Ubud is where I found the soul of Bali.

After the beaches of Seminyak and the surfy buzz of Canggu, Ubud felt like stepping into a completely different world—lush, serene, spiritual, and wildly creative. Whether you’re into temples, jungle swings, rice terraces, or just good food with a mountain view, Ubud has something magical in store for you.

Here’s a complete guide to what to do in Ubud, based on my own adventures and some local tips to make your journey even better.

Route Planning

To help you make the most of your time, I’ve split the best things to do in Ubud into four easy-to-navigate routes:

Route 1: Ubud Central

Campuhan Ridge Walk → Monkey Forest → Ubud Palace → Ubud Art Market

Route 2: Spiritual & Natural Wonders

Tukad Cepung Waterfall → Tirta Empul Temple → Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Route 3: Sunrise & Coffee

Mount Batur Sunrise Hike → Hot Spring → AKASA Cafe → Coffee Tasting Experience

Route 4: Water Adventures

ATV Ride → Water Rafting in Ayung River

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Route 1: Ubud Central 

Campuhan Ridge -> Monkey Forest -> Ubud Palace -> Ubud Art Market

🌾 Morning Stroll: Campuhan Ridge Walk

For a quick escape into nature, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a lovely, breezy path that cuts through hills and tall grasses. It’s peaceful, especially in the early morning or just before sunset.

✨ “Campuhan” means the meeting of rivers in Balinese, symbolizing harmony and natural power. This trail is where two sacred rivers meet, and honestly, the energy here is just different—serene, grounding, almost magical.

Travel Tip: Go early in the morning (around 8–10 am) or just before sunset for soft lighting and fewer people. Wear comfy shoes, bring sunscreen, and carry a bottle of water. There are a few cozy warungs along the way serving fresh coconut water or juices—you’ll want to stop and soak in the views.

(important!) If you’re taking a taxi or ride-share, it’s easiest to return to the starting point to catch a ride—pickup spots can be limited further down the trail. (I had been waiting for 1 hour to get a pickup!) 

🏞 Difficulty: Super easy (you could literally do it in a dress and sandals)
🕒 Time needed: About 30 mins one way
🎟 Entrance: Free
📍 Navigation: Just search “Campuhan Ridge Walk” on Google Maps

There are also other alternatives of Campuhan Ridge that I have not yet got to explore: Sweet Orange Walk Trail, Subak Juwuk Manis Rice fields walk:

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Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Just a 15-minute walk from the ridge lies one of Ubud’s most iconic (and entertaining) spots—the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. This place is straight out of a jungle fairytale. Here you’ll also find yourself walking along stone paths shaded by ancient trees—some reaching up to 40 meters high—surrounded by over 115 species of tropical plants.

Over 1,000 Balinese long-tailed monkeys roam freely through this lush rainforest, and they are not shy. You’ll see them swinging from trees, chilling on statues, and occasionally hopping on unsuspecting tourists (don’t worry, I survived!).

But it’s not just about the monkeys—the forest hides three ancient temples from the 14th century, moss-covered and filled with incense and mystique. Wandering among towering trees and crumbling stone carvings felt like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie.

🎟 Entrance Fee: 100,000 IDR per pax
🕒 Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (go before 1:00 pm for the best lighting)
🚶 Time Needed: ~1.5 hours to explore fully

⚠️ Monkey Survival Tips (trust me, I learned the hard way):

• Don’t stare at them—they take it as a challenge.
• Avoid the mamas and babies—they’re super protective.
• Lock your bags, hide your snacks, and take off shiny accessories.
• If they grab something? Don’t tug—wave down a staff member for help.

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Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)

Right in the heart of town is Ubud Palace, a bite-sized royal residence that’s rich in history and intricate beauty. This isn’t your grand European-style palace, but rather a stunning collection of courtyards, golden doors, and hand-carved pillars that reflect the soul of Balinese architecture.

Built in the 16th century, Ubud Palace—also known as Puri Saren Agung—was the residence of the Sukawati royal family, who were later dethroned by the Dutch in the 20th century. Today, descendants of the royal family are said to still live here. The palace was co-designed by several renowned Balinese artists and consists of 60 rooms in total. The carvings are incredibly detailed, and the gold-leaf-adorned gates? Absolute photo magnets.

