The Ubud Writers and Readers Festival is an important literary event that celebrates literature, culture, and ideas from around the world. It provides a platform for writers and readers to engage with. it is an annual 4-day literary festival held every October in Ubud.
The highly expected Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF) returns for its 18th year, from October 8 to 17, 2021. The theme of the festival will be Mulat Sarira, which translates as self- reflection. Around conferences, readings, films, exchanges, the festival will explore self-reflection, cultural introspection and human rights: examining who we are, what unites and divides us, and what motivates our actions.
The festival features a range of events such as book launches, panel discussions, poetry readings, writing workshops, and cultural performances. The event is held in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, and has become one of the biggest literary events in Southeast Asia.
Future dates Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF)
Here are the future dates for the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival:
27-30 October 2022
18-22 October 2023
16-20 October 2024
Location
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is held at various venues in and around Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. The festival does not have a specific address as it takes place at different locations throughout the town. However, you can find more information about the festival, including the schedule and the venues, on their official website.
Contacts
Phone
Mobile: +62 812 4683 8459
Land line: +62 361 977408
For Ticketing enquiries: ticketing@ubudwritersfestival.com
For Media enquires: press@yayasansaraswati.org
For Partnership Requests: partnership@yayasansaraswati.org
For general Inquiries: info@ubudwritersfestival.com
Address
Ubud Writers & Readers Festival
Taman Baca, Jl. Raya Sanggingan
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 80571
History of the UWRF
The idea for the UWRF was conceived by Janet DeNeefe, an Australian writer and restaurateur who had been living in Ubud for several years.
DeNeefe recognized the potential for a literary festival in Ubud, which was already a popular destination for artists, writers, and other creative types. With the help of a small team of volunteers, DeNeefe launched the first Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in 2004.
The festival has since become one of the most highly anticipated cultural events in Bali, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Highlights of the UWRF
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival features a wide range of events, including author talks, panel discussions, writing workshops, book launches, film screenings, and more. Some of the highlights of the festival include:
Main Program
The main program features a lineup of established and emerging writers from Indonesia and around the world. They participate in panel discussions, readings, and interviews, providing insights into their work and the issues they explore.
Emerging Writers Program
The Emerging Writers Program is designed to support and showcase the work of up-and-coming writers from Southeast Asia and beyond. It includes writing workshops, mentoring sessions, and opportunities to present their work to a wider audience.
Food and Literary Events
As a renowned restaurateur, Janet DeNeefe has also incorporated food into the festival. The festival includes culinary events such as cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and literary-themed dinners.
The Fringe Events are an important part of the festival, featuring a wide range of cultural and creative events throughout Ubud. These events include art exhibitions, film screenings, music performances, and more.
Author talks
Visitors can hear from some of the most acclaimed writers and thinkers of our time, including Margaret Atwood, Hanif Kureishi, Salman Rushdie, and more.
Workshops
The festival offers a variety of writing workshops for aspiring writers and poets, as well as workshops on other topics such as journalism, publishing, and translation.
Cultural events
The UWRF is a celebration of Balinese culture as well as international literature, and visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances, music concerts, and other cultural events throughout the festival.
Book launches
The UWRF is a great opportunity to discover new books and authors, and visitors can attend book launches and signings by both local and international authors.
Importance of the UWRF
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is an important event for several reasons. First, it provides a platform for writers and thinkers to share their ideas, experiences, and stories with a diverse audience. The festival also fosters cross-cultural dialogue and understanding, as writers and readers from different countries and backgrounds come together to explore common themes and issues.
The UWRF also has an important role to play in promoting literacy and education. Through its workshops and other events, the festival inspires and empowers aspiring writers and readers, and encourages a love of learning and creativity.
Finally, the UWRF is a significant contributor to the local economy in Ubud and Bali more broadly. The festival attracts visitors from around the world, who in turn support local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Examples of the UWRF’s Impact
The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival has had a profound impact on the cultural and literary landscape of Bali and beyond. The festival has been instrumental in promoting cultural exchange, creativity, and literacy in Bali and beyond. Here are some examples of the UWRF’s impact:
Some of the festival’s notable achievements include:
Inspiring local writers
The UWRF has helped to inspire a new generation of Balinese writers, who are now sharing their stories and perspectives with the world.
Promoting Indonesian literature
The festival provides a platform for Indonesian writers to showcase their work and connect with an international audience. It has helped to promote Indonesian literature globally and has given a voice to many talented writers from across the country.
Showcasing Balinese culture
The festival has helped to promote Balinese culture and art to a global audience, and has become a showcase for traditional dance, music, and other cultural forms.
Promoting literacy and education
Through its workshops and other events, the festival has encouraged a love of learning and creativity among local residents as well as visitors.
Empowering women
The festival has a strong focus on gender equality and women’s empowerment. It provides a platform for women writers to share their stories and has helped to raise awareness about the issues facing women in Indonesia.
Fostering cross-cultural dialogue
The UWRF has brought together writers and readers from around the world, encouraging cultural exchange and understanding. The festival encourages cross-cultural understanding and promotes a spirit of tolerance and respect.
Supporting the local economy
The UWRF attracts thousands of visitors to Ubud each year, which has helped to boost the local economy. Many local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, benefit from the influx of tourists during the festival.
Conclusion
The UWRF program is filled with rich, immersive and engaging events that range from panel discussions, literary lunches, writing workshops, musical and artistic performances and film screenings. From day to night, a tapestry of literary, artistic and cultural happenings are on display, with an engaged audience adding to the overall experience.
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You have decided to go on vacation and you do not know where to go in Bali? Here is our Ubud complete travel guide and we have concocted a complete program for you to visit Ubud Bali and discover its must-see places.
