Ubud is a charming town in the heart of Bali, Indonesia, known for its serene atmosphere, lush green rice paddies, and vibrant arts and culture scene. If you’re planning a trip to Ubud, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your stay:
- When to Go: Ubud has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C (71°F to 90°F) throughout the year. The best time to visit is from April to September, which is the dry season, and also the peak tourist season.
- Getting There: Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar is the closest airport to Ubud, located about an hour’s drive away. You can take a taxi or shuttle bus from the airport to Ubud. You can also hire a private car with a driver to take you around.
- Where to Stay: Ubud offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Some popular options include The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah, Komaneka at Bisma, and Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan.
- Things to Do: Ubud has plenty of activities to keep you busy, including:
- Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest, where you can see hundreds of long-tailed macaques living in a natural habitat.
- Explore the rice terraces of Tegalalang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bali’s most iconic landscapes.
- Learn about Balinese culture and history at the Ubud Palace and Ubud Market.
- Attend a traditional Balinese dance performance, such as the Legong or Kecak dance.
- Take a yoga or meditation class at one of Ubud’s many yoga studios.
- Visit the Bali Bird Park, home to over 1,000 birds from 250 species.
- Pamper yourself with a spa treatment at one of Ubud’s many luxury spas.
- Where to Eat: Ubud is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Balinese and international cuisine. Some popular options include:
- Locavore, which offers modern Indonesian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Ibu Rai, a traditional Balinese restaurant known for its signature dish, Babi Guling (suckling pig).
- Clear Cafe, which offers healthy, organic food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Fair Warung Bale, a social enterprise restaurant that supports healthcare and education for underprivileged children.
- Cafe Wayan, a family-run restaurant that serves authentic Balinese cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
- Getting Around: Ubud is a small town, and you can easily explore it on foot. However, if you want to visit nearby attractions, such as the rice terraces or the Bali Bird Park, it’s best to hire a driver or rent a scooter.
- Safety Tips: Ubud is generally a safe place to visit, but here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
- Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics.
- Be cautious when hiring a scooter, as traffic can be chaotic and accidents are common. Make sure you have a valid international driver’s license and wear a helmet at all times.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your Ubud getaway and enjoy all the natural beauty and cultural experiences this charming town has to offer.