Is Ubud Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion (2026)

On By saar.decosterIn Asia, Indonesia

Is Ubud worth visiting during your trip to Bali? Absolutely! If you’re planning a trip to Bali, Ubud is one of the places I’d definitely include in your itinerary.

What I love about Ubud is how much variety it offers. You can explore beautiful rice terraces in the morning, visit traditional temples, walk through a forest full of monkeys, discover waterfalls, browse local markets and finish your day in one of the many amazing restaurants or cafés.

And that’s only the beginning.

Unlike Bali’s southern coastal areas, Ubud is surrounded by lush greenery, rice fields and jungle landscapes. It also has a strong cultural side, with temples, traditional ceremonies, art and local crafts. At the same time, you’ll find plenty of modern cafés, wellness spots and restaurants serving food from all over the world.

In other words, you definitely won’t get bored here.

Of course, Ubud is popular with tourists, and the traffic can be frustrating. But if you’re looking for a destination where you can combine nature, culture, food and plenty of activities, I think Ubud is absolutely worth visiting.

In this guide, I’ll explain why I’d recommend Ubud, the best things to do, what to know before visiting and how long I’d spend there.

So, Is Ubud Worth Visiting?

Yes, Ubud is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you want to experience a different side of Bali beyond the beaches and nightlife.

One of the best things about Bali is how different each destination can feel. Uluwatu is known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, beaches and surf culture, while Nusa Penida is all about spectacular landscapes and turquoise water.

Ubud offers something different again.

Think green rice terraces, tropical forests, temples, waterfalls, traditional markets and endless places to eat. You can spend your days exploring the surrounding countryside and your evenings trying a new restaurant or finding a cute café.

It’s also a great base for day trips around central Bali, so you don’t necessarily have to change accommodation every time you want to visit somewhere new.

If you’re planning your first trip to Bali, I’d definitely recommend including Ubud alongside a coastal destination.

You can read my honest guide to whether Bali is worth visiting if you’re still deciding which parts of the island to include in your itinerary.

You can read my guides to Uluwatu and Nusa Penida if you want to compare these destinations before deciding where to go.

7 Reasons Why Ubud Is Worth Visiting

1. The Rice Terraces Are Beautiful

When people think of Ubud, one of the first things that comes to mind is probably the rice terraces.

And honestly, it’s easy to understand why.

The landscape around Ubud is incredibly green, with rice fields covering the hillsides and traditional irrigation systems shaping the countryside. It’s a completely different atmosphere from the beaches in southern Bali.

One of the most famous places to visit is Tegallalang Rice Terraces, north of central Ubud. Here, you can walk among the terraces, admire the landscape from different viewpoints and stop at cafés overlooking the rice fields.

You can also find beautiful rice fields in other parts of the Ubud area, so you don’t have to visit only the most famous viewpoint.

My advice is to go early in the morning if you want a more peaceful experience. The popular spots can get busy, especially later in the day.

And don’t forget that rice fields are working agricultural landscapes, not just photo locations. Follow local signs, respect the farmers and check whether an entrance fee or donation is expected.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali, Indonesia

2. There Are So Many Temples to Explore

Another reason Ubud is worth visiting is its cultural side.

Bali has a unique Hindu culture, and temples play an important role in everyday life. Around Ubud, you’ll find beautiful temple complexes, water temples and historical sites that offer a glimpse into Balinese traditions.

Some places to consider include:

  • Tirta Empul Temple: A famous water temple known for its sacred spring and purification rituals.
  • Goa Gajah: Also known as the Elephant Cave, this archaeological site has a distinctive entrance and a complex of historical religious features.
  • Saraswati Temple: A beautiful temple in central Ubud, known for its lotus pond and detailed Balinese architecture.
  • Pura Gunung Kawi: A historic temple complex with impressive shrines carved into the rock.

You don’t need to be particularly interested in religion or history to appreciate these places. The architecture, surroundings and atmosphere alone make them worth considering.

Just remember that temples are places of worship. Dress respectfully, follow local rules and check whether a sarong is required. If you visit a water temple, don’t assume that tourists can participate in every ceremony without following the relevant customs.

3. The Monkey Forest Is a Unique Experience

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is another one of Ubud’s most famous attractions.

It’s a forested sanctuary with ancient trees, temple structures and long-tailed macaques moving freely around the grounds.

Walking through the forest feels very different from exploring the streets of Ubud. You’re surrounded by greenery, and you can see monkeys climbing trees, walking along paths and interacting with each other.

It’s a fun experience, especially if you’ve never seen monkeys up close in this kind of environment.

However, remember that these are wild animals. Keep your belongings secure, don’t feed or touch the monkeys, avoid carrying food openly and follow the sanctuary’s instructions. Never try to take an item back from a monkey yourself.

The Monkey Forest is also a popular attraction, so visiting earlier in the day can help you avoid some of the crowds.