Only the front courtyard is open to the public, but even that small section is a visual feast. In fact, part of the front area has even been adapted into guest accommodation, giving visitors a chance to experience palace life (well, sort of).
✨ Hidden Symbolism: Every pillar is carved with meaning, tied to the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana—the harmony between gods, nature, and humans. Even the number of steps has symbolic significance.

I loved wandering the courtyard, admiring the gilded gates and soaking in the tranquil energy—it’s totally free to visit and makes a perfect quick cultural stop.

🕒 Opening Hours: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free
⏳ Visit Time: ~30 mins

💃 Don’t Miss:
Every night at 7:30 pm, the palace hosts a traditional Legong dance performance—and let me tell you, it’s stunning. This isn’t just entertainment—it’s an art form recognized as part of Indonesia’s intangible cultural heritage.

👺 “Legong” comes from “leg” (graceful movement) and “gong” (referring to gamelan instruments). The dancers, often of high social status, sometimes even future brides of royalty or elite families, usually stop performing after marriage.

Expect hypnotic hand gestures, shimmering costumes, and haunting gamelan music that fills the courtyard with a mysterious, almost dreamlike vibe—felt like I stepped into a Ghibli movie. The dancers also interact with the audience, and the performance space is small enough that you can really feel the intensity.

💺 Seating Tip: The stage is surrounded on three sides. The front center rows offer the best views (and clearest photos), while the side front rows are reserved for the gamelan orchestra. Arrive early—it’s first come, first served. If you’re lucky, you might even be invited on stage to join the performance!

🎫 Legong Dance Ticket: 100,000 IDR
🕒 Time: 7:30 – 9:00 pm

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Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)

Just across from the palace is the vibrant Ubud Art Market—a colorful maze of treasures where you can shop everything from rainbow sarongs and silver jewelry to woven bags, coconut bowls, incense holders, and those famous round rattan Bali bags. Yes, it’s touristy—but that’s what makes it fun!

✨ Market Layout:
The market is split into two main sections. The west side is the main art market, packed with handcrafted goods and souvenirs, while the east side caters more to locals with everyday essentials and household items. Most stalls don’t use barcodes or set prices, so bargaining is totally expected—and part of the fun!

✨ Bargaining Tip:
Start at 30–50% of the asking price, or even go bold with just one-third—many sellers will meet you halfway or accept a good counteroffer. 

My Must-Buys (with real-life price tips!):
1. Handwoven Rattan Bags – iconic Bali style!

• Trendy pick: Round or tote-style bamboo bags with leather straps (Instagram-worthy!).
• Price Guide: Starting at 180–270K IDR, but you can usually bargain down to 150K IDR or even lower depending on size and quality.
• Tip: Be polite but firm—start by halving the asking price.

2. Traditional Sarongs & Flowy Dresses – great as beachwear or scarves, available in stunning tropical prints.

3. Home Goods, Wooden Carvings & Painted Masks: Think wooden trays, coconut bowls, batik pillowcases, bamboo straws, lace dreamcatchers, and plant hangers. Perfect for adding a touch of Bali mystique to your home.

4. Souvenirs & Handicrafts: Keychains, toys, vibrant statues, and fun beer bottle openers in every shape imaginable.

🗺️ Pro Shopping Strategy:
The core shopping zone is marked out near the palace, with stalls spilling over into surrounding streets. You can choose a short loop (ideal if you’re tight on time) or a larger loop that even takes you toward the Sacred Monkey Forest. Either way, wear comfy shoes and bring small bills for smoother transactions!

Check out the map below—the highlighted area shows the main shopping zone.

If you love discovering unique finds, don’t stop at the market. Ubud is full of indie boutiques and local gems! Some of my favorites:

• Blink – Dainty, minimal jewelry with a modern twist. Prices hover around 220 –450 IDR, and the designs are super chic yet understated. Small brand, big style—highly recommend!
  
• Sensatia Botanicals – Natural skincare and essential oils that smell like a budget-friendly version of Aesop. Must-buys: lip balms (lemon is a cult favorite), scrubs, body wash, and shampoo. Herbaceous, clean, and oh-so-soothing.
  
• The Ticket to the Moon – Iconic foldable bags made of parachute material. Lightweight, stylish, and super practical for travel. A social media fave—and it lives up to the hype!
  
• Renfua Eco Bag – Sustainable bags in dopamine-bright colors. These eye-popping totes are both eco-conscious and trendy. Perfect for beach days or market strolls.
  
