Ubud.
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Overview

Ubud, a town in central Bali of around 75,000 people (2020), is regarded as the cultural centre of Bali. It is famous as an arts and crafts hub, and much of the town and nearby villages seems to consist of artists' workshops and galleries. There are some remarkable architectural and cultural sights to be found, and a general feeling of well being to be enjoyed, thanks to the town's spirit and surroundings. At first glance, the horrible traffic, over-development, loud nightclubs and taco Tuesdays might hide all this, but the art, nature and beauty are still there. You just have to get off the main roads to find them.

Understand

While Ubud seems to outsiders like one small town, it is in fact fourteen villages, each run by its own banjar (village committee). Ubud has grown rapidly, and some central parts are creaking under the strain of coping with the number of visitors. That said, most development is sympathetic to the zeitgeist, if not designed specifically in the local style. Growth continues apace, but there are still terraced rice fields along the rivers, and away from the town centre, regular, quiet village life carries on relatively undisturbed.

In many ways, the history of the Ubud area (not so much the modern day town) is the history of Bali.

Ubud has a known history back to the eighth century, when the Javanese Buddhist priest Rsi Marhandya came to Bali from Java, and meditated at the confluence of the two Wos rivers at Campuan, just west of the modern day town centre. A shrine was established and later expanded by Nirartha, the Javanese priest who is regarded as the founder of Bali's religious practices and rituals as we know them today. At this time the area was a centre of natural medicine and healing, and that is how the name Ubud originated: Ubad is ancient Balinese for medicine.

Further temples and monasteries were established over the next 400 years or so. The temple complex at Gunung Kawi, and the cave temples at Goa Gajah (just east and northeast of Ubud), are architectural remains from this period. Many of the dances, drama and rituals still practised in Ubud today, originated at this time. King Airlangga ruled all of Java and Bali in this era, and his seat of government was located in what is now the village of Batuan, just southeast of Ubud.

The Javanese Majapahit kingdom conquered Bali in 1343, and the key final victory was against the Pejeng Dynasty centred at Bedulu, just to the east of Ubud. A great flowering of Balinese culture followed, and the ancestry of Ubud's current day aristocratic families can be traced back to this period. In the sixteenth Century, there was a total transplantation of the Majapahit Kingdom to Bali as the Islamisation of Java forced them eastwards. Power flip-flopped between various dynasties and feudal lords, but the Ubud area remained a very important cog in the various regencies which ruled the island.

In 1900, Ubud became a Dutch protectorate at its own request, and the colonialists interfered little, allowing the traditional arts and culture of the area to remain relatively unchanged. The modern era of Ubud perhaps began in the 1930s, when foreign artists were encouraged by the royal family to take up presence in the town. From their Ubud base, the likes of Walter Spies and Rudolph Bonnet were instrumental in promoting an understanding of Balinese art and culture worldwide. From the 1960s onwards, travellers started to arrive in earnest, mostly intrepid types as the infrastructure was still very limited indeed. Since then, Ubud has developed rapidly into a high-profile, top-class international destination, whilst still maintaining its integrity as the centre of Balinese art and culture.

Orienting yourself in Ubud is fairly straightforward. The town sprawls for several kilometres in all directions, with all of the small villages within a 5 km radius of the central market being loosely referred to as "Ubud". If you choose a reasonably central place to stay, it is easy enough to get around on foot.

Central Ubud has three main streets: Jl Raya Ubud, Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Hanoman. At the intersection of Jl Raya and Jl Monkey Forest are Ubud Market, Ubud Palace, and a bus station — unsurprisingly, there's also a near-permanent traffic jam here.

Jl Monkey Forest, which runs south through town to the Monkey Forest, is a built-up area, and home to a wide array of accommodation, art galleries, and cafes, as well a number of local services such as schools, a sports field, pharmacies, and travel agents. Jl Hanoman, which runs parallel to Jl Monkey Forest just to the east, is even busier but features more higher end restuarants, cafes and shops.

To the immediate west and northwest are the villages of Campuan (Tjampuhan, Campuhan) and Kedewatan, home to some of the most upmarket hotels in the whole of Asia, with views over valleys sculpted by the Ayung and Wos rivers.

Directly to the south, past the Monkey Forest and still within a twenty minute walk of the central market, is Padang Tegal which then runs into the southern villages of Nyuh Kuning and Pengosekan, about 3 km from central Ubud. Directly to the east is the village of Peliatan, and then Teges and Bedulu, home of the ninth century Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave).

Due to its elevation at about 200 m above sea level, Ubud enjoys cooler temperatures than the coast, and it is sometimes necessary to bring a pullover for the evening. The midday sun can still be scorching though and the humidity often relentless; a murderous combination for an outing of 'temple tramping' which, in hilly Ubud, usually requires climbing up and down staircases. (Head out early to beat the heat and the crowds.) If there is a time to avoid, it would be the depths of the wet season in January and February — when it rains in Ubud, it really rains.

Bina Wisata. Not especially helpful, but they always have a few leaflets, and local businesses advertise current events there.

Get in

Most bemos run in the early morning, and in the later of the day it is getting difficult to find a bemo leaving and drivers try to pursue tourist to hire entire vehicle for Rp200,000-300,000, and you will not find any after 16:00. In the opposite direction, bemos depart every morning from the central market (northern entrance) in Ubud.

If you want to take a taxi to Ubud from South Bali, it is best to charter the vehicle for a return trip, otherwise, you'll be hit with a 30% fee for going out-of-town.

Perama offers transfers to Ubud from Sanur, Lovina, Kuta, Bedugul, Candidasa, and Padang Bai, some daily, some on-demand. When coming from Ngurah Rai International Airport you need to take a taxi to Perama's Kuta branch first, when going to the airport direct transfers exist. On the Perama website you cannot reserve tickets for current day and you must reserve tickets for next day before 3pm, while on the Perama terminal there are no such restrictions. Rather less conveniently, the Perama terminal is not located in the centre of Ubud, but about 2 km south in Padang Tegal, on Jl Hanoman just south of the intersection with Jl Monkey Forest.

By public bus Bali's public bus network, Trans Metro Dewata (Rp 4,400, 2026) route 4 goes between Terminal Ubung in Denpasar to Monkey Forest Central Parking with numerous stops. About an hour, every 15-20 mins. Pay driver, cash not accepted, only card or QRIS qrcode payment.

From Bedugul From Bedugul / Candikuning, multiple options starting with cheaper (as of May 2024): Take bemo from main road (next to lake) to Terminal Ubung in Denpasar (about Rp 40,000, duration ~1 hr 15 min), bus K3B to RS Dharma Yadnya Selatan (Rp 4,400, ~20 min), last bus K4B to Ubud (if centre, Pura Dalem Puri Pelatian stop; Rp 4,400, ~50 min). While cheaper (less than Rp 50,000), it's lot slower (3-4 hours) depending on traffic in Denpasar and Ubud. It is not known if bemo between Sembung and Ubud and likely not cheaper. Full route by car-hailing app: bike ~Rp 110,00-130,000, car Rp 260,000-320,000 Perama tour bus: Rp 150,000, duration ~1 hr 30 min, daily 14:00, from indomaret, not perama bus shop. Private car: ~Rp 300,000

Get around

Central Ubud can be covered on foot, but you will need some form of transport to explore the extended vicinity.

Central Ubud is overrun with tourists and touts, and traffic is terrible—cars are frequently stuck in traffic, pedestrians have to dodge motorcycles, and everyone has to deal with the noise and smell from so many vehicles in a small area. The nearby villages are much quieter. The sidewalks are often blocked by motorbikes, or a collapsed section necessitates a step off the sidewalk potentially placing you in the path of traffic. That traffic could be a tricycle or a truck, so keep your wits about you.

