The best international hotspots in Seminyak in Bali
January 31, 2025
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Ubud is perhaps the most popular place on the island of Bali in Indonesia. Once you arrive at this vibrant destination you will understand exactly why! Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali. There is so much to do in Ubud. The nature in the immediate vicinity is beautiful, you can eat great food in Ubud and you will find the best souvenir shops, art studios and boutiques in Bali. It is one of those places where many people come for a few days, but end up staying much longer. What should you definitely do in Ubud? We share the best sights and all our tips for the charming artist village of Ubud during your trip through Bali.Â
1. Visit the impressive Hindu temples in and around Ubud
Near Ubud in Bali are several beautiful temples to visit, such as the Gunung Kawi temples and the Tirta Empul temple.Â
Gunung Kawi temples
If you enjoy visiting authentic temples, be sure not to skip the Gunung Kawi temple complex. The Gunung Kawi temple complex is located in a valley amid rice fields, rainforest and the Pakrisan River. This is about a 30-minute drive from Ubud.
To reach the temples of Gunung Kawi, you have to descend more than 350 steps. However, with the beautiful nature around you, this is easy to do. In the temple complex you will find rock walls where giant statues have been carved into them, several caves, a waterfall and the river that runs right through the complex. As such, it is one of the most beautiful spots in nature in and around Ubud.
Tirta Empul
Another temple you can check out is the Tirta Empul temple. This temple in Tampaksiring (near Ubud) is one of the most important Hindu temples in Bali. 'Tirta Empul' means 'Holy Spring' in Balinese, so the temple is best known for its holy spring water. Locals come to the Tirta Empul once a year to bathe in the holy water. The temple has now become so popular for visitors that tourists are also allowed to bathe in the water. Tirta Empul is therefore special to behold, but keep in mind that it has become a tourist attraction in recent years.Â
2. Take a trip to Ubud's most famous rice fields: Tegallalang
Everywhere in and around Ubud you will find beautiful rice terraces, but the most famous, without a doubt, are the Tegallalang rice terraces a 15-minute drive from Ubud. The rice terraces of Tegallalang are among the most popular sights in Bali. You can walk through these terraces and enjoy the crazy green oasis around you. It is quite touristy in Tegallalang though, so it is recommended to go early in the morning. The entrance fee to Tegallalang's rice terraces is IDR 10,000 (€0.60) per person.Â
3. Do the Campuhan Ridge Walk
Another great hike through the rice fields is the Campuhan Ridge Walk. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is an easy hike on a paved path to a ridge above the rice fields of Ubud. Part of this walk through the rice terraces is over a large green hill. On both sides here you can be surprised by beautiful views of the valleys around you. An incredibly beautiful experience to do this hike. Because of the heat, it is recommended to do this hike in the morning hours. Â
Also read: Discover the rice fields in Jatiluwih in the Tabanan region
Do you want to look for more authentic rice terraces in Bali than Tegallalang? Then we recommend a visit to the rice terraces in Jatiluwih in the Tabanan region!
4. Stay at one of the insane accommodations in Ubud
Ubud is known for its insane accommodations. As such, there are several great places to stay in Ubud. From cozy hostels to luxury hotels and spa resorts, the choice in Ubud is vast. We have stayed at several accommodations in Ubud (in different price ranges) and are happy to share our recommendations.Â
Bisma Eight Ubud
One of the most beautiful hotels in Ubud is without a doubt Bisma Eight. This luxurious boutique hotel is an oasis of calm in lively Ubud. There is also a beautiful infinity pool at Bisma Eight, so a nice swim, as well as beautiful pictures are guaranteed! It is one of the more expensive hotels in Ubud though, as a room will soon cost you €200 per night.Â
In Da Garden Ubud
Is an overnight stay at Bisma Eight a little above your budget? Then we have another tip for you. During our visit to this amazing village, we also stayed in the very cozy homestay next to Bisma Eight. In Da Garden. You can stay here for as little as €20.00 a night.
Hidden Bamboo
This accommodation is not in Ubud, but in Tampaksiring, where you will also find one of the most famous temples (the Tirta Empul temple). The accommodation is about a half-hour to hour drive from Ubud. The Airbnb is a hidden gem, surrounded by nothing but nature. Are you looking for a place where you can completely unwind? Then Hidden Bamboo an ideal place to stay.Â
How many days stay in Ubud?