Without forgetting the unique landscape of the surrounding rice fields… Ubud is a city located in the southwest of the island of Bali. It is recognized worldwide for being the center of Balinese culture.
It is through Balinese craftsmanship that the culture of this unique island shines through, between rice fields as far as the eye can see, vertiginous mountains and volcanoes, lakes with pure water, wonderful beaches… From carved wooden statues to puppets, Balinese craftsmanship is very varied and promises to amaze every traveler who takes an interest in it.
It’s up to you to stroll in a heavenly setting, visit temples and museums or even walks through the rice fields. In short, a unique program for an unforgettable vacation. Follow us, this is where it’s happening.
Find out more about the hidden gems in Ubud that take you off the beaten track. Read below for detailed insights into unique and lesser-known experiences in this enchanting part of Bali.
Without forgetting the unique landscape of the surrounding rice fields…Ubud is a city located in the southwest of the island of Bali. It is recognized worldwide for being the nerve center of Balinese culture.
Visit cultural Ubud Bali, our Ubud complete travel guide for a successful holiday:
Wandering the streets of Ubud Bali is not just about walking, but also about discovering absolutely incredible places belonging to a culture at the antipodes of ours. The people you will meet there are warm and welcoming. In short, do not hesitate to visit this unique place. Here is a short guide to the essentials to visit:
SARASWATI TEMPLE UBUD IN BALI
While in Ubud Bali, you cannot miss visiting Saraswati Temple Ubud. This 19th century temple is entirely dedicated to the mythical goddess: Saraswati. The lotus flower is one of the symbols of this idol and you will find it everywhere in the gardens surrounding the temple. In the Hindu religion, it represents learning, knowledge, art, wisdom and music. Located very close to the royal palace, this temple is easily accessible on foot. Attention, it is only reserved for practitioners.
As tourists, you will only have access to the outside gardens, but the scenery is so incredible that it is worth it. Ideally, hire the services of a guide, he will allow you to learn more about the history of this place and the statues that surround it. You can visit this temple every day from 08:00 to 17:00.
If you wish, two evenings a week you can attend Balinese dance performances. Indeed, every Tuesday and Thursday, from 7:30 p.m., a troupe practices the Kecak dance. It is a dance without music, which is performed only with the singing of the other participants. Entrance to the palace gardens is free. Only the dance show is chargeable. Count IDR 80,000 per person, or about € 5. These traditional dances are a sight to see at least once during your vacation.
Better known as the Neka Museum, the Neka Art Museum is renowned for its large collection of Balinese and foreign works of art. It was built in 1982 by Wayan Suteja Neka, a Balinese teacher, who collected works of art and with the support of two famous painters: Rudolf Bonnet and Arie Smit. The museum is open daily. From Monday to Saturday, it is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Sundays, it is only open in the afternoon from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. On site, it is composed as follows:
Arie Smit Pavilion. This pavilion is dedicated to the painter of the same name: Arie Smit. Some of his works are exhibited there.
Balinese Painting Hall. This pavilion is separated into four rooms. The works exhibited there alone sum up Balinese art.
Lempad Pavilion. The collection of I Gusti Nyoman Lempad is exhibited in this pavilion. It is the Balinese sculptor and architect who is behind the creation of the Sarawasti temple.
Indonesian Contemporary Art Hall. This space is reserved for Indonesian artists working in Bali.
Photography Center. This pavilion is reserved for photographs. These are black and white photos by American artist Robert A. Koke. These photos were all taken between 1937 and 1941.
East-West Art Annex. This pavilion houses various works by foreign artists such as Johan Rudolf Bonnet, Antonio Blanco, Theo Meier and Louise Garrett Koke.
CAMPUHAN RIDGE WALK, A GREENERY PATH IN THE CENTER OF UBUD BALI
Nothing like a walk on Campuhan Ridge Walk to enjoy breathtaking scenery. Located just outside the center of Ubud Bali, this slab trail of about four kilometers round trip will offer you a real moment of calm. Walk through the rice fields and discover an absolutely exceptional landscape. This easy walk takes an average of two hours. Do not hesitate to discuss with the locals who work in the rice fields! At the end of the path, you will reach a typical village where many artists live. You will discover among others painters or sculptors.
It is advisable to do this walk early in the morning since there are few trees on the way to land in the shade. From 7 a.m., you can benefit from the freshness, while enjoying the solitude of the place. Indeed, tourists invade this place in the afternoon and it becomes less pleasant. Finally, know that this path is free to access and that it is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So don’t hesitate any longer!
Well-maintained and only about 1.5km long (0.93 mile), it starts in a relatively busy part of Ubud before heading quickly out of town towards peace and quiet. This trail leads to the ridges for which it is named and from where hikers can enjoy fantastic views of deep wooded ravines and a tree-lined horizon. At the end, it passes through lush rice paddies, making this walk like a microcosm of the ecological richness and mesmerizing beauty of Ubud’s natural environment.
VISIT GUNUNG LEBAH TEMPLE, HINDU TEMPLE IN UBUD BALI
A visit to the region would not be complete without making a detour to Gunung Lebah Temple. Ideally located on the Campuhan hill, this temple is one of the must-see places on the island. It dates from the 8th century and was built by Sri Markendya, a Hindu priest from Java. To get there, nothing could be simpler, just take the main road from Jalan Raya. Below the Blanco museum, just after the Campuhan bridge, you will discover the temple.
He has an absolutely incredible story since he is at the origin of the creation of Ubud Bali. Indeed, when the priest decided to build the temple, there was no dwelling around. Subsequently, many people came to visit it and decided to settle in the area.