Bemos ply the main routes in and around Ubud, and the main stop and gathering point is Ubud market at the junction of Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud. Most bemos stop running in the late afternoon, and are always more frequent in the morning.

No metered taxis operate in Ubud, and any you see will be dropping off passengers from further afield.

You may however encounter many locals offering a taxi, who sometimes are very persistent. These are not actual taxis, but "local cars" (see below).

If you do not need a taxi, it's best to avoid eye contact with those offering a ride, as they may follow you with offers of tours of the area, etc. If you are continually being harassed, a polite "no thank you" (or "tidak terima kasih", the Indonesian equivalent) may work.

Most local transport comes in the form of SUVs or minivans that can be hired with a driver for specific trips. Look for the circular yellow "E" logo on the windshield certifying them as Ubud Transport Association members.

Many hotels are out of town, and are happy to offer regular, complimentary drop-off and pick-up services to central Ubud. Expect to pay higher than taxi prices if you are intending to go further afield.

As elsewhere in Bali, motorbike rental is widely available, and you will not be short of options. Expect to pay between Rp40,000 and 80,000 per day for a late model motorbike in good condition. Look for rental agencies on all the main streets, or ask your hotel to organise for you. Navigation can be confusing, as signage is limited and all the roads look pretty much the same at first, but take it easy and stop to ask for directions if (when) you get lost.

You can rent bicycles for about Rp20,000-30,000 per day. There is a large selection available at the corner of the football field on Jl Monkey Forest. Beware though: Ubud is very hilly, so cycling can be hard, sweaty work. Traffic on the main roads is heavy and drivers rarely pay heed to cyclists.

Taxi apps like Grab, Blue Bird, and Gojek work well in Central Ubud. In some areas, the local taxi mafia will erect signage stating that ride hailing services are prohibited. This may or may not be enforced.

See

Ubud is so crammed with attractions it can almost seem like a visual assault at times. Try to make sure you allocate at least a week for your visit here, and take your time to explore properly. Visitors who jump up to Ubud for just two or three days of their Bali holiday, stand little chance of understanding much of what is going on around them.

The key historical sites are located out of town, some as far as 20 km away, and you might find it worthwhile joining a tour to visit these. If you do visit attractions such as Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi, Pura Kehen and Tirta Empul under your own steam, try to find a knowledgeable guide when you get there. Whilst you will certainly appreciate the beauty of these places, their cultural and spiritual significance may be lost without a guide.

Goa Gajah. The centerpiece here is a cave dating back to the 9th century, the entrance to which is an ornately carved demon's mouth. Inside are some fragmentary lingam and yoni statues, as well as a statue of Ganesha. Large, carved guards stand around pools near the entrance, and a little path leads to a waterfall, rice fields, and some Buddhist stupa fragments. Some parts of the Goa Gajah complex were not excavated until the 1950s. Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 30-60 min visit without guide. Unclear if dirt path to rice fields and elephant river is usable/maintained.

Gunung Kawi. Dating from the eleventh century, this is presumed to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his many wives. Reached by climbing down 371 steps, the location at the bottom of a steep valley lined with paddy fields, is quite stunning. The smaller complex on the south side of the river is presumed to have been built for the King's wives, while the larger complex is thought to have been the residence of the King himself, and perhaps his concubines. The structures are carved into the sides of a steep river valley, and the river crossed by twisting trees and vines. You must take off your shoes before entering into the central pura complex. About 1 km downstream there are further tomb cloisters. On the way back up, take a break at Cafe Kawi which has cold drinks for Rp10,000 and up. Sarong is included in the entry and free, so you can ignore the ladies in the parking lot trying to sell you one

Pura Kehen. One of the most attractive temples in the whole of Bali, and as it is slightly off the beaten path, one which receives relatively few visitors. The temple was founded in 1206, and has an especially impressive 11-tiered meru in the inner courtyard. When you visit here take a little extra time to look around Bangli. It is a quiet and attractive market town.

Puri Saren Agung. This was the palace of the kings of Ubud until the 1940s, and some royal descendants live there to this day. Parts of the complex are off limits to the public, but entry to the rest is free, and this is Ubud's best setting for dance performances (see Do). 10-15 min visit without a guide.

Tirta Empul. One of the holiest temples in Bali built around hot springs that still bubble in the central courtyard. The Balinese come here to bathe and purify themselves physically and spiritually, and during Galungan, the sacred barong masks are bathed here. The complex dates to 960, but the present buildings are largely modern reconstructions. Visitors may participate in the traditional purification ritual (melukat) by wearing a sarong and entering the bathing pools. Observe local customs and avoid entering if not appropriately dressed or during certain religious restrictions.

Yeh Pulu. This complex of rock carvings is close to Goa Gajah but far less well known. The carvings date from the fourteenth or fifteenth century, and are set in a very attractive rice field. You can reach Yeh Pulu on foot through the rice fields from Goa Gajah, but you will definitely need a guide for the 45-minute walk as there is no path to speak of. In addition to the carvings, there is a holy well here, and the attendant priest will be happy to bless you with the well water. Temple dress code applies (you can rent a sarong at the ticket counter without extra charge). This is a much underrated and under-visited site, and is highly recommended.

Chapel of Mother Goddess, Rajarajeshwari Tripurasundari. A modern chapel dedicated to the feminine aspect of the divine, such as Kuan Shih Yin, Mary Magdalene, Mother Mary, Lakshmi, Durga, Kali, Saraswati, Gayatri and others.

Saraswati Temple. Taman Saraswati Temple, also known as Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, is a graceful water temple located in the heart of Ubud, Bali. Dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts, this temple is renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its striking beauty—especially the elegant lotus pond and water garden that stretch out in front of its ornately carved gates.^Built in the late 20th century by famed Balinese architect I Gusti Nyoman Lempad under commission from the Ubud royal family, the temple blends traditional Balinese architecture with classical Hindu iconography. Intricate stone reliefs adorn the walls and gateways, many of which depict figures from Hindu mythology, including Saraswati herself holding a manuscript and a veena, symbolizing knowledge and the arts.A wide path flanked by blooming pink lotuses leads visitors from the street to the temple entrance, though the inner sanctum is reserved for worshippers, the outer courtyard and pond are accessible and are particularly atmospheric around sunset, when the temple is bathed in golden light.

Pura Gunung Lebah. Pura Gunung Lebah sits at the confluence of the Campuhan and Wos rivers beside Campuhan Bridge. Dating from the 8th century, it is one of Ubud's oldest and most sacred temples. Dedicated to the spirit of the surrounding valleys, the temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, traditional stone carvings and lush jungle setting. It also marks the southern entrance to the popular Campuhan Ridge Walk.

Agung Rai Museum of Art. Showcases works by well known Balinese artists, as well as international artists who made Bali their home such as Walter Spies, Adrian Jean Le Mayeur, Rudolph Bonnet and Arie Smit. The only painting in Bali by renowned Javanese artist Radan Saleh is exhibited here. They also run workshops for thirteen different aspects of Balinese art and culture.

Blanco Renaissance Museum. Before he passed away in 1999, Spanish artist Antonio Blanco was an absolute fixture on the Ubud art scene. His former home is now a museum showcasing his sometimes bizarre but always interesting work. Think Salvador Dali transplanted to Asia. In the garden you can take pictures of the exotic birds flying around. A gallery and a studio is connected to the museum. Also, there is a family temple and a vegan restaurant here.

