Ubud
The interior of Bali is home to one of the most fascinating and intriguing towns on the island, Ubud. The center for Balinese arts and craft, and a real focus for those interested in holistic therapies and spa experiences, Ubud truly is the cultural hub of this island. The town itself emits a slower pace of life to that found elsewhere, and manages to impart a genuine sense of well being to those who choose to spend time here. A relaxed pace of life and an area with a true sense of spirituality.
Just over an hour drive from Denpasar airport, and nestled in the lush green paddy fields of Bali's interior, Ubud is a great base from which to explore the rest of this magical island. Wander through the quiet streets of town and take time to browse the endless art shops showcasing local works, pick up some ethnic jewelry or just kick back with a smooth Indonesian coffee in one of the many cafes and watch the world drift on by. Ubud is truly a melting pot of all the elements of Bali that make it such a sought after destination; scenic rice fields, ancient temples, superb cuisine, palaces and rivers all come together to create a unique Balinese experience. To sense the real Ubud look a bit further than the obvious attractions. Lose yourself in the backstreets and observe the culture and people that make this exceptional town tick.
What should I do in Ubud?
To really get under the skin of Ubud, join our Bali Culture and Craft tour to discover some of Ubud's rich traditions. Stop on the outskirts of Ubud at Singapadu village, a traditional village is home to some of the island's most talented artisans and see craftsmen creating wooden masks and gold-smiths and silver smiths at work using traditional techniques. The village is also known for its spectacular Barong dancers. No stay in Ubud would be complete without indulging in a Balinese spa and enjoying the healing hands of one of the local masseurs. From hour treatments to whole day packages, Ubud is the place to indulge and unwind.
The lush surroundings of Ubud are tempting for all levels of walkers and trekkers. Enjoy the rolling paddy fields on a short stroll, or explore deeper into the country side in this area that was created for trekking. As Ubud sits at about 250 meters above sea level, the climate is considerably cooler and more temperate than the rest of Indonesia, creating perfect conditions for more challenging trekking.
Our Indonesian Kitchen Tour will lead you on a gastronomic journey to discover the secrets of Indonesian cuisine. Inspired by the rich blend of peoples and culture of the archipelago the local delicacies can be experienced by all under the expert supervision of a local chef. Visit the traditional food market where you will learn more about the intricacies of Indonesian regional cuisines and observe the daily market trade.
Where should I stay?
Hotels are plentiful in Ubud and cater for all budgets and tastes. Many of the properties lie slightly outside of the town center, but will offer regular shuttle buses into town, so do not let this deter you from staying in them. The beauty of this location is being surrounded by rice fields and local farming communities offering a peaceful environment and uninterrupted views of the countryside. Those looking for understated luxury should try the Alila Ubud. Offering contemporary décor blended with Indonesian influences, this stunning hotel is set a-top the jungle canopy, with the edge of the infinity pool overlooking the paddy fields below.
Champlung Sari is an enchanting boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Ubud. Flanked by landscaped greenery, walled gardens, and with the Monkey Forest Sanctuary right by its doorstep, the property blends the sophistication of modern comforts with the charms of nature in its lush setting at an affordable price. Relaxing and unpretentious, Pertiwi Resort & Spa Ubud offers an inviting stay for nature and culture lovers. Flanked by rice terraces on one side and the Ubud town center, guests can experience the culture and artistry the town is known for while staying in a serene property.
Looking to splurge on super-deluxe accommodation? We suggest the Ubud Hanging Gardens by the Orient Express Group. Set deep in the rice terraces of Ubud this resort has 38 private pool villas, each with heated infinity plunge pools and uninterrupted views of the mountain range and winding Ayung river.
Where should I eat?
For sure Bali is well known for a myriad of shopping and eating possibilities, but in Ubud these experiences will be taken to another level. This town is truly the kind of place where you can let yourself go and enjoy all the different delicacies on offer for very reasonable prices.
One of our favorite venues is the Café Lotus, in front of the lily pond at Pura Saraswati. This idyllic spot serves delectable snacks, and is a great place to grab a cooling lassi (a local yogurt based drink) or an early evening beer and admire the temples across the lotus pond.
One of the dishes of the region, Nasi Campur, which literally translates to mixed rice, can be found at Warung Nasi Pak Sedan. This neighborhood dining venue is consistently busy with locals, and is situated at the back of someone's house. The beauty of Nasi Campur is that you never know exactly what you will be getting; it depends on what ingredients have been bought fresh that day at market. Usually a combination of rice, vegetable dishes and meat, accompanied by a selection of sambals and Balinese spicy salts combine to offer a truly authentic Indonesian meal.
Located on the lower section of Jl. Hanuman is KAFE. This charming and slightly new-age café draws expats and tourists alike. With a fusion menu offering healthy organic fare, this is a great spot to sink into one of the ever so comfortable cushions and watch the world go by.
What should I buy?
Long known as being the centre of Bali's arts and craft communities, Ubud is the place to shop local handicrafts and arts. Sukawati Market, located on Jalan Raya Sukowati, is the biggest market in Bali from which to purchase this genre of goods. Set over two floors, this bustling hub is the place to buy everything from paintings to woven clothes, wooden carvings to Balinese ceremonial items, handbags to jewelry. A good tip is to arrive first thing in the morning when many of the traders offer discounted prices.
Beyond central Ubud lie several smaller villages that each offer their own unique wares and crafts. The woodcarving centre of Mas is situated 5 kilometers south of Ubud. Typically Mas carvings have a very individual style; smooth, unpainted and carved from high quality wood. The workshops welcome tourists to drop in and observe the craftsmen, a great way to get watch the local artisans at work. Many of the shops do accept credit cards so do not worry if you forget to bring cash. Heading back along the road towards Ubud will lead you to the village of Celuk, famous for its goldsmiths and silversmiths. Head off the main road to take you away from the larger warehouses, and explore the villages where the craftsman live and work. Not only will this offer a richer and more honest insight into their working methods, you might also be able to get a better price than in the larger outlets.
If time is limited then all of these crafts can be found on Monkey Forest Road in central Ubud. Home to a plethora of shopping and dining options, from international brands to local handicrafts, this is a great one stop destination for all your shopping needs!