Some sculptures waiting for conservation at Purah Gunung Lebah temple in Ubud. Arabsalam, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Little by little, a village was born: Ubud was born! This place is very nice for walking. Indeed, here everything is well maintained, clean, calm and silent. The disconnect with the rest of the city of Ubud is staggering. This temple is divided into several pavilions. Each of them is decorated with traditional gold and red statues representing mythical gods. In short, it is a walk that is really worth the detour!
PURA DALEM AGUNG PADANGTEGAL, BALINESE TEMPLE OF DEATH
Here is another temple to visit: Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal. Located west of the Sacred Monkey Forest and in the heart of Ubud Bali, this temple is dedicated to Durga. In the Hindu religion, it is the representation of death. This place is also nicknamed the temple of death, because it is said to be haunted by evil spirits. Once there, not one, but three temples await you.
The other two temples are:
1. Beji Temple. In Balinese mythology, it is here that the god Hyang Widhi personified by the goddess Gangga is worshipped.
2. Prajapati Temple. Here, the legend evokes the God Hyang Widhi personified by Prajapati. Very close to this temple is a cemetery where mass cremations take place every five years.
These three temples date from the 14th century. The Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple is the source of many legends. The Balinese say that this place has magical powers and is inhabited by evil spirits. All around this temple, you can observe many statues representing witches or monsters with bulging eyes or sharp teeth and often armed with clubs or maces. The times to visit it depend on the opening hours of the monkey forest.
The forest is accessible to tourists from 08:30 to 18:00. However, access to the temple closes at 5:30 p.m. Entering the forest, you will have to pay an entrance fee of 80,000 rupees, or about 5 € and which includes the visit of the outside of the temple. Indeed, as in the rest of the island, the temples are only accessible to practitioners.
During your next visit to Ubud Bali, stop by Ubud Market. It is a traditional market very touristy and famous for its handicrafts. You will find food there, but also holiday souvenirs to bring back. In short, it is a place not to be missed before returning home. This market is considered the most popular place on the island.
Be careful, if you decide to visit this place and especially if you want to buy holiday souvenirs there, you will have to call on your negotiating skills. Indeed, negotiating is a tradition in commerce and you must accept it as a game between the seller and the buyer.
If we had only one piece of advice to give you, it would be to keep smiling and above all not to get upset. Set yourself a price above which you do not want to pay for the item and get started. The first purchases may seem laborious, but you get used to it quickly!
The market is located just opposite the royal palace Puri Saren Ubud and is open every day of the week. If you can go there early in the morning to avoid the tourist influx and enjoy this enchanting and colorful place.
GOA GAJAH OR THE ELEPHANT CAVE
Goa Gajah Temple is also nicknamed the Elephant Cave or Elephant Cave. It is a Hindu place of worship which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. It is located in Bedulu, just a few kilometers from Ubud Bali.
No one knows the exact origin of its name. You will not be able to miss its imposing entrance which is nothing other than a huge demon’s mouth wide open. Once you have entered inside, a long corridor is essential at the end of which you will discover statues to which the Balinese make offerings:
A statue of Ganesh, who is the mythical Hindu god of wisdom, intelligence, education and prudence. This statue is represented with an elephant’s head and is dressed in a sarong.
Three smaller statues represent Shiva lingams. Lingams are classical representations of Shiva. These are standing stones of phallic appearance.
Each statue represents an idol: Brahma the creator, Vishnu the maintainer, Shiva the regenerator. These three statues are also dressed in colored fabrics.
The visit of the temple is free and free. However, remember to dress in a sarong if your legs are bare or your shoulders are bare. The ideal is to get one from the start of your vacation and always keep it in your bag at hand.
TEGALLALANG RICE TERRACE, THE RICE TERRACES OF TEGALALANG
Here is another splendid place where you can admire magnificent landscapes of rice fields. Tegallalang Rice Terrace, is a typical place of the Balinese region where you will enjoy interacting with the locals. This place is listed as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.
To irrigate these lands, farmers use the subak; it is a typical Bali eco-friendly watering system. To get there, nothing could be simpler: opt for the scooter or the car since the rice fields are located about ten kilometers north of Ubud.
Once there, you can walk freely in the central aisles. Note that the rice fields are private domains and you are not allowed to trample them. However, if you chat nicely with the locals, some will be happy to let you in, while others will ask you for financial compensation.
It’s up to you to use your persuasive skills while keeping a smile, of course. Before leaving this place, do not forget to take a photo on the Love Bali swing to immortalize this visit.
VISIT THE RUDANA MUSEUM OR RUDANA MUSEUM OF UBUD IN BALI
Are you a lover of painting, sculpture or art of all kinds? Do not hesitate to visit the Museum Rudana. Housed over three floors, this incredible museum dates back to 1995.
It is owned by Nyoman Rudana, a local politician with a passion for art and who is also the founder of several organizations supporting artists in the Ubud Bali area.
Inside the Rudana museum, you can discover more than 400 works of art and sculptures. Access to the first two levels is free, only the third floor is chargeable.
Here’s what you’ll find on each floor, in Rudana museum:
The 1st floor. This is where you can admire works by Indonesian artists.
The 2nd floor. It also houses works of art by artists from the region, such as Nyoman Gunarsa, Basuki Abdullah, etc.
The 3rd floor. It is reserved for classical Balinese paintings by local artists or foreign artists who have lived in Indonesia. You may have the chance to observe artists working live there. You will even be able to buy their paintings from them.