Museum Puri Lukisan. When it opened in 1954, this was the first private museum in Bali. Three buildings showcase traditional and modern Balinese art. The displays are a little musty and English labeling is spotty, but some of the works, particularly the carvings, are quite amazing. Exhibits by noted artists I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Rudolph Bonnet, among others.

Museum Rudana. A wide range of Balinese paintings is exhibited here, both traditional and modern. Run by its owner, artist Nyoman Rudana, who is often present.

Neka Art Museum. This museum houses perhaps the most important art collection in the whole of Bali. Six pavilions house the various collections which include dedicated rooms for artists Arie Smit and I Gusti Nyoman Lempad. See beautiful depictions of Balinese life in times past as well as contemporary works, both by Balinese artists and by the foreign artists who settled here. Mainly paintings but also some sculptures and photography,

Setia Darma House of Masks and Puppets. This fascinating museum displays more than a thousand masks and puppets from across Indonesia and around the world. Traditional Balinese, Javanese and international theatrical traditions are represented within a peaceful complex of traditional wooden houses surrounded by gardens.

The area around Ubud is characterised by gently rolling rice paddies, and these create an impression of greenness which can be quite startlingly beautiful. This is especially true to the south and southeast of the town. Any visitor approaching from the south will appreciate this and it is worth a stop just to absorb the gentle beauty of it all.

Far more off the beaten path is to explore the rice fields immediately north of town. A good route is to take Jl Raya eastwards from the town centre and turn north up the small road immediately adjacent to the BCA Bank building. Proceed up this road through the village of Kutuh and just keep going, turning where you feel like it. This is a very gentle, rural area with some lovely landscape. A great way to explore is by bicycle as there are no steep hills to negotiate here.

On the opposite side of town in the Campuhaun, Sanggingan, and Kedewatan areas, the landscape changes dramatically as great gorges have been carved out of the limestone land base by the Ayung and Wos rivers. It's no surprise that so many five star hotels have made their home in these lush, dramatic valleys. Opportunities for viewing these gorges are many. You can just find your own way and explore by motorbike (it is very hard work by bicycle as the hills are steep). Head west out of town over the Campuhan Bridge and just start exploring. The main road here is Jl Raya Sanggingan, and if you continue heading away from town you will reach the junction with Jl Raya Kedewatan. From that point you can turn in either direction and just keep exploring. Alternatively, you can stop into a hotel or restaurant, have a drink or lunch, and gaze out in very civilised surroundings. If your pockets are deep, the restaurant at the Four Seasons in Sayan probably has the best views of all of the Ayung Gorge. A more budget conscious option is the lovely Indus restaurant in Sanginngan, with tables facing out to the Wos River.

Tegallalang. Northeast of Ubud, the land starts to become more undulating, and this is a good place to view Bali's classic rice terraces. This village is somewhat a tourist trap, but it is worth braving the hordes of trinket peddlers to view the stunning terraces. From the town center, take Jl Raya as far east as you can go, and then turn north and continue about nine km until you reach Tegallalang. Look for the picture postcard rice terraces on you right-hand side. For those moving on north to the Kintamani area, this is on route and makes for an easy stop.

Tegenungan Waterfall. Located south of Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall is one of Bali's most accessible waterfalls. A short walk down steps leads to a powerful cascade surrounded by tropical forest. Early morning visits avoid the largest crowds.

Tibumana Waterfall. Set within a forested valley east of Ubud, Tibumana Waterfall is a graceful single-drop cascade flowing into a calm swimming pool. The easy walk through bamboo groves and tropical vegetation makes it one of the area's most relaxing waterfalls.

Kanto Lampo Waterfall. Unlike most waterfalls, Kanto Lampo flows over a series of stepped rock terraces, creating one of Bali's most photographed natural attractions. Be prepared to get wet if climbing onto the rocks.

Bali Bird Park. A splendid 2-hectare aviary park with more than 250 species of birds in well thought out, attractive enclosures. The park has an enlightened, modern attitude to exhibiting animals, and this is obvious from the very open, walk-in aviaries, and the number of free range birds throughout the park. Also has a notably good cafe. One of Bali's best formal attractions.

Botanic Garden. The Botanic Garden is a wonderful way to spend a few hours walking around and exploring the valley that it fills. It is best to go in the morning and avoid the afternoon heat.

Monkey Forest. A sacred forest full of monkeys, which are not at all afraid of people and will happily climb all over you if you're not careful! They love to look in backpacks and often take people's sunglasses or wallets. Don't bring any food or you will risk getting bitten. If you are bitten, visit the first aid clinic near the entrance at the bottom of Jalan Monkey Forest. You will need rabies shots. Stroll through to find Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, a temple of the dead. A visit to the very informative website beforehand is highly recommended.

The White Herons of Petulu. Every evening between 15,000 and 20,000 cattle egrets, known colloquially as white herons and in Balinese, kokokan, roost in the village of Petulu just ten minutes north of Ubud. It is quite a spectacle as these large, elegant white and rusty orange birds arrive in countless groups and tussle for the prime roosting spots. Each morning at dawn they leave en-masse to find feeding spots around the island. Some also breed in the area and nests can be seen in the roadside trees. The cattle egrets are joined by smaller numbers of little egrets and Javan pond herons.According to local legend, the egrets first appeared here in such large numbers after one of the worst massacres of suspected communists during the troubles of 1965. This led local villagers to believe that these birds are the souls of the slaughtered, and ceremonies to that effect are still held today.The village of Petulu is reached by heading east from Ubud town centre on Jl Raya Ubud until you meet the obvious junction with Jl Raya Andong. Turn left, and go up the hill for about 2 km until you see the sign posted left turning on Jalan Kintamani to Petulu village. Go into the village and you will see signs and warungs set up in the best places to view the spectacle. Get there by 17:30.

Penglipuran Village. One of Bali's best-preserved traditional villages, Penglipuran is renowned for its immaculate bamboo-lined streets, beautifully maintained family compounds and traditional Balinese architecture. Vehicles are kept outside the village, creating a peaceful atmosphere that offers a glimpse into traditional Balinese community life.

Pyramids of Chi. Pyramids of Chi is a wellness centre offering sound healing, meditation and relaxation sessions inside pyramid-shaped buildings designed to enhance acoustics. Sessions combine music, vibration and guided meditation.

Blanco Gardens. The gardens surrounding the Blanco Renaissance Museum feature tropical landscaping, sculptures and free-roaming exotic birds. They provide a peaceful setting overlooking the Campuhan valley.

Bali Swing. Bali Swing offers giant swings suspended high above jungle valleys and rice terraces, along with a variety of photo platforms. While primarily designed for photography, it has become one of Bali's best-known attractions.

Nyuh Kuning Village. Just south of the Monkey Forest, Nyuh Kuning is a quiet village of cafés, gardens and traditional homes. Wide tree-lined streets make it a pleasant place for a leisurely walk away from central Ubud.

Do

As a centre of the arts, Ubud has dance and shadow puppet performances every night. There are also plenty of spas for resynchronising your chakras, and all manner of spiritual classes and treatments, some distinctly less genuine than others.

Campuhan Ridge Walk. Campuhan Ridge Walk begins beside the Pura Gunung Lebah and follows a gently undulating 2 km paved ridge trail. This walk was recommended in the early 21st century but as of 2026 the views have sadly been ruined by development. Still, it is a nice enough walk. The best way to do it is to take a Grab to Bankiang Sidem, the village on the northern end of the walk. This way, you'll be walking downhill 2km back into central Ubud. Note: a taxi mafia controls Bankiang Sidem and prevents Grabs and outside taxis from picking up passengers there. They can still drop off, however.

