25+ best things to do in Ubud Bali (2026 guide)

Planning your Ubud vacation? Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, practicing yoga, or seeking cultural and spiritual depth, Ubud has something magical waiting for you.

From jungle swings to ancient temples, this updated guide dives deep into the best things to do in Ubud Bali, optimized for real travelers and real experiences.

Why visit Ubud

Welcome to Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart and spiritual center. Surrounded by lush rice terraces and steeped in tradition, Ubud offers a unique blend of:

• Wellness and yoga retreats
• Locally inspired food scenes
• Art, temples, and nature immersion

This guide includes the most essential Ubud things to do, plus hidden gems, local shopping, yoga, eco-eats, and day trips you won’t want to miss.lus hidden gems, local shopping, yoga, eco-eats, and day trips you won’t want to miss.

Nature and adventure in Ubud

1. Monkey Forest

Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, where long-tailed macaques roam freely. Walk among ancient banyan trees and Hindu temples.

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
Tip: Don’t bring snacks; they may raid your bag.

Photo Credit: @jacksonhousephoto

Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, where long-tailed macaques roam freely. Walk among ancient banyan trees and Hindu temples.

Location: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud
Tip: Don’t bring snacks; they may raid your bag.

Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Phone: (0361) 971304.

2. Tegallalang rice terraces

Photo Credit: @manke666

Snap Instagram-worthy shots and wander off-the-beaten paths through lush green rice fields.
Location: Jalan Tegallalang
Best time: Morning or golden hour.

3. Bali Hash House Harriers (Bali HHH)

Founded by Dr Victor “Nightjar” Mason in 1977, Bali HHH is a way for both visitors and locals to go off the beaten track and see a true, authentic Bali. Whether you choose to run or walk, you get to experience villages, jungle ravines and rice terraces that may otherwise have slipped under your radar.

Bali HHH has run every Monday and Thursday starting at 4:30 pm and the start point (as it’s always changing) can be found on the groups Facebook page! 

facebook.com/BaliHash, bali-hash.com

4. Deepen your practice with a yoga retreat or teacher training in Ubud

Whether you’re looking to unwind with a restorative retreat or take the next step in your yoga journey through a certified Yoga Teacher Training, Ubud offers the ideal setting.

Surrounded by nature, community, and spiritual energy, our programs are designed to support transformation both on and off the mat.

Join us for an immersive experience that blends tradition, self-discovery, and conscious living.

Learn more about our nearby Tabanan yoga retreat | Explore our Yoga Teacher Training

5. Tegenungan Waterfall

Photo Credit:@sunshineseeker

One of Bali’s most photogenic and swimmable waterfalls.
Location: Jalan Ir. Sutami, Kemenuh
Tip: Bring water shoes and a towel.

6. Mount Batur sunrise hike

Photo Credit: @wheresmollie

Trek to the summit of Mount Batur to watch the sunrise from 1,717 meters above sea level.
Departure: 3:00 AM from Ubud
Tip: Bring layers. It’s chilly at the summit.

6. Zen Hideaway swing

Photo Credit: @gypsea_lust

Soar above rice fields and jungle canopies on Ubud’s most iconic swing.
Access: Book a room at Zen Hideaway on Airbnb
Tip: Reserve early. This spot fills up fast.

7. Campuhan Ridge Walk

Photo Credit: @haylsa

Take a peaceful 9-kilometer nature walk ending at the Pura Gunung Lebah temple.
Best for: Morning strolls or sunset jogs
Don’t forget: Fresh coconut water at the trail end

Culture, temples and local life

8. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

Photo Credit: @saiko3p

An ancient cave surrounded by sacred trees and streams. Perfect for meditation and quiet reflection.

9. Gunung Kawi Temple

Photo Credit: @sunshineseeker

Gigantic rock-carved shrines set in a jungle valley.
Location: Tampaksiring, Gianyar
Tip: Expect a scenic descent through rice terraces.

10. Tirta Empul Temple

A sacred spring for ritual purification ceremonies.
Location: Tampaksiring
Tip: Sarong rental available at the entrance.

11. Ubud Water Palace

Lotus pond, historic architecture, and traditional dance performances.
Location: Jalan Kajeng
Tip: Buy tickets early at nearby cafés.

