Top Things to Do in Ubud: Best Activities & Must-Sees
If you’re in Bali or about to touch down, chances are Ubud has already popped up on your radar. This inland gem is the island’s cultural heartbeat—a place where temples, rice paddies, and local life blend together at a wonderfully relaxed pace.
Here’s our guide to the best things to see and do in Ubud, so you’ll know exactly where to start and won’t miss out on any of the highlights.
In this Trip.com article, you’ll discover the best things to see in Ubud, from the town centre to the hidden gems just a short journey away.
📅 What to Do in Ubud Based on Your Stay
The beauty of Ubud is that it adapts perfectly to however much time you have.
Whether you’re racing against the clock or have time to take things slow, there’s always a plan that fits perfectly. The key is knowing how to prioritise and not trying to do it all in one go.
To give you an idea, here’s a summary based on the length of your trip to Ubud:
⏳ Duration | 💑 Couples | 👨👩👧 Family | 🧑🤝🧑 Friends | 🧍 Solo travel |
1 day | Ubud Centre, Monkey Forest, and a stroll through the nearby rice paddies | Ubud Palace, local market, and Monkey Forest | Ubud town centre, cafés and viewpoints | City centre temples, markets, and a leisurely stroll |
2–3 days | Temples, Ubud Kajeng Rice Fields Walk & Spa | Monkey Forest, rice paddies and nearby villages | Nearby waterfalls, rice paddies and sunset | Yoga, temples and walking trails |
4–5 days | Ubud + waterfall and village tours | Ubud and its surroundings: nature and culture | Excursions, viewpoints and local life | Retreats, nature and slow-paced exploration |
1 week | Ubud, North Bali and city escapes | Based in Ubud with daily departures | A journey through waterfalls, volcanoes and rice paddies | Ubud as a base for exploring inland Bali |
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Best Things to Do in Ubud
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📍 Must-Visit Areas in Ubud
Of course, when you first arrive, it’s only natural to wonder about the different neighbourhoods. The thing is, Ubud doesn’t quite work like that.
There aren't any official districts as such here; instead, areas are organised by their vibe, what's nearby, and the kind of experience you're in the mood for.
And that’s where it’s worth knowing the difference, because the centre of Ubud is a world away from exploring the more tranquil areas of the town.
Ubud Centre
To start with, the city centre is the liveliest and most convenient spot. It’s a real hub for restaurants, cafes, little shops, yoga studios, and the heart of everyday life. Essentially, you can just step out onto the street and find plenty to do without even having to think about it!
Honestly, it’s ideal if you’re short on time or prefer exploring on foot, as almost everything is within easy reach. Mind you, we won’t lie – it’s the busiest area, especially mid-morning and at sunset.
📌 Tip: Get up a little earlier and head out for a stroll when the atmosphere is much more peaceful.
Ubud Palace and Art Market Area
This is the cultural heart of Ubud. The Royal Palace, the traditional market, and several temples set the pace of the area. The truth is, it’s impossible to visit Ubud without ending up here, even if you’re just passing through.
What's more, this is one of the most historic areas, with the palace still serving as the residence for the local royal family. As evening falls, prepare to be enchanted by traditional dance performances! And here's a little insider tip: the market truly transforms throughout the day. In the mornings, it's a vibrant local affair, offering an authentic peek into daily life, while come afternoon, it shifts to cater more to curious travellers.
Saraswati Temple Area
As if that weren't enough, just a stone's throw from the centre you'll find a much more peaceful area. Saraswati Temple, with its lotus pond, is one of those spots where you'll really want to slow down the pace.
Here, you’ll find small museums, galleries, and paths leading out into the rice paddies. To put it simply, it’s the perfect area if you enjoy peaceful walks and want to discover Ubud at a slower pace.
💡 Fun fact: many of Ubud's most iconic photos are taken at this temple, especially at sunset.
South of Ubud (Goa Gajah area)
And finally, South Ubud is a whole different story. It’s greener, more open, and far less bustling. It’s all about using it as a base to explore the surrounding area – you know, temples, waterfalls, and nearby villages.