MOUNT AGUNG SUNRISE TREKKING: TREKKING ON MOUNT AGUNG IN BALI
Attention athletes! Here is a hike made for you: Mount Agung Sunrise Trekking. This difficult level hike will allow you to admire the sunrise at an altitude of more than 3,000 m. A dream for nature and sports enthusiasts. Here are some valuable tips to best prepare for your trek:
For who?
This trek requires you to be in good physical shape. Indeed, this is a hike reserved for the most athletic among you. In addition, the ascent is prohibited for menstruating women. The Balinese are very superstitious and consider this an omen of bad luck.
When to go there?
It is advisable to climb Mount Agung during the dry season. During the wet season, the paths can be dangerous, as they are too slippery. Attention, the ascent is prohibited during April, during ceremonies at the Besakih temple or at the Pasar Agung temple.
Depending on your negotiating skills, booking a guide to accompany you will cost you IDR 900,000 to IDR 1,800,000, or around €50 to €100 per person.
Find the right guide. Be careful to choose your guide carefully. Some tourists come back very disappointed from their trek because of an incompetent guide. We advise you to book through a serious agency or through your hotel.
At the start of the hike, you risk getting hot quickly so a T-shirt should suffice. As you go up, the temperatures will drop. So remember to bring a warmer garment. Otherwise, remember to put on real hiking shoes.
Finally, take what you need to refuel and the necessary pharmacy in case of injury.
The path. Two paths are available to ascend. The first, longer climbs to the summit, while the second, shorter stops at an altitude of 2,000 m (6561 ft). It’s up to you to choose according to your skills and your desires.
UBUD CENTER, THE ARTS CAPITAL OF BALI
Ubud center is the center of the island of Bali. This is where you will find everything you may need for the duration of your stay. Temples, museums and especially the main market can be found in central Ubud and its surroundings. It is a must on the island of Bali.
The big main artery of the hypercentre of Ubud is the “Jalan Raya Ubud” and the two main streets are the “Jalan Monkey Forest” (which leads to the monkey forest) and the parallel “Jalan Hanoman”. Between these streets, you will find small alleys, all well endowed with cafes, restaurants and shops.
For your travels, we strongly recommend the scooter which will allow you to move everywhere easily. Otherwise, you have the option of taking a taxi or renting your own car, with or without a driver. Be careful, the roads are not all in very good condition and driving can be dangerous.
If your budget is limited, do not hesitate to take the bemo. It is a ten-seater minibus. An hour’s journey by bemo will cost you around 50 euro cents. Suffice to say that it is a good plan and a guaranteed immersion in Balinese life.
KOMANEKA ART GALLERY: CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY IN UBUD BALI
Komaneka Art Gallery is a contemporary art gallery that should please you! Located in Ubud Bali, this gallery exhibits avant-garde artists, mostly Indonesian.
This art gallery was created in 1997 by Nyoman Wahyu Suteja Neka, it contrasts completely with traditional Balinese art which tends to overload the decor.
Indeed, here you only have open, bright and clear spaces. In short, a real place of peace, ideal for discovering exceptional works.
The gallery is open every day from Monday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Do not hesitate any longer and discover the works of I Wayan Sujana Suklu, Hanafi or Nengah Sujena.
UBUD BALI MONKEY FOREST
Who has never heard of Ubud Monkey Forest? Here is an exceptional place that is very pleasant to visit, both for its greenery and for its mischievous monkeys! It is important to know that the Monkey Forest is a nature reserve that is home to more than 600 crab-eating macaques, a monkey native to Southeast Asia, as well as more than 180 different tree species.
This forest is divided into five distinct territories where each of these animals lives peacefully.
The majority of monkeys are female. They live in complete freedom. You will therefore have to follow the recommendations indicated at the entrance to the forest if you want everything to take place in the best conditions. Indeed, monkeys can have surprising reactions towards tourists. Do not forget that they are greedy and above all, that they are on their territory.
It’s up to you to adapt! The forest is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry costs IDR 80,000 for an adult, or just €5, and IDR 60,000 for a child, or around €3.50.
The ARMA Museum was founded in 1196 by Agung Rai, a Balinese who devoted his entire life to the preservation and development of Balinese art and culture.
This museum is rather a cultural center since it allows not only to admire works of art, but also to participate in many activities such as:
Take art classes.
Walk the aisles of the library.
Sip a coffee in the gardens of the center.
Admire a performance of traditional dance and music.
This complex is simply huge since its two buildings together measure more than 4,500 m² (14763 ft²). Suffice to say that there is enough space to visit this museum in peace. The museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and its price is IDR 80,000 for an adult, or barely 5 €.
MUSEUM PURI LUKISAN: THE UBUD BALI PAINTING MUSEUM
We stay in the museum category with the Museum Puri Lukisan, also called the museum of painting. Located in the center of Ubud, you can admire absolutely exceptional paintings by Balinese artists. It is the oldest art museum in Bali.
It was founded by Cokorda Raka Sukawati, Prince of Ubud from 1910 to 1978 and the painter Rudolf Bonnet.
Puri Lukisan Museum is the oldest art museum in Bali which specialize in modern traditional Balinese paintings and wood carvings. The museum is located in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. It is home to the finest collection of modern traditional Balinese painting and wood carving on the island, spanning from the pre-Independence war (1930–1945) to the post-Independence war (1945 – present) era. The collection includes important examples of all of the artistic styles in Bali including the Sanur, Batuan, Ubud, Young Artist and Keliki schools. Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Their goal was to preserve Balinese art and prevent it from dispersing around the world without keeping track of it on this island.
The challenge is met since today, it brings together many paintings visible in three different pavilions.
