5 Best Places to Visit in Ubud, Bali
Looking for the best places to visit in Ubud? Ubud is one of Bali’s most popular destinations for travelers who want a mix of Balinese culture, temples, rice fields, nature, and traditional arts.
From the historic Ubud Palace in the center of town to the famous rice terraces of Tegallalang, there is plenty to explore around Ubud.
If you are visiting Ubud for the first time, these five attractions are a good starting point for your itinerary.
1. Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
Ubud Palace, locally known as Puri Saren Agung, is one of the most convenient places to visit because it is located in the center of Ubud.
The palace is known for its traditional Balinese architecture, ornate gates, stone carvings, and cultural performances. It is also close to Ubud Market, making it easy to combine both places during the same visit.
Why visit Ubud Palace?
- See traditional Balinese architecture
- Explore the historic center of Ubud
- Watch traditional Balinese dance performances
- Easily combine it with Ubud Market and nearby restaurants
How long should you spend?
Allow around 30–60 minutes to explore the palace. If you plan to attend a traditional dance performance, allow additional time.
Tip: Because Ubud Palace is centrally located, it can be a convenient starting point for exploring central Ubud on foot.
2. Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest, officially known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, is one of the most famous attractions in Ubud.
The forest combines dense tropical vegetation, ancient temple structures, stone sculptures, and a large population of long-tailed macaques.
It is a very different experience from the busy streets of central Ubud.
Why visit the Monkey Forest?
- Walk through a tropical forest
- See Balinese temple architecture
- Observe long-tailed macaques
- Take photos of the forest and traditional stone structures
Important visitor tips
Keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding or intentionally approaching the monkeys. They are wild animals and can behave unpredictably.
Avoid carrying loose food or leaving sunglasses, hats, phones, or other easily accessible items where monkeys can grab them.
How long should you spend?
Plan for approximately 1–2 hours, depending on how much of the sanctuary you want to explore.
3. Tegallalang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is one of the most recognizable landscapes near Ubud.
The area is famous for its traditional Balinese rice terraces carved into the hillsides. The combination of green rice fields, palm trees, and valleys makes it one of the most popular places for photography around Ubud.
Why visit Tegallalang?
- See Bali’s famous rice terraces
- Enjoy views of the countryside
- Take photographs of the terraced landscape
- Combine the visit with other attractions in northern Ubud
Best time to visit
Early morning is generally a good time to visit if you want cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Weather and farming conditions can change the appearance of the terraces throughout the year, so don’t expect the fields to always look exactly like photos online.
How long should you spend?
Allow around 1–2 hours for walking, taking photos, and enjoying the scenery.
Tip: Wear comfortable footwear because some paths around the rice terraces can be uneven or involve stairs.
4. Campuhan Ridge Walk
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular walking route just outside central Ubud.
Instead of temples or busy tourist attractions, the trail offers a chance to experience Ubud’s natural landscape, with views of green hills, valleys, and surrounding vegetation.
The route is particularly popular with travelers looking for a peaceful morning walk.
Why visit Campuhan Ridge Walk?
- Enjoy a scenic walk through Ubud’s countryside
- Escape the busiest parts of central Ubud
- Take landscape photographs
- Start your day with an outdoor activity
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon is usually more comfortable than walking during the hottest part of the day.
Bring drinking water, especially during hot or humid weather.
How long should you spend?
Allow approximately 1–2 hours, depending on your walking pace and how often you stop for photographs.
5. Tirta Empul Temple
Located north of central Ubud, Tirta Empul Temple is one of Bali’s best-known Hindu water temples.
The temple is famous for its sacred spring water and traditional purification ritual known as melukat.
For visitors interested in Balinese culture and spirituality, Tirta Empul can be one of the most meaningful places to include in an Ubud itinerary.
Why visit Tirta Empul?
- Experience an important Balinese Hindu temple
- Learn about Balinese religious traditions
- See the temple’s sacred spring
- Observe or participate in traditional purification rituals where permitted
Respect local customs
Tirta Empul is an active place of worship, not simply a tourist attraction.
