What to do in Ubud: the best sights and to do's
November 1, 2023
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When taking a trip to Bali, you quickly think of the popular destinations in the south of Bali and Ubud: the cultural heart of the island. But for those looking for a unique, authentic piece of Bali, we recommend Tabanan. This region is centrally located on the island of Bali, about 50 kilometers north of the busy coastal towns of Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu. In Tabanan you will find everything you are looking for in a vacation to Bali: the beautiful rice fields of Jatiluwih, iconic temples, jungle areas, volcanic landscapes, hot springs and even some beaches. The only difference from the rest of Bali: Tabanan is not as touristy yet. So here, away from mass tourism, you will experience the true "Bali feeling. These are our tips for visiting the Tabanan region!
The rice fields of Jatiluwih: the pristine counterpart of Tegallalang
The rice fields are perhaps Bali's most famous tourist attraction. In particular, the Tegallalang rice fields near the village of Ubud are crowded daily by vacationers. The endless green of the rice paddies is therefore beautiful to see and will leave an indelible impression on you. For the most beautiful rice fields in Bali, however, you must be in Tabanan in the village of Jatiluwih.
The green rice fields of Jatiluwih are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and are among the most beautiful rice fields in all of Asia. This place is also called the granary of Bali. Therefore, it is the only place in the world where as many as 3 rice harvests take place per year.
Combined with the mountain scenery and forests in the background, the rice fields of Jatiluwih look straight out of a postcard. If you come early in the morning, the place is not so crowded yet. You can therefore enjoy the amazing viewpoints all around you.
Rent a scooter and enjoy the endless green landscape
The Tabanan district is easy to explore by scooter. The roads here are passable and it is not very busy with traffic. The route you can take through Tabanan is highly recommended. Along the way you have spectacular views of the beautiful landscape. You will encounter coffee and cocoa plantations, rice terraces, coconut palms and thousands of banana and mango trees. You will also pass several villages where you will be greeted by friendly locals. You are guaranteed to feast your eyes throughout the ride.
Staying in the village of Jatiluwih: 'truly stunning' piece of Bali
A visit to Jatiluwih is not only worthwhile because of the rice fields. Jatiluwih means "truly magnificent," and both the village and the surrounding nature live up to the name. The village is located in a fairytale setting at an altitude of about 850 meters. In this village you can still see the traditional, simple Balinese life. In these peaceful surroundings you can stay in pearls of accommodation in the middle of unspoiled nature, such as at Sang Giri Glamping and Prana Dewi Resort.
Immerse yourself in the natural baths and hot springs in Tabanan
In Tabanan, there are several natural baths, hot springs and geysers. The best known are the Angseri Hot Spring, Belulang Hot Spring and Penatahan Hot Spring. Many of these thermal springs are not yet crowded by tourists, which makes it extra fun to visit the hot springs. We found it a unique experience to take a hot bath among the locals in the basin of the springs. And the locals, they were just as surprised to see us there!
The color of the water in the baths is green because it is filled with hot sulfur water containing sulfates and minerals. The murky water is heated by the magma of Mount Batukaru and the temperature is about 35 degrees.
BELULANG Hot Spring
The Belulang Hot Spring is one of the most famous hot springs in the region. The Belulang Hot Spring is located in Mangesta Village in Penebel, Tabanan region. The hot springs consist of a number of small bathing areas located in the middle of rice fields.
Belulang Hot Spring's spring water, unlike many other springs, does not come from the mountains. The water comes from the Beji Temple area which is stored in a pond. Due to the mineral concentration of the water, Belulang Hot Springs is said to have healing powers. Belulang hot springs are believed to cure skin diseases. Therefore, you do not smell sulfur at these hot springs, which you smell at the other hot springs.
Angseri Hot Spring
The hot springs of Angseri are hidden in a valley and are not easy to find. We rode a scooter to the springs and, with the help of friendly locals and the app Maps.me finally ended up at Angseri Hot Spring. The road to the hot springs is quite bad and you have to drive carefully. When you arrive at Angseri Hot Spring, you will then have to walk up and down about a hundred steps to reach the hot spring. After overcoming the challenge over bumpy roads and slippery steps, you will be rewarded with a wonderful bath surrounded by a lush green landscape.
During the week it is mostly quiet at the Angseri Hot Spring. Come on the weekend? Then it is a lot busier with mostly locals. What's really nice is that you can then witness local life.
Penatahan Hot Springs
At the Penatahan Hot Springs you quickly notice that they are set up with various facilities. This makes them look a lot less local and authentic than the Belulang and Angseri Hot Springs. The Penatahan Hot Springs are sprawled over an area of 2.1 hectares and therefore have several pools, gardens, a restaurant and parking facilities. This place is especially fun to visit with children.
See the most beautiful temples in the region of Tabanan
Do you like to visit temples? Then there are a number of beautiful temples to visit in the Tabanan region. Our recommendations are Pura Tanah Lot, the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and the hidden temple on the volcano Batukaru.
Pura Ulun Dana Bratan
The Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple is one of the highlights of Tabanan. This mysterious temple is located on a small peninsula in Lake Bratan. The temple is surrounded by beautiful lotus flowers. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is very popular with locals, especially on weekends.
Pura Tanah Lot
Bali has many beautiful water temples and Pura Tanah Lot is the most famous on the island. The temple is built on a rock off the coast and has a magical location.
Besides its unique location, the Pura Tanah Lot temple is known for its mysterious story. According to a legend, the temple was built in the 16th century by a Hindu-Javanese priest. He is said to have used his magical powers to push the cliff on which the Tanah Lot stands toward the sea. Sacred snakes are said to protect the sanctuary of Tanah Lot.
Rituals are still performed today to honor the serpents of Tanah Lot. In the afternoon, the temple provides an eerie silhouette against the sunset.
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Temples of Batukaru
Against the slope of the Batukaru volcano, the second highest volcano in Bali, you will find the temple of Batukaru. The temple is hidden among the greenery and is therefore not much visited by tourists. This makes it one of the more interesting temples of Tabanan. During your visit to the temple you will encounter mostly religious Balinese and some adventurous travelers.
Discover more beautiful places in Indonesia
After a few days enjoying the breathtaking nature in Tabanan and the Jatiluwih rice fields, it's great to travel on to the south of Bali. Here you will find lively beach resorts, idyllic beaches and countless fun hotspots to explore. Wondering where best to stay? Get inspired by our tips for the most beautiful destinations in Bali!
Want to make your journey through Indonesia Even more memorable? Then consider a trip to the Komodo Islands. With a multi-day boat trip from Bali or Flores, you will discover pristine nature, impressive views and the unique Komodo dragons. An amazing addition to your adventure!
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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