Itineraries for Your Trip to Ubud
1 Day in Ubud for First Timers
Bali is shrouded in a spiritual atmosphere that draws travelers from across the globe. This sacred energy is most prevalent in Ubud, which I first visited for a yoga retreat at a center surrounded by lush green rice paddies. As soon as I entered the province, I was met by the heady scent of incense and the delicate tinkle of wind chimes. During my scooter ride to the center, I passed intricate Hindu temples, markets bursting with brightly-colored clothes, and—of course—an abundance of long-tailed macaques. If you’re visiting Ubud for the first time, you’re in for a treat. Here’s how to spend one day getting acquainted with Bali’s cultural capital.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a temple tour, as Bali’s sacred architecture is completely unique.
April–October is the dry season in Ubud, so it’s the perfect time to explore the temples and rice terraces.
Spend your first morning getting acquainted with Balinese culture and the sacred Hindu temples scattered in and around Ubud. Capture the iconic Instagram shot between the Gates of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple; learn about water purification rituals at Tirta Gangga Water Garden (Taman Tirtagangga); and delve into more than 1,000 years of history at the Mother Temple of Besakih (Pura Besakih), which sits in front of the 9,444-foot (2,878-meter) Mt. Agung (Gunung Agung)—a stunning backdrop.
This afternoon, swap culture for countryside on a cycling tour that takes you through Ubud’s lush green landscapes. Pedal to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace (Sawah Terasering Tegalalang), designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the complexity of its agricultural systems. Continue to the Ubud Jungle Swing, where you can snap photographs of yourself soaring over the jungle on a rope swing. Along the way, don’t forget to sample a cup of kopi luwak (civet coffee), one of the most expensive and exclusive brews in the world.
On your way back, head to Ubud Monkey Forest (Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary) to wander among Hindu temples that hundreds of long-tailed macaques call home; be sure to secure your belongings and don’t take any food inside with you. Afterwards, spend the evening enjoying Ubud's fabulous food scene on an evening tour that takes you to a night market where you can sample local classics such as crunchy, deep-fried tempeh (soybean cake) and black rice pudding.