Dress respectfully and follow the temple’s current rules. If you participate in a purification ritual, follow local guidance and do not treat the ceremony as simply a photo opportunity.
How long should you spend?
Plan approximately 1–2 hours for your visit.
Best Places to Visit in Ubud at a Glance
| Place | Best For | Recommended Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ubud Palace | Culture & architecture | 30–60 minutes |
| Ubud Monkey Forest | Nature & wildlife | 1–2 hours |
| Tegallalang Rice Terrace | Rice fields & photography | 1–2 hours |
| Campuhan Ridge Walk | Walking & nature | 1–2 hours |
| Tirta Empul Temple | Culture & spirituality | 1–2 hours |
Can You Visit These 5 Places in One Day?
You can visit all five in one day, but it will be a fairly busy itinerary.
Ubud Palace and the Monkey Forest are relatively close to central Ubud, while Tegallalang and Tirta Empul are farther north.
A more comfortable plan is to split the attractions across two days.
Day 1: Central Ubud
Morning: Campuhan Ridge Walk Late morning: Ubud Palace Afternoon: Ubud Monkey Forest Evening: Explore central Ubud
Day 2: Northern Ubud
Morning: Tegallalang Rice Terrace Late morning: Tirta Empul Temple Afternoon: Explore other attractions or return to Ubud
This gives you more time at each location instead of rushing between attractions.
How to Get Around Ubud
Transportation can make a big difference when visiting attractions around Ubud.
For central attractions such as Ubud Palace, Ubud Market, and the Monkey Forest, walking can be practical depending on where you are staying.
For attractions farther from central Ubud, such as Tegallalang and Tirta Empul, you may prefer:
- Scooter rental
- Private driver
- Taxi or ride-hailing services where available
- Organized tours
If you want to visit several attractions in one day, a private driver can be more convenient, especially for families or groups.
For travelers arriving from other parts of Bali, you may also want to plan your transportation before starting your Ubud sightseeing itinerary.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Ubud?
Ubud can be visited throughout the year, but weather, crowds, and your planned activities can affect the experience.
For outdoor attractions such as Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Campuhan Ridge Walk, mornings are generally more comfortable.
If you want to explore central Ubud, consider starting earlier in the day before the busiest period.
Always check current weather conditions and attraction information before your trip because opening hours, access rules, and local conditions can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in Ubud?
Some of the best places to visit in Ubud include Ubud Palace, Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and Tirta Empul Temple. These attractions offer a combination of Balinese culture, nature, temples, rice terraces, and outdoor activities.
How many days do you need in Ubud?
For a first visit, 2–3 days in Ubud gives you enough time to explore major attractions without rushing. Travelers with more time can stay longer and explore waterfalls, villages, temples, and other areas around central Ubud.
Is Ubud worth visiting?
Yes. Ubud is particularly suitable for travelers interested in Balinese culture, nature, temples, traditional arts, rice terraces, and wellness activities. It also provides a different experience from Bali’s beach destinations.
Can you visit Ubud without a scooter?
Yes. You can explore central Ubud on foot and use taxis, ride-hailing services where available, private drivers, or tours for attractions farther away.
What should you not miss in Ubud?
For a first visit, consider including at least one cultural attraction, one nature experience, and one rice terrace. Ubud Palace, the Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and Tirta Empul are good options.
What is Ubud famous for?
Ubud is famous for Balinese culture and arts, temples, traditional dance, rice terraces, tropical landscapes, wellness experiences, and its surrounding villages.
Final Thoughts
Ubud offers much more than a single tourist attraction. Within a relatively small area, you can experience Balinese architecture, sacred temples, tropical forests, rice terraces, and scenic walking trails.
If this is your first trip, start with Ubud Palace, the Monkey Forest, Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Campuhan Ridge Walk, and Tirta Empul. Then leave some time to explore beyond the main tourist attractions.
Planning your transportation in advance can also make it much easier to visit attractions outside central Ubud.
More Bali Travel Guides
- Things to Do in Ubud
- Ubud to Sanur Transportation Guide
- Sanur to Nusa Penida Travel Guide
- Best Things to Do in Bali