• Murni Shop – Handmade woven bags with a rustic-chic vibe. Great craftsmanship and a lovely local touch.
  
• Kou Bali – Handmade soaps, aromatherapy candles, and home goods infused with a Balinese soul. Think earthy, calming, and gift-ready.
  
• Seeds of Life – Ethically made clothing in soft, flowing fabrics like linen. Their loose shirts and long dresses blend comfort with minimalist aesthetics.
  
• Macan Tidur – Home decor lovers, don’t skip this one. Wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and woven pieces fill the space—like a tropical art gallery.
  
• Namu – Offers high-quality Balinese-inspired decor like bamboo lamps and hand-crafted ceramics. Think boutique hotel chic for your own space.
  
• Utama Spice – Gorgeous handmade wellness items like balms, sprays, and scrubs. Lots of similar items in different shops though, so be ready to bargain.

Bonus Find: Bali’s Famous “Stone Men” Statues

One must-buy that totally stole my heart—those quirky stone men statues! After a ton of research, I found the jackpot shop:
📍Asmat Papua Primitif Art (just search it on Google Maps!)

The whole street feels like a wholesale hub, so prices are incredibly reasonable. I snagged mine for around 35k IDR each (varies by size).
Heads up: the store closes at 5:00 PM sharp, so plan your visit earlier in the day!

Nearby Ubud Art Market, the Water Palace is one of Ubud’s hidden gems—just step out from the back entrance of Starbucks and you’ll find it right in front of you. In the evening, traditional Balinese dance performances are often held here, creating a magical atmosphere under the stars. If you enter through the main gate, note that there is a small entrance fee.

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Route 2: Spiritual & Natural Wonders

Tukad Cepung Waterfall → Tirta Empul Temple → Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Tukad Cepung Waterfall

I’d seen pictures of Tukad Cepung, but nothing prepared me for that first glimpse. Hidden deep within a canyon, with sunbeams piercing through the top of a cave-like waterfall—it was like stepping into a scene from The Legend of Zelda.

Getting there was an adventure in itself. From the entrance, I hiked 15–20 minutes through jungle trails and across shallow creeks. My sandals were soaked, but I didn’t mind—it was all part of the fun. I even stumbled upon a couple of smaller waterfalls along the way!

There are two main falls once you reach the canyon—go left for the iconic one you’ve seen all over Instagram. The water only reaches your calves, so I carefully waded in and got right up close for the ultimate shot. The lighting between 9 to 11am is chef’s kiss—soft, dreamy, and totally magical.

📍Location: About 60 minutes from Ubud Palace
🎫Entrance Fee: IDR 30K
⚠️Tips:

• Wear non-slip sandals! Leave the sneakers behind—you will get wet.
• Bring a dry bag, towel, change of clothes, and your bravest selfie face.
• Don’t skip the waterfall on the right—smaller, but charming in its own way.

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Tirta Empul Temple

After drying off, I headed to one of Bali’s most spiritual spots: Tirta Empul, also known as the Holy Spring Temple.

Dating back to 926 AD, this ancient temple has been a place of purification and prayer for over a thousand years. Walking in, I felt the air shift—everything was calm, sacred, and grounding. Locals and visitors alike lined up to cleanse themselves under the temple’s 11 fountains, each believed to bring blessings like health, prosperity, and love.

I joined in the ritual myself—it was cold, but deeply moving. If you do the same, make sure to follow the local customs and skip the last two fountains, which are reserved for funerary rituals.

🌊 How the Purification Ritual Works
Step 1: Place your offering (canang sari) at the edge of the spring and make a silent wish with your hands pressed together.
Step 2: Move from fountain to fountain (excluding the last two), kneeling under each one to let the water cleanse your head, face, and body.
Each spout is believed to carry a different energy, imbued with ancient blessings by Balinese priests over a thousand years ago. It’s said you should only chant “Om”—adding other mantras can interfere with the energy.
When bathing, place your hands on the sides of the fountain’s stone wall, and never touch the spout itself—the metal ring is considered sealed with sacred energy.

⚠️ Important Tips for Tirta Empul
• The water is very cold, and the stones underfoot can be slippery—step carefully!
• If you plan to do the purification ritual, start from the 2nd spout on the left and skip the last two (they’re reserved for funerary rites—never use them!).
• Remove your shoes before entering the inner courtyard or any ceremonial area.
• Bring a change of clothes—you’ll be soaked afterward.
• Women on their period should not enter the purification pool.