The upper pavilion. Here are exhibited paintings in the kamasan style, a traditional style, ink drawings by Nyoman Lempad or even paintings by Pita Maha (a group of painters from the 1930s and 1940s).
The second pavilion. He is entirely dedicated to young artists who have been trained by Aries Smith.
The third pavilion. This is where temporary exhibitions take place that will allow you to discover new Balinese artists.
Note that the museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is IDR 50,000 for an adult, barely 3 €. Each child under 15 accompanied by an adult can enter for free.
UBUD PALACE OR PURI SAREN AGUNG, THE UBUD PALACE IN BALI
Here is a place that you should not miss during your visit to Ubud Bali; it is the royal palace: Ubud palace. The rear part of this huge complex is occupied by the royal family, while the vast majority of the buildings contain the main cultural, artistic and architectural centers of Bali.
Tourists have the opportunity to enter the gardens, the outer courtyards, as well as the buildings located in front of the royal palace. Each of them is decorated in a pure traditional Balinese style.
This means that you can admire various statues and sculptures everywhere, including in the gardens. The palace is easily accessible. It is located at the intersection of Jalan Raya Ubud road, just opposite the Ubud market.
You can’t miss it! The gardens and courtyards accessible to the public are open free of charge every day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Finally, every evening, from 7:30 p.m., you can admire a traditional Balinese dance show. The entrance fee for the show is IDR 100,000, or around €6.
UBUD WATER PALACE, THE WATER PALACE OF UBUD ON THE ISLAND OF BALI
Here is a palace surrounded by water where you will enjoy strolling: the famous Ubud Water Palace. This palace which belonged to the royal family of Karangasem is famous for its night dance show which takes place every evening from 7:30 p.m. This palace, which is one of the most important on the island, is divided into three parts:
Nista Mandala. This is the part that goes from the outside of the palace to its entrance. This includes the water garden and the pond with its lotuses.
Madya Mandala. This part leads inside the temple via three doors: a central door, one on the left and one on the right. The central door is the most important; it is red and gold in color.
Utama Mandala. This part is the most sacred of the three. It is here that the statue of the mythical goddess Sarawasti is located, as well as the Padmasana shrine.
Access to the palace gardens is free. Only the show is chargeable. Count IDR 200,000 per person, or around €12.
THE BLANCO RENAISSANCE MUSEUM
The Blanco Renaissance Museum is an original museum created by a man who is just as original. This entire museum is the work of Spanish artist Don Antonio Blanco. It contains no less than 300 works of art by the artist, as well as paintings by his son Marco who took over and manages the museum since the death of his father.
The museum is located in the place where “the fabulous Blanco” lived. Suffice to say that the setting is exceptional: at the top of a mountain, in a magnificent green setting. Don Antonio Blanco was fascinated by the female body and depicted it from every angle.
Suffice to say that this museum is not quite a place suitable for children. Moreover, part of the museum is prohibited for children under the age of seventeen. Where some see art, others may see provocation and pornography.
Finally, this museum is reserved for true lovers of paintings who appreciate the work of the artist. If you want to visit it, know that it is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Count IDR 80,000 for the entrance, barely 5 € for adults.
Visit Ubud Bali: our advice
If you decide to visit Ubud Bali, do not hesitate to write down all the places you want to discover so that you do not forget anything. Ideally, prepare a small schedule without putting pressure on yourself. Your holidays should remain a pleasure.
Buy a sarong from the start of your stay, as you will need it during your various visits. This will save you from renting one for each excursion.
Many tours are free, but a donation is always appreciated. Don’t be too stingy with your donations. Do not forget that the Balinese live in poverty for the majority.
Remember that negotiations are useful in trading, but they should remain good-natured. We too often observe tourists getting excited over simple purchases. Take it as a game!
And you? Have you ever been to Ubud Bali? Did you enjoy your stay? Do not hesitate to ask us your questions in the comments.
How to get to Ubud?
With a pre-booked taxi
From Ngurah Rai airport in Denpasar, you can negotiate a taxi on the spot to get to Ubud but be prepared to negotiate the price well so as not to be ripped off. Alternatively, you can pre-book a driver who will meet you at the airport to drop you off directly in Ubud.
If you choose this second option, it will cost you IDR 350,000 if your hotel is in downtown Ubud, otherwise IDR 400,000 if it is outside the center. The journey takes between 1h and 1h30 depending on traffic and peak hours. If you are really in a hurry, you can ask the driver to take the toll road (10,000 rupees) to save 15 minutes on the journey.
If you are staying in Bukit or on the West coast of Bali (Seminyak/Kuta/Canggu), you can book a driver for a transfer to Ubud. The price is the same as from the airport, and the journey time also varies between 1h and 1h30 depending on the traffic on the road.
Please note that any transport request (from the airport or any other city) must be made at least 2 days in advance 🙂
To make a transport request, it’s very simple: just fill out the form in the article on the blog, and payment is made directly on site, with the driver.
With a taxi via Gojek or Grab
If you haven’t precisely established your itinerary in Bali and you want to visit Ubud without knowing the exact date in advance, you can also go there “unannounced” using the Gojek or Grab application . These are the local ubers, at totally affordable prices. Payment is made in cash, once the race is over. You can order a Gojek/Grab car if you are in a group, or a scooter if you are alone.
For example, the price of a Gojek car for 4 people from Seminyak to Ubud is around IDR 130,000.
On the other hand, you should know that normally, Grab and Gojek are not allowed to go to Ubud (so as not to compete with local taxis…). It is therefore not uncommon for your Grab/Gojek driver to try to increase the price by message, before confirming the race and picking you up.