Ubud is a place where you can easily stay a longer time. We recommend staying at least 3 days in Ubud. However, don't be surprised if you do decide to extend your stay on the spot. Ubud is without a doubt one of the nicest and most versatile places in Bali!Â
5. Visit the most beautiful waterfalls near Ubud
Seen enough temples, souvenir shops and restaurants? Head back into nature and visit the waterfalls of Tukad Cepung, Tegenungan, Tibumana and Kanto Lampo in the Ubud area. The Tegenungan waterfall is particularly impressive. The other waterfalls (east of Ubud) are slightly less crowded than the Tegenungan, but also well worth visiting. For example, the Tibumana waterfall is a great place to swim in the sweet mountain water, and you can take a nice walk among the cliffs at the Tukad Cepung waterfall.Â
Tegenungan waterfall
The Tegenungan waterfall can be found a 20-minute drive south of Ubud. If you go early and get to the waterfall before 8 a.m., you will have a beautiful sunrise here. You can visit this waterfall for IDR 20,000.Â
Suwat waterfall
Another beautiful waterfall is the Suwat waterfall. You'll find this one about an hour's drive from Ubud. The waterfall is crowded, so we recommend arriving as early as possible to get ahead of the crowds. The waterfall "opens" at 8:00 am. The entrance fee for the Suwat waterfall is IDR 15,000. Â
Tibumana waterfall
The last waterfall we visited was the Tibumana waterfall. We found this one a bit more authentic than the Suwat waterfall, so it was our preference. You can swim in this waterfall, so be sure not to forget your swimwear!Â
Visiting a lunch spot after this waterfall? Then head to Warung D'Carik Tibumana. At this joint you can eat delicious traditional Indonesian food (but also western) with a beautiful view of the rice fields.Â
Day tours to the most beautiful sights in and around Ubud
Want to spend a day out in and around Ubud? Then we recommend Bali Customized Tours to. With this organization, you can create a customized day tour. For example, we visited rice fields, temples and several waterfalls in one day.Â
6. Enjoy a day in Downtown UbudÂ
Although many of the beautiful waterfalls and temples can be found around Ubud, there are also a number of activities to do in downtown Ubud. For example, in Ubud you will find the Monkey Forest Sanctuary and there are fun local markets to wander through. Ubud is also the place to be for yoga enthusiasts.Â
Also read: The cutest hotspots in Ubud
If there is one place in Bali that we recommend for its delicious food and fun hotspots, it is Ubud. From sushi to vegan food to the best Indonesian satay, you can find it all in Ubud.
Monkey Forest Sanctuary Ubud
Just steps away from the center of Ubud you will find Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. The Monkey Forest is hugely crowded, but if you're in Ubud, a visit to the park really shouldn't be missed. The Monkey Forest in Ubud is a protected nature reserve consisting of hilly and densely forested jungle. The park is inhabited by over 600 macaques: domesticated monkeys. We found it an incredibly fun and special experience to see the monkeys up close. However, the monkeys are very bold and can get frighteningly close. Do not be alarmed if a monkey suddenly jumps on your back. Also be careful of your belongings, because the macaques are very smart and fond of your valuables.
Sacred Monkey Forest is not only worth a visit because of the monkeys. You will also find 115 different species of trees, plants and flowers in the Monkey Forest. Besides the beautiful nature, you will come across three impressive Hindu temples in the park: the Pura Dalem Agung, the Pura Beiji and the Pura Prajapati. Â
Go to the local markets in Ubud
Something you should definitely do in Ubud is spend a morning strolling around the local market. Until about 9 in the morning, this market is a meeting place where locals buy and sell fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, herbs and flowers. Then the market slowly turns into a tourist spot where you can buy beautiful Balinese souvenirs, clothing and accessories. Don't forget to bargain here!
7. Get totally zen with yoga and wellness in Ubud
Ubud is the Valhalla for yoga and wellness enthusiasts. You will find numerous yoga studios, spa and massage centers and boutiques selling yoga clothing in Ubud. There are also many hotels that offer wellness and yoga classes. Although Ubud is becoming an increasingly touristy destination, it is also definitely still a place where you can relax and completely unwind.
One of the most popular spots for yoga practitioners in Ubud is Yoga Barn. The Yoga Barn is both a hot spot for delicious food, and for taking a yoga class. The Yoga Barn is an oasis of calm in the center of Ubud. The yoga classes are taught by great teachers, making it one of the most popular places to take a yoga class. The cafe has a menu with many healthy choices, including delicious fresh fruit juices, teas, coconuts and other detox dishes!
Address Yoga Barn: Jl. Hanoman Jl. Raya Pengosekan Ubud, Peliatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
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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