Ayung River Bali – Complete 2026 Travel Guide

Located near Ubud, the Ayung River is one of the beautiful spots in Bali. Stretching from lush jungle and rice terraces to a deep gorge, this river is famous for its whitewater rafting. This river runs around 75 km from the northern mountains to the Badung Strait at Sanur. Its gentle force, class II and class III rapids, allows you to enjoy an inflatable boat ride amidst the jungle. Ayung River rafting is ideal for all, whether families, friends, beginners or experienced ones. You can also discover 9th-century-style stone carvings depicting the tales of the Ramayana along its bank. 

It is also considered sacred in Balinese Hinduism and provides food for neighbouring villages and farms. The Ayung River is a popular destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike because of the surrounding luxurious resorts and eco-retreats.  

Ayung River is one of the best places to visit in Bali for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Located amidst the lush greenery, there are various reasons to visit the Ayung River; some of them are as follows: 

• Easily Accessible – It is easily accessible from Ubud, which makes it perfect for a half-day or day trip.
• Lush Green Scenery – Surrounded by dense rainforest, rice fields, and dramatic river cliffs
• Best White Water Rafting in Bali – Gentle to moderate rapids, ideal for beginners and families
• Stunning Rock Carvings – Unique stone carvings along the riverbanks tell Balinese stories
• Clean & Wide River Flow – Bali’s longest river, offering a smooth and scenic rafting experience
• Incredible Photo Spots – Waterfalls, jungle backdrops, and misty views throughout the route
• Peaceful Nature Escape – Away from crowded beaches and tourist-heavy zones
• Suitable for All Ages – Safe adventure activity for couples, groups, and families
• Year-Round Attraction – Can be enjoyed in most seasons with changing river moods

One can enjoy white water rafting on the Ayung River throughout the year. However, the dry season, which runs from April to October, is the best time to visit the Ayung River in Bali for white water rafting. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny with minimal rainfall, which is ideal for enjoying scenic surroundings, calm rapids and lush jungle views. While the wet season comes with high rainfall, which can increase the water level, the rapids become harsh. This is the best time to visit for experienced rafting enthusiasts. 

Tip: Visit around 9:00 AM to avoid occasional afternoon showers

The Ayung River in Bali is located just 20 km away from central Ubud. To reach here, you need to descend around 150–300 steps through jungles.

• Renting a scooter or car: One of the fastest ways to reach the Ayung River is by renting a scooter or a car from Ubud. It offers more flexibility to reach the starting points in areas like Kedewatan or Payangan within 15–30 minutes. Additionally, renting a driver is also a feasible option. 
• By Taxi: One of the easiest ways to reach Ayung River Bali is by hiring a taxi, especially if you are travelling from Kuta or Seminyak. You can use ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek for better prices. 

Tour packages: You can combine Ayung River white water rafting with Bali tour packages, which cover nearby attractions along with adventure activities. 

There is no entrance fee to the Ayung River. However, there are Ayung River rafting fees, which are approximately IDR 370,000 to IDR 700,000+ (INR 2,000 to 4,600) per person.

White Water Rafting

One of the best things to do in Bali is Ayung River white water rafting. Its gentle to moderate rapids are ideal for both families and beginners. It is considered one of the safer rafting options in Bali when done with licensed operators. Rafting tours will take you through lush rainforest, waterfalls and deep gorges. You need not worry, as there are professional guides who will take care of your safety equipment. The Ayung River rafting usually lasts around 2 to 2.5 hours, combining adventure with scenic beauty.  

Nature Walks

The Ayung River is not only famous for rafting but also for nature walks along its riverbanks and nearby jungle trails. Get immersed in Bali’s natural surroundings, where you can spot tropical plants, butterflies, and local birdlife. The calm atmosphere of the riverside makes it one of the ideal activities for travellers who prefer slow, mindful experiences and want to connect with nature away from crowded tourist areas.

Photography

Its lush greenery, cascading waterfalls and dramatic cliff-side stone carvings make the Ayung River a paradise for photographs. Visit in the early mornings for better lighting conditions and fewer crowds. Even during the rafting, you can capture photos when there are calm sections. It offers unique river-level perspectives of Bali’s jungle scenery. 

River-side Relaxation

If you are seeking relaxation, the riverside setting of the Ayung River is the perfect place to be. Rejuvenate yourself with the sound of flowing water, shaded viewpoints and quiet resting spots which create a perfect tranquil environment. Many visitors choose to relax by the river before or after rafting. Along with adventure enthusiasts, it is also one of the best places to visit in Bali for couples and nature lovers. 

Where to Stay Near Ayung River

Budget Stays (INR 500 to INR 2,000 )

• Putri Inn Homestay
• Villa Tangtu Beach Inn
• Ninja Suite Villa

Mid-range Stays (INR 3,000 to 7,000)

• Four Star by Trans Hotel
• Manzelejepun Luxury Villas & Pavilion
• Kama Village

Luxury jungle resorts (INR 8,000 to 13,000 )

• Ayung Resort Ubud
• Harsono Boutique Resort Bali
• Miki house

• Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothes, as they dry fast. 
• Wear slippers as shoes that will get wet during rafting 
• Follow the instructions of your raft guide. 
• Keep your amenities in a waterproof bag. 
• Book your rafting trip in advance, especially during the peak season, for better prices.
• Wearing a life jacket is mandatory while rafting.
• Rafting can be combined with overnight camping.
• For the sake of balance, rafters are meant to sit at the very edge of the boat rather than at the very centre.
• Apply sunscreen to protect yourself from getting tanned. 

Ayung River is not only a waterbody in Ubud. It is a flowing cultural tapestry of Bali. With lush jungle, deep gorges, ancient stone carvings and white-water rafting, this river is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, couples and families.  The blend of nature, tradition, and soft adventure offers an unforgettable experience in 2026, which gives a deeper, more authentic side of Bali beyond temples and beaches.