📍Getting There: 25km / 45 mins from Tukad Cepung Waterfall
🎫 Entry Fee: Adults IDR 50K | Kids 25K | Sarong Rental: IDR 10K
👕 Dress Code: Shoulders & knees must be covered (sarongs provided); tie up long hair.

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Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Just when I thought the day couldn’t get better, I arrived at Alas Harum, a dreamy part of the Tegallalang Rice Terraces—and it totally blew my mind.

The landscape looked like a living postcard: emerald green rice fields stacked in cascading layers, dotted with towering palm trees and cheeky photo ops. 

The place is massive, with everything from scenic restaurants and cozy cafés to sky-high swings, zip lines, and even a huge “Temple Run”-style stone statue nestled among the terraces.

But the real fun? The swings. YES, I did the giant swing (25 meters high!) over the terrace, and while the first swing out had my heart racing, I was all smiles after that. The safety harness was snug and secure, and once I got past the initial adrenaline rush, I couldn’t stop laughing. It’s safe, thrilling, and so worth it!

🎫 Entry Fee: IDR 50K
📍 Getting There: 5km / 16 mins from Tirta Empul Temple
🌴 Don’t Miss:

• Cretya Ubud: A sky pool + bar combo. Chic, adult-only, and with a killer view.
• Coffee tasting: Learn the story behind Bali’s famous kopi luwak (no extra ticket needed).
• Super Extreme Swing (25m): IDR 260K
• Angel Swings for Couples or Singles: from IDR 231K
• Sky Bike & Flying Fox: Feeling daring? These are next-level fun!
  • Flying Fox IDR 375K
  • Sky Bike: Single Bike IDR 265k; Double Bike IDR 375k

Everything inside is beautifully curated—from stone sculptures to zip lines. Even if you don’t do the swings, just wandering the terraces and sipping coffee with a view is unforgettable.

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Route 3: Mount Batur -> Hot Spring -> AKASA cafe -> Coffee Tasting

Mount Batur for Sunrise

Waking up at 1 a.m. never sounded appealing to me… until I did it for Mount Batur.

Mount Batur is Bali’s third-highest volcano, and it’s one of the friendliest active ones out there (its last eruption was in 2000!). At 1,717 meters high, it’s not a monster to climb — just a moderate hike that rewards you with absolutely insane sunrise views.

You can either take a bumpy but comfy 4WD Jeep ride to the sunrise viewpoint (great if you’re not a morning person 🙃), or hike your way up in the dark with a guide leading the way by flashlight. I chose the hike because I’m all about that full-on adventure experience — and trust me, it was so worth it.

By 4 a.m., we were on the trail. The path was pitch black, and we lit the way with our flashlights as the cool mountain air brushed past. After about an hour of hiking, we reached the top… and WOW. We sat there in the chilly breeze, watching the sun slowly rise above a thick, dreamy sea of clouds, bathing everything in golden light. Right across from us stood Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest peak, looking majestic as ever.

And below us? A breathtaking view of Lake Batur, sitting right inside the volcano’s crater like a hidden jewel. The whole scene felt like something out of a painting — quiet, surreal, and unforgettable. 

After sunrise, we grilled eggs over the volcanic steam vents (yes, really!), snapped a ton of photos, and then began our descent. The trail down was a bit steep and slippery due to volcanic ash, so I was extra glad I wore non-slip hiking shoes. That said, the path itself is in good condition — no need to worry too much about falling. The hike down took just about 30 minutes.

🕐 Timing (rough itinerary):
• 01:00 – Hotel pick-up
• 04:00 – Begin hiking (eat something light before you go!)
• 06:00 – Reach the summit + watch sunrise
• 07:30 – Steam your eggs + take photos
• 08:30 – Hike back down

🔥 Pro Tips:

• Wear layered hiking clothes — it’s cold at the start (13–17°C), but you’ll warm up quickly

• Bring water, a windbreaker or jacket, and a flashlight/headlamp

• Don’t worry about slipping — the path is safe, just watch your step on the way down

• Tours can be arranged from Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, or Kuta via Klook

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Hot Spring

After the chilly trek and sunrise high, my legs were begging for some TLC. Just 5 minutes’ drive from the trailhead, the Batur Natural Hot Spring was the perfect post-hike reward.

