Eat like a Sultan, explore the rich culture of Indonesia, and pick up a few bargains in the process with this 24 hour guide to Ubud.
Nestled in the heart of the Indonesian island of Bali, Ubud is often regarded as the island’s cultural capital. Renowned for its rich traditions, arts, and spirituality, Ubud attracts a myriad of travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity. This lush, mountainous region is surrounded by terraced rice paddies, ancient temples, and vibrant markets, making it an ideal destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in Balinese culture while also finding solace in nature. Here’s how to get the most out of Ubud in 24 hours.
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8 AM
Base yourself at the stunning Tanah Gajah Ubud – A Resort by Hadiprana, which launches new pool villas in January. This Balinese resort is deeply connected to Indonesia’s art scene and is known for its lush rice paddies, vibrant greenery, and tranquil rural atmosphere. After breakfast overlooking the rice terraces and perhaps an early morning swim, head out to explore Ubud.
9.30 AM
Head to the Ubud Monkey Forest, a sacred sanctuary that’s home to hundreds of playful macaques – over 1,200 of them! Strolling through this ancient forest, you can appreciate the beautiful temples such as Pura Dalem Agung, which is thought to have been built around 1350, while observing the monkeys in their natural habitat. However, be mindful of your belongings, as the monkeys are known to snatch items and then negotiate their return in exchange for snacks.
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11 AM
Take a short walk to the Ubud Art Market, where you can shop for traditional Balinese handicrafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs. This vibrant market is an excellent place to practice your bargaining skills while interacting with local artisans and vendors. You also might like to check out the Threads of Life store, home to locally-produced homewares and gifts.
12.30 PM
Once you’ve built up an appetite with the monkeys, head for the newly opened Fas.a.Fas Bakery & Café, home to showstopping French pastries, some with great local twists. The signature Medan Quiche, where East meets West in a perfect harmony of rich, savoury flavours inspired by Medan’s vibrant culinary heritage, combined with classic Western pastry craftsmanship, will blow your mind! Alternatively, the delicate Saint Honoré – layers of puff pastry, caramel-kissed choux, and velvety cream – will whisk you straight to Paris. Be sure to take a few afternoon snacks away with you.
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2 PM
Post-lunch, embark on a trek through the breathtaking UNESCO-listed Tegalalang Rice Terraces (also known as the Ceking Rice Terraces). You can explore by scooter or hire a local guide to navigate the pathways and learn about the ancient subak irrigation system used by local farmers. Spend about two hours trekking, enjoying the stunning landscapes and photo opportunities along the way. Finish up with a cup of locally grown coffee at D Tukad Coffee Club.
4:30 PM
After your trek, visit Tibumana Waterfall, a beautiful (but popular) spot about a 30-minute drive from Ubud. After paying the modest entry fee, spend some time swimming in the refreshing water and enjoy the peaceful nature surrounding the falls, which plummet five metres from the river above. This is a great spot in which to beat the Bali heat but remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to swim.
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7 PM
Head back to Ubud and grab a cocktail at Night Rooster, the unofficial home of the Ubud mixology scene. Grab a perch on the little terrace and order the Monkey Business (below), which blends spiced rum with lady finger banana, cashew nuts, cocopandan distillate, cheese tuile, and blackened banana.
Then have dinner at chef Will Meyrick’s Honey & Smoke, a wood-fired bistro in the heart of Ubud. While there’s a great speakeasy upstairs, down on the lower level you’re front-and-centre with the chefs, who prepare dishes using traditional techniques – try the grilled scallops topped with chilli butter, dried mint yoghurt, and sumac; or the fresh wood fired grouper served with kacang lima, charred kale, and miso beurre blanc.
9.30 PM
Indulge in a calming Balinese massage or spa treatment at one of Ubud’s renowned wellness centres like Taksu Spa or Karsa Spa. Opt for a traditional massage that incorporates different techniques, ensuring you’re completely relaxed. Most spa treatments last about 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Alternatively, check out the live music scene at The Blue Door, which boasts both a beer garden and a popular nightclub, where a revolving roster of visiting DJs will ensure you can dance the night away.
8 AM
Round out your Ubud exploration with a wild whitewater rafting ride down the enigmatic Ayung River. This popular route provides Bali’s longest white water rafting trip, with 33 rapids varying from class 2 to 3.
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