By scooter or car on your own
Last and probably the most practical solution to travel freely: get to Ubud on your own, with a scooter or a rented car. To rent a vehicle in Bali, nothing could be simpler: just contact our partner Made from Yoga Motor, as explained in this article and he will take care of delivering the vehicle to your hotel for free! You can request a scooter or a 4 or 8-seater car, at advantageous rates.
The advantage of renting a car is above all to be able to freely visit Ubud and its surroundings, but also to move from one city to another without depending on a driver, which means being able to stop whenever you want, and visit the places that interest you without time constraints.
How to get around in Ubud?
As in most cities to visit in Bali, the best way to get around Ubud is undeniably the scooter. You can rent a scooter for around IDR 600,000 per month or IDR 60,000 per day. The helmet is supplied with the scooter. Filling up with petrol is also very easy and not expensive at all: look for small shops that sell petrol in glass bottles, or shops that have some kind of petrol pump (PERTAMINA).
In general, a bottle of gasoline costs IDR 10,000, and you need 4 bottles to fill up. If you stop at street stalls that have a gas pump, you can choose how much oil you want. There are also petrol stations all over Bali, again you decide how much petrol you want to fill up and the shopkeeper will fill your tank.
If you feel more comfortable driving a car, you can rent one, but you’ll probably spend a lot more time in traffic, as a scooter can easily weave between cars and avoid traffic jams. Cars are also harder to park, especially in Ubud, while scooters can be parked anywhere.
Last advice for the road: keep a plastic poncho or raincoat in the trunk under the seat in case of sudden torrential rain!
What to do in Ubud?
Get started with yoga
Ubud is the spiritual center of Bali, so you will find plenty of activities related to meditation, relaxation and yoga. If you are looking for a good yoga class, I recommend Yoga Barn. The lesson hour is at 130,000 IDR or you can take out a weekly/monthly subscription to benefit from advantageous rates.
The Yoga Barn
Price: 130,000 IDR per lesson hour
Website: http://www.theyogabarn.com
Address: Jalan Raya Pengosekan, Peliatan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Telephone: +62 (0361) 971236
Play with the monkeys while visiting the Monkey Forest
The Monkey Forest is a must visit in Ubud, despite the very high tourist attendance which has resulted in some aggressive behavior from the monkeys. It is a nice walk to do in the forest, and you will meet many monkeys with whom you can take a selfie with if you are “lucky” that they climb on your shoulders. If you are not comfortable with monkeys and crowds of tourists, you can visit other forests a little further from the center of Ubud, such as Alas Kedaton Forest or Sangeh Monkey Forest.
Monkey forest
Admission: IDR 50,000
Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Alas Kedaton
Admission: IDR 30,000
Address: Jl. Raya Alas Kedaton, Kukuh, Kec. Tabanan, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82121
Hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sangeh Monkey Forest
Admission: IDR 15,000
Address: Jl. Brahmana, Sangeh, Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80353
Hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Try the traditional Balinese massage
Another essential activity to try if you come to Ubud: the Balinese massage! You will find many inexpensive spas and massage parlors in the city center. On average, an hour of traditional massage costs IDR 80,000, but if you want to go to a high-end and quite luxurious spa, it will cost you at least IDR 150,000. There are different types of massages offered in salons and spas: massage for the whole body, for the legs, feet, head, etc. You can also get a facial or ask for a manicure.
Website: http://www.karsaspa.com
Price: 180,000 IDR for one hour of traditional Balinese massage
Address: Jl. Markandia, Banyar Bangkiang Sidem, Keliki, Tegallalang, Kelusa, Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Phone: +6281353392013
Jaens Spa Ubud
Website: http://www.jaensspaubud.com
Price: 165,000 IDR for one hour of traditional Balinese massage
Address: Jalan Raya Pengosekan Ubud, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Telephone: +62 82 144 439 147
See a movie at Cinema Paradiso
This small cinema in the heart of Ubud is located in a vegetarian and organic coffee shop called Earth Cafe. Tickets cost IDR 50,000 which is then credited as consumption in the cafe. You can therefore order a meal, a drink, a cake or a snack in the café-shop attached to the cinema. The room is comfortable with quality air conditioning.
They don’t show the latest Hollywood blockbusters, but they do play family-friendly cartoons and movies around 5 p.m. As for the food at Earth Cafe, it is healthy, varied and delicious. All the dishes are exquisite and cooked in an original way with organic and vegan ingredients. I recommend the Falafel Sandwich, with its absolutely exquisite homemade fries!
Cinema Paradiso (Earth Cafe)
Website: http://www.paradisoubud.com
Admission: IDR 50,000 which is credited on your consumption (food and drink)
Address: Jl. Goutama Sel., Ubud, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where to eat in Ubud?
House of Schnitzel
House of Schnitzel is a restaurant run by a German who has been living in Bali for several years. The atmosphere is pleasant and the staff very friendly. Many a la carte dishes have a gluten-free alternative. The vegetarian lasagna is excellent, as is the tuna curry or the quiche. While we’re at it, don’t hesitate to try the schnitzel (180 gr) which are served in pairs, with mashed potatoes and a delicious homemade sauce.
Website: https://www.houseofschnitzel.com.au
Address: Jl. Sri Wedari No.2, Ubud, Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Warung Citta Ovest Pizza & Pasta
This Italian restaurant undoubtedly serves the best pizzas in Ubud, or even in Bali! The homemade and thin, crispy and delicious dough. The filling is varied, provided and excellent. If you overdosed on nasi goreng or mie goreng during your stay, do not hesitate to go to this restaurant, the menu offers a wide choice of pastas and pizzas, and all the dishes are truly exquisite.