This serene hot spring sits right on the edge of Lake Batur, with stunning views of the mountains reflected in the calm waters. It’s a natural hot spring, said to be rich in minerals thanks to the volcanic soil. Honestly, it felt like bathing in a dreamy postcard — steam rising from the pool, blue skies overhead, and that peaceful volcano in the background.

Best part? The entrance ticket is just a third of the price of the famous Toya Devasya hot spring, but with equally stunning views.

Hot Spring Tips:

• Location: Toya Bungkah, Kintamani (200K IDR for foreigners)
• Includes: Towel, drink, locker, and shower facilities
• Bring: A change of clothes and your swimsuit, of course!

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AKASA Cafe

Still glowing from my soak in the springs (and slightly drowsy), I headed to Akasa Cafe, nestled at around 1,000 meters elevation. This cafe isn’t just about coffee — it’s about the view.

From the third floor, you get a sweeping panorama of not one, but two volcanoes: majestic Mount Batur right in front of you, and the mighty Mount Agung towering off to the right. Talk about breakfast with a view!

I sipped on a hot latte while staring out at the twin peaks and Lake Batur below, still cloaked in early morning mist. It’s the perfect spot to wind down your Mount Batur adventure. Bonus: if you time it right, you’ll catch the cloud inversion that makes it look like you’re floating above the sky.

Tips:

• Come right after your sunrise trek for the best lighting and cloud sea views (6–9 a.m.)
  
• Bring a jacket — it gets chilly up here!
  
• Located 9km away from Batur Natural Hot Spring with around 30mins drive time— I recommend hiring a driver for the day

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Santi Argo Wisata Coffee Tasting

On our way back from Kintamani, our driver brought us to Santi Argo Wisata, one of Bali’s local coffee plantations. If you’re a coffee lover (or even just curious), this place is a must.

Bali actually has a long history of coffee cultivation dating back to the 19th century when it was introduced by Dutch colonists. Today, many of the local plantations grow Arabica and Robusta beans, mostly in the island’s central and northern regions. Some of the best coffee plantations are found in Kintamani, Jatiluwih, and Bangli — areas blessed with fertile volcanic soil, cool highland climates, and abundant rainfall. These regions are not only perfect for growing coffee but also thrive with organic crops like cocoa, vanilla, coconuts, and turmeric — creating a kind of natural high-energy ecosystem.

At Santi Argo Wisata, we got to explore all this up close. The visit was free, and we were guided step by step through the whole Kopi Luwak (yes — the famous “cat poop coffee”) process.

We got to meet a couple of luwaks (civet cats) and learned how the famous Kopi Luwak is made — yes, the “cat poop coffee.” It might sound weird, but the process is actually fascinating. These animals eat ripe coffee cherries, which then ferment in their stomachs, and are… well, you know the rest. The beans are cleaned and roasted, resulting in a smoother, less acidic cup of coffee.

But the surprise of the day? Avocado coffee. 🥑☕
Smooth, creamy, and with a hint of fruitiness — I never expected to enjoy it so much. I bought a full pack to take home!

Plantation visit info:

• No entrance fee
• Free tasting of 10+ local coffee and tea varieties
• Located near Akasa Cafe in the Kintamani area

Exploring Bali’s homegrown coffee scene turned out to be one of the most fascinating and flavorful experiences of the trip. Highly recommend squeezing this into your itinerary — even if you’re just mildly into coffee, it’s a journey for the senses!

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Route 4: Ubud water activity |River Rafting -> ATV

If you’re anything like me and crave both nature and a little adrenaline, then Ubud is the place to be! One of my absolute favorite days in Bali was an unforgettable water adventure combo: river rafting on the Ayung River followed by an exhilarating ATV jungle ride — all booked conveniently through a Klook package.

River Rafting on Ayung River

The day kicked off with a surprise leg workout — we had to descend a long, steep staircase to reach the riverbank. (Wear good shoes, trust me.) Once we arrived, our local guide — who even knew a bit of Chinese! — gave us a quick safety briefing. Then off we went, helmets on, paddles ready!

The rafting route spans about 11 km, flowing through 22 alternating stretches of calm waters and gentle rapids. It’s totally beginner-friendly and perfect for families, older travelers, or anyone who wants to float through Bali’s lush tropical beauty at a relaxed pace.

