions, meeting a traditional Balinese healer is a unique cultural experience near Ubud. Known locally as a Balian, a traditional healer may use prayers, spiritual guidance, and customary practices rooted in Balinese beliefs. Rather than being a typical sightseeing attraction, this experience provides an opportunity to learn about the spiritual traditions that remain an important part of Balinese culture.

With Mai KeBali Tour’s First-Timer’s Balinese Healer & Mengening Cleansing, visitors can meet a respected local healer in Kemenuh Village for a private spiritual session. Depending on the healer’s guidance, the session may include traditional prayers, mantras, aura cleansing, chakra balancing, or palm and character reading. An English-speaking guide assists with translation and helps guests understand the cultural meaning of the experience.

The tour also includes a visit to Mengening Holy Spring Temple for a guided Melukat purification ritual, followed by an opportunity to admire the beautiful Tegallalang Rice Terrace. This makes it an interesting experience for first-time visitors who want to discover Bali’s spiritual heritage in a respectful and meaningful way.

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• Location: Kemenuh Village, Gianyar, near Ubud.

• Time to allow: Approximately 30–45 minutes per person for the private healer session; allow additional time for the complete tour.

• Best for: Cultural travelers, spiritual exploration, traditional Balinese experiences, and visitors interested in local customs.

• Local tip: Book at least 7 days in advance to help secure the healer’s availability. Wear modest clothing and approach the session with respect for local traditions. This is a cultural and spiritual experience, not a medical treatment or a substitute for professional healthcare.

For more information, explore the Private Balinese Healer & Mengening Cleansing Experience offered by Mai KeBali Tour.

How to Spend One Day in Ubud

If you have just one day, focus on a few attractions that work well together. Here is a realistic sightseeing plan for someone starting in or near Ubud; travelers coming from Canggu, Seminyak, or Kuta should allow additional road time.

1. 8:00 AM – Tegallalang Rice Terrace: Enjoy the morning views before the area gets busier.

2. 9:30 AM – Tirta Empul Temple: Explore the temple grounds and learn about the holy spring traditions.

3. 11:30 AM – Lunch break: Stop at a local restaurant on the way back toward town.

4. 1:00 PM – Sacred Monkey Forest: Explore the shaded paths and observe the macaques safely.

5. 2:30 PM – Ubud Palace and Art Market: Finish with architecture, shopping, and a relaxed walk in central Ubud.

This is an example, not a fixed schedule. Traffic, ceremonies, weather, and how long you spend at each stop can affect the day. If you prefer a less rushed visit, choose three or four stops instead.

What If You Have Two Days in Ubud?

Use the first day for the major attractions, then devote your second day to one deeper experience. A cooking class, Ayung River rafting, or a village cycling tour gives you a very different perspective from a sightseeing-only itinerary. You could also stay in central Ubud for an art museum, the Saraswati lotus pond, and an evening dance performance.

Essential Ubud Travel Tips

• Plan by area: Ubud Palace, the art market, and Saraswati Temple are close together. Tegallalang, Tampaksiring, and the waterfalls require separate travel time.

• Start early: Morning visits are usually more comfortable for exposed trails and popular viewpoints.

• Respect sacred spaces: Dress appropriately, follow signs, and never interrupt worship or ceremonies.

• Prepare for tropical weather: Bring water, sunscreen, a light rain layer, and shoes that handle wet paths.

• Use local safety advice: Conditions at waterfalls and on rivers can change quickly after heavy rain.

• Check current details: Entrance fees, hours, show schedules, and activity inclusions can change.

• Choose practical transport: Walk around central Ubud, but consider a private driver for destinations spread across Gianyar.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ubud

What are the best things to do in Ubud for first-time visitors?

Start with the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Royal Palace, Tirta Empul Temple, and Campuhan Ridge Walk. Together, they offer a useful introduction to the area’s culture and natural scenery.

What can you do in Ubud for free?

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular free activity. You can also explore parts of central Ubud on foot and enjoy the atmosphere around Ubud Palace and the nearby streets, although specific attractions, performances, and facilities may charge fees.

Is one day enough for Ubud?

One day is enough for several highlights, but not every major attraction. Two or three days will give you more time for a cultural class, an outdoor adventure, or a slower day in town.

What are the best things to do in Ubud for couples?

Couples often enjoy rice-terrace viewpoints, a Balinese cooking class, a scenic walk, a spa treatment, and a private sightseeing day. Choose a mix of activities rather than trying to visit too many stops.

What are the best activities in Ubud when it rains?

Consider an art museum, a cooking class, or an indoor wellness session. Always check transport and weather conditions, and postpone river or waterfall activities if conditions are unsafe.

Do you need a private driver in Ubud?

Not for everything. Central Ubud has attractions within walking distance, although some sidewalks can be narrow or uneven. A private driver becomes more useful when combining destinations such as Tegallalang, Tirta Empul, or waterfalls outside the center.

Explore Ubud Like a Local with Mai KeBali Tour

The best things to do in Ubud are not limited to famous photo spots. A memorable trip can also include meeting local people, learning traditional recipes, watching a cultural performance, or seeing how village life continues beyond the busy center.

Mai KeBali Tour is a local Bali tour operator founded by Ngurah Oka, who was born and raised in Ubud. The company offers private sightseeing arrangements and cultural experiences for travelers who want to explore at a comfortable pace. For a classic introduction, take a look at the Ubud Culture & Highlights Day Tour. For something more active or immersive, consider a cooking class, rafting experience, or village cycling tour.

Ready to plan your Ubud adventure? Visit Mai KeBali Tour to explore the available experiences and choose the journey that suits you best.