Is Ubud worth visiting? 14 Irresistible reasons to explore Ubud, the cultural and spiritual haven of Bali

Nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud beckons to the discerning traveller with its enchanting blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. Well, but is Ubud worth visiting? Of course, yes.

If you’re on the fence about whether Ubud is worth your visit, let us take you on a journey through seven compelling reasons that make Ubud an unmissable destination. From mystical temples to lush rice terraces, Ubud offers an authentic and transformative experience that captivates you. In this article, we’ll delve into 14 remarkable reasons why Ubud deserves a top spot on your travel itinerary.

Discover the Allure of Ubud | 14 irresistible Reasons to Explore this Cultural Haven

Ubud, Bali’s cultural haven, is an experience beyond comparison. With its spiritual sanctuaries, breathtaking vistas, and vibrant traditions, Ubud invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and connection.

Beyond being a travel destination, Ubud transcends to become a sanctuary for the soul, reminding us of the importance of community, culture, and the innate beauty that resides in every corner of this remarkable place. So, don’t just visit Ubud—immerse yourself in its wonders and let its magic transform you.

14 Reasons we love Ubud so much!

Ubud’s Artistic Soul

Ubud is a haven for art enthusiasts, with its vibrant arts and crafts scene. From traditional paintings to intricate wood carvings, every corner of Ubud seems to breathe creativity. Walking along Monkey Forest Road, you’ll be greeted by numerous galleries showcasing local talent. The ubiquitous charm of Ubud’s artistry is bound to make you fall in love with its cultural depth.

You can walk around

One of the things we most appreciated about Ubud compared to Canggu and other popular areas of Bali is that you can walk around. Actually, some areas are pedestrian only.

The Enchanting Gates of Heaven

Picture this: standing at the threshold of Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, known as the “Gates of Heaven”, framed by towering candi bentar gates against the backdrop of majestic Mount Agung (The most sacred mountain in Bail). Less than two hours from Ubud, this iconic view is the stuff of travel dreams.

Lempuyang Temple is among Bali’s holiest sites, symbolising spiritual balance. For a nominal donation, you can bask in its ethereal atmosphere. However, timing is key to beat the crowds. Arrive early for a sunrise view or later for a mesmerising sunset shot. If you seek adventure, hike the trail connecting seven temples, experiencing both physical and spiritual elevation.

The Sacred monkey forest

A cultural gem known as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, this sanctuary offers an immersive experience. This lush haven is home to a playful community of long-tailed macaques and ancient temples. As you wander through the forest, interacting with these mischievous monkeys and admiring the intricate temple carvings, you’ll be enchanted by the harmonious coexistence of nature and spirituality.

For a very affordable ticket, you can explore its three temples, including the intriguing ‘Great Temple of Death’. Beware of carrying snacks, as these curious monkeys have a knack for treasure hunting. Their ingenious “hustle” with temple guards is a sight to behold. It’s a dance of barter, adding a touch of amusement to your visit.

Ascending Mount Batur’s summit

The best highlight of our Bali 10 days adventure was a fantastic day spent on the rocky slopes of Mount Batur, waiting for the sunrise. A pre-dawn hike up Mount Batur is a rendezvous with awe-inspiring natural drama. This active volcano’s ascent rewards you with an unrivalled sunrise panorama, a spectacle unique to Bali. The ethereal experience is worth the early start, with guided tours offering safe passage through the darkness. Glimpse the world, waking up as you stand atop the sacred volcano, a memory etched forever.

Enjoy proper Balinese food

While Canggu and Seminyak are heavily influenced by tourists, expats and digital nomads, Ubud keeps its peculiarities on restaurants and local recipes.

Of course, Ubud’s culinary scene mirrors its diversity. So, it is easy to find Italian, Mexican or traditional Brits meals and burgers, but nearby they don’t forget the Balinese cuisine. The heart of Balinese Flavours resides in local warungs. Pretty much like the rest of the island.

These family-owned eateries serve authentic, affordable dishes celebrating Bali’s food heritage. From fresh fish to Balinese favourites like babi guling (roast suckling pig), every bite is a testament to Bali’s gastronomic richness.

Ubud’s thriving markets

Ubud’s markets are a treasure trove of unique finds and vibrant experiences. If you want to move to Bali, even for just a few months, it’s good to know that the market is where you find cheap produce and meet locals. The Ubud Market is the perfect place to hone your bargaining skills as you shop for exquisite handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. Also, while in Ubud, you should dig into its artistic side. Visit Sukawati Art Market and enjoy the lively atmosphere taking the chance to engage with local artisans and understand a bit more about daily life in Bali.

Ubud’s cultural heartbeat

As you can understand from above, Ubud’s soul is deeply intertwined with its rich cultural heritage. The town comes alive with traditional dance performances, offering a glimpse into Bali’s artistic traditions. Attending a Kecak Fire Dance or a mesmerising Legong dance is an enchanting way to connect with Ubud’s cultural roots.

These graceful interpretations of ancient stories, often enacted in temple courtyards, encapsulate Balinese philosophy and heritage. One of the most interesting ones is at Ubud Royal Palace, and you can’t miss it. Dances like baris and pendet reveal the depth of Balinese artistic expression, while the lively Kecak dance narrates myths in a mesmerising form.

Ubud’s surrounding Water Temples

Spending a few days in Ubud means a lot of experiences within the city and on the outskirts. If you are into spirituality, Ubud is the right place to start your Balinese journey. Actually, Ubud is worth visiting, even just for this aspect. Bali’s spiritual essence is embodied in its iconic water temples, and Ubud is conveniently located near some of the most revered ones.