And wow — the scenery is something else. Picture this: dense tropical rainforest, waterfalls cascading over the cliffs, and the occasional terraced rice field peeking through the greenery. It’s like paddling through a nature documentary! One moment you’re riding a wave, the next you’re drifting peacefully under a canopy of trees.

🐒 Fun fact: I heard monkeys sometimes swing through the trees above, though I didn’t catch one this time. I did, however, spot a massive lizard sunbathing on a rock!

One of the best parts? Midway, we passed a hidden waterfall where we could step out of the raft and snap some epic photos. There’s even a floating “convenience store” of sorts — locals selling drinks right on the river. Just let your guide know if you want to buy something, and you can pay once you’re back on land.

🧼 At the end of the ride, there are showers available, so bring:

• A change of clothes and slippers (if you are soaked – I was still dry when finished the rafting),
  
• A waterproof phone case for those scenic snaps,
  
• And maybe avoid white clothing unless you want to become… transparent.
  

After working up an appetite, we were treated to a simple but delicious buffet lunch — just a few dishes, but that tender chicken hit differently after paddling for hours. 

ATV

Let me say this: Bali’s ATV experience is NOT your average ride. This was hands down one of the most thrilling things I did on the island.

You can choose a 60- or 90-minute ride, and either ride solo or in tandem. I picked the 90-minute solo option because hey — go big or go home, right? It gave me complete freedom (and saved my knees from banging together). That said, if your hands get tired — and they will — tandem riders can switch off. That ATV throttle is no joke!

The trail was wild and wonderful: 8 kilometers through winding village roads, scenic rice paddies, lush jungle, muddy pools, a dark mountain cave, and even a waterfall where the guide kindly stopped to take group photos. And yes, you will get muddy. Embrace it.

🌿 What really stood out to me were the constant scenery changes. We started by zooming through sun-drenched rice fields — absolutely stunning under the blue sky. Then it got real: sharp downhill turns, deep jungle paths, and mud pits where my boots nearly vanished. At one point, we dipped into a water stream and went straight through a pitch-dark tunnel — I let out a scream and then laughed my way through it. It was intense, in the best way.

🏔️ Pro tips before you go:

• Wear clothes you don’t mind ruining (mud = guaranteed)
• Bring a spare outfit and extra socks,
• Choose non-slip shoes or rain boots (my package provided them),
• Don’t wear sunglasses — they’ll fly off or fog up in no time,
• And most importantly: slather on high-SPF sunscreen. Jungle shade doesn’t block UV rays!

After all that muddy madness, we were welcomed back with towels, showers, toiletries— truly VIP treatment.

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Where to Eat in Ubud

One of my favorite things about Ubud—besides the lush jungles and calming rice terraces—is hands down the food. From street-style warungs to high-end sunset dining, Ubud has it all. If you’re anything like me (aka a hungry traveler with a camera in one hand and a fork in the other), you’re going to love these spots. Here are some of my top picks you simply can’t miss!

Chill with Coffee at Pison Ubud

If you’re like me and need a solid café fix wherever you travel, you have to stop by Pison Ubud. Picture this: you’re sitting by a rustic wooden table, sipping espresso while staring out at lush green rice fields swaying in the breeze. Absolute peace.

🍽️ My top picks from the menu:

⭐ Deep Fried Duck (Ducking Good!) – IDR 125,000
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and paired with a spicy sambal that’s just the right amount of kick. I’m usually not a huge fan of fried dishes while traveling, but this one? Worth every bite.

⭐ Grilled Gyu Tandon (Beef Tongue Rice Bowl) – IDR 85,000
The staff gave me a heads-up that this dish is spicy, and I couldn’t have been happier. Tender beef tongue, perfectly seasoned, sitting on a bed of rice with a soft-boiled egg that just oozes deliciousness. If you love bold flavors, this one’s for you.

⭐ Espresso Avocado – IDR 60,000
I’ll admit—I was skeptical about mixing avocado and coffee. But oh wow, this combo just works. It’s thick, creamy, slightly sweet, and has a nice espresso punch. Like a smoothie and an iced latte had a really good-looking baby.

Whether you come here for a morning chill session or a late lunch after exploring Ubud’s temples, Pison Ubud is the kind of place you’ll want to return to. It’s cozy, photogenic, and deliciously memorable.

