Ubud Travel Guide: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

Choosing the right season helps maximize your Ubud experience. While the dry season (April – September) draws more crowds with ideal weather for outdoor adventures, the rainy season (October – March) offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors.

• The Dry Season (April – September) is perfect for outdoor activities such as rafting at the Ayung River, hiking, and exploring Ubud’s rice terraces. This season is also popular for festivals and cultural events.
• During the rainy season (October – March), you can enjoy a quieter experience with vibrant landscapes. Museums and wellness centers are great places to visit on rainy days.

Visit during shoulder months like April or September for fewer crowds and favorable weather. For more tips on timing your visit, see our Seasonal Guide to Bali.

Above all, respecting Balinese customs enhances your visit:

• Dress modestly in temples, covering shoulders and knees.
• Seek consent before taking photos of locals.
• Be mindful of religious ceremonies and avoid disturbing them.

For more, refer to our Responsible Tourism and Cultural Sensitivity in Ubud section.

Ideal for independent travelers wanting flexibility. Read more on Scooter Rentals Guide.

Great for comfort and local expertise, especially for groups. Learn more in our Private Driver Guide.

The best way to explore Ubud’s charm on foot is to discover hidden cafes and markets. Start early to avoid the midday heat, bring water, and wear sturdy footwear for uneven paths. 

• Bicycle Rentals: Perfect for cycling enthusiasts; be cautious of traffic.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Grab and Gojek are available, though fares and availability can vary.

For further details, you can explore more on other transportation methods.

• Sarong: Bring one for sun protection and temple visits—local markets offer beautiful, affordable options.
• Comfortable Shoes: Lightweight sneakers or hiking sandals work well for town, rice terraces, and jungle trails. Tip: Waterproof shoes are handy during the rainy season.
• Sun Protection: To protect yourself from Bali’s sun, pack reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protected sunglasses. 
• Cooling Gear: A portable fan or cooling towel helps with Ubud’s midday heat.

For more outfit ideas, see our guide on Getting Ready for Bali: Fun Outfits for Every Adventure.

To budget effectively, here’s a quick guide to typical costs:

• Food: IDR 40,000–60,000 per meal at local eateries; mid-range dining costs around IDR 80,000–150,000.
• Activities: Dance performances cost approximately IDR 100,000.
• Entry Fees: Sacred Monkey Forest (IDR 80,000), Tegalalang Rice Terraces (IDR 10,000–30,000), Goa Gajah (IDR 50,000).

Pro Tip: A daily budget of IDR 250,000–400,000 per person comfortably covers meals, entry fees, and some activities. For more detailed cost breakdowns, visit the Ubud Budgeting Guide.

From affordable eateries to free attractions, Ubud offers plenty of budget-friendly options:

• Local Markets: Shop for souvenirs at the Ubud Art Market and practice your bargaining skills.
• Affordable Eats: Enjoy Balinese dishes at budget-friendly spots like Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka or scenic meals at Sari Organik.
• Free Attractions: Walk along Campuhan Ridge or visit the serene Pura Taman Saraswati temple.

Pro Tip: Many restaurants offer discounted lunch spec

Maximize your savings with these quick bargaining tips:

• Start negotiations 30–40% below the asking price.
• Maintain a friendly tone to improve the chances of a good deal.
• Use cash for potential extra discounts.
• Compare prices across vendors, as rates can vary.

• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Home to over 1,200 macaques and ancient temples, this lush sanctuary is a must-visit. Arrive early (around 9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and catch the monkeys at their most active. Keep belongings secure.
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces: These iconic terraces are perfect for peaceful walks and scenic photography. Visit at sunrise or after 4:00 PM for cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
• Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): This historic site features intricate stone carvings and a famous elephant-faced cave entrance. Late afternoons are less crowded. A sarong is required (available at the entrance).

Explore more cultural sites in our Top 10 Ubud Attractions Guide.

