Ubud
THE QUICK VERDICT
Choose Ubud if You want jungle, rice terraces, ceremony, yoga, and a Bali that cools off after dark — rather than the surf and beach-club scene of the south..
- Best for
- Tegallalang rice terraces, Saraswati Temple lotus pond, Kecak fire dance, Sacred Monkey Forest, warung lunches
- Best months
- Apr–Sep
- Budget anchor
- $80/day mid-range
- Skip if
- you rely on public transit
Bali's cultural and spiritual heart, set 200 m up in the foothills above Denpasar — the rice-terrace, monkey-forest, yoga-shala alternative to the surf-and-club Bali of Seminyak and Canggu. The Sacred Monkey Forest sits in the middle of town with 1,200 long-tailed macaques; Tegallalang's terraces are 9 km north; The Yoga Barn runs 15 daily classes; and a hundred warungs serve nasi campur for IDR 25,000. Eat Pray Love did the marketing in 2010, and the digital-nomad wave hasn't really left.
Tours & Experiences
Bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Ubud
Where to Stay
Compare hotels and rentals in Ubud
📍 Points of Interest
At a Glance
- Pop.
- ~74,800 (Ubud district)
- Timezone
- Makassar
- Dial
- +62
- Emergency
- 112 / 110
Ubud sits ~200 m above sea level in the central Balinese foothills, ~37 km north of Denpasar — cooler than the south coast (daytime 25-28°C vs Kuta's 30-32°C) and wrapped in jungle, rice terraces, and river ravines instead of beaches
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in central Ubud is a 12.5-hectare nature reserve home to ~1,200 long-tailed Balinese macaques and three 14th-century Hindu temples — 50,000 IDR adult entry, opens 09:00, and the monkeys WILL grab anything dangling, including phones, sunglasses, and water bottles
Tegallalang rice terraces (9 km north of Ubud) use the centuries-old Subak irrigation system — UNESCO-listed (2012) as a "cultural landscape." Entry 75,000 IDR per person; the famous "Bali Swing" photo spots clustered around the terraces add 250,000-500,000 IDR each
The Yoga Barn is the world's largest yoga retreat centre — 6 shalas, 15+ daily classes, 200,000 IDR drop-in. Founded 2007, it became the global archetype after Eat Pray Love (2010) and arguably built the modern wellness-tourism boom
Ubud is the cultural and royal capital of Bali — the Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) still houses the descendants of the Sukawati royal line. Free traditional Balinese dance performances (Legong, Kecak, Barong) every evening from 19:30 in the palace courtyard, 100,000 IDR ticket
Tegenungan Waterfall (15 km southeast of Ubud) is the closest major waterfall — a 15 m cascade reached by ~165 stairs down a ravine. Entry 20,000 IDR; the photogenic blue-water "swing" scene above the falls is on a separate 50,000 IDR ticket
Eat Pray Love (2010, Julia Roberts) was substantially filmed in Ubud and credited with launching the global wellness/digital-nomad migration here — the population of foreign residents has more than tripled since 2010 to ~6,000-8,000 long-stay expats and digital nomads
Top Sights
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
🌿A 12.5-hectare nature reserve with ~1,200 Balinese long-tailed macaques and three 14th-century Hindu temples in the heart of Ubud. Mossy stone bridges over a ravine, the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple, and rope-bridge sections through the canopy. Entry 80,000 IDR adult; opens 09:00. The monkeys are bold — DO NOT carry visible food, water bottles, sunglasses, hats, or anything dangling from a backpack. Phones get snatched daily. Do not look monkeys in the eye for long.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
📌The most-photographed rice terraces in Bali — dramatic cascading paddies in a steep valley 9 km north of Ubud, using the UNESCO-listed Subak cooperative irrigation system. 75,000 IDR entry; arrive before 08:00 to beat the day-tour crowds and the heat. The "Bali Swing" photo operations in the area cost an additional 250,000-500,000 IDR each. Walking the path through the terraces takes 1-2 hours; bring water, no shade.
The Yoga Barn
📌The world's most famous yoga retreat — 6 shalas, 15+ daily classes (Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, Aerial, Sound Healing), 200,000 IDR per drop-in class. Multi-day retreats and teacher trainings dominate the bookings. The original Wellness Cafe in the same complex is the everyone-meets-everyone digital-nomad hub. Drop-in book at the front desk; popular classes (Vinyasa Flow at 09:00) fill 30 minutes ahead.