The renowned Goa Gajah temple is located in this area, and you'll often find accommodation nestled in nature. Just keep in mind that it’s best to get around by scooter or car here, as not everything is within easy reach.
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Our Top Picks
5 star
Amazing116 Reviews
Ubud Bali|22.98km from city centre
This is a premium hotel far outside of Ubud center. Be aware you are about 30 minutes from Ubud if you stay here and there really isn't much to do in the immediate area besides stare at the jungle. Staff was outstanding here with frequent greetings by name and remembering you like a Ritz Carlton.
Because I enjoy regular outings I actually found the location quite inconvenient as an hour a day would have to be devoted just to getting to and from Ubud.
The room I got was enormous and included a dining room, sitting room, bedroom, large bathroom. The in room amenities were great including a free restocking mini bar with snacks (no alcohol) and a large smart TV. The bed was huge, soft, and comfortable.
The bathtub was a downside as it was quite small by western standards (not as small as a japanese tub though). I'm not a very big individual at 173cm and I felt it was too narrow and not long enough. Perhaps suitable for petite individuals only. Be aware of that if like me and many Americans you prefer baths over showers.
The property is very large and you will likely want to regularly use the phone to request the on site golf cart shuttles to get around it as otherwise you will spend much of your time walking uphill from the rooms to the amenities near the entrance like the restaurant and pool.FromSGD 93
Very Good133 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.64km from city centre
Friendly and attentive staff with prompt service around the clock!
The hotel is conveniently located next to the lounge with an awesome live band, and the restaurant separated by glass door with a good view to the lounge for more privacy with ample seating & a comfortable dining experience.
And not forgetting the relaxing awesome pool surrounded by nature!FromSGD 42
Great573 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km from city centre
We chose this hotel for the last two nights of our Bali trip because it offered excellent value compared to many other resorts in Bali and even other InterContinental properties. The resort itself is huge, with a wide variety of facilities including separate adult and family pools, an indoor gym, a calisthenics gym, beautiful ponds, direct beach access, and very friendly staff. On paper, it seemed like a fantastic choice.
Unfortunately, our stay turned out to be extremely disappointing.
We stayed in room number 4127. On our first night, both of us woke up covered in insect bites despite sleeping tucked under the blankets. Around midnight, we had to spray both the bed and ourselves with insect repellent just to get through the night. The following morning, we reported the issue and requested a room change because we were concerned there might be insects in the mattress. Instead, we were only offered fresh bed sheets and a general cleaning of the room.
Sadly, the exact same thing happened again on the second night. We woke up with even more bites and no longer felt safe sleeping in the bed. We strongly suspected there were bugs hiding in the mattress. We ended up leaving the room in the middle of the night and spent the rest of the night in the hotel lobby because we were too afraid to return to bed.
What disappointed us the most was how the situation was handled. We showed the staff numerous photos documenting the bites over both nights, yet the only compensation offered was to waive a small bill (about RMB 55) for an ice cream and a coffee. Considering we lost two nights of sleep, experienced significant discomfort, and had to spend an entire night in the lobby, this response felt inadequate and did not reflect the level of service we expected.
In addition, the hotel itself feels quite dated. Although it has its charm, many areas appear to have aged significantly. The towels were noticeably worn, wooden fixtures were chipped, and the overall condition suggested the property is overdue for a major renovation.
We genuinely wanted to enjoy our stay because the resort has so much potential. The grounds are beautiful, the facilities are plentiful, and the staff we interacted with were polite and friendly. However, the insect issue and the hotel’s response overshadowed everything else. We hope management takes this feedback seriously and thoroughly investigates the mattresses and rooms so future guests do not have the same experience.FromSGD 192
Amazing583 Reviews
Ubud Bali|15.95km from city centre
An absolutely incredible stay at Alaya Resort Ubud! The resort perfectly balances authentic Balinese charm with modern luxury. Even though it is located right in the heart of bustling Ubud, the hotel environment feels like a completely private, tranquil sanctuary.
