Ubud – Bali: Find Peace in Bali’s Spiritual Center + 14 Most Beautifuls Places

Last Updated on 11.1.2026 by Pája

Are you looking for a place in Bali where time slows down, your mind quiets, and everything starts to make deeper sense? Ubud is the cultural and spiritual heart of the island – a green inland town surrounded by rice fields, rivers, and deep valleys. On top of that, it’s a great base for treks to popular volcanoes. We originally came for a few days and ended up staying for over a week and exploring the area. What does Bali – Ubud have to offer, and where should you go nearby?

A brief history – why Ubud?

For centuries, Ubud was part of the Gianyar Kingdom and has served as Bali’s cultural hub since the 18th century. The local king gathered artists, musicians, and craftsmen here to preserve traditional Balinese culture. In the 20th century, European artists began arriving in Ubud, finding inspiration and a new home – their influence can still be felt throughout the town today. The name Ubud comes from the Balinese word ubad – medicine – because the area has long been known for its healing herbs. Many people today would say that Ubud mainly heals the mind and soul.

TIP: Don’t forget to book accommodation in Ubud in advance. We booked at the last minute and the selection was quite limited, so we later had to move elsewhere.

Why you should visit Ubud in Bali

What makes Ubud different from the rest of Bali and why do people keep coming back? It’s mainly the atmosphere, the everyday village rhythm, and how naturally nature, culture, and spiritual life blend together here.

• Ubud is calmer than southern Bali and has a completely different pace.
• It’s a center of culture, temples, dance, and traditional crafts.
• You’ll find jungle, rice fields, and sacred springs.
• It’s a hub for digital nomads, yogis, and anyone looking for their community.

Bali – Ubud and accommodation

If you’re heading to Ubud, it depends on what exactly you plan to do. It’s a different experience to stay right in the center, where everything is within walking distance, versus staying in quieter areas surrounded by rice fields and jungle. A big advantage of Ubud is that even lovely boutique hotels with a pool and breakfast can be very affordable, especially outside peak season. We tried several accommodations, mostly in the center, which suited our work best.

Ubud center

The center is ideal if you want to walk to the market, see the royal palace and temples, and be close to restaurants and cafés. But expect more hustle during the day (especially scooters). A great strategy is to stay in the center for a few nights and then move into the greenery outside town.

TIP: We liked THIS PLACE in the center the most – they also had an excellent breakfast.

Accommodation outside the center – rice fields and jungle

If you want more peace and jungle, it’s great to stay just outside the center – for example in Peliatan, Sayan or near Campuhan. Mornings are quiet, with nothing but greenery around you, and in the evening it’s easy to head back to Ubud for dinner or activities.

Tip: Ideally, split your stay – a few nights in the center and a few nights in a quieter area in nature. That way you’ll experience Ubud fully from both sides.

Bali – Ubud and 14 places to see nearby

Bali – Ubud isn’t just a pretty little town, it’s also a great base for trips into the surrounding jungle and to volcanoes. Some places are easy to reach on foot from the center, others require a short scooter ride or a driver. Here are the places we loved most in and around Ubud, and you’ll most likely love them too. For places outside town, we recommend renting a scooter, and for bigger trips booking a tour with GetYourGuide with a guide (often required).

Mount Batur (Gunung Batur)

Batur is the most famous and accessible volcano in Bali. We got engaged there, and it was one of the most beautiful places we saw on the island.

The trek usually starts in the Kintamani area, specifically from the village of Toya Bungkah or Pura Jati, which a driver will reach from Ubud in about 1.5 hours. This route is typically done at night, usually starting between 2 and 3 a.m. to catch sunrise at the summit, or alternatively for sunset, when you’ll have the place almost to yourself (that’s what we chose and we’re very glad we did). The trail goes over volcanic gravel and lava rocks; the last section is steeper but technically straightforward.

At the summit you’ll watch sunrise/sunset over Lake Batur, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, and often see Mount Agung in the distance. After the descent, people usually stop at hot springs or for breakfast with a view of the caldera. It was one of the best trips we did in Bali, so definitely go!

Mount Agung (Gunung Agung)

The highest and most sacred mountain in Bali, Agung, is a completely different level from Batur. From Ubud, people most often head to the starting points at Pura Besakih or Pura Pasar Agung, depending on the chosen route. The climb is long, much more physically demanding, and usually takes 6–8 hours just to reach the summit. The trail is steep, often over rocks and lava fields, with little shade.

Mount Abang

A lesser-known alternative to Mount Batur, ideal if you want mountains without crowds. The starting point is also in the Kintamani area, about a 1.5-hour drive from Ubud.
The trek is quieter, goes through forest and along a ridge with beautiful views of Lake Batur and the surrounding volcanoes. It’s not technically difficult, but it’s longer than Batur. The big advantage is very few tourists and a much more authentic atmosphere.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Monkey Forest in Ubud is not just a tourist attraction, but a sacred forest complex with temples, statues, and ancient trees. Dense jungle, humid air, and constant sounds of nature create a powerful atmosphere. Hundreds of macaques roam freely between the temples – they’re used to people, but they’re still wild animals. It’s best to come early in the morning when it’s quieter. It’s a nice walk, but be prepared for cheeky monkeys that jump on people and steal things.