Tegenungan Waterfall
📌Ubud's most accessible major waterfall — a 15 m cascade in a ravine 15 km southeast (Sukawati area). 20,000 IDR entry; reached by ~165 stairs down (cardio coming back up). Best in the morning before tour crowds. Photo "swing" platforms above the falls cost 50,000 IDR extra. Swimming in the pool below the falls is safe but the rocks are slippery.
Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
📌The 16th-century palace of the Sukawati royal line — still occupied by descendants. Free entry to the courtyard daytime; the famous Balinese dance performances (Legong, Kecak, Barong) take place here every evening from 19:30, 100,000 IDR per ticket bought 30 min before at the gate. The most accessible Balinese cultural performance in the country. Right on Ubud's main intersection.
Tirta Empul Water Temple
🏯A sacred spring temple 30 minutes north of Ubud (near Tampaksiring) where Balinese Hindus undergo ritual purification by stepping under 12 spouts in succession in a stone pool. Visitors are welcome to participate — wear a sarong (rented at the entrance, included in the 75,000 IDR fee), and follow the traditional sequence. The spring itself is the temple's sacred centre. Allow 1-2 hours; respectful behaviour is essential.
Campuhan Ridge Walk
📌A 2 km flat ridge walk on a paved path through grass-covered hills west of central Ubud — the best free experience in town. Trailhead at the Gunung Lebah temple just past the IBAH Hotel; walk takes 30-60 minutes one-way. Best at sunrise (06:00, before the heat) or 16:30-sunset. Gets crowded in afternoon; almost empty at dawn.
Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati)
🏯A small, photogenic water temple in the centre of Ubud dedicated to the Hindu goddess of arts, learning, and knowledge — the entrance approach over a lotus-pond pathway is the iconic image. Free entry. Café Lotus (built around the lotus pond) offers Balinese dance performances Tuesday/Friday evenings at 19:30, paid ticket 100,000 IDR.
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
📌A 9th-century cave temple complex 6 km southeast of Ubud with a carved elephant-headed entrance, an underground meditation chamber, and an outdoor pool with stone-figure water spouts. UNESCO-listed since 2009. 50,000 IDR entry; sarong rental included. Allow 45 minutes; the entry approach is down ~30 stairs into a ravine.
Pura Gunung Kawi
📌11th-century rock-cut temple complex on the Pakerisan River, 25 km northeast of Ubud — ten 7-metre carved stone shrines (candi) cut directly into the cliffs of a deep ravine, dedicated to the early Balinese kings. Reached by 270 steps down through rice terraces. 50,000 IDR entry; sarong required. The most haunting historic site in central Bali.
Off the Beaten Path
Ibu Oka Babi Guling (the famous suckling pig)
Anthony Bourdain's favourite babi guling spot in Bali — Ibu Oka serves crispy-skin spit-roast suckling pig (specialty since the 1960s) with rice, jackfruit stew, and lawar. Three locations on Jalan Suweta; the original opposite the Royal Palace is the most authentic. Spesial plate (more meat + crackling) IDR 75,000-95,000. Go before 12:00 — they sell out by 13:30 daily.
Babi guling is THE Balinese ceremonial dish, and Ibu Oka is the consensus best version in Ubud. Bourdain went; locals still go. The spesial plate at IDR 90,000 is one of the great-value meals on the island.
Hujan Locale (Modern Indonesian)
A creative modern-Indonesian restaurant tucked above the Sari Organik path — chef Will Meyrick (also of Mama San in Seminyak) reimagines regional Indonesian classics with elevated sourcing. Tasting menu IDR 650,000; à la carte mains IDR 150,000-280,000. Quiet outdoor terrace; cocktail program is excellent. Book ahead.
Most Ubud "modern Indonesian" restaurants serve elevated nasi goreng for tourists. Hujan Locale is a serious-chef's exploration of Indonesian regional cooking — the rendang and lawar plates rival what you'd eat in Padang or Klungkung.
Sari Organik Walk + Lunch
A 1.5 km path through working rice paddies northwest of central Ubud, ending at Sari Organik café — vegetarian organic farm-to-table lunches (gado-gado, salad bowls, juices) at IDR 75,000-150,000 with 360-degree paddy views. The walk takes 30 minutes each way, best 06:30-09:00 or 16:00-sunset. Free; Sari Organik is the destination.
Tegallalang has the famous photo. Sari Organik path is what Tegallalang felt like 20 years ago — actual working paddies with farmers in them, no entry fee, and a great organic café at the end. A genuine secret in plain sight.