This salad bar offers a wide choice of healthy salads, with many vegetables and other toppings. Salad bowls are made with healthy, raw, organic, vegan and delicious foods. And to top it off, at an unbeatable price.
Menu: https://www.alchemybali.com/ubudmenu
Address: Jalan Penestanan Kelod No.75, Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Coffee Pomegranate
Cafe Pomegrenate is a restaurant with a tranquil setting and atmosphere, located right in the middle of the rice fields in Ubud. Its access is quite difficult (the road is very narrow, impossible to get there by car) and a bit far from the center of Ubud, but the setting is well worth the detour. The food there is very good, I recommend the mushroom soup and the juices are also very good! If you are looking for a quiet restaurant, away from the noise of the incessant traffic in the streets of Ubud, do not hesitate and go to Café Pomegrenate 🙂
Menu: http://cafepomegranate.org/menu/
Address: Jl. Subak Sok Wayah, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Clear Cafe
Clear Café is one of my favorite restaurants in Ubud. The setting is perfectly Instagrammable, the menu is varied and healthy, in short the place is perfect for a brunch or a simple coffee break. The atmosphere is very relaxed and many digital nomads often come to work upstairs, comfortably seated on the large poufs.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food: for example, for a large salad bowl and an iced coffee you will get by for IDR 114,000.
Warung Falafel is a healthy fast-food located across the street from the famous Ubud Market. They serve falafel cooked from organic, vegan and fresh food. You will be seduced by the quality of the products, and especially by the exquisite taste of the falafels which will make your taste buds travel. They also offer a wide choice of organic and healthy juices, which you can compose yourself with original fruits and vegetables: carrot, beetroot, orange, cucumber…
Website: http://www.warungfalafelbali.com
Address: Jl. Karna No.15, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Omma (day club)
Ubud, Tegenungan waterfall, ideal for eating after seeing the waterfall, beautiful setting.
Ubud is a city with accommodations that can suit any type of traveler. If you are a backpacker, you will have a wide choice of hostels or homestays at very low prices (2€ per night for a bed in a dormitory, with breakfast included). If you are traveling with your family or with a group of friends, there are also a large number of guesthouses and villas. And of course, for couples you always have the possibility to book a hotel, at prices corresponding to any type of budget. You can visit: Booking.com, AirB&B, etc…
Please note that prices and opening hours may vary for each waterfall, so it’s recommended to check the official websites or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you wish to take a dip, and be prepared for some uneven terrain and steps along the way. Enjoy your exploration of Bali’s magnificent waterfalls and create unforgettable memories amidst the lush greenery and cascading waters.
Exploring Ubud off the beaten track offers a range of unique and immersive experiences that allow you to see a different side of this popular Balinese destination. Here are some activities and places you can enjoy:
Green Village: This unique bamboo village offers a fascinating look at sustainable architecture and living. You can take a guided tour of the bamboo school, factory, and residences. More information can be found on their official Green Village website.
Bali Eco Cycling: This downhill cycling tour provides a unique way to explore Bali’s countryside, including stops at local homes and fields. For details, check out the Bali Eco Cycling website.
Bisma Eight: A modern boutique hotel that offers a blend of luxury and cultural experiences in Ubud. Their activities include yoga, traditional dance, and cooking classes. Visit the Bisma Eight website for more information.
Café Wayan & Bakery: Known for its delicious Indonesian and Balinese cuisine in a beautiful garden setting. Discover more about this dining experience at Café Wayan & Bakery.
Tibumana Waterfall: A serene waterfall located in the jungle, perfect for a refreshing swim and stunning photos. While there isn’t a specific website for Tibumana Waterfall, general tourist information can be found through Bali Tourism.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: A UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking terraced rice fields. For more about visiting Jatiluwih, refer to the UNESCO website.
Countryside Cycling: Explore Ubud’s picturesque landscapes and traditional villages by bike. General information about cycling in Ubud can be found on tourism websites like Bali Tourism.
Please note that while these activities provide unique experiences, it’s always good to check current conditions and availability before planning your visit.
Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, villa Carissa in Seminyak center offers the perfect base for exploring Bali’s many attractions and enjoying a relaxing vacation.
What to do in Ubud? Discover our list of must-sees so you don’t miss anything during your stay in this city, in the heart of the Island of the Gods! There are many places to visit in this town, but our list of places to visit in Ubud to make sure that you don’t miss any must go places in Ubud.
Considered the cultural and spiritual center of Bali, Ubud has become an essential stopover during a stay on the island. The city of more than 34,000 inhabitants is renowned for its artistic life, but also the lush nature that surrounds it and its atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Location of Ubud
Ubud is located in the highlands of Bali, between the rainforest, the Ayung River and the rice terraces, where majestic temples are hidden. And despite the influx of tourists throughout the year, the place does not lose its charm.
Balinese culture is also very present in this city where a large number of museums, art galleries and dance performances await explorers.
Legend of Ubud
According to legend, this haven of peace was discovered by the Javanese priest Rsi Markendya in the 8th century. Ubud, from the Indonesian Ubat (medicine), was for a long time just a simple village where medicinal plants grew in abundance. Before attracting its first tourists, Ubud welcomed the Sukawati royal family (19th century) then Western artists who settled there (20th century), thus participating in the development of the arts in the city.
Visiting Ubud is on the program? Here is a small selection so you don’t miss anything during your visit to the heart of Bali!