TIP: You can easily buy tickets online and skip the hassle

Pura Taman Saraswati

Saraswati Temple is one of the most beautiful spots in Ubud. The entrance leads across a lotus pond, and the whole place feels calm and harmonious. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and art, which perfectly reflects the character of Ubud.

Ubud Art Market

Ubud’s market is lively, colorful, and chaotic. You’ll find clothes, jewelry, baskets, paintings, and souvenirs. Bargaining is normal and part of local culture. The best time to visit is early in the morning when there are fewer people and the atmosphere is more pleasant.

Ubud Palace

The royal palace in the town center is a symbol of historic Ubud. During the day it’s worth a short visit for its traditional architecture and decorations. In the evening, however, the palace turns into a cultural venue, hosting traditional Balinese dance performances accompanied by a gamelan orchestra.

Civet coffee tasting (Kopi Luwak)

Do you love coffee and enjoy trying new, unusual treats? Then go for a civet coffee tasting. Around Ubud you’ll find many smaller coffee plantations where you can try tastings of traditional Balinese coffee as well as teas and herbs. The most famous is kopi luwak. A visit usually includes a short explanation of how coffee is grown and processed, plus a tasting of several different drinks, often with views of the jungle or rice fields.

The tasting takes place at a modern resort with pools and a restaurant, so you can stay and relax. Just be prepared that prices are touristy.

Campuhan Ridge Walk

An easy walk along a ridge above the confluence of two rivers is one of the nicest experiences around Ubud. The trail is perfect for morning or sunset, when the light is best and temperatures are more comfortable. A great spot if you want to clear your head without a long transfer.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Tegallalang are the most famous rice terraces in Bali. Steep slopes, vibrant green colors, and the traditional irrigation system create a picture-perfect rice landscape. It’s best to arrive early in the morning before the place fills up with tourists (and there will be plenty). Rice here isn’t just a crop – it’s part of local faith and everyday life. If you’re short on time, don’t worry: you’ll see rice fields everywhere around Ubud, so you don’t have to go specifically to these very touristy ones.

Tirta Empul

The sacred springs of Tirta Empul are among the most important Hindu sites in Bali. People come here to perform a purification ritual in the cool spring water. Even just watching locals pray is a powerful experience – and if you decide to join the ritual, it can be one of the most authentic experiences in Bali. We were really looking forward to this and it was absolutely beautiful. One of those memories we still love to look back on.

Gunung Kawi

The monumental rock sanctuary of Gunung Kawi lies in a lush valley, with reliefs carved directly into the rock face. The path leads down stairs through rice fields and along a sacred river. The more demanding access often means a calmer atmosphere and a strong spiritual feel.

Goa Gajah

The Elephant Cave is an ancient spiritual site combining Hindu and Buddhist elements. Even the entrance has a mystical atmosphere, and the surrounding gardens, water features, and small temples make it a pleasant stop where you can slow down for a while.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the most accessible waterfalls near Ubud. It offers swimming and a short break in nature. It’s best to visit in the morning when there are fewer people and the light is nicer.

More tips around Ubud

If you have more time in Ubud, it’s worth adding a few more stops nearby. Some are great for families, others for adventure lovers, crafts, or sweet treats. Most of them are easy to do in one day with a private driver.

• Bali Bird Park and Bali Reptile Park
• the village of Celuk and traditional silver jewelry
• Hidden Canyon in Sukawati
• rafting on the Telaga Waja River
• Alas Harum (rice fields, viewpoints, swings)
• POD Chocolate Factory

Food, yoga, and relaxation in Ubud

Bali – Ubud is not only a center of culture and traditional crafts, but also of yoga. You’ll find lots of great yoga classes, workshops, and other interesting activities. Keep in mind it’s tourist-oriented, and prices reflect that. When it comes to food, there are plenty of great restaurants where you’ll find much more than just fried rice and noodles. And what we recommend the most: massages, which cost next to nothing here.

Transportation in Ubud

The most freedom comes with a scooter, but if you’re not confident riding one, private drivers work very well for half-day or full-day trips. Taxis in the center often operate through local associations and prices are agreed in advance. Grab and Gojek can be restricted in some areas, but outside the center they tend to be more available.

Weather in Ubud and when to go

Bali – Ubud has a tropical climate with temperatures around 25–30 °C all year round. The drier season is roughly from April to October, while the rainier months are November to March – but it often rains only briefly. Thanks to its inland location, Ubud’s climate is usually more pleasant than on the coast.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)