Pura Gunung Kawi (instead of Tegallalang)
Tegallalang gets all the rice-terrace attention. Drive 25 minutes further to Pura Gunung Kawi — a 11th-century rock-cut temple in a deep ravine, 270 steps down through rice terraces, with ten 7-m carved candi shrines in the cliff face. Far fewer visitors than Tegallalang or Tirta Empul; arguably more spectacular than either. 50,000 IDR entry; sarong required.
Bali's most haunting historic site is essentially absent from the standard Bali Instagram circuit — the candi cut into the cliff above the river are unforgettable, and you'll often have them to yourself before 09:00.
Locavore (the Michelin-listed splurge)
Bali's most ambitious restaurant — Indonesian chef Eelke Plasmeijer leads the kitchen producing a 5-, 7-, or 9-course tasting menu (IDR 1,500,000-3,000,000) using only ingredients from Indonesian small farms and fishermen. Asia's 50 Best (#28 in 2023) and the original "Ubud is a serious food destination" statement. Book 4-8 weeks ahead. Casual sister "Locavore To Go" for delivery.
The first restaurant to put Bali (and Indonesia) on the global fine-dining map. Even if not for the food, the philosophy of restaurant-as-Indonesian-ingredient-laboratory is worth experiencing once.
Climate & Best Time to Go
Ubud has a tropical highland climate — cooler than the south coast (averaging 25-28°C daytime, 20-23°C night, vs Kuta's 30-32°C/24°C) due to its 200 m elevation. Two distinct seasons: dry (April-September) and wet (October-March). Wet-season afternoon downpours are the rule (1-3 hours, 14:00-17:00) but mornings stay clear; humidity is high year-round (75-85%).
Dry Season (Peak)
July - August68 to 86°F
20 to 30°C
Best weather of the year — minimal rain, low humidity (for Bali), comfortable temperatures, and full operations across every restaurant, retreat, and class. Peak tourist season; book accommodation 4-6 weeks ahead. Australian school-holiday surge late July.
Dry Season Shoulder
April - June, September70 to 86°F
21 to 30°C
The sweet spot — excellent weather, full operations, fewer crowds than July-August, lower prices, and the rice terraces are at their greenest before the August dryness. May and September are arguably the best overall months.
Wet Season
October - March72 to 86°F
22 to 30°C
Daily afternoon downpours (typically 14:00-17:00, 1-3 hours), high humidity, and lush green rice paddies at their peak. Mornings usually clear and pleasant; many Ubud experiences (yoga, walks, temples) fit comfortably around the rain. Significantly cheaper than dry season except Christmas/New Year.
Holiday Peak (Christmas/New Year)
December 20 - January 572 to 86°F
22 to 30°C
Despite being wet season, prices surge to peak — Australians, Europeans, and digital nomads flood in for the holidays. Book 3-6 months ahead. The festive atmosphere is genuine; some yoga retreats run silent New Year's programmes.
Best Time to Visit
April-June and September are the optimal windows — excellent dry-season weather, lush green rice paddies, lower prices, and significantly fewer crowds than peak July-August. The wet season (October-March excluding Christmas) is dramatically cheaper and arguably more atmospheric, with lush jungle and afternoon-only rain.
Dry Season Peak (July - August)
Crowds: Very high (peak season)Best weather of the year — minimal rain, lower humidity, and full operations everywhere. Also peak tourist season; book accommodation 4-6 weeks ahead. Australian school holidays late July hit Bali hard.
Pros
- + Best weather, dry and cooler-feeling
- + All restaurants and yoga studios fully operating
- + Long sunny days for outdoor sights
- + Best for the Mt Batur sunrise trek
Cons
- − Highest accommodation prices (30-50% above shoulder)
- − Tegallalang and Sacred Monkey Forest at maximum density
- − Restaurants book out
- − Australian school-holiday surge late July
Shoulder Season (April - June, September)
Crowds: ModerateThe sweet spot — excellent weather with very occasional brief showers, fewer tourists, and the rice terraces lush green from the recent wet season. May and September are arguably the best overall months.
Pros
- + Great weather with significantly lower prices
- + Lush green rice terraces
- + Easier yoga / restaurant bookings
- + Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (October)
Cons
- − Some afternoon showers possible
- − Some operators reduce schedules late in shoulder
- − Galungan/Kuningan ceremony periods affect operating hours
Wet Season (October - March)
Crowds: Low (except Christmas/New Year)Daily afternoon downpours (typically 14:00-17:00, 1-3 hours), high humidity, and lush green rice paddies at their peak. Mornings usually clear and pleasant. The waterfalls (Tegenungan, Munduk, Sekumpul) are at their most powerful.