The views from the property are stunning—waking up to the lush greenery and the peaceful rice terraces is exactly the kind of tropical escape you hope for in Bali. I stayed in an Alaya Room, which was beautifully designed, spacious, and impeccably clean.
What truly set this stay apart, however, was the staff. Every single team member went above and beyond to ensure the trip was perfect. They were genuinely warm, highly attentive, and showcased the absolute best of Balinese hospitality. Highly recommend this resort to anyone looking for a serene getaway!FromSGD 189
Very Good306 Reviews
Ubud Bali|18.62km from city centre
This was my second time staying at this hotel. The first time was a solo trip, and this time with my husband. I love the location as it is in the middle of Ubud City Center and all the attractions up north (Tegalalang, Tirta Empul, etc). Forgot to take any photo of the room though, but it was very comfortable! Breakfast is good, but the soy latte is too sweet for my liking. Need better plant-based mylk option. But overall, an enjoyable stay!FromSGD 141
Great303 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.22km from city centre
We had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The entire property was kept very clean, and all the staff were extremely friendly. There were pool activities starting at 11:00 a.m., which made the stay even more enjoyable. I had heard that the hotel could be noisy, but I didn’t find it noisy at all. There were live bands performing in the garden, and it created a fun and lively atmosphere. The shampoo provided is a combined shampoo and conditioner, so if you prefer using a separate conditioner, I recommend bringing your own. I also appreciated that there were USB ports for charging smartphones, which was very convenient. At the shopping mall next door, you can watch a Kecak dance performance every evening from 6:00 p.m. It’s free to watch, and the performance is truly impressive. It’s definitely worth seeing, especially considering that it’s free.FromSGD 88
Business travel
Good423 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.6km from city centre
Pleasant experience with this hotel but never stay long enough to give valuable feedback. However, from check-in to check-out, it was a seamless experience. Staffs are very nice. Upon entering the room, the taps, shower head, and toilet flush are very rusty & mouldy.. We requested for a change but water output was not better.. It was splashing in all directions, making washing up not a very pleasant experience. But you pay for what you get which was reasonable as long as water is clean.FromSGD 14
Very Good414 Reviews
Sanur Bali|7.01km from city centre
Prama Sanur Beach Bali is an established resort offering great value for money. Its biggest draw is the private beachfront, perfect for catching stunning sunrises, cycling, and enjoying water sports right from the hotel. The pool is large and surrounded by lush greenery. However, since the hotel has been around for a while, the rooms and bathrooms show their age. Overall, it's a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a wide range of facilities and relaxing sea views, and aren't overly particular about the newest amenities.FromSGD 84
Very Good340 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.42km from city centre
Really nice hotel, excellent value. I was only there for 1 night, but wish it was longer. Great location nearby the airport and plenty around the local area.
Room was very spacious and well equipped.
The stand out was the food from the room service, which was very inexpensive, and was exceptional (pictured), would highly recommend.
Staff all polite and friendly.FromSGD 19
Very Good745 Reviews
Kuta Bali|9.39km from city centre
Clean and nice room. Buffet Breakfast is good. You can ask for fresh cooked noodles and omellet. The pool is clean ad big. Location is perfect. Near the beach, shopping, restairant and massage.FromSGD 48
Very Good561 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.98km from city centre
I had a great stay at d’primahotel Seminyak. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and always ready to help. The location was convenient, with many cafés, restaurants, and popular spots in Seminyak just a short distance away. As a solo traveler, I felt safe and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. It was excellent value for money, and I would definitely stay here again on my next trip to Bali.FromSGD 32
Very Good249 Reviews
Legian Bali|8.11km from city centre
Not much to share, it's an old hotel, location is good, along Legian area, matured garden, they provide breakfast but I never tried it, mattress is too soft for me, not good for people with back issues, the rest are ”as is where is” situation for an old hotel..FromSGD 19
Family friendly
Very Good180 Reviews
Kuta Bali|8.72km from city centre
Location is generally good. Accessible to a lot of locations. Staff can be friendlier considering its a 4 stars hotel. Simple gesture like pressing the lift, helping to open door when car arrive are value added bonuses. Room sound proof is pretty bad. Can literally hear kids laughing sound or the sound from the pool.
