Healing waters, café trails, rice field rituals — here’s your guide to Bali’s soulful, scenic heart.
Ubud isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. It’s the sound of birdsong at sunrise, the scent of frangipani in the air, the way time moves a little softer here. Nestled in the center of Bali, Ubud pulses with creativity, calm, and culture. Whether you’re searching for a sacred soak, the perfect oat latte, or a sunset view with someone special, this jungle-framed town has something to meet you exactly where you are.
From temples to waterfalls, rooftops to market stalls — here are 12 ways to slow down and soak up Ubud;
1. Tirta Empul Water Temple
Step into one of Bali’s most sacred spaces. Tirta Empul, with its holy springs and centuries-old traditions, invites you to take part in a spiritual cleansing ritual known as melukat. Whether you believe in energy resets or just want to witness something deeply rooted in Balinese culture; this is a must.
2. Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan is a sensory wake-up call — lush greenery, thundering water, and a cooling mist you’ll be grateful for. Go early to beat the crowd, or visit at golden hour when the light hits just right.
3. Spa Day at Svaha Bisma
Tucked behind a quiet jungle path, Svaha Spa Bisma offers a treatment experience that’s equal parts soulful and luxurious. Think flower baths, warm stones, and therapists who seem to intuit exactly what your shoulders need.
4. Yoga or Pilates in Nature
Ubud is Bali’s wellness hub — and the studios here are next level. Practice sunrise yoga overlooking rice paddies, or get grounded with slow reformer pilates in a jungle-shaded space. Your breath will thank you.
5. Jungle Day Clubs
Yes, Ubud does party — just on its own terms. Trade in the beach clubs for jungle lounges with infinity pools, deep house playlists, and fresh tropical cocktails. Barefoot is the dress code. Sunset is the invitation.
6. Café Hopping Through Ubud
Ubud’s café scene is a love letter to creatives and coffee lovers. Sip on turmeric lattes in sun-dappled courtyards, snack on gluten-free cake surrounded by art books, or people-watch from a jungle-view barstool. There’s no wrong answer here.
7. Dinner at a Romantic Restaurant
Candlelit tables, curated tasting menus, and views that melt into the horizon — Ubud is quietly romantic. Whether it’s a first date or a forever moment, this is the place for long dinners and slow conversations.
8. Stay at a Jungle-Luxury Resort
Whether you prefer contemporary glass villas or traditional teakwood pavilions, Ubud has staycations that hit pause on the outside world. Picture canopy beds, floating breakfasts, and private pools hidden by vines.
9. Browse the Ubud Art Market
This isn’t your typical tourist stop. The Ubud Art Market is bursting with handcrafted goods — from silver jewelry to rattan bags, batik sarongs, and handwoven baskets. Bargain gently, smile often, and bring a tote.
10. Visit a Local Art Museum
From classical Balinese painters to emerging modern voices, Ubud’s art museums are quiet sanctuaries for visual storytelling. Spend an hour or two at Neka or Agung Rai Museum of Art, and let the silence speak.
11. Find Stillness in the Everyday
Sometimes the best thing to do in Ubud… is nothing. Walk slowly, follow a stray dog down a side street, pause at a temple offering. The charm of Ubud lies in what happens when you’re not chasing a plan.
