The first time I arrived in Ubud, I immediately felt a shift in pace. The air felt cooler than the coast, the streets were lined with temples and offerings, and everywhere I looked, there were rice fields, art galleries, and yoga studios tucked between cafés. If you are planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Ubud, I can honestly say this town offers so much more than just pretty scenery.
Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. It is where you come for temple ceremonies, traditional dance, lush jungles, waterfalls, and slow mornings overlooking rice terraces. Over several visits, I have discovered that the real magic lies in mixing iconic sights with quieter, more personal experiences. Read our guide to essential Bali travel tips here!
Here are the top 10 experiences I recommend, along with practical tips and insights from my own time there. Read our guide to the BEST attractions in Ubud here!
1. Walk the Campuhan Ridge at Sunrise
If you ask me what to do in Ubud for a peaceful start to your day, I will always say the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
This free walking trail begins near the Warwick Ibah Villas and stretches about 2 kilometres along a paved path overlooking lush valleys and rolling hills. The walk itself is relatively easy and takes around 30 to 45 minutes one way.
I recommend arriving just after sunrise, ideally before 7 am. The temperatures are cooler, the light is golden, and you avoid the midday humidity. Early mornings here feel calm and restorative. You will see locals jogging, photographers capturing the mist over the valley, and the occasional temple ceremony in the distance.
There are small cafés at the far end where you can stop for fresh juice or Balinese coffee before heading back. Find more of the BEST things to do in Ubud here.
2. Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
One of the most famous things to do in Ubud is to visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. While it can feel busy, it is genuinely fascinating if you take your time.
The sanctuary covers around 12.5 hectares of protected forest and is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques. It also contains three ancient temples dating back to the 14th century.
The pathways wind through moss-covered statues, towering banyan trees, and temple courtyards. It feels almost mystical, especially in the quieter corners.
My advice is to go early in the morning to avoid large tour groups. Do not bring loose items like sunglasses in your hands, and keep your bag zipped. The monkeys are curious and quick.
Allow at least one to two hours to explore properly.
3. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are one of Bali’s most photographed landscapes, and seeing them in person is just as beautiful.
Located about 20 minutes north of central Ubud, these terraces are part of Bali’s traditional subak irrigation system, which dates back to the 9th century. The layered green fields cascade down the hillside in stunning patterns.
Arrive early, ideally before 8 am, to avoid crowds and heat. You can walk down into the terraces for a small entrance donation. Wear proper shoes because the paths can be muddy and slippery.
There are also swing platforms overlooking the valley if you are looking for a dramatic photo, though I personally enjoyed simply walking through the fields and observing local farmers at work.
Exploring the rice terraces is easily one of the most iconic things to do in Ubud.
4. Watch a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance
In the evening, Ubud transforms into a cultural stage.
Several venues, including Ubud Palace and Pura Dalem Temple, host traditional dance performances almost nightly. These include the Legong Dance, Barong Dance, and Kecak Fire Dance.
The Kecak Dance is especially memorable. It features a circle of male performers chanting rhythmically while dancers act out scenes from the Ramayana epic. The performance is dramatic and powerful, especially when performed at sunset.
Tickets usually cost around 100,000 IDR (around USD 6) and can be purchased in town. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for good seating.
If you are researching what to do in Ubud in the evening, this cultural experience should be high on your list.
5. Visit Tirta Empul Temple for a Water Purification Ritual
About 30 minutes from Ubud lies Tirta Empul Temple, one of Bali’s most important water temples.
Built in 962 AD, the temple is famous for its sacred spring water used in purification rituals. Visitors can participate by wearing a provided sarong and entering the bathing pools.
When I visited, I hired a local guide who explained the meaning behind each fountain. There are 13 spouts in the main pool, each believed to cleanse different aspects of life.
If you choose to take part, bring a change of clothes and a towel. Visit in the morning for fewer crowds.
Participating respectfully in this ritual is one of the most meaningful Ubud activities you can experience.
6. Chase Waterfalls Around Ubud
Ubud is surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, and visiting at least one is something I highly recommend.
Tegenungan Waterfall is the closest and easiest to access, about 20 minutes from town. There are steps leading down to the base where you can swim, though it can get busy.
For something quieter, Tibumana Waterfall offers a more serene experience. It is a single curtain waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and feels peaceful, especially in the morning.
Wear sandals with grip and be prepared for stairs. These waterfall visits are refreshing, especially after a warm day of exploring.
Among the adventurous things to do in Ubud, waterfall chasing is always a highlight.
7. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
One of my favourite ways to understand a culture is through its food. Taking a cooking class in Ubud is both educational and delicious.
Most classes begin with a morning market visit where you learn about local ingredients like galangal, turmeric, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. Then you head to a family compound or countryside kitchen to cook several dishes.
Typical menus include chicken satay, Babi Guling spices, vegetable curry, peanut sauce, and traditional desserts like black rice pudding.
Classes usually last around four to five hours and include printed recipes so you can recreate the dishes at home.
If you are wondering what to do in Ubud beyond sightseeing, this is such a rewarding experience.
8. Relax with a Traditional Balinese Spa Treatment
After days of exploring temples and rice fields, a spa session feels well deserved.
Ubud is known for high-quality yet affordable spa treatments. A traditional Balinese massage uses long, flowing strokes combined with acupressure techniques to relieve tension and improve circulation.
Many spas are set in jungle surroundings with open-air treatment rooms overlooking greenery. Some also offer flower baths and herbal body scrubs.
Prices vary, but you can expect excellent treatments starting around 150,000 to 300,000 IDR (USD 9 to 18) for one hour.
Among the more relaxing Ubud activities, this one should not be overlooked.
9. Explore Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave
Goa Gajah is an archaeological site dating back to the 9th century. The cave entrance is carved with intricate stone faces and mythological figures.
Inside, you will find a small meditation chamber. The surrounding complex includes bathing pools, fountains, and lush gardens.
It is located about 10 minutes from central Ubud, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and bring a sarong to cover your legs.
Visiting Goa Gajah adds historical depth to your list of things to do in Ubud.
10. Visit Local Art Markets and Galleries
Ubud has long been a centre for Balinese art and craftsmanship.
The Ubud Art Market near Ubud Palace sells handmade baskets, batik fabrics, wood carvings, silver jewellery, and paintings. Bargaining is expected but should be done respectfully.
For a more curated experience, visit galleries such as the Agung Rai Museum of Art or the Neka Art Museum. These spaces showcase both traditional and contemporary Balinese artists.
Spend an afternoon browsing, talking to artists, and learning about the symbolism behind their work.
Shopping here feels meaningful because many items are handmade by local families.
Why Ubud Stays with You Long After You Leave
Ubud is one of those places that quietly captures your heart.
From sunrise walks and sacred temples to cooking classes and waterfall swims, the variety of things to do in Ubud makes it one of Bali’s most enriching destinations. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, relaxation, or spiritual connection, Ubud offers it in a beautifully balanced way.
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Ubud has a way of staying with you long after you leave. And I truly hope you experience its magic for yourself.