Got to take extra note when check out as well. They dont check the room and just discharge accordingly, so if you left item inside, so be it.
But other than the above, i think the hotel worth the price.FromSGD 33
Very Good525 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.53km from city centre
beyond expectations 🤍
Everything about this hotel was exceptional, especially considering the price range compared to other hotels in the area. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel genuinely welcomed with their kindness, professionalism, and warm smiles. The service was outstanding in every detail.
The rooms were spotless, comfortable, and very well maintained. Housekeeping was excellent, and the whole hotel had a clean, relaxing atmosphere. The beds were extremely comfortable and we had such peaceful sleep every night.
The breakfast was easily 10/10 😍
Great variety, fresh food every day, delicious options for both adults and children, and everything was presented beautifully. Even the coffee and juices were excellent.
The pool area was amazing ,clean, relaxing, and perfect for families. The hotel is also very family-friendly overall, with such a safe and comfortable environment for children. The staff were incredibly sweet and caring with kids, which made the experience even better for our family.
The location is also perfect: close to everything in Kuta while still feeling peaceful and quiet inside the hotel.
Honestly, compared to other hotels in the same price range around the area, Bintang Kuta deserves a true 10/10 Outstanding rating. It genuinely feels like a much more expensive hotel because of the quality of service, cleanliness, comfort, and attention to detail.
You can clearly feel that the management and staff truly care about the guests and work with passion and professionalism. We would absolutely stay here again without hesitation 🌟FromSGD 41
Great812 Reviews
Kuta Bali|11km from city centre
The room was too humid, probably due to the air conditioning, making both the floor and bedding damp. I had to ask for towels to lay on the floor and a new comforter. The soundproofing isn't great, but it was fine for an overnight stay. The breakfast was good, with plenty of eggs. It's a 10-minute drive from the airport and they offer a shuttle service. There's a small supermarket, massage, and currency exchange right next to the hotel, which is much better than the airport's, so that was convenient.
There's a pool, a large lawn, and it's close to the beach, though the beach itself was a bit dirty and messy. You can watch planes land from the beach.
I booked an airport transfer for the next morning and confirmed it twice, being told it was all set. However, when I went down early to wait for the car, it wasn't there. Luckily, I went down early enough that the front desk was able to call a temporary ride.FromSGD 57
Great576 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km from city centre
The hotel's location is excellent; we could watch the beach sunset from the 6th-floor restaurant. After the sun set, it was just a convenient 5-minute walk to the nearby beach, and the evening glow was beautiful. The breakfast was plentiful, with both Western and Indonesian options. I highly recommend the coconut milk beef soup; its flavor was uniquely wonderful. For dinner, we ate at the 6th-floor restaurant while watching the sunset. We ordered grilled fish, but they didn't have the one on the menu and substituted it with blue marlin. It was grilled so tough it was hard to chew and had no flavor. So, the next evening, we went to the convenient Village Hotel next to the Fox Hotel for dinner, and it was delicious. Just about ten meters out of the hotel alley, at the intersection, there's a small shop selling various souvenirs, which are quite cheap and worth a look. The bottled water provided by the hotel felt like it was refilled, so I didn't dare to drink it. We bought large bottles of water from the small shop for drinking and brushing our teeth. The hotel was very nice; even though they were fully booked, they still allowed us to check out an hour late. Around 1 PM, the hotel lobby was breezy and quite cool.FromSGD 41
Great374 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.13km from city centre
The staff service is very friendly and good here! Very recommend to stay at this hotel as their location is very convenient! Opposite has many many marts and pharmacies, easy to walk and buy things you need! They also have provide laundry service which can get your clothes in 24 hours and charge about 30k for 1kg. They also will top up mineral water and all the tea, toothbrush every day. Will definitely stay here again in the future!FromSGD 29
Amazing1179 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km from city centre
The room was spacious, clean and comfortable. Loved the daybeds, pools and the range of daily activities plenty of ways to just slow down and chill without leaving the resort.
