A 4-Day Travel Guide to Ubud Bali Beyond the Instagram Hype
Updated: Aug 27
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I was so over the constant Bali posts and reels on Instagram. It seemed like everyone was flocking to Bali, doing the same things, and sharing similar experiences. I had mentally explored all the places just by reading captions and descriptions, which kind of dampened my initial excitement about going there. But when I finally visited, I realized why everyone was so enamored with Bali.
Ubud Bali Travel Guide
This Ubud Bali travel guide is packed with insider tips on the best time to visit (minus the Instagram crowds), must-see spots, and places you can skip. We’ll also cover what to wear (important because of Bali’s strong Hindu culture and temple dress codes) and recommend the best places to stay, whether you want to be surrounded by rice terraces, enjoy beachfront views, or choose between cozy hostels and luxurious eco-accommodations. Dive in for an unforgettable Bali adventure! 😊
Table of Contents: A 4-Day Travel Guide to Ubud Bali Beyond the Instagram Hype Where is Bali? How to Get There? Why do Tourists Flock to Bali?
Other Places to Visit In and Around Ubud:
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Where is Bali?
Bali is a true island paradise in Indonesia, and although it’s just one of the country’s 17,500 islands, it’s undoubtedly the most famous, not just in Indonesia, but probably in all of Asia. While it might look small on the map, nestled between Lombok to the east and Java to the west, you’ll quickly realize how vast and diverse it is once you arrive.
How to Get There?
The best way to reach Bali is by flying into Denpasar-Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), located in the Kuta area, 13 km from Denpasar, the capital city. If you are coming from Europe, I would suggest using Garuda (Indonesian’s owned airline) and searching for your desired dates via Skyscanner.com. if you’re coming from India, then MakeMyTrip does a good job with flights and hotels. BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE.
From the airport, taxis are convenient and you can easily book one with EASY AIRPORT TAXIS BOOKINGS. Ubers and Grab are also a popular and reliable option for getting around.
Why do Tourists Flock to Bali?
Bali's welcoming atmosphere is a huge draw. The locals are warm and friendly, deeply rooted in their rich culture and traditions. This creates an inviting environment for travelers who want to immerse themselves in local experiences. Bali boasts stunning temple architecture, lush landscapes, and exotic cuisine, making it an irresistible destination.
Getting around Bali
Exploring Bali is best done by renting a car and driving yourself, which you can arrange by BOOKING HERE. However, we can get by saying that because we are Indians and we are used to the roads and similar traffic situation in India and hence, we are experts in manouveruring on roads like that. However for the average traveller, the traffic and roads can get very overwhelming, so for the ultimate convenience, consider hiring a driver who knows the local routes and can share fascinating stories about Bali.
Alternatively, local ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are handy for point-to-point travel.
If you prefer taxis, Blue Bird Taxi is recommended as they charge by the meter.
Scooters are zipping around Ubud all day long! Renting one is super affordable—usually just $8 a day. For a more powerful Yamaha NMax or a stylish Vespa, expect to pay $15-17/day. Don’t forget, you’ll need an international driving permit to drive in Bali.
When to Travel to Bali?
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry months of July and August, though it can be crowded with tourists. To avoid the crowds and still enjoy good weather, consider traveling in May, June, or September. The monsoon months of December to March are best avoided due to heavy rains and traffic congestion.
What to Wear in Bali?
For temple visits, dress modestly by covering your legs and shoulders. You can bring a long scarf or sarong or rent one on-site. Most temples offer saromgs along with the entrance ticket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you go hiking, otherise I managed my entire Bali trip in ballerinas and sandals/slippers. If you're visiting waterfalls, sturdy waterproof shoes are essential or ofcourse you can also go bare-feet. I carried a lot of dresses to Bali considering they double up pretty well for beaches and for evening dinners. Do not forget to carry your swimwear/bikinis, sunscreen, sunglasses, flip flops and hats.
Top Places to Explore in Bali
With its picturesque landscapes, including rice paddies, volcanic mountains, and beautiful beaches, and its popularity in its vibrant arts scene, Hindu temples, yoga retreats, and surfing spots, Bali has so much to offer. One can stay easily for a month if not two to explore all of the island. With so many amazing spots like Kuta, Canggu, Uluwatu, Sanur, and Nusa Dua to choose from, we had to pick what we wanted to see in just one week. Since it was our first time in Indonesia, we decided to go with the most popular and tourist-friendly places—Ubud and Seminyak.
Why we chose Ubud?
We were looking for a mix of culture, holy visits, relaxation, beach vibes, and beautiful countryside to explore, and Ubud seemed to check all those boxes perfectly. From everything we researched, it was clear that Ubud was the top spot for our first visit to Bali. To give you a glimpse of what's its like, read below:
North of Ubud, explore ancient Gunung Kawi Temple and the sacred springs of Tirta Empul. South, dive into Seminyak’s vibrant city life with great shopping and nightlife. East offers the magical Tirta Gangga Water Palace and peaceful Candidasa Beach. West features traditional Tanah Lot Temple, UNESCO rice terraces at Jatiluwih, and the hidden gem of Munduk Waterfall.
