landscape photo of rice terraces
AsiaCultureNatureSlow travel

Ubud

Rice terraces, temples, and ridge walks

Plan with AISee the 5 itinerariesPhoto by Niklas Weiss on Unsplash
Best timeMay to October for dry weather.
Typical trip length3–14 days
On travli5 itineraries
Getting aroundWalk central Ubud, hire driver for outskirts.
CurrencyIndonesian Rupiah (IDR).

About Ubud

Ubud lies in the hills north of Denpasar. Rice terraces and temple complexes shape the landscape around the town. The center includes Ubud Palace and the art market. Campuhan Ridge and Penestanan Rice Fields provide walking routes through villages and fields.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary sits at the edge of town. Short trips reach Tegallalang Rice Terraces and Goa Gajah. These sites suit a trip built around culture and light hiking. Travelers stay for a weekend or longer to visit multiple areas at a measured pace.

Why travelers love it

Top attractions

5 Ubud itineraries

Ubud questions

Is three days enough for Ubud?

Three days covers central Ubud plus the main day trips. Book a driver for the second and third days to reach the rice terraces and temples without delays.

Do I need to book the Sacred Monkey Forest ahead?

No advance booking is required. Buy the 80,000 IDR ticket at the gate and arrive by 8:30 to finish before tour buses arrive.

How do I get from Ubud to Tegallalang Rice Terraces?

It's about 20 to 30 minutes north by car or scooter, depending on traffic. Go by 8:00 to beat the heat and the tour buses.

What time should I visit Tirta Empul to avoid crowds?

Arrive at opening time of 7:00. The 50,000 IDR ticket includes a sarong and lines stay short until 9:30.

Is 5 days enough for Ubud?

Five days covers the main sites and day trips from Ubud. Plan one early start for Mount Batur and use a driver for northern locations.

Do I need to book Mount Batur sunrise hike ahead?

Book a licensed guide one or two days in advance. Most operators collect you from your hotel at 3:00 a.m.