The à la carte lunch and dinner at the resort’s restaurants were great but the buffet breakfast was honestly quite meh.
The rooftop bar on the 17th floor was another highlight. The staff there were exceptionally warm and friendly in fact, much friendlier than the gentleman who handled our check-in at reception which felt rather cold.
A small housekeeping oddity: we noticed that the ropes we had worn were literally re-hung instead of being replaced with a fresh set, which was a little disappointing for a luxury resort.
Overall, a gorgeous resort with great facilities, food and a relaxing atmosphere. Just expected a little more consistency in the service and breakfast experience for a property of this level.FromSGD 504
Breakfast
Very Good374 Reviews
Ubud Bali|21.48km from city centre
We stayed at Kenran Resort Ubud by Soscomma and had a truly peaceful experience. Even though it was rainy during our stay, the quiet mountain setting made it feel even more calm and serene. The atmosphere was perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
The breakfast and tea were absolutely delicious, and everything felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. A wonderful place to unwind and recharge in Ubud. 🌿✨FromSGD 103
Great558 Reviews
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km from city centre
My stay at Renaissance Bali Uluwatu started with a hiccup, it ended on such a wonderful note that I would happily return.
Due to a system error, I was given the wrong room type upon check-in, and unfortunately there were no vacant rooms available that day. However, the hotel team handled the situation professionally. The very next day, they upgraded me to their best room category as part of their service recovery, which I truly appreciated.
What made the experience even more memorable was the genuine hospitality. The staff noticed it was my birthday and surprised me during breakfast by singing a birthday song. I was touched, although a little awkward too 😅. A special mention to Manager Aldi, who consistently checked in on me whenever we crossed paths around the hotel to make sure everything was going well. That personal touch made a big difference.
The hotel itself is beautiful—perfect for a relaxing getaway. The sunset views are stunning, the ambience is peaceful, and the spacious grounds make it a great place to unwind. My room was clean and comfortable, the breakfast team was efficient and attentive, and the overall service throughout the stay was excellent.
Thank you to the Renaissance Uluwatu team for turning an initial disappointment into such a memorable experience. Your sincere service recovery and warm hospitality truly stood out. I'll definitely be back!FromSGD 193
Very Good176 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14km from city centre
This hotel is a very good choice 👍🏼 I am a little picky, but here’s my review:
Pros:
✅ No damp smell, well ventilated ( I was worried about this)
✅ No insects in the room. There might be some geckos 🦎 (which is normal and expected) but I didn’t see any.
✅ Very clean in general
✅ Comfortable bed
✅ The service is amazing
✅ The staff is very friendly and helpful
✅ The breakfast is very good, there are plenty of choices.
✅ Their restaurant is also very good, in case you don’t want to go out of the resort.
✅ The vibe at the beach is nice and if you like water sports it is also good.
✅ The pool is huge and very nice
✅ Reasonable price (but it will depend on the season and demand)
Cons:
😑 Sound proof can be better, one can hear everyone from the pool (the sound enters from the main door)
😑 The beach is not the best for swimming, and is a bit dirty in general (not the hotel’s fault)
😑 The gym can be better as there are only 3 machines (spinning, treadmill and elliptical) the dumbbells are fine
✅😄 Overall, recommended! I was happy with my stay at this hotel!
It is good to give it a try!FromSGD 167
Great200 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km from city centre
🛎️ Check-in & Staff: Staff were friendly all over the hotel. Check-in was smooth — our room wasn't ready yet, but they kindly offered us a complimentary tea hour at the Khatha Lounge while we waited. A lovely touch.
🛏️ The Room: Spacious, and they had the sofa bed set up for our family in advance. However, our first room was on a corridor that acts as the main pass-through to all other rooms — nearly every guest walks past your door. It was very noisy, especially at night, and got much worse in the evenings with guests staying up for the World Cup games. I had to go to reception very late at night to request a change. Tip: avoid rooms 1502–1510.
👍 To their credit, reception handled it well and moved us to a quieter floor away from the elevator. So in the end, just 1 noisy night out of our 5-night stay.