Where to Stay in Ubud?
Luxury
Korurua Dijiwa Ubud (INR: ₹10,000 to ₹15,000/ USD: $125 to $185) Experience Ubud’s natural beauty with private pools and lush gardens, perfect for an authentic Balinese retreat.
Bisma Terrace Suite (INR: ₹12,000 to ₹18,000/ USD $150 to $225) Features large, stylish rooms with amazing views of the jungle and rice fields, providing a luxurious and nature-filled getaway.
Medium
Stanagiri Villas Ubud (Tegalalang) (INR: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000/ USD $100 to $150) Located amidst Tegalalang’s famous rice terraces, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil setting.
Griya Sriwedari (INR: ₹8,000 to ₹12,000/ USD $100 to $150) A calm and charming place with traditional Balinese design and a lovely garden, offering a peaceful stay close to Ubud's sights.
Ubud Sayong House (INR ₹6,500 to ₹10,000/ USD $80 to $120) Cozy and welcoming, with a friendly host providing an authentic local experience.
Budget
Sumantra Guest House (INR ₹4,200 to ₹6,500/ USD $50 to $80) Known for its warm, homey feel and central location, making it a great spot to explore local markets and attractions.
I highly recommend booking your Bali accommodation through Booking.com. They offer competitive prices and reliable service, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
4 Days in Ubud
If you ask me how many days you should spend in Ubud, I'd say it’s hard to pin down—I could easily spend a whole month here! There's so much to explore, do, and even just chill out. But if you can't stay that long, 4 to 5 days is a great start before heading to your next Bali adventure.
We arrived at Kedantang Airport (NgurahRai airport) in Bali in the early hours of Saturday morning. The airport was luxuriously massive with beautiful Balinese decorations set up everywhere. Before we could head to the immigrations counter, first we needt o pay for our visas. $32 for each person visa fees. Ubud is situated in the central highlands of Bali, stands out as the island's cultural hub, celebrated for its traditional arts, crafts, and spiritual retreats.
Day 1:
Enter Ubud and our lavish stay at the earthy retreat of Kororua Dijiwa
The drive from the airport to Korurua Dijiwa Ubud took us about 1 hour and 45 minutes, but it was a scenic journey. We enjoyed seeing the beautiful Balinese architecture along the way. As we got closer to Ubud, the town came alive with tourists zipping around on scooters and bikes. The town center was bustling with people shopping for local goods, and everything had a vibrant, unreal vibe. The streets were clean, the buildings were adorned with Hindu art, and the lush greenery made me fall in love with the place instantly. It reminded me of my Goa holidays with friends in my 20s—only now I’m in my 40s, traveling with my family.
When we arrived at our villa at Kororua Dijiwa Ubud, we were over the moon. The place was a gorgeous wooden villa with its own private pool, perfectly mixing nature with luxury. The cottage was stylishly decorated, featuring a cozy sitting area, a beautifully designed bedroom, and a roomy bathroom. The highlight was definitely the outdoor tropical space with an open bathtub—it was amazing! I rarely use my bathtub at home due to lack of time, but here, I was excited to indulge in it. After enjoying a tasty meal of Nasi Goreng and chicken samosas for us, and Spaghetti Bolognese for the kids, we were ready to head out and explore the Sacred Monkey Sanctuary of Ubud.
Monkey Forest Ubud
Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, also known as Ubud Monkey Forest, is a nature reserve and temple complex in Padangtegal, Ubud, Bali, home to over 1,260 long-tailed macaques. We took a Grab to get there, and when we arrived, we saw people lined up to buy tickets. If you want to skip the line, you may alternatively book your Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary Ticket and Guided Tour via GetYourGuide. BOOK HERE.
The Monkey Forest is a charming spot where you can watch playful macaques among ancient temples and lush greenery. This open park is right in the town center and features lovely rainforest paths to explore. Even if you're not a fan of monkeys, the park’s scenic beauty makes it worth a visit. We had a blast strolling through the forest, watching the monkeys and their babies roam freely. They mostly ignored the visitors unless someone got too close. There was also a traditional music and dance performance at 4 pm in the sanctuary's open-air amphitheater, which was a delightful surprise. The kids had a great time playing around and observing the monkeys interact.