Sari Organik Walk. The Sari Organik Walk is an easy stroll through rice fields immediately north of central Ubud. Passing small cafés, traditional farms and coconut palms, it offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets and is especially pleasant early in the morning or around sunset.

Kajeng Rice Field Walk. This pleasant walk begins near Jalan Kajeng and quickly leaves central Ubud behind, passing rice fields, small cafés and traditional homes. It is quieter than the Campuhan Ridge Walk and offers a glimpse of everyday village life.

Sweet Orange Walk. The Sweet Orange Walk is even better than the Campuhan Ridge Walk was before it was ruined by development. It follows narrow paths through rice fields just north of central Ubud, passing cafés, rice fields, homestays and art studios. It is a relaxing walk suitable for most visitors. Loop back into central Ubud by turning onto Jalan Kajeng and browse its art and trinket stalls.

Bali Center for Artistic Creativity (BCAC). Art studio nestled in beautiful grounds and galleries offering art classes from beginners to teachers, and internationally accredited courses run by Bruce Sherratt.

Payuk Bali Home Cooking Class. Traditional Balinese cooking such as sate lilit, Balinese salad, and nasi kuning.

Paon Bali Cooking Class. Traditional Balinese cooking class in the home of a very hospitable family. They offer a pick-up in Ubud.

Pemulan Bali - Balinese Farm Cooking School. A new community project to save the organic farmer in the village. They have the cooking classes every day for vegetarians and meat lovers. The program consists of a visit to a local market, an organic farm tour, picking some ingredients for cooking and hands-on cooking experience (you will cook your food).

Ubad Ubud Bali Cooking Class. Introduction to the exotic ingredients and unique culinary heritage of Bali, set in Balinese compound.

Ubud Cooking Class with Putu. Private Balinese cooking class at Putu's family compound in Pejeng, near Ubud. Guests prepare five dishes and eat the meal they make. A morning market visit is available with a separate package. Pickup and return from accommodation in Ubud are included.

Barong Dance. Kecak and fire dance at 6:30 and Barong dance at 09:30, every day. Each lasts about an hour and the ticket is sold separately. Barong dance is very much a performance for tourists, and the story is of the never-ending battle between good and evil. There is actually not much dancing and a lot of talking in this performance. While buying a ticket, you will get an outdated description of the forthcoming performance.

Pura Dalem. One of the best kecak performances in Ubud, every Friday and Monday evening. Staged in beautiful surroundings outside under the banyan trees, and followed by a fire dance. Excellent ambiance and the fire dance at the end is impressive. A leaflet in several languages is at disposal to understand the illustrated Ramayana story. However, parts of the performance can get repetitive.

Puri Saren & Puri Saraswati. Smack dab in the centre of town, dance performances are staged here almost nightly.

Bali Healing. Even for the experienced massage consumer, this six-bed massage centre is an experience. A 1-hr massage is about Rp80,000. Magic warm stone massage for Rp120,000. Several other deep tissue and reflexology treatments are available

Bamboo Bali Spa. Friendly and attentive service in a comfortable setting, with interiors featuring soft cream colours and tasteful ornaments. The therapists deliver top-notch therapeutic massages. You can enjoy cups of comforting rosella or ginger tea at the cosy seating area after treatment.

Sang Spa. Small full-service day spa, owned and run by a young couple named Ngurah and Asti. Simple, secluded, clean and nicely decorated. Very professional staff.

SenS Spa. SenS Spa, inside the SenS Hotel & Spa, features 1 couples treatment suite, 2 single suites and 3 foot reflexology stations.

Ubud Sari Health Resort. Emphasis on Balinese-style healing therapy. Offers alternative health care, a day spa, beauty salon, health massage, vegetarian restaurant and yoga.

Verona Spa. Private individual or coupled rooms that open onto a rice terrace. 4-hour package called the Verona Spa Experience has a massage, body scrub, flower bath, facial, manicure, pedicure, and hair creme bath (not to be missed if you like having your head massaged).

Tamarind Spa. Excellent spa with professional and well qualified therapists. which attracts rave reviews. Full spa menu and spa packages menu. They are also able to give massage training lessons. www.murnis.com.

Pertenin Body Care. Facial treatments and massage in a relaxing, modern environment. Customer may select the oils and herbs for any treatment.

Adventure & Spirit. Canyoning is an outdoor adventure and sport using a variety of techniques that may include walking, abseiling, jumping, sliding down natural slopes and swimming in white water for aquatic canyons. And of course discover beautiful and hidden places at the heart of Balinese nature.

Whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities

There is good rafting available on the Ayung River at Sayan, just west of Ubud. Almost as good as the rafting itself is the wonderful experience of being right down inside the Ayung gorge. This is the domain of high-end resorts like the Four Seasons and Amandari, and it is a very scenic area indeed. The rapids are Class II and Class III, and best during the rainy season as the river can run a bit dry from June to September. There are two well established operators, both with offices on the main road in Sayan, close to Amandari, however other operators have sprung up.

Cycle tours are an increasingly widespread and popular option.

Bali Countryside Cycling. A/C hotel return, 3½ hours downhill biking, Light Breakfast, Bike and Safety equipment, Guide, Mineral water en route, Lunch and Insurance covered.

Bali Bintang Tour. Hotel transfer, light breakfast overlooking Mt. Batur, well maintained bikes, water en route, lunch, insurance covered.

Bali Budaya Eco Tours. Free pickup from hotel, breakfast with a view of Mount Batur, visit to coffee plantation, downhill cycling through rice paddies and villages, visit to a Balinese family compound, optional flat/uphill cycling and a generous buffet lunch. Two guides per group, bikes in good condition, helmets, water also included. Also do volcano climbs, jungle treks, etc.

Bali Bike Adventures. Includes return hotel transfer, mountain bike with safety helmet, breakfast, towel and mineral water, all entrance fees, professional guide, buffet lunch, insurance covered for each participant.

Bali Hai Adventures Specialist. See the Bali countryside at a leisurely pace on a bicycle. Includes private A/C van (min 2 pax booking), mountain bike and safety helmet, breakfast and lunch, fruit and mineral water on tour, entrance fees and personal insurance coverage.

Bali Adventure Tours. Established in 1989, one of the first whitewater rafting adventures in Bali. They offer packages that include their elephant safari park & lodge, cycling, rafting and an elephant safari. Free pickup from hotel.

Sobek Bali Utama. Specialise in white-water rafting and cycling tours. Established in 1989, this was the first company of its type in Bali, and they are distinctly less package-oriented than their main competitor.

Ubud Yoga Centre. Expat-run centre offers everything from single attendance classes up to residential yoga instructor training courses.

The Yoga Barn. The most well known and the biggest studio in Ubud. Offers a huge of classes (can get up to 30+ different classes every day) and an excellent set of teachers mostly in the Ashtanga/Vinnyasa school. At the same time - can be quite crowded without much of the individual approach because of the scale. Upper studio has great views of the surrounding rice terraces. Residential packages, multiple day classes and simple single entry classes. If you are a teacher, they offer the possibility of renting the centre to host your classes.

Alchemy Yoga and Meditation Center. One of the several major yoga centers in Ubud, offering quite a unique classes which are usually called like "Fire / Ether / Earth Class" with different goals and practices in a beautiful setting. Has a restaurant with the same name nearby.

Radiantly Alive Yoga. Pleasant and well-known studio in the center of Ubud offering a variety of classes

Intuitive Flow. One of the most well known yoga studios with good reviews to the west from the center

Anand Ashram@Ubud. Non-profit institution offering yoga, meditation, satsang, kirtan, bed and breakfast. Visiting teachers and students are welcome to use the space for their programs and stay on donation basis.