🏊 Pool: Very large — essentially 4 connected pools, including a dedicated kids' pool (around 40 cm deep) with slides. Perfect for children.
🍳 Breakfast: Very good with a wide variety of options.
💆 Spa: Very nice and clean.
Verdict: A warm, family-friendly resort with excellent facilities and staff who genuinely fix problems when they arise. Would stay again — just request a room away from the main corridor.
#MövenpickJimbaran #Bali #FamilyTravel #JimbaranFromSGD 111
56 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.61km from city centre
Exceptional Stay in The Crystal Luxury bay resort!
I recently had the pleasure of staying at this incredible hotel, and I must say it exceeded my expectations in every way! The hotel's photos don't do it justice - the lobby, staff greetings, and overall ambiance are truly impressive.
The staff members are remarkably friendly, polite, and attentive, providing top-notch service that makes you feel valued. The hotel's bay view is breathtaking, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
One of the highlights of my stay was the spa - incredibly affordable and absolutely divine! I highly recommend treating yourself to a session (or two!).
Considering the exceptional quality and service, I believe this hotel is significantly underpriced. I would return in a heartbeat if I ever visit Bali again. If you're looking for a fantastic stay, look no further! 5/5 starsFromSGD 36
Very Good177 Reviews
Nusa Dua Bali|14.56km from city centre
Everything was great, excellent service, room was very clean, breakfast was nicee, so glad to spent my vacation here 😘FromSGD 24
Gym
Very Good223 Reviews
Bali|2.55km from city centre
I had a pleasant stay at Aston Denpasar Hotel & Convention Center and would happily recommend it to others visiting Denpasar. The hotel is centrally located, making it a great base for both business and leisure activities. The staff were exceptionally friendly and professional, always ready to assist with a smile. My room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with all the essential amenities provided. I especially enjoyed the breakfast buffet, which offered a generous variety of both local and international dishes. The hotel’s facilities, including the swimming pool and meeting rooms, were well-maintained and added to the overall experience. For the price, Aston Denpasar offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere. I look forward to staying here again on my next trip to Bali.FromSGD 27
Great660 Reviews
Jimbaran Bali|17.07km from city centre
We stayed in a sea view suite on the 2nd floor, but the view was mostly blocked by trees, so there was hardly any sea view. The hotel lobby is on the 3rd floor and offers an open view of the sea. I'd recommend requesting a room on the 3rd floor or higher when booking.
The hotel's public areas are lovely, and the in-room facilities are well-maintained. The overall service experience was excellent; the staff were friendly and quick to respond to our requests. All the hotel's restaurants offer good food, and the beachfront restaurant has particularly stunning views. Breakfast time can get quite crowded and a bit noisy, so it's better to go during off-peak hours for a more pleasant experience. Overall, it's very suitable for families traveling with children.FromSGD 373
Very Good408 Reviews
Kuta Bali|10.64km from city centre
The resort is quite large and was full of guests. The garden views are beautiful, and you can walk to Kuta Beach to watch the sunset. The breakfast was plentiful with a good variety of options. It's close to the airport but a bit far from the main shopping areas, so you'll need to take a taxi (which can get stuck in traffic) or walk to find places to eat. I would definitely stay here again if I have the chance.FromSGD 77
Very Good432 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|6.77km from city centre
Everything was great, service, room, room view and location. I loved my experience staying in this hotel, if I visit Bali next time probably gonna stay here again. Convenient to go everywhere located heart of Seminyak, staffs were incredibly polite and friendly. My room view was just amazing, 5 star directly. I have some recommendation on breakfast option, it would be better if breakfast had variety of options, felt a bit limited but still delicious. Thank u for my stay comfyFromSGD 28
Amazing85 Reviews
Seminyak Bali|7.71km from city centre
This hotel really gives off a vacation vibe! Every room has a balcony overlooking the pool, perfect for spending a whole day just lounging by the pool. The staff are all so friendly and kind, and the room was spotlessly clean. The lounge chairs and bedding were hygienic and comfortable. However, the bathroom fixtures showed significant signs of age, which was a big drawback and really needs renovating.FromSGD 115
Amazing125 Reviews
Ubud Bali|26.57km from city centre
We had an amazing 3-night stay at Kayon Jungle Resort in the Jungle Pool Villa. The resort is absolutely beautiful, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a peaceful, secluded escape. The private pool was pleasantly warm, making it enjoyable at any time of the day.