🐖 BBQ Heaven at Warung Kayana

The moment we stepped out of the car, the smell of smoky charcoal hit us—and I knew we were in for something special.

Here’s how it works: the pork ribs are pre-cooked, then slathered in a savory sauce and grilled to perfection. Each batch takes about 10 minutes, but trust me, it’s worth every second.

🤯 Portion alert: The large ribs set us back just IDR 65k (around SGD $3!)—unreal, especially considering how good they were. I’m not even a sweet-sauce fan, but I was licking my fingers.

We also tried the grilled sausage, fried chicken legs, and crispy potatoes—all equally mouthwatering. The vibe is casual, smoky, and full of locals—always a good sign. Come hungry, and bring friends.

Sun Sun Warung

Tucked just a few minutes’ walk from Ubud Palace and the Art Market, Sun Sun Warung totally stole my heart.

Order this: 

• Their Bebek Goreng (crispy duck) is seriously next-level—super crunchy skin paired with house-made sambal that’s spicy, tangy, and addictively good.
• Nasi Campur Langit: This colorful plate is a feast for the eyes and stomach—blue rice (dyed naturally with butterfly pea flower), crispy toppings, veggies, eggs, peanuts… all mixed together like a flavor party. I wasn’t even hungry but ended up finishing every bite.
•  Sate Ayam: I cannot recommend this enough. Grilled chicken skewers dripping with peanut sauce and just the right hit of spice—these were so juicy and flavorful, we ordered seconds.

Bonus? The prices are shockingly reasonable for such a pretty, cozy place. Great vibes, great food, great value = a must-visit.

Sate Lilit Ayam (Grab order)

One day I randomly ordered this off Grab and couldn’t stop thinking about it for days.

Unlike your typical peanut-sauce satay, this version uses a spiced curry-like blend with hints of mint, herbs, and smoky sweetness. It’s grilled to perfection, juicy, and packed with flavor. If you’re staying in Ubud, search “Sate Lilit Ayam” on GrabFood and treat yourself.

🍺 Pro tip: Pair it with a cold bottle of Kura Kura Lager. You’re welcome.

Legendary Babi Guling at Ibu Oka

You can’t come to Ubud and not try Ibu Oka’s famous babi guling (Balinese roast suckling pig). Traditionally made only for special occasions, this dish is now a daily indulgence for foodies.

One set includes tender pork loin, spicy blood sausage, crackling pork skin, and juicy rib meat. Top it with tangy pickled long beans and sambal, and you’ve got a fiery, flavorful bite that hits every craving.

🌶️ Warning: it’s really spicy! But soooo worth it.

Sunset at The Sayan House

Last but definitely not least, let me tell you about the dreamiest dinner spot in all of Ubud—The Sayan House. This place is honestly a whole vibe.

Built to blend into the jungle, the open-air layout overlooks a lush valley with views of the Four Seasons across the gorge. We arrived just before sunset, and the sky turned the most magical shades of pink and purple—no filter needed.

🍣 Food-wise, it’s a fusion of Japanese and Latin American cuisine. Think sushi rolls with guacamole or tacos with wasabi mayo. It’s unexpected but absolutely delicious.

💡 Reservations are a must if you want a table during sunset hours—either call ahead via Google Maps or have your hotel help. But no worries if you didn’t book in time: the bar area is walk-in friendly and equally stunning.

After sunset, the garden lights twinkle on, bonfires are lit, and cocktails sparkle in the warm glow. Romantic? Yes. Instagrammable? Absolutely. Memorable? 100%.

🕰️ Opening hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM

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✈️ Final Thoughts: Is Ubud Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Ubud isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you want to immerse yourself in culture, chase waterfalls, stretch out in downward dog, or sip espresso by the jungle, Ubud lets you do it all at your own pace.

Take a break from the coast and dive into Bali’s green heart—you might just find a new favorite side of the island.

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📌 Quick FAQ: What to Know Before You Go

Is Ubud better than Canggu or Seminyak?
It depends! Ubud is peaceful and cultural, while Canggu is surfy and hip, and Seminyak is more upscale and beachy.

How long should I stay in Ubud?
3 to 4 days is perfect for a first-timer. You could easily stay a week and not get bored.

Can you walk around Ubud?
Yes, especially in the central area. For exploring outer areas, hire a scooter or driver.

Want more Bali travel tips? Don’t miss my Bali guides! 

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