Tirta Empul and Pura Taman Saraswati are clear examples of the island’s devotion to the gods. Participating in a traditional purification ritual at Tirta Empul is a spiritually enriching experience that offers insight into Balinese Hindu practices. You might have seen photos on Instagram.

Heartfelt Ubudian hospitality

Perhaps the most compelling reason why Ubud is worth visiting is the warmth of its people. Balinese hospitality is legendary, and this sentiment is amplified in Ubud. They are so kind, smiley and always ready to make your experience memorable. From the exact moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with genuine smiles and open arms. Engaging with the locals and hearing their stories adds a layer of authenticity to your Ubud experience. Well, one of these experiences pushed us to switch from tourists to travellers.

Nurturing wellness and relaxation

In the heart of Ubud lies a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. The town has numerous high-end spas that provide authentic Balinese massages and therapies.

Whether you’re unwinding in a tranquil spa or practising yoga amidst nature, Ubud’s focus on wellness and self-care makes it a truly worthwhile destination.

Enjoy the fantastic infinity pools of Cretya Sunset Ubud

Sometimes we have to take a day off, and one of the advantages of staying in Ubud is the fact that you do have a lot to do around. We sat on our scooter, and within a 20 minutes ride, we were at Cretya Sunset Ubud, a fantastic complex surrounded by lush greenery, rice fields and the jungle in the backdrop. Cretya Ubud boasts an infinity pool with easy access to the bar area.

If you book in advance, you might be able to book a spectacular floating breakfast to surprise your other half. We flew the drone over the rice paddies, and it was like a dream. We can clearly say that the Cretya sunset is one of the most instagrammable places in Bali, and definitely worth a visit while in Ubud.

In Ubud, you can fly over the rice fields

It might be a cliche, but why don’t you try it? Swinging over the rice fields is something memorable that is unique to Bali; it is a very touristy activity, but who cares? We live just once! (If you are here, chances are you are looking for inspirational, adventurous phrases; check these out!)

Apart from the famous Tegalalang rice fields, you can enjoy the swings also at Cretya Ubud, a fantastic complex with three infinity pools, restaurants and plenty of games to entertain you the whole day. You can walk through the green lushes, pass bridges through the banks of rapids, take a moment to appreciate such beauty or gift your other half a fabulous romantic day in Bali. Cretya Sunset is the perfect place to admire rice fields near Ubud, as it is just 30 minutes scooter away from the centre.

Is It Worth Visiting Ubud? Absolutely!

In conclusion, if you’re pondering whether is Ubud worth visiting, the answer is a resounding and enthusiastic “yes”! Ubud’s unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and warm hospitality creates an experience that’s nothing short of magical.

From exploring lush landscapes to immersing yourself in traditional arts, Ubud offers a journey that touches the heart and soul. So, whether you are in Ubud for spiritual purposes, looking to relax and unwind, or getting on an adventure, the city is the opposite of what you will find in Canggu and Seminyak. Trust us; you’ll return home with memories and stories that will last a lifetime.

Is Ubud safe

We never felt unsafe while staying in Ubud. Even walking at night is very safe when it’s a little darker. Our guest house was a bit out of the centre but still at a walkable distance, and it was pleasant to stroll around after dinner. Rest assured, and this cultural haven is not only captivating but also remarkably safe for travellers. Ubud maintains a tranquil atmosphere where locals and visitors coexist harmoniously.

Petty crimes are rare, and the community’s warmth ensures a welcoming environment. Just like stepping into a well-preserved painting, Ubud offers a sense of security that allows you to fully embrace its beauty and culture without worry. So, whether you’re exploring bustling markets or trekking through serene rice fields, the safety of Ubud adds an extra layer of allure to your journey.

Visa for Bali

If you plan a trip to Bali, you can use the VOA (visa on arrival). However, be prepared to wait in line at either Denpasar (Bali airport) or other airports in the country. If you hold a US, UK, Australian, or EU passport, you can easily apply online and travel like we did. With a VOA, you can stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days, either obtained online or on the spot.

In fact, completing the online procedure can save you time and money. If you only obtain a VOA upon arrival at the airport, you must visit the Denpasar immigration office twice to extend your stay for another 30 days. Completing the procedure online eliminates the hassle of going back and forth to the immigration office and completing all necessary paperwork online. 

Don’t drink tap water in Ubud

We consciously decided to avoid drinking tap water during our trip to Asia. This was particularly important in Bali, where the high mineral content in tap water can cause digestive issues commonly referred to as “Bali Belly”. To ensure that we stayed hydrated and healthy, we opted for bottled water instead.

ATMs, currency, card payment and cash in Ubud

We didn’t have any problem paying with the card in Ubud. However, you need cash if you stick with local markets, warung and similar places. While in Ubud, you can find many ATMs, but be aware of the ones that ask for hefty fees.

The most convenient ATM we found in Bali is Maya Bank (the one with the yellow sign). Maya Bank allows you to withdraw up to 5 Million at once, about $340, with no fees. The island has the same currency as the whole of Indonesia, and the exchange rate is approximately $1 = 17,400 Rupee. Check the current exchange rate.

Bali Travel Insurance

While we were in Bali, we didn’t encounter any safety issues. Nevertheless, we advise you that driving in busy areas like Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, and Kuta can be challenging due to heavy traffic. If you’re planning to rent a bike, it’s strongly recommended that you obtain travel insurance that covers any possible occurrences. REQUEST A QUOTE.

During our stay in Bali, we witnessed unfortunate incidents that could potentially ruin someone’s vacation due to the high expenses involved in medical bills, repairs, and other associated costs.

Q&A Is Ubud worth visiting?