Ubud is far removed from the beach party scene in Kuta, making it an ideal spot if you want to experience the culture of Bali. Aside from the fact that Ubud is also the arts and crafts hub of Bali, there are many places that you want to visit here. And here are our recommendations:
Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is one of Bali’s several grey long-tailed monkeys-inhabited forests. Here you can watch playful monkeys in their natural habitat, swinging through canopies, lazing along pathways or feeding on bananas. Besides the view of monkeys playing around, you can also enjoy walking the paved pathways through a leafy nutmeg forest. There are also several Pura inside the forest.
Address: Jalan Monkey Forest, Padangtegal, Ubud
Phone 0361-361971304
Opening hours: 08.00 – 18.00
Zen Hideaway
This place is famous for its swing that is hanging between coconut trees, high atop a hill, which offers you spectacular experience. The view of Ayung River, a mini waterfall, rice fields and Mount Agung makes your swing ride thrilling yet addictive. Zen Hideaway is a perfect place if you are looking for serenity and peace, as the rooms here are semi-open, enabling you to enjoy the fresh air and view of Ubud.
Address: Bongkasa village, Ubud, Bali
Rate: Start from Rp1,800,000++ per night
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
When you think about Ubud, the rice terraces somehow will pop in mind. The rice terraces in Bali are centuries-old cooperative irrigational system known as ‘Subak’. Tegallalang forms the three most amazing terraced landscapes in Ubud’s shared region, with the others being in the villages of Pejeng and Campuhan. Just enjoy a relaxing walk through the fields in the afternoon, and see how calming and therapeutic the view is for your mind.
Location: North of Ubud. From the main Ubud Art Market, head east to the large statue intersection and head further up north.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Bali is a heaven for refreshing treats; not only the beaches, but also rivers and waterfalls. Tegenungan waterfall is just one of them. It is a unique waterfall that is not situated in the highlands and mountains, and it is also surrounded by lush green surroundings and heavy water flow. Take a cooling swim or a jump into the waterfall (only for the adventurous ones!) to wash your fatigue and stress away.
Getting there: drive from the Central Ubud to the sacred Petanu River or Tegenungan village, Gianyar. For a closer sight, descend the stairs down the river to see the beauty Mother Nature has to offer.
Entrance fee: Rp10,000/person
Pod Chocolate Factory
Located within Bali Elephant Camp, at Pod Chocolate Factory you can stroll beneath the branches of cacao trees, chat with farmers about the growing process, and see the chocolate making processes. You also can try to make your own chocolate! One exciting thing you can do at Pod Chocolate Factory is you get to hug one of the three honey bears that live on the premises after being rescued from hunters. Don’t worry, the bears are tamed!
Address: Jalan Tukang Ayung, Carangsari, Petang, Bali
Opening hours: 9.00 – 16.00 daily
Contact 0361-8086667
Studio Perak
Ever wondered to make your own silver jewelries? You can make your imagination come true at Studio Perak. Owned by Pak Ketut, this jewelry business offers you the making of stunning, contemporary art pieces inspired by nature. Visitors and customers can learn the technique of Balinese silversmithing from friendly professionals of Studio Perak. You get the jewelries, and you also get a new knowledge!
Address: Jalan Hanoman, Ubud, Bali
Contact 0361-974244
Opening hours: Half day class course from 9.00 – 12.00
Fee: From Rp450,000/person for a 3-hour workshop lesson
Bali Bird and Reptile Park
If you bring your kids, Bali Bird and Reptile Park is the right choice for unique and educational attraction. It is a fun and attractive playground for bird lovers, as you can see hundreds of different bird species throughout the park grounds. In addition, the adjoining Reptile Park offers an extensive assortment of reptile and amphibian specimens including pythons, frogs, lizards, crocodiles, and tortoises.
Address: Jalan Serma Cok Ngurah Gambir, Singapadu, Batubulan, Gianyar
Opening hours: 09.00 – 17.30 daily
Contact 0361-299352