Pros
- + Lowest prices of the year (40-60% off villas)
- + Few tourists at major sites
- + Rice paddies at greenest
- + Great for spa retreats and yoga (rain encourages indoor activities)
- + Waterfalls at their most powerful
Cons
- − Heavy daily afternoon rain
- − Some outdoor activities affected
- − Roads can flood briefly
- − Mosquitoes more aggressive
- − Mt Batur sunrise trek frequently cancelled for cloud
Holiday Peak (Christmas - New Year)
Crowds: Very high (within wet season)Despite being wet season, prices surge to peak — Australians, Europeans, and digital nomads flood in for the holidays. Book 3-6 months ahead. The wellness scene is at peak with silent New Year retreats and special programmes.
Pros
- + Festive atmosphere across town
- + New Year wellness retreats and silent programmes
- + Many special events and parties
- + Despite rain, mornings often clear
Cons
- − Highest prices of the entire year
- − Accommodation books out months ahead
- − Wet season weather
- − Restaurants difficult to book
🎉 Festivals & Events
Nyepi (Day of Silence) and Ogoh-Ogoh Parade
March (date varies — Balinese New Year)The Balinese New Year shuts down the entire island for 24 hours: no flights, no driving, no lights, no noise. The night before, Ogoh-Ogoh effigies (giant demon figures) are paraded through every village and burned at midnight. Hotels operate normally inside but guests must stay on premises during Nyepi.
Galungan & Kuningan
Every 210 days (Pawukon calendar)A 10-day celebration when ancestral spirits visit Earth. Bamboo penjor poles line every road in Ubud, temples are decorated, and most Balinese are home with family. Some restaurants and tours close briefly; the visual spectacle of the penjor everywhere is unforgettable.
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
October (annually)Southeast Asia's premier literary festival — 4 days at venues across Ubud (Indus, Casa Luna, Yoga Barn) with international and Indonesian authors, panels, workshops. Tickets US$200-500 for the festival pass; many free fringe events. Book accommodation 3+ months ahead.
Bali Spirit Festival
May (annually)Yoga, world music, and dance festival — 6 days at Purnati Centre near Ubud, ~5,000 attendees. Tickets US$300-650 for the pass. Major draw for the global yoga and wellness community.
Bali Arts Festival (Pesta Kesenian Bali)
June - July (in Denpasar)Month-long Balinese arts and crafts festival at the Bajra Sandhi monument grounds in Denpasar. Performances nightly, craft exhibitions. Day-trippable from Ubud (1 hr). Free entry; some performances ticketed.
Saraswati Day
Every 210 days (Pawukon calendar)Hindu Balinese day of arts and learning — books, instruments, and tools are blessed at Saraswati Temple in central Ubud. Beautiful ceremonies; visitors welcome to observe respectfully (sarong required).
Safety Breakdown
Moderate
out of 100
Ubud is one of the safer destinations in Indonesia — violent crime against tourists is very rare, and the long-term wellness/yoga community contributes to a relatively secure feel. The genuine concerns are scooter accidents (Bali averages ~600 fatalities/year, many tourists), monkey bites/thefts at the Sacred Monkey Forest, and pickpocketing in market crowds. Solo female travellers report Ubud as comfortable.
Things to Know
- •Scooter accidents are the #1 safety risk for tourists — wear a helmet (legally required), don't ride in flip-flops, get an International Driving Permit (police checkpoints fine 250,000-500,000 IDR for not having one), and be aware that Ubud streets get extremely congested
- •At the Sacred Monkey Forest: don't carry visible food, water bottles, sunglasses, hats, or anything dangling from a backpack — monkeys grab everything and bites carry rabies risk (the entrance has a "do not feed" warning sign in 6 languages)
- •If a monkey takes something, do NOT chase it — staff trade fruit for stolen items; aggression escalates quickly
- •Always agree on a price before getting in a taxi or driver's car; metered Blue Bird taxis (~7,000 IDR flag-fall) are reliable; Grab is the dominant ride-share
- •Tegallalang and the surrounding rice-terrace valleys have informal "donations" requested by the farmers whose land you're crossing — 10,000-30,000 IDR per stop is reasonable
- •Drink only bottled or filtered water (5-litre jugs from minimarts at 10,000 IDR; refill stations at hotels and yoga studios)
- •Be aware of online romance scams targeting wellness-tourist demographics; Ubud has long-term expat scammers operating
- •Pickpocketing in the Ubud Market and Jalan Monkey Forest crowds is common — keep wallets in front pockets, use a money belt for larger sums
- •Volcanic activity at Mount Agung (40 km east) periodically affects flights to/from DPS — check status if you have eruption-period travel
Emergency Numbers
Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
112
Tourist Police (Pol-Pem)
+62 361 754 599
Ubud Clinic (BIMC Ubud)
+62 361 974 911
Sanglah Hospital Denpasar (major emergencies)
+62 361 227 911
AEA Ambulance (international SOS)
+62 361 261 117
Costs & Currency
Where the money goes
USD per dayBackpacker = hostel dorm + street food + public transit. Mid-range = 3-star hotel + neighbourhood restaurants + transit cards. Luxury = 4/5-star + fine dining + taxis. How we calibrate these numbers →
Quick cost estimate
Customize per category →Estimates based on regional averages. Flight prices vary by season and airline.