4. There Are Waterfalls Everywhere Around Ubud

If you love nature, you’ll have plenty to do around Ubud.

The wider area is home to several waterfalls, making it easy to add a nature-focused day trip to your itinerary.

A few options to look into include:

  • Tegenungan Waterfall: A well-known waterfall surrounded by tropical greenery, with viewpoints and steps leading towards the lower area.
  • Tibumana Waterfall: A scenic waterfall that can be a lovely addition to a day exploring the countryside.
  • Kanto Lampo Waterfall: Known for water flowing over a series of dark rock formations.
  • Tukad Cepung Waterfall: Famous for its dramatic setting inside a rocky gorge.

Each waterfall has a different atmosphere, and the best choice depends on how much time you have and how far you’re willing to travel.

Keep in mind that access, water levels and swimming conditions can vary, particularly during the rainy season. Follow local advice and don’t enter the water if conditions are unsafe.

If you’re staying in Ubud for a few days, I’d definitely consider adding at least one waterfall to your plans.

5. The Food Scene Is Incredible

One thing I really like about Ubud is how much choice you have when it comes to food.

You can find traditional Indonesian dishes, local warungs, smoothie bowls, brunch cafés, vegetarian restaurants, international food and more upscale dining options.

Whether you’re looking for a cheap meal after sightseeing or somewhere beautiful to sit down for a longer dinner, there are plenty of options.

And the best part? You don’t have to travel far outside the centre to find a good selection of cafés and restaurants.

If you’re staying for several days, you can easily try somewhere different every morning and evening.

Of course, I always recommend trying some local Indonesian food rather than sticking entirely to Western cafés. Ubud is a great place to explore both sides of the food scene.

6. There’s More to Do Than Sightseeing

One of the reasons you can easily spend several days in Ubud is the variety of activities available.

If you’re not in the mood to visit temples and rice terraces every day, there are plenty of alternatives.

You could:

  • Take a traditional Balinese cooking class.
  • Join a yoga or meditation session.
  • Book a traditional massage or spa treatment.
  • Browse Ubud Art Market for souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Visit an art museum or gallery.
  • Walk the Campuhan Ridge Walk.
  • Watch a traditional Balinese dance performance.
  • Try white-water rafting on the Ayung River.
  • Join a day trip to Mount Batur for a sunrise hike.

You definitely don’t have to do all of these, but it’s nice to have so many options.

Personally, I think this variety is one of Ubud’s biggest strengths. Even if the weather isn’t perfect for outdoor sightseeing, you can still find plenty to do.

7. Ubud Is a Great Base for Exploring Central Bali

Another reason I’d recommend Ubud is its location.

You can explore the town itself and use it as a base for visiting attractions in the surrounding countryside.

Depending on your interests, you could spend one day visiting temples and rice terraces, another exploring waterfalls and a third joining a cooking class or going on a sunrise hike.

This means you can experience several different sides of Bali without constantly packing your bags and changing accommodation.

However, don’t underestimate travel times. Some attractions that look close together on a map can take longer to reach because of traffic and road conditions.

If you’re planning several stops in one day, group places that are in the same general area rather than trying to cross the region repeatedly.

Sungai Waterfall surrounded by tropical jungle in Bali

Is Ubud Too Touristy?

I’ll be honest: Ubud is definitely popular with tourists.

You’ll find busy streets, traffic, organised tours and plenty of businesses catering to international visitors. The most famous attractions, especially the Monkey Forest and Tegallalang Rice Terraces, can get crowded.

If you’re imagining a completely quiet village surrounded by untouched rice fields, modern Ubud might not be what you expect.

But I don’t think that means you should skip it.

The combination of nature, culture, food and activities is exactly what makes Ubud so appealing. And once you venture beyond the busiest streets and attractions, you’ll find quieter corners and beautiful countryside.

My advice is to start your sightseeing early, explore some of the less central areas and avoid trying to fit every famous attraction into one day.

You can also balance your stay in Ubud with time in other parts of Bali.

For example, I loved Uluwatu for its beaches, cliffs and sunsets, while Nusa Penida was one of my favourite destinations for dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures.

If you’re planning a wider trip, my guide to the best places to visit in Bali can help you decide where else to go.

How Many Days Do You Need in Ubud?

I’d recommend spending at least two nights in Ubud, with three or four nights being even better if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace.

Here’s how I’d approach it:

Two days: Enough time to visit some of the main attractions, such as the Monkey Forest, a rice terrace, a temple and a few cafés or restaurants.

Three days: Gives you more time to explore the town, visit a waterfall and discover more of the surrounding countryside.

Four days or more: Ideal if you want to include a Mount Batur sunrise hike, multiple temples, cooking classes, wellness activities or simply a slower pace.

You could spend much longer in Ubud if you enjoy the lifestyle, but you don’t need to stay for a week to experience its main highlights.

If you’re deciding how to divide your time across the island, take a look at my guide on how long you need in Bali.

