25 Best Things to do in Ubud, Bali For A Wholesome Trip

Pura Taman Saraswati, also known as the Water Palace, is a notable landmark in Bali. A beautiful pond bordered by frangipani trees is aligned with alluring pink lotuses and this water garden covering the outer area of the Saraswati Pura makes it unique You can add this place to the list of things to do in Ubud This temple stands between Starbucks and the Lotus Cafe Ubud. A stage is set up near the lotus pond, and Balinese dance performances are performed. You can smack the native delicacies at Lotus Cafe and enjoy the Balinese dance performances.

This popular wildlife reserve is home to over 700 long-tailed grey macaques which is also called the Sacred Monkey Forest is a natural sanctuary that has many ancient temples with guardian statues covered by moss. Visiting Ubud Monkey Forest is one of the best things to do near Ubud and one of the best places to learn about the culture and historic significance. But, you must exercise caution because monkeys are known to steal. In cases, you can seek help from Wanara Wena staff, they can help you retrieve your belongings from these long-tailed guys.

Also Read: Adventurous Things to Do in Bali

A 20-minute ride from Ubud will bring you to the lush green terrace of rice paddies. Prefer a Motorbike ride for a much better experience. This valley is sure to touch your soul with its jaw-dropping views, you can walk down the valley and hike back, exploring every corner of the terrace. Any picture you take will look pretty and this is one of the must things to do in Ubud.

Goa Gajah always tops travelers' list of things to do in Ubud. It is not a cave full of elephants but a meditation cave carved out of rocks. Goa Gajah is one of the archaeologically impressive sites in Bali. It has a non-functional bathing pool, fountain, and meditation cave. Climbing down the flight of stones you can admire the relics of the ancient courtyard and view the carvings on the rock wall.

The 2-kilometer enthralling walk will be an exciting thing to do in Ubud Bali. The Campuhan walk is full of beautiful hills and lush green exquisite valleys that will help you relish panoramic landscape views. You shouldn't skip this walk if you want to take in the local landscape and enjoy some time away from the city. There is a designated trail here that you can take, and it's the most pleasant way to see some of Ubud's less-developed neighborhoods. Visit at dusk to catch the most beautiful sunsets.

To indulge in the Balinese art scene, the Puri Lukisan Museum is a must-visit. It is located on the main street of Ubud, exactly 300 meters west of the Ubud palace. This oldest art museum has the finest collection of modern traditional Balinese paintings & wood carvings in the land, which spans from the pre-Independence War (1930 to 1945) to the post-Independence War (1945 to present) era. It has four buildings dedicated to different art forms. The museum is now almost 65 years old. This Puri Lukisan is the best location to learn about both traditional and contemporary Balinese art and stays as one of the best things to do in Ubud Bali.

This amazing textile center is a place of inspiration. The textile center, which began operations with just one weaver in 1998, currently collaborates with more than 1000 weavers from 11 Indonesian islands. The textile gallery in Ubud is a part of the Threads of  Life charity, which focuses on improving the lifestyle of locals through the sale of sustainable textiles. All the pieces are made using natural dyes, and the people in the art gallery promise that the pieces from Life of Thread will remain in the condition that they can be passed on to generations. If you wish to experience Life of Thread personally, you can join one of the in-house textile appreciation courses and this can be an amazing thing to do in Bali Ubud.

This award-winning restaurant is the most famous spot and the best thing to do in Bali Ubud. As the name suggests, the entire restaurant is all about hyper-local produce. Right from the ingredients to the furniture and glassware everything is from in and around Indonesia. There are two chefs, Eelke Plasmeijer and Ray Adriansyah and they have curated two menus named the ‘Locavore’ and the ‘Herbivore’. The dishes served are locally inspired and they serve up tasting menus that can stretch to nine courses. The restaurant is the hot spot in Ubud and you have to make a reservation prior if you are hoping to visit.

No trips end without shopping. If you wish to take home some souvenirs, then Traditional Art Market is the best place. You can find a variety of authentic and artisanal goods sold by the locals. You will be able to find some unique silk scarves, handmade crockery, and handwoven bags which will be the perfect buy to gift your loved ones and cool things to do in the Bali Ubud. Further heading towards the east of the market, you will experience Indonesian traditions as you can find locals all over buying fresh produce and groceries.

Exploring Puri Saren Agung, also known as Ubud Royal Palace, is one of the essential things to do in Ubud town. A testament to traditional Balinese architecture and craftsmanship, this historical landmark boasts intricately carved sculptures depicting Balinese mythology and lavish temple structures adorned with gold accents. Don't miss out on an evening performance of traditional Balinese dance held within the palace courtyard for a truly captivating cultural encounter.

A trip to the Blanco Renaissance Museum is among the top things to do in Ubud. It is clearly the best-loved spot in Ubud and is the former home and Don Antonio Blanco, a Spanish-American Painter. The museum is placed on the hilltop and looks out across rice paddies in Campuhan Ridge. Along with the paintings of Don Blanco and other famous Balinese artists, you’ll find an array of art here which includes poetry pieces, collages, and even lithographs. You can enjoy pretty manicured gardens as well as the onsite restaurant.