What truly stood out was the exceptional guest experience, which surpassed any luxury hotel we have stayed at. We celebrated our anniversary and were delighted by the thoughtful touches, including a beautiful swan setup, flower bath, and celebratory cake.
A special thank you to our butlers, Ida and Adi, who were professional, respectful, and incredibly attentive throughout our stay. From driving us around the resort in the buggy to checking in on us and anticipating our needs during each ride, they consistently went above and beyond to make our stay memorable.
The breakfast was outstanding, with a huge variety of options and every item we tried was delicious. The restaurant staff were knowledgeable
, accommodating, and happy to cater to our requests.
Overall, Kayon Jungle Resort exceeded our expectations in every way. We left with wonderful memories and will definitely be returning in the future.FromSGD 438
⭐ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Ubud
There’s just something special about Ubud. Culture, nature, and well-being blend together so naturally that everything just clicks. The thing is, with so many options, it’s worth focusing on the sights in Ubud that are truly worthwhile, rather than just taking a stab in the dark.
Here are five must-sees to help you get to grips with what to see and do in Ubud, completely hassle-free.
- 🌴 Nusa Penida: Day Trip, Wild Beaches and Viewpoints
- 💦 Waterbom Bali: The ideal water park for families
- 🏯 Ubud Palace: Historic palace and traditional dances
- 🐒 Monkey Forest: A sacred forest with temples and monkeys
- 💆 Bali Spa: Balinese massages and ultimate well-being
Nusa Penida
And of course, even though it’s not in Ubud town itself, Nusa Penida is one of the star excursions you can take from here. You’ll set off early, hop on a boat, and be greeted by dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and viewpoints that look like they’re from another planet.
To be honest, it’s a pretty intense day – there’s no denying it! That said, it’s best to come prepared: comfortable trainers, water, a bit of cash, and a good dose of patience for the roads.
Penida Island
4.4/5
469 Reviews
GoodSGD 2
Waterbom Bali, Indonesia
If you're travelling with the family or fancy something a bit different, Waterbom Bali is a fantastic option. It's located in the Kuta area but is easy to reach from Ubud, making it the perfect way to beat the heat.
Plus, it’s not your typical run-down water park. It’s brilliantly organised, with attractions for both adults and kids, lush green spaces, and excellent facilities.
📌 Top tip: book your tickets online and bring some waterproof sunscreen.
Waterbom Bali
4.8/5
223 Reviews
Must visit!!SGD 45
Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace is one of those captivating spots you're simply destined to discover! It's nestled right in the heart of the city and offers a truly fascinating glimpse into Ubud's vibrant cultural heart.
By day, you can wander through the courtyards at your leisure, while in the evening, they often host traditional Balinese dance performances.
It’s not all perfect, of course; it can get quite crowded, but it’s still well worth a visit.
Ubud Palace
4.4/5
482 Reviews
Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is the historic royal residence in central Ubud, Bali, known for its traditional Balinese architecture and nightly dance performances. Entry to the palace grounds is free, open daily from around 8:00–18:00, while evening shows start at 19:30 with tickets costing about IDR 100,000.Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
Let’s get one thing straight: the Monkey Forest isn’t just a place to see monkeys. It’s a sacred forest with temples, paths, and a truly special atmosphere.
Just a heads-up: keep your sunglasses, food and any loose items tucked away, as the macaques are quick and curious! Other than that, it’s a lovely stroll and easy to combine with other sights in the city centre.
🐒 You won't find many different species at Ubud's Monkey Forest, but there is one very specific and omnipresent resident that you'll see everywhere.