Discover these peaceful, lesser-known spots for a unique experience:

• Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple: With its tranquil water features, koi ponds, and lush gardens, this water temple is ideal for peaceful reflection. For a more serene experience, visit mid-morning when crowds are fewer.
• Penglipuran Village: Known for its preserved architecture and cultural heritage, this traditional Balinese village is among the world’s most pristine. Mornings are best for exploring bamboo houses and local shops. Respect private spaces.

Altogether, these renowned sites and hidden gems reveal Ubud’s rich culture and beauty, making it a memorable destination for first-time visitors.

• Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka: Famous for its signature Babi Guling (Balinese roast pork), this bustling eatery near Ubud Palace is a must-visit if you’re seeking an authentic Bali experience.
• Sari Organik: Nestled among lush rice paddies, Sari Organik serves organic Balinese and Indonesian dishes. For a true taste of local flavors, try the Nasi Campur. Moreover, the scenic 15-minute walk through the fields makes dining here truly memorable.

• Alchemy: A plant-based haven offering raw vegan dishes like smoothie bowls, salads, and desserts. Alchemy also has a wellness shop for health-conscious treats.
• Zest Ubud: Known for creative vegan fare such as jackfruit rendang, Zest offers a warm, communal atmosphere in a stunning bamboo setting—perfect for an evening with friends.

Tourist Scams: Book tours through reputable agencies or your hotel to avoid inflated prices. Use official money changers or ATMs, and always count your cash to prevent shortchanging.

Sacred Monkey Forest: Avoid direct eye contact with monkeys, secure your belongings, and do not feed or touch them to prevent aggressive behavior. Ubud Monkey Forest Guidelines

Peak Times: To avoid crowds at popular sites like Tegalalang Rice Terraces, visit early (around 8–9 AM) or late in the afternoon (4–5 PM).

• Water: Drink bottled or purified water, and verify whether ice is safe when dining out. A refillable water bottle is great for staying hydrated and reducing plastic waste.
• Food: Choose cooked food, especially in street food settings, and opt for well-reviewed restaurants. Recommended spots include Locavore (creative Balinese cuisine), Warung Sopa (vegetarian-friendly), and Kafe Ubud (organic choices).

Explore More: Eating Safely in Bali.

Top Spas

• Taksu Spa: A jungle retreat known for traditional Balinese massages.
• Karsa Spa: Offers calming massages with scenic rice field views.
• Cantika Zest: Focuses on Balinese-inspired treatments using natural skincare.

Popular Yoga Studios

• Yoga Barn: Offers classes for all levels, along with wellness workshops.
• Radiantly Alive: Known for yoga, Pilates, and community events.
• Ubud Yoga House: A peaceful studio with small, mindful classes in a scenic setting.

• Support Local Artisans: When shopping for souvenirs, purchase handmade items directly from artisans at the Ubud Art Market. This way, you support Balinese craftsmanship and contribute to the local economy.
• Respect Local Customs: Request consent before photographing locals, especially during religious ceremonies. Dress modestly in temples, covering shoulders and knees; many temples offer sarongs if needed. A friendly smile and nod go a long way.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: To help reduce waste, carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, as Bali has strict rules on single-use plastics.

Pro Tip: Simple gestures like polite bargaining, a friendly nod, and reducing waste can enhance your experience and positively impact Ubud’s community.

Explore More:

• Responsible Tourism Tips
• Eco-Friendly Travel in Bali.

• Currency Tips: Cash is commonly used, especially in markets and smaller dining spots. To make transactions smoother, carry small bills (IDR 10,000–50,000) for convenience. Additionally, use official currency exchange counters or bank ATMs—it’s best to avoid street booths, which may be less reliable.
• ATM Safety: ATMs are available throughout central Ubud. For security, use ATMs within banks or trusted stores, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Tour Operators: When booking excursions, choose eco-friendly tours through reputable operators with positive reviews, which hotels often recommend.
• Healthcare Options: For minor medical needs, you can visit local clinics such as the Ubud Clinic and Toya Medika Clinic. Travel insurance that covers medical expenses is highly recommended.

Explore more in the Bali Travel Guide for Practical Tips.