Many travel agencies often describe Ubud, Bali, solely as a picturesque artists’ village. However, it’s time to update that image. Over the past few years, Ubud has undergone significant development, evolving into a multifaceted destination bustling with activity, where you can easily spend a day or five (for the slow traveler, at least a week). The center of Ubud has transformed into a hotspot for yogis, featuring numerous alternative dining and drinking establishments, charming boutiques, and quaint souvenir shops. Combined with its plethora of art shops, galleries, and handicraft workshops, Ubud has become a fantastic, laid-back, and culinary haven that you must visit during your Bali journey!
Trendy Eateries
Ubud is teeming with trendy eateries where you can indulge in delicious smoothies, super-healthy meals, and delightful, guilt-free snacks. As you stroll along Jalan Hanoman (Jalan means street), you’ll encounter numerous cozy cafes and lunch spots. One highly popular spot is “Kafe,” offering a tropical ambiance blended with a San Francisco bistro style. Open seven days a week, “Kafe” serves delectable and super-healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. It’s also renowned for its excellent coffee and incredibly tasty pastries. For a refreshing ice cream treat, head to Frozen Yogi on Jalan Dewi Sita (near the soccer field). If you’re not in the mood for a traditional Balinese or Indonesian meal, an excellent alternative is the Italian restaurant, Il Giardino, located near the Ubud market. Two other dining recommendations are the newly opened (spring 2018) restaurant, Zest, offering delicious plant-based cuisine, and Moksa, another vegan restaurant with its own vegetable garden!
Yoga Culture in Ubud
Ubud, Bali, is the yoga hub of the island, or perhaps even the world (after India, of course). Yogis can be easily identified by their distinctive hairstyles, graceful tattoos, and effortlessly stylish yoga attire (they’re hip yogis). A must-try experience is joining a yoga class at one of the yoga schools such as “The Yoga Barn” or “Radiantly Alive.” There’s an extensive selection of classes available, including authentic Hatha yoga, invigorating Vinyasa flow sessions, fly high yoga (yoga using straps suspended from the ceiling), restorative Yin yoga, and everything in between. If you want to look hip with a yoga mat and the perfect yoga mat bag, check out the “Namaste Shop” on Jalan Hanoman, where they sell cork yoga mat bags! Additionally, the New Zealand-based yoga brand, WE AR, has a branch on Jalan Hanoman and offers incredibly cool yoga apparel.
Alternative Shopping
For healthy snacks to take on excursions, visit Bali Buddha to stock up (near the Ubud market). Here, you’ll find various responsible snacks and divine freshly baked bread. If you’re looking for a spiritual souvenir for yourself or to give as a gift, explore the Namaste shop on Jalan Hanoman. And for stylish outfits, head to Karma Koma on Jalan Monkey Forrest. These are just a few suggestions for shops; you’ll find that Ubud has many delightful boutique stores where you can easily lose a day exploring the coolest spots.
Monkey Forest
If you’ve had your fill of shopping and dining, it’s worth taking a stroll through the monkey forest. You’ll need to pay a small fee to enter the forest, and you can choose to buy a bunch of bananas from one of the ladies at the entrance. A tip: remove anything that glitters, such as earrings, watches, bracelets, sunglasses, etc., to prevent the monkeys from taking them. You also won’t be the first person whose backpack gets raided by monkeys for a bottle of water or a can of cola, so be sure to secure your belongings!
Ubud, Bali, is a vibrant, diverse, and enchanting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, a foodie, a nature lover, or an art aficionado, you’re sure to fall in love with the charm and beauty of Ubud. So, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this cultural gem and create unforgettable memories during your Bali adventure!
Ubud Palace
Situated at the top of Jalan Monkey Forest, approximately a 25-minute walk from the Monkey Forest, you’ll find Puri Saren, the palace of the Royal Family of Ubud. Although the monarchy was abolished in 1930, descendants of the Royal Family still reside at the back of the palace. Entrance to the palace is free, and if you’re lucky, you can attend one of the traditional dance performances that are regularly organized there.
Ubud Market
Diagonally across from the palace is Ubud Market, a bustling bazaar where vendors sell a variety of goods. From clothing to souvenirs to CDs, you name it! It’s incredibly fun to stroll around and bargain for the necessary souvenirs. Bargaining is definitely necessary, as they expect you to do so. It’s certainly possible to negotiate a 30% discount from the asking price and even more with a bit of persuasion!
Campuhan Trail
The Campuhan Trail is an easy two-hour walk (about three kilometers) through the rice fields surrounding Ubud. It’s advisable to do this walk as early as possible to avoid the harsh sun. Ubud is popular for its location amidst the rice fields, but nowadays, you don’t see much of that when walking through the center of Ubud. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to do this trek to see how beautiful Ubud is nestled between the mountains and rice fields.
It’s a relatively easy walk as it’s mostly flat, but even with the cool morning sun, you can work up quite a sweat. Bringing water is advisable, but there are also rest stops along the way where you can buy drinks. Also, make sure to apply sunscreen, bring sunglasses, wear hiking shoes, and of course, have your camera ready! At the end of the route, you can choose to be transported back by a van or walk back the same route.
Visit Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring
Located half an hour north of the center of Ubud, Bali, you’ll find the sacred Tirta Empul Temple. It’s one of my favorite temples because you can immerse yourself in the holy water while fully clothed for purification. Surrounded by hills, the temple sits in a valley, and the setting alone is stunning. Like most attractions and temples, Tirta Empul can be quite crowded (especially on weekends – many locals). It’s advisable to plan your visit early in the morning.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Heading half an hour southeast of Bali, you’ll come across Tegenungan Waterfall. You reach the waterfall by descending a number of steps. It’s essential to arrive super early to experience the waterfall in a pleasant manner. The waterfall is easily accessible, which has made it one of the most popular waterfalls in Bali. It’s almost like a tourist attraction with sun loungers and plenty of spots inviting for selfies and photos. Oh, there’s also a cool swing!
Ubud, Bali, is not just a picturesque artists’ village but a dynamic destination that has evolved into a multifaceted hotspot offering culture, nature, yoga, and culinary delights. From exploring the vibrant streets filled with charming boutiques and cafes to immersing oneself in the tranquility of the surrounding rice fields and temples, Ubud offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment through yoga, indulging in healthy and delicious cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking natural beauty, Ubud has something for everyone. So, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this enchanting paradise on your journey through Bali, where culture, nature, and relaxation converge to create an unforgettable experience.