- Long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis), also known as the crab-eating macaque or the Balinese macaque.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
4.5/5
408 Reviews
It was incredible!!! So many monkeys and beauty all around. The tour will take about an hour, but you'll really enjoy walking through such a fascinating place.SGD 8
Bali Spa
And after a long day, it’s time to wind down. A spa treatment in Ubud is practically a must. Balinese massages, natural oils, and tranquil surroundings will leave you feeling completely rejuvenated.
The key is choosing the right spot for your plans: you’ll find simple spas in the city centre and more comprehensive retreats in the heart of nature, with stunning views of the jungle or rice paddies.
💆 Local tip: booking for the late afternoon is a brilliant move.
🌿 Ubud, the Cultural and Spiritual Heart of Bali
Of course, whenever Ubud is mentioned, the same themes always come up: culture, art, and spirituality. And it’s not just a random cliché; the truth is, everything here simply moves at a different pace.
Temples on every corner, morning flower offerings, almost impromptu ceremonies, and a constant sense that everyday life and the sacred coexist seamlessly.
Let’s face it, that’s exactly what makes Ubud so different from other parts of Bali.
🛕 Temples and traditions in Ubud
To start with, temples aren't just places to visit; they're a part of everyday life. Pura Taman Saraswati, Tirta Empul, or tiny family shrines pop up when you least expect them. That’s exactly when you should slow down and take a look around. After all, it’s not about ticking sights off a list, but about truly understanding what’s going on.
What’s more, you’ll often come across processions, gamelan music, or rituals that aren't staged for tourists, but which you can observe with respect.
🔔 Top tip: always keep a sarong or wrap in your backpack, as you might need it to enter a temple unexpectedly.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Ubud
And of course, with Bali being a tropical island, the weather really sets the pace of your trip. You won't find the usual four seasons here; instead, there are two very distinct ones: the dry and the wet.
The thing is, each one has its own special charm, so it’s not just about the weather; it also depends on what you’ve got in mind.
Take a look at the seasons in Bali to give you an idea:
🌴 Season | 🌦️ Weather | 📝 Tips | 🎒 Recommended activities |
Dry season (April–October) | Sunny days, moderate humidity, and very little rain. | It’s the most popular time of year, so be sure to book in advance. | Strolls through Ubud town centre, Tegalalang rice terraces, temple excursions, and routes around the surrounding area |
Wet season (November–March) | Constant heat and heavy but brief showers | Plus, there are fewer tourists and better prices. Mind you, make sure to pack a raincoat and some non-slip shoes! | Spas, yoga classes, local markets, museums and cultural experiences |
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🚗 Day Trips from Ubud
And of course, one of the biggest perks of staying here is that Ubud serves as the perfect base for exploring the heart of Bali without having to travel for miles on end.
The best part is that, no matter where you are in the city, you can find yourself at temples, rice paddies or natural spots that look like they’re straight off a postcard in next to no time.
So, if you’re wondering what to see near Ubud or looking for day trips from the town without having to switch hotels, here are two fantastic options to get you started.
🐘 Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
The truth is, Goa Gajah is one of those places that surprises you more than you’d expect. It’s not just the famous rock-carved entrance, but the entire complex, with its bathing pools, paths, and archaeological remains that really invite you to take your time.
Travel time: around 10–15 minutes from the centre of Ubud
Getting there:
- Scooter or private car
- Local taxi or organised tour
Things to see and do:
- The ceremonial cave with its carved entrance
- Purification pools and gardens
- Stroll along the paths within the grounds
To be honest, it’s a really easy visit to fit in, even on those more relaxed days.
🌾 Rice terraces near Ubud
And that’s where Ubud really comes into its own. The surrounding rice terraces are one of central Bali’s most iconic sights, and you don’t have to travel far to enjoy them. Tegalalang is the most famous, but there are quieter spots that are just as stunning if you venture a little off the beaten track.
Journey time: between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the area
Getting there:
- A scooter is a great choice if you're a confident rider.
- Private car with a driver, a very common way to get around Bali.
What to do there:
- Strolling through the rice paddies
- Stop off at scenic viewpoints and cafés with a view
- Sunrise or sunset photos
If you're in Bali, Ubud is waiting for you! Enjoy your trip to Indonesia with Trip.com! ✈️
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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Ubud
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