Top 5 non-touristy things to do in Ubud

Ubud might be singularly known for its Sacred Monkey Forest, art market, and rice terraces where tourists flock to visit the sights. However, as the heart of Balinese culture, Ubud is home to Bali’s distinct experiences and many of these remain untouched by massive visitors.

The Instagrammable sights and bust stop outings do not paint the real picture of Ubud. The true essence of Ubud is rather an untouched paradise where ancient cultures are still preserved and local craftsmen still rely on traditional methods of crafting their wares. This writings’ goal is to showcase the treasures that lie under wraps.

Nature & Adventure

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Walk in rice fields (away from Tegallalang) – Instead of the tourists-packed Tegallalang here are 2 best alternatives of beautiful rice fields around Ubud.

A scenic walk along the ridge offering stunning views of the countryside. 

• Address: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Ubud

• Hours: Open 24 hours (visit at early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat)

• Contact: No official contact (public walking path)

• Price: Free

• Kajeng Rice Fields

• Address: Jl. Kajeng, Ubud

• Hours: Open daily, best visited during daylight hours

• Contact: No official contact (public walking area)

• Price: Free (donations appreciated if locals guide you)

Heron Birdwatching, Petulu Village

Birdwatching of Heron Colony in Petulu Village: Watch thousands of herons return to their nest trees at dusk in this village just north of Ubud.

• Address: Petulu Village, north of Ubud (10-15 minutes from Ubud centre)

• Hours: The best time to visit is around 5:30-6:30 PM when herons return.

• Contact: No official number; local guides may be available

• Price: Free (donations for village maintenance may be requested)

Visit some of the quiet temples & cultural sites in Ubud:

If you're lucky enough to be there during a temple ceremony, respectfully ask if you could attend it. Many villages welcome visitors if you dress appropriately with a sarong and sash.

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

• Address: Jl. Raya Goa Gajah, Bedulu, Blahbatuh, Gianyar

• Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM daily

• Contact: +62 361 295675

• Price: Foreign tourists: IDR 50,000 ($3-4 USD), additional fee for sarong rental if needed

Pura Gunung Lebah

• Address: Jl. Raya Campuhan, Ubud

• Hours: Generally open 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Contact: No official contact

• Price: Free entry, donations appreciated (sarong required, can be rented or brought)

Puri Saren Palace (Ubud Royal Palace)

• Address: Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud

• Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily

• Contact: +62 361 975059

• Price: Free for palace grounds; evening dance performances: IDR 80,000-100,000 ($5-7 USD)

Hidden Gems Restaurants in Ubud

Ramu Kitchen Ubud

Offering a ‘forest-to-table’ concept, they've successfully translated it deeply in the design and particularly on their dishes. Located on the rooftop of Titik Dua Hotel Ubud, you will feel hidden away from Ubud's busy streets the moment you arrive. For the dish recommendations, try 'Dumpling Chilli Crab' and 'Lawar Banana Blossom'.

• Address: Jl. Raya Sanggingan No.99, Ubud

• Hours: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM, closed on Mondays

• Contact: +62 812-3795-3489, ramukitchen@gmail.com

• Price: Main dishes: IDR 90,000-200,000 ($6-14 USD)

Ramen Dining Kazumi

Just about at the corner of Goutama Selatan Street, their signature char-siu pork is a must-try item.

• Address: Jl. Dewi Sita, Ubud

• Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily

• Contact: +62 361 9080777

• Price: Ramen dishes: IDR 75,000-120,000 ($5-9 USD)

Cultural & Local Experiences

Widya's Batik Class

• Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud

• Hours: Classes usually 9:30 AM - 1:00 PM, booking required

• Contact: +62 812-3984-6226

• Price: IDR 350,000-400,000 per person ($25-28 USD), includes materials

Nyoman Warta Batik Class

• Address: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang Village

• Hours: By appointment, usually 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

• Contact: +62 812-3902-9804

• Price: IDR 400,000 per person ($28 USD), includes materials and light refreshments

Participate in daily offerings - Ask your accommodation if you can learn to make canang sari (daily offerings) with the local staff.

Join a Balinese dance or gamelan class – Instead of watching performances, you could take a class to learn the basics of Bali’s traditional dance or music. Here are 2 top picks for you.

