Ubud
Introduction
Bali's cultural heart
Ubud is lush, green and pristine, with calming views of tropical jungles and picturesque ricefields. It is also the island’s heart of arts and culture – home to artisans who are experts in wood and stone carvings, as well as generations of silversmiths and goldsmiths, painters, dancers, musicians, healers and more.
With an abundance of beautiful retreats and jungle hideaways, Ubud is ideal for relaxation and healing. It is also the centre of yoga, spa, holistic practices, traditional art, music and natural medicine.
Accommodations
Places to stay
Ubud’s lush green surroundings make the perfect backdrop for a much needed escape; a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the South.
Whether you want to stay near central Ubud or go deep into nature, you’ll be sure to find an accommodation that will steal your heart.
Choose from ultra-luxurious jungle resorts and charming boutique hotels with ricefield and river views, to cosy budget inns just minutes away from the markets and shops.
Mandapa, A Ritz Carlton Reserve
A splendid luxury resort overlooking the Ayung River comprising 60 lavish, river-view suites with private terraces and some with private pools.
- Ultra-luxe property
- Breathtaking river & jungle views
- Four award-winning restaurants
- Great for retreats and weddings
Hanging Gardens Bali
An iconic resort with a world-famous infinity pool perched over a jungle ravine, and 44 magnificent tropical villas with lush interiors & private pools.
- 44 private jungle villas with pool
- Great for retreats and romantic dinners
- Award-winning restaurant
- Iconic infinity pool
Capella Ubud
A unique "glamping" experience in opulent "tents" with sumptuous interiors, indoor-outdoor living, modern amenities and salt water pools.
- Luxurious glamping experience
- Personal Assistant available
- All-organic products
Alaya Ubud
A luxury boutique property that offers style and comfort in the heart of central Ubud with ricefield views and traditionally Bali-inspired bedrooms.
- Located in central Ubud
- Close to all shopping and the Ubud Monkey Forest
- Award-winning DaLa Spa on-site
Dining:
Restaurants, Cafes and Warungs
Some of Bali’s best restaurants can be found here in Ubud. From award-winning fine-dining venues to beloved traditional warungs, Ubud’s dining scene is as exciting as it is diverse.
As Bali’s holistic hub, here is also where you’ll find loads of cafes offering delicious and healthy, raw and flavoursome vegan options.
Locavore
An award-winning, fine-dining experience using only sustainably sourced ingredients from around the island. Expect unique and fresh creations that are beautifully plated and presented. Go ala-carte or indulge in a four or seven course degustation menu. Cocktail and wine pairing, vegan and vegetarian options available.
- Lunch and dinner
- Recipient of Asia's 50 Best Restaurant Award
- Bookings essential
- Dress code applies
Aperitif
Explore the world through an eclectic fine-dining degustation menu & 1920’s inspired cocktail bar. Enjoy an ever-changing menu that brings together the flavours of modern gastronomy, lesser-known Indonesian ingredients, and exquisite produce sourced globally and locally. Offering 180 of the world's most exclusive wines.
- Lunch and dinner
- Romantic Dinner available
- Bookings essential
- Dress code applies
Manisan
An authentic dining experience in a 350 year-old Javanese Joglo with lush ricefield views in the heart of central Ubud. Manisan brings together the celebrated flavours of Indonesia with time-tested traditional recipes presented in a carefully curated menu and elegantly prepared dishes with a modern twist.
- Lunch and Dinner
- Indonesian classics with a modern twist
- Family-friendly
Bebek Bengil
Pleasing palates from around the world since 1990, Bebek Bengil is the "original" crispy duck restaurant in Bali , serving mouthwatering, authentic and traditional Balinese cuisine such as the Nasi Campur Bebek - Balinese Mixed Rice with Crispy Duck, Boiled Egg, Fish Satay, Balinese Vegetables, herbs and spices.
- Lunch and Dinner
- Authentic Balinese experience
- Family-friendly
Other must-tries would include:
- Casa Luna
- Api Jiwa
- Naughty Nuri's Ubud
- Restaurant Nusantara
- Murni's Warung
Retreats and Sanctuaries
Where you'll go to escape
Gaia Retreat Centre
A health and wellness oasis created to supports the body, mind and spirit in holistic healing. Available programmes include signature detox and meditation retreats. as well as curated group retreats dedicated to personal development, health and wellness.
- Advanced booking and payment necessary
- Colonics, holistic spa treatments and deep-cleansing programmes available
Bliss Sanctuary For Women
An all-women Bali retreat for those who want to relax and enjoy a hassle-free hassle experience in Bali. No couples and no kids allowed, Bliss Sanctuary is located within a beautiful and calming environment, close to all of Seminyak's hottest attractions and the beach.
- Advanced booking necessary
- Packages available with activities including surfing, spa treatments, meditation, etc..
Shopping
Carvings, paintings and more
Ubud is a haven of Balinese arts and crafts whether stone, wood, silver or gold. These are available to shoppers in the form of homewares and home deco, accessories and jewellery, art fixtures and more. You will also find beautiful original paintings here, traditional garments, masks, and the ever-popular rattan accessories from bags to bowls, baskets and more.
A good place to start is the Ubud Art Market and the Sukawati Art Market. There are also beautiful designer stores selling clothing, leather accessories and homeware in central Ubud, just minutes away from the Monkey Forest.
Spa & Salons
Holistic healing from within
For a delicious head-to-toe pampering experience, there are spas in almost every corner of Ubud; from the most lavish to the simplest local spas offering body massages, body scrubs, mani-pedis, hair treatments and more.
DaLa Spa
A breathtaking, opulent location offering head-to-toe traditional Indonesian wellness and beauty rituals. Using only the freshest local ingredients including fruits, herbs and spices.
- Open daily
- Spa packages available
- Treatment for couples available
Jaens Spa
A favourite amongst travellers and expats, renowned for its cleanliness, great service, and a wide range of wellness treatments in the heart of downtown Ubud.
- Open daily
- Spa packages available
- Natural handmade products
Cultural Landmarks
Go exploring
Monkey Forest
A forest reserve and sanctuary for the Balinese long-tailed macaque. It's also a temple complex, housing over 300 monkeys which are considered sacred to the Balinese.
- Open every day
- Entrance fee applies
- Do not bring any food to avoid provoking the monkeys.
Campuhan Ridge
A 9-km hiking trail along Ubud's verdant hills, Campuhan Ridgewalk is a must do. Lush, green and pristine, it's perfect for those who want to escape the hustle-bustle of Ubud town.
- Open every day
- Breathtaking views
- Best time to visit: early morning or late afternoons.
Quick Facts
Important Points To Note
- Location: Central Bali
- 65 minutes or 36.6km from the International Airport
- Warm weather all year round: 24°C to 29°C
- Rainy season: January-March, November-December
- Best time to visit: From April to October