Petulu Village is an excellent option for your itinerary if you're looking for an exciting day excursion from Ubud. The village sits on the outskirts of Ubud’s daily bustle and is a 15-minute ride from the popular Tegallalang Rice Terrace. Petulu is home to an impressive colony of white herons, who share the village streets. The birds especially choose to flock here because of a specific tree found in the village, known locally as pohon bunut wot. The birds are considered sacred by the locals and believed to be the souls of the dead. To get a glimpse of Balinese village life and a terrific photo opportunity, put Patulu bird watching on your list of things to do in Ubud.

Among the outdoor activities in Ubud, experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of Tegenungan Waterfall should be at the top of your list. Nestled within a quiet village, this stunning cascade provides a refreshing escape from the bustling town centre. Venture down stone steps to reach its base, where you can take a rejuvenating dip in cool water or capture memorable photos amidst lush green surroundings.

The Yoga Barn is one of the most well-known yoga retreats and the most relaxing thing to do in Ubud. The reason why people adore this location so much is that it offers a beautiful and stimulating atmosphere for the nourishing of body, mind, and soul. The Yoga Barn offers a variety of personalized retreats that let you tailor your recovery process. You are welcome to stay as long as you like, take as many classes as you require, and relax. Your time at Yoga Barn will be unforgettable.

Bali Legong Keraton Dance is one of the traditional Balinese dances that will make you fascinated by the beautiful curves of professional dancers. This Legong Keraton Dance is usually performed by female dancers accompanied by gamelan music, which is a traditional Balinese musical instrument. Classic Legong enacts traditional stories of heroic romances, and every performance could last for an hour. The Ubud Palace, Puri Saren, Peliatan Village, and Pura Dalem Puri are just a few of the locations where the unique Legong dance is performed. The Legong dance will be one of the best things to do in Ubud, Bali.

If you love Balinese cuisine, then attending the cooking workshops is a cool thing to do in Ubud. You can learn about Bali's history, culture, and religious beliefs while also learning to prepare a variety of Balinese classics by enrolling in culinary classes. Amazing culinary workshops are offered at Casa Luna Cooking School in Ubud, and you can also sign up for any of the many cooking workshops that are held there. When you are on a vacation, you can choose hourly packages that suit your schedule  You can use the recipe card to relive your trip to Ubud when you go home.

One of the interesting things to do in Ubud is to explore the Gianyar Night Market. The market is about a 10-km drive southeast of Ubud, where you can enjoy a variety of traditional snacks. You can choose from a variety of traditional Balinese foods, including satay, fried bananas, and little cakes. Also, you can find ubiquitously roasted suckling pigs, for which Bali is famous, as well as other items for sale like clothes and toys. After a good day in Ubud, you can treat your taste buds in this night market.

One of the most unique things to do in Ubud is to visit the Bali Bird Park, a paradise for bird lovers featuring over 1,000 tropical birds across 250 species. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens and marvel at the vibrant colours of these magnificent creatures as they fly freely, perching on branches and interacting with visitors. Be sure to catch one of the many daily bird shows, offering an entertaining and educational experience for all ages.

For adventure seekers looking for the best things to do in Bali Ubud, embark on an adrenaline-pumping sunrise trek up Mount Batur. This popular hike rewards visitors with unparalleled panoramic views from its summit as they watch the sky change colors from pitch-black to brilliant pinks and oranges. Guided tours typically include transport, a knowledgeable guide, and breakfast at the peak, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.

Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple is a must-visit destination for those looking for unique things to do in Ubud. This ancient temple complex is nestled amidst lush greenery and features beautiful fountains, ponds filled with sacred carp, and intricately carved shrines. As you explore the serene atmosphere of this sacred site, you will gain a deeper understanding of Balinese culture and spirituality.

For a memorable experience, consider a visit to Setia Darma House of Masks & Puppets – one of the best things to do in Ubud Bali. This fascinating museum houses an incredible collection of masks and puppets from all around the world. Each piece tells a unique story, showcasing centuries-old traditions, craftsmanship, and artistry. Don't miss the opportunity to witness these cultural treasures up close.

If you're searching for fun outdoor activities in Ubud, head over to the Ubud Bird Park. Home to countless colourful species from Indonesia and beyond, this sanctuary offers visitors an intimate encounter with stunning birds like parrots, toucans, and peacocks. Stroll through the lush gardens while listening to vibrant bird songs – an unforgettable experience that will make your trip even more special.

Immerse yourself in Balinese art and history by visiting the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), an essential stop on any list of things to do in Ubud Indonesia. The museum showcases diverse artworks ranging from traditional Balinese paintings to contemporary pieces by national and international artists. In addition, ARMA also offers various cultural workshops allowing visitors to engage in hands-on art-making sessions.

For adrenaline junkies seeking adventurous things to do in Ubud town, look no further than white water rafting on the Ayung River. This exhilarating activity provides a perfect blend of excitement and breathtaking beauty as you navigate rushing rapids surrounded by lush, tropical foliage. Not only will you have a thrilling time, but you'll also witness some of the most impressive natural landscapes that Bali has to offer.

Discover Bali's Hidden Water Palaces – Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung. These serene retreats showcase traditional Balinese architecture amidst lush landscapes. Tirta Gangga features tiered fountains and calm ponds, while Taman Ujung boasts grand structures surrounded by expansive lawns. Explore these tranquil gems, uncovering Bali's royal history and experiencing a serene blend of art and nature. Each step in these enchanting water palaces reveals the island's unique charm, offering a peaceful escape into the cultural richness and natural beauty of Bali.