budget
$25-45
Guesthouse or hostel, warung meals (nasi campur IDR 25,000-40,000), Grab Bike for transport, free temple/forest visits, occasional 200,000 IDR yoga class or spa
mid-range
$70-150
Mid-range boutique hotel or villa with pool, mix of warungs and restaurants, hired driver for one day-trip, paid attractions (Sacred Monkey Forest, Tegallalang), 200,000 IDR yoga drop-ins
luxury
$300-1,500
Luxury private pool villa (Bambu Indah, Capella Ubud, Mandapa Ritz-Carlton Reserve), Locavore tasting menu, daily spa treatments, private yoga + meditation, dedicated driver
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | IDR 100,000-200,000 | $6-13 |
| AccommodationMid-range boutique hotel (double) | IDR 600,000-1,500,000 | $38-94 |
| AccommodationPrivate pool villa (sleeps 2-4) | IDR 2,000,000-5,000,000 | $125-313 |
| AccommodationLuxury suite (Capella, Mandapa, Four Seasons) | IDR 12,000,000-40,000,000 | $750-2,500 |
| FoodNasi campur or babi guling at a warung | IDR 25,000-50,000 | $1.50-3 |
| FoodCasual Western/fusion restaurant meal | IDR 100,000-180,000 | $6-11 |
| FoodMid-range restaurant with drinks | IDR 200,000-400,000 | $13-25 |
| FoodLocavore tasting menu | IDR 1,500,000-3,000,000 | $94-188 |
| FoodBintang large beer | IDR 30,000-65,000 | $2-4 |
| FoodLong black coffee at a cafe | IDR 30,000-50,000 | $2-3 |
| TransportScooter rental (per day) | IDR 60,000-100,000 | $4-6 |
| TransportGrab Bike (typical short ride) | IDR 15,000-40,000 | $1-2.50 |
| TransportGrab Car (Ubud to DPS airport) | IDR 250,000-350,000 | $16-22 |
| TransportFull-day private driver + car | IDR 600,000-800,000 | $38-50 |
| ActivitySacred Monkey Forest entry | IDR 80,000 | $5 |
| ActivityTegallalang Rice Terraces entry | IDR 75,000 | $4.70 |
| ActivityTirta Empul Water Temple entry | IDR 75,000 | $4.70 |
| ActivityYoga Barn drop-in class | IDR 200,000 | $13 |
| Activity60-min traditional Balinese massage | IDR 150,000-400,000 | $9-25 |
| ActivityMt Batur sunrise trek (guided) | IDR 450,000-600,000 | $29-39 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •Eat at warungs — IDR 30,000 for a complete nasi campur is the genuine local food experience and 5-10x cheaper than tourist restaurants
- •Rent a scooter (IDR 70,000/day) instead of Grab if you're comfortable riding; pays for itself in 3-4 trips
- •Yoga Barn 10-class card (IDR 1,750,000) saves 12% vs drop-ins for serious practitioners
- •Negotiate scooter and driver rates for multi-day or weekly use — 20-30% discounts standard
- •Buy water in 5-litre jugs (IDR 10,000) from minimarts instead of single 600 ml bottles (IDR 5,000 each)
- •Tegallalang at sunrise (06:30) avoids both crowds and the 75,000 IDR fee enforcement (collected only after 08:00 typically)
- •Free options abound: Campuhan Ridge Walk, Sari Organik path, Saraswati Temple, evening Royal Palace courtyard, Ubud Market browsing
- •Combine sights with a full-day driver (Tegallalang + Tirta Empul + Pura Gunung Kawi + lunch = IDR 700,000 total) instead of separate Grab trips
- •Wet season (October-March excluding Christmas) cuts villa prices 30-50% and yoga retreat prices similarly
Indonesian Rupiah
Code: IDR
Indonesia uses the Rupiah (IDR). At writing, 1 USD ≈ 16,000 IDR (so $1 ≈ Rp 16,000, $10 ≈ Rp 160,000, $100 ≈ Rp 1.6 million). ATMs widespread — use bank ATMs (BCA, Mandiri, BNI, BRI) inside bank branches to avoid skimmers; airport ATMs and tourist-area money changers can have unfavourable rates. Carry small bills (IDR 10,000-50,000) — many warungs and drivers cannot break a 100,000 note.