Bali Yoga School. Offers yoga classes with a creative blend of the classical and modern yoga philosophies. Their courses in Bikram, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Dharma, and Forest Yoga are challenging but can heal physical and mental problems with fun.

Taman Hati Yoga and Meditation Center. This centre was founded in 2000 by two local men, both from families containing many generations of Hindu priests. Set up for both complete beginners, and those already experienced but wishing to broaden their horizons. Every Wednesday at 19:30, there is a free class entitled "World Peace Meditation".

Bali Yoga Teacher Training Center. Yoga school with instructors from diverse regions, bringing a variety of yoga styles.

Bali Yoga Teacher Training Center (Bali YTTC). Yoga Alliance certified RYS 200/300 yoga school located in a peaceful jungle river valley in Bitera, 10-15 minutes outside central Ubud. Offers 21-day residential Hatha, Ashtanga & Vinyasa teacher training courses with organic plant-based meals and villa accommodations.

Buy

Ubud has a vast assortment of art and jewelry shops. Head for the boutique type stores on Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud for higher quality goods (with appropriately higher prices), or down to the market for bulk-produced cheapies. Be prepared to bargain.

Ubud Market. This is a double storey warren of stalls bursting at the seams with wood carvings, batik shirts, sarongs, and all manner of other souvenirs aimed specifically at tourists. It is better to try the shops upstairs where you will find the same products often for sale at lower prices. You will still need to use your best bargaining skills of course. Try to avoid the period from 11:00-14:00 when tour buses from further afield tend to arrive en-masse. If hiring a car for a day, it might be worth it to make a stop in Tegallalang, where they are geared more towards wholesale buyers. The Sukawati Market is crowded and sells trinkets in bulk as well, but quality is dubious.

Craft villages between Ubud and Sanur

The 25-km road to Ubud from Sanur in the south passes through a series of small towns and villages which specialize in the production of particular arts and crafts. The towns are Batubulan/Singakerta for stone carvings, Celuk for silver jewellery, Batuan for paintings, and Mas for wood carvings. The whole area is sometimes referred to as the "craft villages" of Bali, although it is all a bit more built-up and congested than one might infer from the term "village."

This is the best area to see and buy a wide variety of Balinese craftwork in a short period of time. There are many large showrooms where arts and crafts in the Balinese style are offered for sale. Nearly all organised day-tours of central Bali stop at one or more of these showrooms (and the tour operators usually have a financial tie-up with the places where they stop, collecting a commission on purchases.) Be careful, many of these shops specialise in pricing based on huge commissions to the drivers and tour busses.

Ganesha Bookstore. Second hand bookstore. Also has great range of new books about Bali and Indonesia. Been around since 1986 and now has a second branch in Seminyak.

Pondok Pekak Library & Learning Centre. This privately run community library often has decent fiction and other books for sale. By buying here you are supporting their mission to make free books available to Balinese schoolkids. When you visit, check to see if they have any cultural performances coming up. Also has a small cafe serving home-made snacks.

Sukawati Art Market. This huge market is like a one-stop centre for all the craft villages between Sanur and Ubud. Many souvenir shop owners from around Bali wholesale purchase their items here, and prices are considerably lower than in the tourist centers like Kuta, Sanur, and Ubud town centre. For a taste of everyday, go to the food and produce market opposite the art market.

Threads of Life. A fair trade store that stocks commercially made, traditional hand-woven textiles from Bali and all points east in Indonesia. Or better yet, go to the shops that are actually from the villages and outer islands like Timor and Flores, and specialize in traditional weavings.

Eat

Ubud has one of Indonesia's most diverse dining scenes, ranging from inexpensive local warungs serving traditional Balinese dishes to internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurants. Vegetarian, vegan and organic cafés are especially well represented, but excellent Indonesian, Japanese, Italian, Mexican, Thai and Middle Eastern cuisine can all be found within walking distance of the town centre. Note that, unlike in less-touristy places in Bali, listed prices do not include 10% tax and 6-7% service charge, which are added to the final bill (known as plus plus).

Ubud has moved more upmarket in recent decades, so truly cheap meals are hard to find. But there is still plenty of cheap, good food at good prices.

Bubu Warung. Healthy and delicious Balinese cuisine with plenty of choices on the menu. If you have any special requests, Ibu Made will be happy to cater for you.

Dewa Warung. Dewa's is one of the better cheap places to eat in town. Serves all the usual Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Most mains Rp24,000 - 36,000.

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka 1. A Bali culinary experience. The babi guling (spit-roasted pig) here is world-famous, and this humble eating place is virtually a place of pilgrimage. The roast pork is served with rice and spiced veggies, order the special (Rp55,000) to get a bit of everything — including offal and blood sausage. There are normal tables and chairs but you can also sit on the floor at low tables inside the bale (pavilion).

Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka 2. Unlike the original, where comfort and appearance are not strong points, this outlet is a two-storey restaurant which is spotless, airy and comfortable.

Pizza Bagus. Provides fresh made to order pizzas, pasta and other Italian style meals. Italian gelato and a full deli are also available. Eat-in, take-out or delivery. Organic market held every Saturday morning. Games and TV are provided to entertain children. Free wifi.

Sawah Indah Resto Ubud. Lunch or dinner with a rice field view. Fish pond. Relaxing and good for a family or group.

Sari Bamboo. A tourist class warung, with food freshly cooked to order, set amid tropical gardens on the main road to Penestanan village. Mainly Indonesian food flavoured to suit the taste of western visitors. The warung and bungalows are easily distinguishable by the display of modern art works by the resident artist. No hard sell though, just good food in beautiful surroundings at good prices. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Warung biah biah. Mainly rice and noodle-based dishes.

Warung Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku. authentic Balinese mixed rice.

Sun Sun Warung. One of Ubud's best-loved local warungs, Sun Sun Warung serves authentic Balinese cooking in a relaxed atmosphere. Housed in a rustic double-storey building with gardens and pavillions to sit in as well. Excellent food and service.

Warung Siam. Warung Siam brings authentic Thai flavours to central Ubud with fragrant curries, spicy salads, noodle dishes and traditional stir-fries. Fresh ingredients, generous portions and reasonable prices make it one of the town's most reliable choices for Thai food.

Warung Mangga Madu. Popular with locals and travellers looking for authentic flavours, Warung Mangga Madu specialises in freshly prepared Balinese and Indonesian favourites. Its relaxed atmosphere and consistently good food make it one of Ubud's hidden culinary gems.

Warung Lokal. Warung Lokal offers excellent Indonesian comfort food in a clean, modern setting. The varied menu includes everything from nasi goreng and satay to regional specialties, making it a reliable choice for an inexpensive meal.

Sayuri Healing Food. Sayuri Healing Food has become one of Ubud's best-known vegan restaurants. The menu features colourful organic dishes, raw food creations, smoothies and fresh juices, with an emphasis on healthy, nutrient-rich ingredients and sustainable eating.

Fu Shou Noodle Club. Fu Shou Noodle Club focuses on freshly made noodles inspired by regional Chinese cuisine. Handmade dumplings, rich broths and bold flavours have quickly earned it a reputation as one of Ubud's best noodle restaurants.

Alchemy. A 100% raw vegan organic cafe & juice bar, organic health food store, and holistic clinic. Yummy breakfast bar with fruits, nuts, seeds, and raw vegan organic nutmilks and yoghurts from 07:00-11:00, delicious salad bar with amazing superfoods and toppings from 11:00-21:00. Alchemy has an Instagram account at @alchemybali.

Kafe Batan Waru. Long established Ubud institution. Excellent Balinese and other Indonesian food as well as western options, in a well designed space. Also serves top quality coffee, and has a dessert menu which includes an especially notable version of Balinese black rice pudding (bubur injin). Indoor and outdoor seating.

