For your vacation in Bali you will want to find a great place to stay. There is a wide variety of locations in Bali from touristy resorts with spectacular beaches to secluded jungle paradises. Regardless of what you are looking for for your vacation, Bali is sure to have everything you want for an amazing trip.
The view from Karsa Spa, a great treat at the end of Campuhan Ridge Walk
If you are looking for a relaxing area with a wide variety of beautiful scenery, culture, great food, adventure, and wellness options, Ubud could be a great place to stay. As long as you don't require the beach to be near by while you're in Bali, Ubud has everything you could want in a vacation spot.
Temple in Ubud
Ubud is located in central Bali, about a two hour drive from DPS airport depending on traffic. If you are taking a shuttle or cab from the airport the fare will probably be between $20-$40 USD depending on who you use. Make sure to negotiate a fixed fare before you head to your destination to avoid getting ripped off by a driver. Once you get to Ubud there are lots of great things to do, see, eat and drink.
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If you are considering spending some time in Ubud, here are some things that you will definitely want to see and do while you are there:
- Check Out the Sacred Monkey Forest
If you have done any research on Bali you have definitely heard of the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud. A visit to this location is constantly listed as one of the top things to do on the whole island. The forest is located right at the south end of Monkey Forest Drive, which is one of the main streets in Ubud. If you are staying anywhere near the town then the Sacred Monkey Forest is easily within walking distance.
Monkey in Forest
Entrance fee to the forest is 50k IDR which is less than $4 USD. Once inside you will immediately see why the forest gets its name. There are monkeys everywhere, all of them are roaming free in the trees and on the walkways. the forest location is also beautiful, full of jungle scenery and remnants of a temple compound. A couple of hours walking around the forest and enjoying the monkeys is definitely worth your time.
Jungle Scenery in Sacred Monkey Forest
The monkeys who live in the forest are pretty smart, and are used to people feeding them, don't be surprised if you are approached by monkeys who are looking to get something to eat. They may climb on your shoulder and rummage through your backpack if you are wearing one. if you don't want the monkeys to climb on you then you may not want to carry any bags with you.
Monkey Hanging Out
-Amazing Spa Treatments
Ubud is know as a hub for all sorts of wellness. Lots of people flock to Ubud for the heavy concentration of spas in the area. If you like massages, pedicures, and facials then you will love Ubud. There is a spa on every corner, and while the prices vary widely between each location, you are likely to find the overall cost of treatments to be very affordable.
I had a couple of one hour Balinese Massages for less than $10 USD. That's a great deal anywhere. Since there are so many spas, you shouldn't have any trouble getting your treatments done when and where you want them.
Spa at Sri Ratih Cottages, Ubud
-Great Scenery, History, and Culture
There are lots of things to see in Ubud. There is seemingly a temple to explore on every corner. You may want to see the Tegallalang rice terraces which are very close to Ubud, and well worth your time. There is a wonderful art museum right on one of Ubud's main streets that you will want to check out, and the Campuhan Ridge Walk is an easy hike in north Ubud that is simply a can't miss. Make sure you catch a traditional Balinese dance at one of the temples. There is so much to see and do in Ubud!
Rice Terraces near Ubud
-Yoga
If you like yoga then Ubud is a great place for you to practice. You will find classes all over the city. Yoga Barn is a very popular spot for Yogis who come from around the world. If you want to attend a yoga session, ask your hotel concierge to book one for you, they can find you a class almost around the clock!
-Shopping
The streets of Ubud are lined with boutique stores as well as international branded shops. You can spend an endless amount of time shopping in this town. If you are looking for local goods, check out one of the many street markets in the town. Ubud is a shopper's paradise.
Street Art in Ubud
-Wide Variety of Food and Drink
If you are a foodie then Ubud is a must. Make sure you give yourself some time to check out lots of different cuisines. Most of the restaurants in Ubud are relatively small with just a few tables. Each one has their own unique style. You will find locations that specialize in Balinese food and lots of international options. If you are in the mood for Sushi, burgers, Mexican, Chinese, or fine dining you will find it all in Ubud. Vegan or Vegetarian? Most restaurants have meatless options on their menu, you should have no trouble finding vegetarian or vegan food.
My favorites in Ubud were Melting Wok, a small restaurant which had great noodles and curry, and Bridges restaurant bar for exquisite cocktails and an amazing jungle view.
Nasi Goreng at local Ubud Restaurant
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Drinks at Bridges Restaurant Bar, Ubud
-Accommodations Abound
Whatever your taste in accommodation, Ubud has a bed to fit your budget. You can find everything from hostels and guest houses up to luxurious five star hotel compounds and everything in between. I recommend finding something with a nice pool to cool off after the long hot Bali days.
Sri Ratih Cottages in Ubud
Bathroom at Sri Ratih
Pool Bar at Sri Ratih Cottages, Ubud
With a wide variety of things to see and do, Ubud should be on your list of places to visit while in Bali. Have you spent some time in Ubud, or do you have a favorite spot on Bali? I would love to hear about your experiences on the island. As always, if you have any questions about travel to Bali, please leave me a reply below. I'll make sure to get back to you!