Payment Methods
Cash is dominant in Bali — warungs, market stalls, scooter rentals, and most small operators are cash-only. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted at upscale restaurants, mid/upscale hotels, and Western boutiques on Jalan Hanoman/Dewi Sita; American Express less reliable. QRIS (QR-code mobile payments) are widespread and accepted at most restaurants and shops. Indonesian e-wallets (GoPay, OVO, Dana) work but require local registration. Always carry IDR 200,000-500,000 cash for daily expenses.
Tipping Guide
Mid-range and upscale restaurants typically add 10% service + 11% tax (PB1) — already on the bill. If no service is included, 5-10% in cash is appreciated. At warungs (small local eateries), tipping is not expected.
IDR 30,000-100,000 per therapist (~$2-6) is appropriate for a typical 60-90 min massage. High-end spas often include service.
IDR 50,000-100,000 (~$3-6) tip on an 8-10 hour day-driver is appropriate; more if they were exceptional or did extra (waiting, photos, suggestions).
Porters: IDR 20,000-50,000 per bag (~$1.30-3). Housekeeping: IDR 30,000-50,000/day at mid-range to upscale hotels.
Not expected at drop-in classes; IDR 100,000-200,000 to a private yoga teacher who came to you is appropriate.
IDR 50,000-150,000 per person for a half-day; IDR 100,000-300,000 for a full day or for specialist guides (Mt Batur sunrise trek).
How to Get There
✈️ Airports
Ngurah Rai International Airport (I Gusti Ngurah Rai)(DPS)
37 km south of Ubud (1.25-2 hours by car, traffic-dependent)Bali's only commercial airport; international flights from across Asia, Australia, and Europe (direct from Tokyo, Singapore, Doha, Sydney, Perth, Amsterdam KLM seasonal). DPS to Ubud: official airport taxi IDR 350,000-450,000 (~$22-29); Grab IDR 250,000-350,000 (~$16-22) — pickup designated 200 m from arrivals to avoid the airport-taxi mafia conflict; private driver pre-booked through hotel IDR 350,000-400,000.
✈️ Search flights to DPS🚌 Bus Terminals
Ubud Tourist Information Centre / Perama Office
Perama Tourist Bus runs daily shuttles Ubud ⟷ Kuta (IDR 75,000), Ubud ⟷ Sanur (IDR 75,000), Ubud ⟷ Padangbai (IDR 100,000, for Lombok ferries), Ubud ⟷ Lovina (IDR 175,000), and Ubud ⟷ Mount Batur (IDR 125,000). Book at the Perama office on Jalan Hanoman or any travel agent.
Getting Around
Ubud has no public transit network — getting around is by walking, scooter, Grab/Gojek (online ride-share), or hired driver-with-car. The town centre is walkable; everything beyond (rice terraces, waterfalls, temples) requires a vehicle. The classic Bali model is to hire a driver for a full day (IDR 600,000-800,000 for 8-10 hours) and combine multiple sights in one trip.
Walking
FreeCentral Ubud (Royal Palace, Saraswati Temple, Monkey Forest, Yoga Barn, restaurants on Hanoman/Monkey Forest/Dewi Sita) is all walkable in 15-30 minutes. Sidewalks are inconsistent and narrow; watch for scooters using them. Bring a torch at night — streetlights are limited. The Sari Organik path and Campuhan Ridge Walk are both on-foot day experiences.
Best for: Town centre, restaurants, monkey forest, Campuhan Ridge, Sari Organik
Scooter Rental
IDR 60,000-100,000/dayIDR 60,000-100,000 per day for a 110-125cc automatic. Ubud streets are narrow and chaotic — rent only if you have prior scooter experience, get the helmet (mandatory), and have an International Driving Permit (IDP) plus a current motorcycle endorsement. Police checkpoints around Ubud routinely fine tourists 250,000-500,000 IDR for no IDP. Travel insurance often excludes scooters without proper licence.