Clear Cafe. An organic cafe with a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and raw food-friendly selections. Free Wi-Fi. Try free samples from their bakery at the front of the restaurant!

Cafe des Artistes. This Belgian-owned eatery serves Indonesian dishes as well as a vast array of international classics. Famous for their grilled tenderloin steaks. Extensive winelist, cocktails, Belgian beers and homemade desserts. Free wifi from 11:00-18:00. To make sure you get a table for dinner, call ahead.

Casa Luna. Large, long-established restaurant serving western and local dishes, and plenty that fall somewhere in between.

Murni's Warung. Excellent western and Balinese food in a stunning, gorge setting. Elegant lounge bar. Historic, being the 1st real restaurant in Ubud founded by Murni herself in 1974. Also a shop with interesting collectibles and the odd real antique.

Naughty Nuri's Warung and Grill. Crowded roadside watering hole. Microbrews, great martinis and slabs of BBQ ribs. This is very much a standard stop for Korean or Japanese tour buses. Once a week they do amazing grilled tuna. Careful that the waitresses do not stick other peoples drinks on your bill.

Nomad. A long-standing institution that serves up a good selection of Balinese, Indonesian, and western dishes, but deservedly popular is their version of a tapas selection, consisting of bite-sized portions of local flavors. Also serves a wide range of cocktails and spirits.

Taco Casa. Mexican Restaurant. Open kitchen, simple and fresh tacos (soft and crispy), nachos, 8-layer burrito, fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, quesadillas and taco salad bowl. Fresh blended tropical fruit juices or lassies, milkshakes, freshly prepared lemonade, pure juices, mineral water, hot drink, margarita, mojito, sangria and soft drinks.

Uma Resto. Provides an Asian (Balinese, Indonesian, Thai) and Western cuisine, and various of beverages; cocktail, mocktail, coffee or tea. Free wifi

Milk & Madu Ubud. Outstanding breakfasts and artisan coffee, wood-fired pizzas and hearty lunches. The beautiful high-ceilinged light-filled room gets quite warm on hot days.

Hujan Locale. Created by renowned chef Will Meyrick, Hujan Locale celebrates Indonesia's extraordinary regional cuisine through beautifully presented modern dishes. Combining traditional recipes with contemporary techniques, it has become one of Ubud's leading destinations for Indonesian fine casual dining.

Nusantara by Locavore. Nusantara by Locavore showcases the incredible diversity of Indonesian cuisine, with recipes collected from islands across the archipelago. Beautifully prepared and presented, it offers one of the best opportunities in Bali to explore authentic regional cooking beyond the familiar Balinese classics.

Donna. Donna combines Mediterranean flavours with a lively rooftop atmosphere, offering tapas, grilled meats, seafood, handcrafted cocktails and live music. Its stylish setting makes it one of Ubud's most popular evening dining destinations.

Zest. Set beside the Campuhan valley, Zest has earned a reputation as one of Bali's finest vegan restaurants. The creative menu features beautifully presented plant-based dishes inspired by Indonesian and international flavours, complemented by excellent coffee, juices and desserts.

The Elephant. The Elephant combines fresh vegetarian cuisine with one of Ubud's most peaceful dining locations overlooking the Campuhan valley. Seasonal ingredients, excellent coffee and panoramic views make it a favourite for breakfast, brunch or a relaxed lunch.

Seed Eatery. Seed Eatery offers quality coffee, fresh breakfasts and creative brunch dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Bright interiors, friendly service and consistently excellent food have quickly made it one of Ubud's favourite cafés.

Umah Pizza. Uma Pizza specialises in authentic wood-fired pizzas made with quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Fresh pasta, salads and Italian desserts complete a menu that has made it one of Ubud's favourite casual Italian restaurants.

Honey & Smoke. Honey & Smoke celebrates cooking over fire with expertly grilled meats, seafood and seasonal vegetables. Mediterranean influences, creative cocktails and stylish surroundings make it an excellent choice for an evening meal.

Mazzoni Pizza. Mazzoni Pizza brings traditional Italian flavours to Ubud with slow-fermented dough, wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Friendly service and consistently high-quality ingredients have made it a favourite among both visitors and local residents.

Pukako. Nestled in the rice fields of North Ubud, this cafe-restaurant has beautiful views from its lovely outdoor eating area. Fantastic paninis, smoothie bowls, and western delights

Many of the five-star hotels in and around Ubud have top class restaurants, with the Four Seasons Resort and Maya Ubud being of special note.

Bebek Bengil. An interesting restaurant with paddy field views and nice gardens. Famous for their crispy fried duck and some European-based menu items. They have a good selection of cakes as well. Free wifi in the area closest to the street.

Cascades Restaurant. A fine dining restaurant with French inspired menus mixed with Asian influences. Good views and hushed atmosphere. Has a large wine list.

Mozaic. The brainchild of chef Chris Salans, this is one of the leading restaurants in the whole of Bali, and one which will please even the most jaded of foodies. Multi-award winning, including the coveted Les Grandes Tables du Monde award (the only restaurant in Bali ever to achieve that). Western prices, but worth it as a special treat. Try the degustation menu.

Apéritif Restaurant. Views of a jungle valley and colonial-era decor, under the guidance of chef Nic Vanderbeeken.

Locavore NXT. Locavore NXT continues the legacy of one of Asia's most celebrated restaurants. Combining cutting-edge culinary techniques with locally sourced ingredients and a strong focus on sustainability, it offers an unforgettable tasting-menu experience that ranks among Indonesia's finest dining destinations.

Room4Dessert. Created by award-winning chef Will Goldfarb, Room4Dessert is unlike any other restaurant in Bali. Multi-course dessert tasting menus are paired with creative savoury bites and cocktails, making it one of Ubud's most original and internationally recognised dining experiences.

Sayan House. Perched above the Ayung River gorge, Sayan House combines Japanese precision with bold Latin American flavours. Creative cocktails, beautifully presented dishes and breathtaking sunset views have made it one of Ubud's premier dinner venues.

Drink

Ubud is emphatically not party town: there are a few places for a quiet drink, but the strictly enforced local regulation that all live performances and loud music must end by 22:30 puts a bit of a clamp on the local nightlife. More often than not, visitors have a quiet drink with their evening meal, and call it a night.

The Melting Pot Game Room and Pub. Pool hall and games room with full bar. Every nation is represented with a flag and customers are encouraged to sign their country’s flag. Food, music, table tennis, darts, foosball, video games, pool tables, and a general atmosphere make it a place where locals, ex-pats, and tourists often congregate. 8 Ball tournaments every Tuesday night and 10 ball tournaments on Fridays are open to all.

Bali Pulina. Sprawling venue with lush, tropical vegetation, coffee and tea tastings, also a zipline through the foliage. Try Kopi Luwak.

Seniman Coffee Studio. A popular retro cafe that serves a variety of selected coffees & food from several local regions.

Fold. This cafe-bakery-pizza place-restaurant has the best barista coffee in Ubud. They also have the excellent, local Kura Kura beer on tap.

Sleep

Ubud has a vast selection of lodging for all budgets. Many visitors prefer to avoid the noisy, congested, and crowded town centre and instead stay out in nearby rural areas, ideally with views of the famous rice terraces, but this can make it a little difficult to get around. As in most of Bali, in all but the grandest of hotels, check-in and check-out times are a bit of a moveable feast. It is safe to assume about 14:00 and 11:00.