12. Luwak coffee plantation

Photo Credit: @findingsummer

Learn how Bali’s famous kopi luwak is made and taste it fresh.
Recommended: Alas Arun Coffee, near Tegallalang

13. Cultural dance shows

See Legong or Barong dances at:

• Ubud Palace
• ARMA Museum
  Tip: Arrive by 7:00 PM for best seats

Practice yoga and wellness

14. The Yoga Barn

Photo Credit @travelwithjane

100+ weekly classes, detox retreats, and a thriving global yoga community.
Read our review here.

15. Radiantly Alive

Photo Credit: radiantlyalive.com

Intimate classes in a clean, minimalist space.

16. Soulshine Bali

Photo Credit: Soulshinebali.com

Michael Franti’s soulful yoga hotel, great for retreats or romantic stays.
Read our Review here.

17. Ubud Yoga Center

Photo Credit: Ubudyogacentre.com

Modern studio offering Bikram, Vinyasa, and Pilates. Don’t miss Hot Ashtanga on Sunday mornings.

18. Bali Spirit Festival

Photo Credit: Ishine Photography

Held annually in March or April, this 5-day event blends yoga, music, and spiritual healing.

Where to eat in Ubud

19. The Elephant

Photo Credit: artspacebali.com

Vegetarian jungle café with views and creative plant-based dishes.

20. Locavore

Photo Credit: locavore.co.id

Farm-to-table fine dining with a constantly evolving seasonal menu.

21. Soma

Photo Credit: @carlysutcliffe

Dinner hotspot for live music, raw vegan meals, and positive vibes.

22. Clear Café

Photo Credit: @sunspicedlife

Organic dining in a tranquil setting with a zen-modern design.

23. 9 Angels

Photo Credit: @tanntastic

Donation-based warung focused on self-service and community sharing.

Where to shop in Ubud

24. Traditional art market

Photo Credit enjoybalivacation.com

Bustling street market for handmade souvenirs, textiles, and trinkets.

25. Bali Yoga Shop and WE-AR

Photo Credit @wearyoga

Ethical yoga apparel made with bamboo and organic cotton.

Romantic and spiritual experiences

• Couples’ flower baths at Kaveri Spa or Fivelements
• Candlelight riverside dinner at Swept Away or Bridges
• Sound healing at the Pyramids of Chi
• Cacao ceremonies and ecstatic dance every weekend.

Balinese cooking classes

• Paon Bali Cooking School: Market tour and hands-on Balinese dishes
• Jambangan Bali: Local family-run with vegetarian options.

Off-the-beaten-path waterfalls

• Sumampan Waterfall – Artistic stone carvings and jungle vibes
• Tibumana – Calm waters and minimal crowds
• Kanto Lampo – Great for photography with cascading steps.
  
  

Related>>>> Best Waterfalls in Bali

Getting around Ubud

• Scooter rentals: Rp 70,000/day (great for confident riders)
• Private driver: Rp 600,000–800,000/day
• Gojek / Grab: App-based rides (restricted in Ubud center)
• Hotel shuttle: Offered by many guesthouses and resorts.

Day trips from Ubud

• Jatiluwih rice terraces – UNESCO-listed and far less crowded
• Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – A picturesque lake temple in the mountains
• Sekumpul Waterfall – One of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls.

Where to stay in Ubud

• Capella Ubud – Luxury jungle tented camp
• The Udaya Resort – Flower baths and serene spa
• Alaya Resort – Stylish, centrally located
• Stone House Bali – Boutique bamboo retreat

Ubud travel FAQ

How many days should I stay in Ubud?
3–4 days is perfect for temples, yoga, food and relaxation.

Best time to visit Ubud?
April to October (dry season). June and September are ideal.

Is Ubud worth visiting?
Absolutely. It’s Bali’s cultural and wellness capital.

Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, especially if renting a scooter or going on hikes.

Final thoughts: Why Ubud is worth it

From peaceful rice terraces to powerful spiritual practices, Ubud is more than a destination. It’s a state of mind.

Whether you’re on a wellness retreat, honeymoon or solo adventure, this place leaves a lasting imprint.

 

For more info on Bali’s best spots for the modern yogi

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