Best for: Confident riders, day trips to Tegallalang/Tirta Empul, getting around faster than Grab
Grab / Gojek (Ride-share)
IDR 25,000-350,000 per tripBoth apps work in Ubud — Grab is more reliable, Gojek is local. Typical Ubud short trip IDR 25,000-60,000; Ubud → DPS airport IDR 250,000-350,000 (~$16-22). Cars and scooter rides both available; scooter rides (Grab Bike) are 30-50% cheaper than car. Some Ubud restaurants and shops have "Grab restricted" zones — pickup may need to be 200 m away.
Best for: Short rides in central Ubud, evening dining, airport transfers
Hired Driver + Car (Full Day)
IDR 600,000-800,000/dayThe classic Bali approach — IDR 600,000-800,000 (~$39-52) for 8-10 hours including driver, fuel, and air-con. Drivers double as informal guides; most speak good English. Book through your hotel, Yoga Barn, or ask any restaurant. Negotiate the itinerary in advance (e.g. Tegallalang + Tirta Empul + Pura Gunung Kawi + lunch in 1 day = ~IDR 700,000).
Best for: Multi-stop day trips, families, groups, anyone wanting to skip driving
Perama Tourist Shuttle
IDR 75,000-200,000 per routeDaily shuttles connecting Ubud with Kuta, Sanur, Padangbai, Lovina, and Mount Batur — IDR 75,000-200,000 per route. The cheapest non-self-drive way to move between Bali destinations; book at the Perama office or any travel agent.
Best for: Backpackers, point-to-point inter-Bali transfers
Walkability
Central Ubud is walkable but with caveats — narrow inconsistent sidewalks, scooters using them, and constant traffic on Jalan Hanoman and Jalan Monkey Forest. The Royal Palace, Saraswati Temple, Yoga Barn, and Monkey Forest are all within 1 km. Beyond the centre (rice terraces, waterfalls, Tirta Empul) you need a vehicle.
Travel Connections
Entry Requirements
Indonesia offers Visa on Arrival (VOA) to citizens of ~95 nationalities (including USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, India, etc.) — IDR 500,000 (~$32) at DPS airport, valid 30 days, extendable once for another 30 days. The e-VOA can be applied for online before travel via the Imigrasi portal (molina.imigrasi.go.id) — saves the airport queue. Indonesia also charges a separate Bali Tourism Levy of IDR 150,000 (~$10) per international visitor since February 2024.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (VOA, extendable to 60) | Visa on Arrival IDR 500,000 (~$32). Passport must be valid 6+ months with at least 2 blank pages. Apply for e-VOA online (molina.imigrasi.go.id) to skip the airport queue. Pay the IDR 150,000 (~$10) Bali Tourism Levy online or at arrival. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (VOA, extendable to 60) | Same VOA terms. e-VOA available online before travel. Bali Tourism Levy applies. |
| EU Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (VOA, extendable to 60) | Most EU nationals qualify for VOA. Same fees and terms. |
| Australian Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (VOA, extendable to 60) | VOA widely used. e-VOA strongly recommended to skip airport queue (which is long for the Sydney/Melbourne arrivals). |
| Indian Citizens | Visa-free | 30 days (VOA) | India was added to the VOA list. IDR 500,000 fee applies. Must have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. |
Visa-Free Entry
Visa on Arrival
Tips
- •Apply for the e-VOA online before travel (molina.imigrasi.go.id) — saves 30-60 minutes in the airport arrival queue
- •Pay the Bali Tourism Levy IDR 150,000 (~$10) online before travel via lovebali.baliprov.go.id — payment receipt may be checked at arrival
- •The VOA is extendable once for 30 more days at any immigration office in Bali — apply at least a week before your original 30 days expires; agents on Hanoman Street handle extensions for ~IDR 1,200,000 ($75) total
- •Keep your departure card (given on arrival) safe — required when leaving Indonesia
- •For stays over 60 days, apply for a B211A social/cultural visa BEFORE arrival through an Indonesian embassy or authorized agent — gives 60-180 days
- •Long-term retirement / digital-nomad visas (KITAS, DN visa) require sponsorship and 4-12 weeks processing — agents in Ubud (Bali Visa Service, Emerhub) handle the process
- •Indonesia's biosecurity is strict on animal products and some medications — declare prescription medications and bring documentation
- •Smile at immigration; Indonesian immigration officers respond well to politeness and the standard "selamat siang/sore" greeting
Shopping
Ubud is one of Indonesia's great craft markets — wood carving, silver jewellery, batik textiles, paintings, and ceramics, all from villages within 20 km. Bargaining is expected at the Ubud Market and small shops (start 30-40% of asking, settle around 50-70%); fixed-price boutiques on Jalan Hanoman and Dewi Sita don't bargain. Fashion-conscious shoppers head to Kim Soo, Bambu Indah, and the Sayan boutiques for designer-Indonesian.
Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)
traditional marketA two-storey market opposite the Royal Palace selling paintings, wood carvings, baskets, sarongs, jewellery, and souvenirs. Best selection and lowest tourist markup before 09:00 (locals shop at the same time). Bargain hard; the first quoted price is typically 3-5x what locals pay. Open 06:00-18:00 daily.
Known for: Wooden carvings, sarongs, baskets, souvenirs
Jalan Hanoman & Jalan Dewi Sita (Boutiques)
boutique streetUbud's upscale shopping streets — fixed-price boutiques selling Indonesian designer fashion (Magali Pascal, Biasa, Uluwatu Lace), high-end silver jewellery, ceramic ware, and homewares. Café Lotus, Hujan Locale, and Locavore all on these streets. Most shops 10:00-21:00.
Known for: Indonesian designer fashion, silver jewellery, ceramics, art galleries
Celuk Village (silver jewellery)
craft villageA village 8 km south of Ubud specialising in gold and silver jewellery from multi-generational artisan families. Watch craftsmen at work in the workshops; buy directly. Better quality and prices than Ubud Market. Famous for filigree and granulation work.
Known for: Handcrafted silver and gold jewellery, custom pieces
Mas & Tegallalang (wood carving)
craft villageMas village (south of Ubud) is the centre of Balinese wood carving — masks, figurative sculpture, Buddha heads. Tegallalang has the same trade plus furniture and decorative pieces. Workshop tours and direct sales; ship internationally if needed (negotiated separately, ~$200-500 per crate).
Known for: Wood carving, masks, sculpture, furniture
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Hand-carved wooden mask from Mas village (specifically: Topeng dance masks, used in actual ceremonies) — IDR 300,000-2,000,000 depending on size, age, and finish
- •Silver jewellery from Celuk village (filigree earrings, granulated rings) — IDR 200,000-1,500,000; ask the workshop for the silver hallmark stamp
- •Hand-painted Kamasan-style traditional painting on cotton — IDR 250,000-2,500,000 from Sayan or Penestanan galleries
- •Hand-woven double ikat (Geringsing) cloth from Tenganan village — IDR 1,500,000-15,000,000 for a serious piece (rare; one of two double-ikat traditions in the world)
- •Bamboo rattan handbag (the "Bali bag") — IDR 200,000-700,000; Tenganan village makes the best ones
- •Vanilla beans from Bali highland farms (sold in Ubud minimarkets and gift shops) — IDR 50,000-150,000 for a vacuum-sealed pack of 5-10 beans, dramatically cheaper than at home
- •Bottle of Bali arak (palm spirit) or arak madu (with honey) — IDR 50,000-150,000; legal export limit 1L per person
- •Coffee from a Munduk plantation or coffee tasting tour — IDR 50,000-200,000 per 250g bag (avoid kopi luwak unless ethically certified)
Language & Phrases
Bahasa Indonesia is the national language and is spoken everywhere in Bali; Balinese (Bahasa Bali) is the local language used among Balinese people at home and in ceremonies. Indonesian is one of the world's easier languages to pronounce — Latin alphabet, largely phonetic, no tones, no complex grammar. A few phrases earn warm smiles. Bali-specific terms (om swastiastu, suksma) are appreciated even more.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Balinese / Hindu greeting) | Om swastiastu | ohm SWAS-tee-AHS-too |
| Hello (general) | Halo | ha-LOH |
| Good morning | Selamat pagi | seh-LAH-mat PAH-ghee |
| Good afternoon | Selamat siang | seh-LAH-mat see-AHNG |
| Good evening | Selamat sore / malam | seh-LAH-mat SOR-ay / MAH-lam |
| Thank you | Terima kasih (Balinese: Suksma) | teh-REE-mah KAH-see / SOOK-smah |
| You're welcome | Sama-sama / Kembali | SAH-mah SAH-mah |
| Yes / No | Ya / Tidak | yah / TEE-dak |
| How much? | Berapa harganya? | beh-RAH-pah har-GAH-nyah? |
| Too expensive | Terlalu mahal | ter-LAH-loo MAH-hal |
| Delicious | Enak | eh-NAK |
| Where is...? | Di mana...? | dee MAH-nah...? |
| Sorry / Excuse me | Maaf / Permisi | mah-AHF / per-MEE-see |
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