Ubud has many homestays which are the cheapest form of lodging, a good way to meet the locals, and the natural replacement for hostels on the backpacker circuit. If you want to stay in town, the area around Jl Monkey Forest is generally the most expensive little more expensive (from Rp80,000-100,000 per night). If you want cheaper prices try the areas around Jl Hanoman, north of Jl Raya Ubud and further out in Peliatan. In the low season especially, bargains can be had by those willing to bargain. Jl Kajeng, close to the centre, is a peaceful, mostly pedestrianised street with many small budget to mid-range homestays - those on the west side have views at the rear towards the river, waterfall or nearby rice fields.

Dewi Antara Homestay. A humble Balinese family homestay. Quiet and clean bungalows in a garden setting. The father participates in cultural activities (he's a dancer), so it's fun to watch him in traditional dress. Mum prepares the breakfast of toast, fruit salad and coffee.

Family Guest House. Friendly Hindu family makes you feel right at home. Rooms are placed in a lovely compound and includes a good breakfast.

Gustis Garden Bungalows. Balinese style with 25 m sq, private balcony, private bathroom. hot and cold water, king size bed, clothing cabinet, dressing table, ceiling fan, wash basin and standing shower.

Jati Home Stay. Rooms using natural, traditional materials of bamboo, marble and thatched roofs. An atmosphere of art and culture, all members of Jati's family are traditional Balinese artists. Learn Balinese painting and watch a group of children practice Balinese dancing.

Bali Traditional Homestay. Rooms with private bathroom with cold and hot shower, overlooking rice fields. Free Wi-Fi.

Melati Cottages. Traditional style rooms set around a cafe by a pool. You can walk in from north or south.

Narasoma Homestay. Down a little lane off busy Jl Monkey Forest. Family home with accommodation. Balinese compound setting with traditional carved buildings, surrounded by coconut palms. Top floor has views of the central mountains and Mount Agung. Clean and airy, and breakfast is included.

Nyoman Murjana Homestay. Clean, nicely furnished rooms in a traditional Balinese family compound. A breakfast is included with egg, toast, veggies, fresh fruit, coffee and tea, also has WiFi. The family can help with information, bicycle and motorbike rental.

Rumah Roda Homestay and Restaurant. Lovely family compound with rooms. The restaurant has a Sunday evening buffet. The book A Little Bit One O'Clock is about this place and family.

Shana Homestay. 3 bungalows in garden setting, each with 2 beds, breakfast included.

Raka's House. Quiet family homestay, bungalows with and without AC, free wifi, small pool.

The Onion Collective. Several unique cozy rooms, dorms, and a co-working space. Several comfortable places to hang out, inside and outside. Very friendly host and staff. Small menu but very tasty (burgers, dragon bowl, salads). Close to Yoga Barn, Hubud, Monkey Forest.

Ayuk Guest House. Sweet Balinese family run guest house, with three spacious double rooms; fans, Wi-Fi, full breakfast (pancakes or omelettes plus fruit and coffee/tea) cooked by Ayu. Nyoman, the husband, is also a driver, and they'll go out of their way to assist you with transport or needs.

Sunarta House Homestay. Nice and comfortable, Apr 2018 - Rp200,000 double room no hot water bathroom inside, nice breakfast - Rp250,000 for double fan room with hot water (not always work) bathroom inside, nice breakfast include.

Cucu House. A complex of bungalows surrounded by beautiful foliage, with both comfort and fresh air. Feels like you're out in the country with roosters crowing. Popular with couples. Check-in is hard to find, but just enter the complex and ask for directions (say "Cucu House", pronounced like "choo-choo") and someone will help you. Free, delicious breakfast served on the porch outside your room. Wifi is available but slow.

Aru house Ubud. dorm 10-beds, wifi, aircon, bedlight, power x1, curtains, locker (need padlock), attached one toilet (toilet paper, toilet gun)+one shower, no towel, no soap. small common area with water refill, tea, coffee, small fridge. Activities via Jalan-Jalan Wisata Rp 200,00-350,000/person.

Nua house. dorm 6-beds, wifi, aircon, bedlight, power x1, curtains, locker (need padlock), attached one toilet (toilet paper, toilet gun)+one shower, extra separated toilet+shower, optional towel (Rp 10,000), soap. small balcony, common area with water refill, tea, coffee.

Anom Cottages. Small bungalows with lovely views over the adjacent valley. 3 min from the town centre.

Bucu View Resort. 8 bedrooms, all tastefully furnished.

Dewa Bungalows. Family compound close to the center of town. Family-run and gracious, it has nice little slate pool perfect for a dip in the heat of the day. There is free access to WiFi as well as a restaurant.

De Munut Resort. Traditional Balinese architecture with spa, public swimming pool, internet services, free Wi-Fi, deluxe room, super deluxe room.

Bali T House Klod. 1, 2 and 3 bedroom private villas in a traditional rice farming and carving area 5 km from central Ubud. Daily maid and breakfast service included. Shared pool with rice-field views. This is an environmentally friendly and ecologically sustainable compound and part of a Balinese village.

Jiwa Damai Bali Retreat. Organic (permaculture) garden and retreat centre in small village close to Ubud. 6 modern minimalist styled rooms with king size, queen size or two twin bed and three garden lumbungs. Spacious open air lounge and dining area, fresh water pool, organic fruit and vegetables used to prepare meals. Yoga and meditation classes for guests. Facilities available for seminars and retreats.

Munari Resort and Spa Ubud. 5-10 min by car to Ubud center, Free Wifi in room, option of twin and double bed, room full AC, swimming pool, free bicycle to use based on request, Bakmie MG Restaurant specialty in noodles. All rooms with balcony overlooking nice garden, swimming pool. 2nd floor room can enjoy the beauty of ricefield next to Munari.

Oka Kartini Bungalow. Quirky old Balinese house complex on the edge of town. The rooms here are a bit long in the tooth, but decorated with more carvings and gold paint than the average temple. Friendly staff supervised by the owner Oka Kartini. Large art gallery, a small but pleasant garden pool. Shadow puppet shows 3 days a week (extra charge).

Puri Asri Villa & Spa. In a very quiet spot south of town. Offer a couple of scheduled shuttle rides to Jl Monkey Forest and back each day. Walking distance from town via the Monkey Forest. Villas have spacious rooms, A/C, bath and shower (including outdoor showers), patio. Breakfast delivered to room if you choose. Take cash as their credit card facilities don't always work.

Puri Padi Hotel. A Balinese style hotel in green gardens. A tad rundown but with lovely staff.

Puri Saraswati Bungalows. Puri Saraswati is located in the centre of Ubud Village. Rooms are set back from the road and quiet and there's a pool and WiFi. Airport transfers are available.

Sania's house. Beautiful place with clean rooms, swimming pool. Wi-Fi and breakfast included.

Sri Aksata Ubud Resort. 16 bungalow-style rooms in lush gardens. 50 m from the busy road, but very quiet except for the singing of birds. Simple but pleasant rooms with bamboo furniture, western toilets and hot water. Large pool with rice paddies beyond. Internet cafe on the premises.

Sri Ratih Cottages. 30 rooms. Large peaceful garden, good-sized pool, free wifi for guests, 24 hr room service. Long staying guests may find good value here.

Suastika Bed and Breakfast. Suastika is a Hindu symbol of peace. The rooms overlook family temples and beautiful jungle gardens, they all include a kitchen, large bathtub, shower and large huge bed. Breakfast is included with Bali coffee, pancakes, fruit all served on your private porch.

Taman Indrakila. Boutique hotel high above the Campuhan River Valley in Sangginan. All rooms have a private terrace.

Ubud Terrace Bungalows. Refurbished in 2008. Breakfast included, swimming pool, friendly staff. Tour and shuttle buses booking service.