1- Observe the monkeys in the Sacred Monkey Forest
2- His walk in the rice fields of Tegalalang
3- Visit Ubud Palace and Sarawasti Temple
4- Hike Campuhan Ridge Walk
5- Get lost in the central market of Ubud and Jalan Raya
6- Tegenungan Waterfall
7- Discover the temples of Ubud
8- Visit the Neka Museum
9- Relax at the Karsa Spa and at the springs of Empul Temple
10- Taste Balinese specialties in restaurants and at Café Luwak
It is a tourist town in Bali that offers many beautiful places to visit and many activities to do. Ubud is located in the center east, in the middle of the land and on the highlands. Ubud is famous for being a lively city that offers superb landscapes in the surroundings. There are many temples, a museum, restaurants, rice fields, spas, waterfalls, tropical forests etc. It is our ideal destination for nature lovers who wish to immerse themselves in Balinese culture. You can meet locals, attend ceremonies and traditional dances. We really enjoyed getting lost in Ubud!
Places to Visit in Ubud and Must Go
1- Observe the monkeys in the Sacred Monkey Forest
The monkey forest is a must do when you go to Ubud and also one of the most visited places in Bali. We loved this attraction even though we were afraid of falling into a “tourist trap”! Here we can feed the monkeys and play with them.
The beautiful rainforest provides a great ride. There are also 3 magnificent temples that can be visited. We appreciated this place because there is spirituality, walks, nature and a nature reserve. Long-tailed monkeys are very playful, following humans for food.
Price: ADULT IDR 80,000 and CHILD IDR 60,000
Hours: open every day from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Duration: we spent 2 hours in the forest
Site: http://www.monkeyforestubud.com/
2- Walk in the rice fields from Tegalalang
One of our favorite places! You have to go to the small village of Tegalalang and then walk through the rice fields. We took lots of great pictures of the rice fields while strolling upstairs.
We also had the chance to chat with locals who explained to us how the harvest was going. Indonesia is the leading rice producer!
Here are two palaces that we advise you to visit if you are in Ubud. Ubud Palace or Puri Saren Agung, can be visited quite easily since it is located near the Ubud market. There are often a lot of tourists which can make it difficult to take photos, but the visit is free.
The palace offers traditional dance performances but we did not attend. Ubud Water Palace or Sarawasti Temple is also easy to visit because it is located in the center. There are beautiful water lilies and beautiful plants! Here too, the visit is free.
Being great hiking enthusiasts, we decided to test the Campuhan Ridge Walk. We had read many reviews and recommendations for what to do in Ubud and this hike seemed like a must.
We have not been disappointed ! Small advise…start the walk very early to avoid the flow of tourists. You will be able to observe beautiful panoramas on the surrounding rice fields.
5- Get lost in the central market of Ubud and Jalan Raya
Located in the center of Ubud town, the central market is the ideal place to buy souvenirs or discover Balinese handicrafts. We liked to get lost in the market and feel the ambient local atmosphere.
If you want to buy on the market, do not be afraid to negotiate because the locals will not hesitate to give you high prices at first sight, business is business! Jalan Raya is the city’s main avenue. Here you will find many shops, cafes, restaurants and museums. This is the very lively corner of the city!
One of the places to Visit in Ubud is this waterfall is located in the village Tegenungan Kemenuh. You will have to walk a bit before reaching it but it is a fairly well-known tourist spot now. You will have a superb view of the surrounding green nature!
Most Balinese are Hindus. There are superb temples to visit: Gunung Kawi, Pura Turta Empull. There are others but these are the two we visited.
The first is superb because of the vegetation which blends with the local architecture. The second is a high place of the Balinese religion. Many ceremonies are held there regularly.
Gunung Kawi temple
In the vicinity of Ubud, you will discover Gunung Kawi, an exceptional temple with a sanctuary dug directly into the cliff. The Balinese call it the mountain of the Ancestors…
Located in Tampaksiring, Gunung Kawi is one of the must visit temples in Bali. It has the particularity of having tombs nestled in the cliff. You will fall in love with this Balinese place of belief, and will fully enjoy it without the crowds that you may encounter at Tirta Ganga, for example.
Access to Pura Gunung Kawi is chargeable. At the entrance, a temple agent checks your ticket and offers you a sarong if you are in shorts or bare legs, whether you are a man or a woman. For children, the sarong is not required, but you can request one if your child wishes.
Original: the entrance does not give immediate access to the temple! You will walk along rice fields to reach the Pura Gunung Kawi. The rice terraces lead you down countless steps to a flat path.
The Neka museum is located a few kilometers from Ubud, on the heights. There are many paintings representing Balinese culture. It’s really an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and the daily life of the Balinese.
If you want to relax in an incredible setting, then the Karsa spa is for you! Even if the spa is quite expensive, the place is unique. That’s why we put it on our list of must-do places in Ubud. Located in the middle of the rice fields, this spa offers you superb services.
The springs of Empul Temple are magnificent. This source is the most beautiful that we did during our trip. Located more than 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the center of Ubud, it is a sacred place made up of different temples. We strongly advise you to visit this place!
Tirta Empul (Empul Temple Springs). A beautiful and old Hindu temple which hosts rituals. The temple has holy springs in which devotees bathe. Saranabhi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
10- Taste Balinese specialties in restaurants and at Café Luwak
There are many restaurants in Ubud to test the local gastronomy. We really enjoyed the different restaurants in town to eat in the evening and try different things.
The prices are so attractive that we were able to eat at the restaurant every day during our visit to Ubud. Luwak Coffee particularly marked us since we can taste the Luwak coffee, a product made from the excrement of the luwak which itself digests the small cherries of calé. Atypical experience guaranteed!
Located in Seminyak Center – Bali, Villa Carissa offers a private swimming pool and enclosed garden to guarantee your privacy. You can book your private pool villa here with us. Or you can book via AirBnB
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