Is Ubud Worth Visiting for Solo Travellers?

Yes! Ubud can be a great destination for solo travellers.

There are plenty of cafés where you can spend time on your own, group activities where you can meet other travellers and organised day trips that make exploring the surrounding area easier.

Cooking classes, rafting trips, yoga sessions and guided hikes can all be good ways to meet people.

At the same time, Ubud is also a lovely place to enjoy your own company. You can spend a morning exploring a temple, find a café for lunch and spend the afternoon walking through the countryside.

If you want nightlife and beach parties, Ubud probably wouldn’t be my first choice as your only destination. But if you want a combination of culture, nature, food and activities, it’s a great option.

My Tips for Visiting Ubud

Before you go, here are a few things I’d keep in mind when planning your trip.

Start early. Popular attractions can get busy, and early mornings are often more comfortable for walking around.

Don’t underestimate traffic. Distances can look short on a map, but journeys may take longer than expected. Leave enough time between stops.

Plan your day by area. Combine nearby attractions rather than trying to visit places on opposite sides of Ubud in one day.

Bring suitable footwear. Rice terraces, waterfalls and temple complexes can involve uneven paths, steps and muddy ground.

Dress respectfully at temples. Check the dress requirements before visiting and follow any local rules about access and ceremonies.

Keep an eye on your belongings around monkeys. Don’t feed or touch them, and follow the instructions at the Monkey Forest.

Leave time for food. One of the nicest things about Ubud is the number of cafés and restaurants, so don’t plan every minute of your trip around sightseeing.

Don’t try to see everything. There are so many attractions that you’ll never fit them all into a short stay. Choose the places that interest you most and leave some room for spontaneous discoveries.

Is Ubud Worth Visiting? My Final Verdict

Absolutely! I’d definitely recommend adding Ubud to your Bali itinerary.

The combination of rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, the Monkey Forest, cultural experiences and an incredible food scene means there’s something for almost every type of traveller.

I also love that you can have completely different days here. One day can be all about nature and sightseeing, the next about temples and local culture, and the next about cafés, markets and relaxing.

Yes, Ubud is touristy, and traffic can be frustrating. But I still think it offers so much variety that it’s worth experiencing for yourself.

If you’re visiting Bali for the first time, I’d combine Ubud with at least one coastal destination. That way, you’ll experience more than one side of the island.

And if you’re still deciding where to go next, start with my Indonesia travel guide for more travel inspiration and practical tips.

Planning a Trip to Indonesia?

I’ve written more Indonesia travel guides based on my own experiences, including destinations, stays and things I actually did during my trip.

If you’re planning your own Indonesia adventure, check out my Indonesia travel guides for more honest travel tips, places to visit and ideas for your itinerary.

→ START HERE: Indonesia travel guide

OR START BY AREA

→ BALI TRAVEL GUIDE
→ LOMBOK TRAVEL GUIDE

You May Also Like

More Indonesia Guides:

Frequently Asked Questions About Ubud

Is Ubud worth visiting for the first time?

Yes! Ubud is a great choice for first-time visitors to Bali because it combines nature, culture, temples, rice terraces, restaurants and plenty of activities. I’d recommend combining it with a coastal destination to experience different sides of the island.

What is Ubud best known for?

Ubud is best known for its rice terraces, temples, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, waterfalls, art scene, wellness activities and large selection of cafés and restaurants.

How many days should I spend in Ubud?

I’d recommend two to four nights, depending on how much you want to see. Two nights can work for a short visit, while three or four nights gives you more time for day trips, waterfalls and cultural activities.

Is Ubud better than Canggu?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Ubud is a better fit if you’re interested in nature, temples, rice fields and cultural activities. Canggu is more focused on beaches, surfing, cafés, nightlife and socialising. If you have enough time, you could visit both.

Is Ubud walkable?

The centre of Ubud is relatively walkable, and you can explore many shops, cafés and attractions on foot. However, the rice terraces, waterfalls and temples outside town generally require transport.

Is Ubud expensive?

Ubud offers a range of budgets. You can find affordable local food and simple accommodation, as well as luxury hotels, spas and fine-dining restaurants. Your overall costs depend on where you stay and which activities you choose.

Is Ubud worth visiting if I don’t like yoga?

Absolutely! Although Ubud is famous for wellness retreats and yoga, there is so much more to do. You can explore temples, rice terraces, waterfalls, markets, museums and restaurants without taking a single yoga class.

Can I visit Ubud on a day trip?

You can visit Ubud on a day trip, but I wouldn’t recommend it if you have more time available. Staying overnight gives you a chance to explore the town and surrounding countryside without rushing between attractions.

Is Ubud worth visiting during the rainy season?

Yes, although the weather can affect your plans. The rainy season can bring heavy showers, but Ubud’s green landscapes are beautiful. Keep your itinerary flexible, bring rain protection and check conditions before planning outdoor activities.

Leave a Reply