Uma Sari Cottages. Balinese style thatch, wood and bamboo cottages surrounded by rice fields.

Hibiscus Cottages. Family-run, includes breakfast served on your patio. 7 Balinese style concrete cottages surrounded by rice fields. 2 A/C rooms are more expensive but built in 2010. Views from the 2nd storey cottages.

Villa Indah. Breakfast included. Friendly Balinese family. 2 rooms and one suite, all have terrace and bathroom with hot water and tub. Stone villa in the middle of the rice fields. Self service kitchen. Motorbike for rent.

Villa JJ & Spa Ubud. 4-stars villa. Breakfast included. Pet-friendly accommodation. Has sun terrace and 3 outdoor swimming pools. Surrounding by paddy fields. Far from the crowd, Ubud Palace is more than 4 kilometers away and Ubud Monkey Forest is 6 kilometers away.

Pondok Pundi Village Inn. 11 guest rooms, each including mini bar, shower, bathrobes, refrigerator in central Ubud.

Taman Harum Cottages. Consists of 17 lovely rooms, restaurant, bar, swimming pool with a view of rice paddies, yoga/meditation room. Offers aerobic class, woodcarving studio & workshops.

Murni's Houses and Tamarind Spa. Very comfortable, quiet accommodation, excellent spa and meals can be delivered from Murni's Warung restaurant. Breakfast included. Architecturally impressive. All rooms have verandahs and are fly-screened. Pick ups and drops at the airport or anywhere else can be arranged. Tours, classes and activities can also be arranged. Free Wifi. www.murnis.com.

Bali Dream Resort & Spa. cozy accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant and free Wi-Fi access in all areas of the property. Located in Penestanan Ubud area, a five minute drive from Ubud Centre and a five minute walk from the Antonio Blanco Museum.

Ayu Duwur Beji. Large and clean bungalow with a beautiful semi outdoor bathroom,nice view in to the jungle valley, great infinity pool and a very kind owner.

Alam Dania Cottage. Pool and the gardens are stunning and surrounded by breathtaking jungle, Cottage is small but cosy and comfy.

Bale Bali Inn. Rooms at Bale Bali Inn provide a flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a minibar, and guests can stay connected with free wifi.

Desak Putu Putera Cottages. within walking distance of city center and monkey forest area. The rooms were clean and safe. Breakfast was pretty good.

The Pari Sudha. Nice place with forest view, but access area have to walk.

Taman Rahasia. 8-room boutique hotel with a lush tropical garden in quiet part of Penestanan. Spa, restaurant and good-sized pool. Free WiFi & free shuttle bus service to Ubud town centre. Does not accept families with children under 7 yr.

Several of the leading luxury resorts anywhere in Asia are located in Ubud. Expect superb standards, with prices to match.

Amandari. This was the first Aman hotel in Bali. It is getting a little bit tired but is still most impressive. Good views, tennis court, spa, restaurant. A luxury resort with no TVs.

Amori Villa. A boutique retreat 3 km from Ubud overlooking Petanu River Valley. Opened in June 2009. Butler service, good food and wine. 5 private suites/villas, all with indoor/outdoor bathrooms, satelliteTV, king beds, free broadband internet access. Shared facilities include a 14 m infinity pool, bale and jacuzzi.

Barong Resort and Spa. A/C rooms equipped with cableTV, mini-bar with lunch table, and coffee/tea maker.Outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, airport and city transfers, and currency exchange.

Como Shambhala Estate. This is one of Bali's most expensive places to stay, and more a collection of super homes than a mere hotel. 20 min north of Ubud, close to the village of Payangan.

Four Seasons Resort at Sayan. One of Bali's truly great hotels, over-looking the Sayan gorge. Suites in the main building, individual villas down by the river. Restaurant and in-house spa facilities. Free shuttle bus to Ubud town centre.

Komaneka at Bisma. Short distance from the town. Built on a steep hillside with an infinity edge pool and surrounded by terraced rice paddies with a river rushing below. Central hotel block has spacious, tastefully decorated suites, private villas, a wedding chapel and separate spa huts. Komaneka also has two other properties in Ubud, the central and slightly older Monkey Forest and the newer but rather remote Tanggayuda.

Maya Ubud. 10 hectares of land with fine villas, excellent spa and a good restaurant. Architecturally impressive resort with two free form swimming pools. Free shuttle to centre of Ubud.

Natura Villa Resort and Spa. Overlooking Petanu River.

Naya Ubud. Set within Balinese rice fields, three traditional structures (a Lumbumg, Gladak, and Joglo) house the 5 bedrooms in this boutique luxury resort, surrounded by tropical gardens and an infinity pool.

Pertiwi Resort and Spa. Combining traditional Balinese design with modern touches. Alang-alang (thatched) roof, bamboo ceiling, long glass windows. A/C, cableTV, mini-bar, coffee/tea maker. Swimming pools, free wifi access, and a spa.

Pita Maha Resort and Spa. Hill-side resort with 24 villas. Good restaurant, high quality spa and lovely pool with views.

The Purist Villas & Spa. 14-villa boutique resort in the Ubud jungle, close to the Ubud Botanic Garden.

Santi Mandala Villa and Spa. Spa centre, poolside sunken bar and large private villas.

Ubud Hanging Gardens. On steep terraces overlooking the Ayung river and an ancient temple. 38 luxury villas, each with a heated private swimming pool. Villas with panoramic views of the valley, or riverside villas in the privacy of the gorge. Spa and innovative restaurant.

Viceroy Bali. Boutique hotel with four different grades of villa. Pristine valley setting, views from all the villas. In-house spa, good restaurant, shuttle buses into Ubud. A member of Small Leading Hotels of the World.

Waka Namya Resort and Spa. Resort in the "painters' village" of Penestanan, built in traditional Balinese style.

Wapa Di Ume Resort & Spa. Rural rice field setting 10 min north of Ubud town centre. Well maintained established resort. Good spa services and restaurant, and regular free shuttle buses into Ubud.

Villa Sabandari. A six room boutique hotel in the rice fields. Walking distance from the centre of Ubud.

The following are private, individual villas which only take a single group of customers at a time.

Agung Khalia Villa. Private villas from studio to three bedroom and six bedroom. Panoramic rice field and Mount Agung views. Each villa has its own private pool, staff and full service. Only 10 min east from central Ubud in the same valley as the Maya Ubud resort, and close to Goa Gajah.

De Ubud Villas & Spa. 3 private pool villas located in central Ubud. Choice of 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom villas.

Kajane Mua Private Villa and Mansion. Private villas, each with its own private pool. Kajane Resto provides a large selection for each meal and drinks, and room service is available until 23:00 at no extra charge. For an extra charge, a spa is available on the premises, with panoramic views of private Kajane rice fields. Friendly staff, 15 min walk to Sacred Monkey Forest or Ubud Market and Water Palace.

Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa & Spa. 23 contemporary villas with private pool, fully-equipped gourmet kitchen and 24-hours butler service.

Villa di Abing. 3 storey, 3 bedroom, fully staffed villa, in central Ubud. Riverside pool, natural green views and within easy walking distance of Ubud town centre.

Jendela di Bali. This private villa in the hills near Ubud is like a 'village' of unique living spaces. A collection of handcrafted bales represent traditional Balinese and Indonesian Archipelago styles, creating a very authentic cultural experience. Facilities include a wet-edge infinity pool, media and meditation bale, lounge bale and two bedroom bales 'The White Elephant' and 'The Kingfisher'. The villa accommodates up to four and guests have the entire villa for their exclusive use with staff to cook and clean.