ARMA Museum Bali

• Address: Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud

• Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily

• Contact: +62 361 976659, info@armabali.com

• Price: Museum entry: IDR 100,000 (approximately $7 USD) 

  • Dance classes: IDR 350,000-500,000 per session ($25-35 USD)

  • Gamelan classes: IDR 350,000-500,000 per session ($25-35 USD)

The Bali Culture Workshop

• Address: Jl. Sri Wedari No.6, Ubud

• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, classes by appointment

• Contact: +62 813-3834-4699

• Price: Dance classes: IDR 300,000-400,000 ($20-28 USD) Gamelan classes: IDR 300,000-400,000 ($20-28 USD)

• Learn Pottery at Serayu Pot

Serayu Pottery Class

• Address: Jl. Raya Basangkasa, Seminyak (They also have Ubud classes by arrangement)

• Hours: Classes at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, booking required

• Contact: +62 878-6140-9877, info@serayubali.com

• Price: IDR 500,000 per person ($35 USD) for 2-3 hour class, includes materials

• Participate in a Balinese home cooking class and learn the secrets of local cuisine. 

Jeding Bali Cooking class

• Address: Jl. Raya Sanggingan, Ubud

• Hours: Morning class: 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM, Afternoon class: 3:00 PM - 7:30 PM

• Contact: +62 819-9955-2733, info@jedingbali.com

• Price: IDR 600,000-700,000 per person ($42-50 USD), includes market tour and meal

Experience Sound Healing

Ubud is well-known for its vibrant wellness scene, and sound healing has becoming more popular practice for restoring balance and harmony to the body and mind. Here are the top 3 sound healing centres in Ubud, each having their own unique session features:

Serendipity Sounds

• Address: Jl. Raya Sayan, Ubud

• Hours: Sessions start at 7:00 PM, 2-3 times weekly (check schedule)

• Contact: +62 821-4735-6134

• Price: IDR 200,000-250,000 per session ($14-18 USD)

Pyramids of Chi

• Address: Jl. Kelebang Moding No.22, Bentuyung, Ubud

• Hours: Multiple sessions daily, typically 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 7:00 PM

• Contact: +62 361 9000717, info@pyramidsofchi.com

• Price: IDR 220,000-350,000 per session ($16-25 USD)

Heartspace Bali

• Address: Penestanan, Ubud

• Hours: Sessions start at 7:00 PM, schedule varies weekly

• Contact: +62 812-3868-1641

• Price: IDR 180,000-250,000 per session ($13-18 USD)

FAQ

What is the nicest area in Ubud?

The most desirable areas in Ubud include:

• Central Ubud: The area around Jalan Raya Ubud and the Palace offers convenient access to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

• Penestanan: A quieter artist village just west of central Ubud with beautiful rice field views and a bohemian atmosphere.

• Nyuh Kuning: A peaceful, traditional village south of the Monkey Forest with authentic Balinese charm.

• Campuhan Ridge: The area around the famous ridge walk offers stunning valley views and a more secluded feel while still being close to town.

• Tegallalang: Located north of Ubud, known for its spectacular terraced rice fields and more rural setting.

How walkable is Ubud?

The Ubud's central area is pretty much walkable, with its’ main road spans around 2-3 kilometers. Although there are several factors that need to consider, they are:

Challenges:

• Some areas have narrow or non-existent sidewalks

• Some parts of the walks have craggy terrain, especially near river valleys

• In the town center, traffic congestion is quite normal at certain hours

Tips:

• The main streets (Jalan Raya Ubud, Monkey Forest Road) and the surroundings of central area are quite easy to walk.

• Always bring water and an umbrella/raincoat on hand.

Is Grab legal in Ubud?

Although Grab (and similar ride-hailing apps) are legal in Bali, in some areas they face strong resistance from the local drivers (who are not part of the ride-hailing services), and many spots in Ubud have “no ride-hailing pickups” signs.

You might find some drivers cancelling rides to/from certain locations due to this condition, and many will ask you to meet them away from certain spots. Try to arrange pickups from less exposed locations and be as subtle as you can when being picked up or dropped off.

How to get around in Ubud?

Transportation options include:

1. Walking: Practical for central areas

2. Scooter rental: $5-10 USD per day - international driving license is mandatory

3. Bicycle rental: $2-3 USD per day 

4. Local taxis: Cost slightly more than ride-hailing

5. Private drivers: $40-100 USD for a full day

6. Shuttle services

7. Ride-hailing apps: Use with caution as mentioned above

Most accommodations can arrange transportation at a higher rate.

What to do in Ubud for free?

Here are numerous free activities in Ubud, other than the ones mentioned above:

• Browse local handicrafts and produce in Ubud raditional market

• Art gallery hopping: Most galleries welcome visitors at no charge

• Cultural performances: Watch practice sessions at dance schools

• Free meditation sessions: Offered by some spiritual centers

• Sunset viewpoints: Several beautiful spots to watch the sun set over the jungle

• Monkey Forest Road: Walking along (but not entering) the famous street

Many activities require only a small donation or token entrance fee (under $1-2 USD).

Please note that prices and operational hours may have changed since our last update. Confirming the latest information when planning your visit is highly recommended, especially for classes and sessions that require advance booking.