A quick tip: Keep your belongings secure and avoid bringing food or taking anything out of your backpack while you're there, and you'll have a trouble-free visit with the monkeys. |
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After a fun two hours at the park, we walked to the Ubud Palace, which was about a 20-minute stroll. The lovely weather and vibrant atmosphere of Ubud town center made the walk enjoyable. If you prefer, you can book an 8-10 hours tour that combines the Monkey Forest with other top Ubud attractions like the Ubud: Waterfall, Rice Terraces & Monkey Forest Private Tour which is a great option as well. However, we chose to relax at our villa before heading out for dinner.
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Later in the evening, we had the option to treat ourselves to a cultural dinner at Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner) which is a 7 minute walk from the Monkey Forest. The restaurant is very famous for its crispy duck dish with stunning rice field views and a traditional Balinese atmosphere. However, since we weren’t in the mood for crispy duck, we headed straight to Watercress instead.
A FOOD LOVER’S PARADISE WITH AN AWESOME VIBE - Watercress
We decided to grab dinner before the Legong show since it runs from 7:30 to 9 pm and would have made it pretty late by the time it ended. Our friends who had been to Bali suggested Watercress, and with its great reviews online, we thought it would be the perfect spot to check out. It didn’t disappoint! Watercress is a fantastic place with delicious, fresh dishes and a super chill vibe. Plus, they often have a live guitarist playing, which makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. We enjoyed an iced cappuccino, a chicken cashew salad, and a delicious chicken shawarma. The kids were thrilled with their special menu that included pancakes and a fruit platter. After a relaxing and enjoyable dinner, we were ready to enjoy the Legong dance show.
Legong Dance Show at Ubud Palace
We walked from Watercress to Ubud Palace, which was just a 10-minute stroll. A ticket seller approached us and we bought our tickets for the show. Even though we got there half an hour early, the hall was already packed and all the front row seats were taken. We managed to find a spot where the kids could sit on a mat right in front of the stage. We almost found some good seats under a tree, but then it started to rain. The Balinese are quick on their feet with their business skills—right as the rain began, they started selling plastic ponchos and umbrellas. Within 10 minutes, the supervisor announced that everyone should move to the covered hall across the road. Those who had arrived early lost their front row seats and had to scramble for new ones. But once the dance started, everyone was completely captivated. And it’s no wonder! The performance was a beautiful display of Bali’s rich culture with graceful movements, vibrant costumes, and a stunning mix of color, music, and theater. It was a fantastic Balinese cultural experience, definitely worth seeing.
Just a heads-up: this dance might not be for everyone. Sidd was initially intrigued by the show, but he found it a bit boring after a while because the movements started to feel repetitive, especially since he didn’t read the story in the pamphlet. The kids, on the other hand, were mesmerized for the first half-hour, sitting close to the stage and enjoying the colorful costumes, masks, and music. By the end, though, they started to nod off as the repetitive drum beats and expressions set in. However, for me, coming from a traditional dance background, it was incredibly exciting! |
We had to leave a bit early because it started pouring heavily again, and we knew it would be chaotic trying to get a taxi after the performance.
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Day 2:
We got a late start this morning thanks to jet lag and the excitement of our first day. Since I’m an early bird, I took advantage of the quiet and jumped into the villa pool. It was freezing but really woke me up! As the rest of the family started to stir and get ready, I planned out our day. We’d kick things off with the Aloha Bali swing, then grab lunch, visit Tirta Empul temple, check out the Pemulan coffee plantation, and finish with a delicious dinner at a Mexican restaurant in Ubud town center. We also thought about visiting the Tegalalang rice fields but decided to play by ear.
Aloha Bali Swing
I‘ve never done a photoshoot, I always feel so awkward and conscious to pose especially in fancy clothes or with accessories. I don’t know if a pregnancy photo shoot counts as one but I was so conscious to wear a gown and a crown and take photos of the baby bump, that I just decided to land in my PJs and take candid photos instead. So I rule that out as a photoshoot. So this time I decided to go bold and do a photo shoot in Bali as everyone had told me that Bali swing was a must do. The hype was real, the place was extremely commercial, the set up looked cringeworthy and every woman roamed in a rented gown and I wanted to run. But thanks to the organised manner in which the whole photo shoot was conducted and because of the friendly staff at Aloha Bali swing, I took up this personal challenge with myself. In fact it was so effortless and enjoyable. I loved every minute of it.
At an 8 minutes drive from Tegallalang Rice Terrace is Aloha Ubud Swing, one of the most popular swings in Bali. What sets it apart from the other swings? For one, Aloha Swing provides stunning views of the rice terraces while you enjoy thrilling swings over the valley. And second, the scenic photo opportunities are what set it apart. Aloha Ubud is a hotspot for swing lovers, offering a variety of single, tandem, and giant swings. It's an Instagrammer's dream, with swings set at different heights to capture beautiful shots of lush greenery and palm trees. Plus, there are plenty of props and platforms for unique photo ops, ensuring you leave with diverse and memorable pictures.
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Sidd and the kids were incredibly patient and supportive during my wild 2.5-hour adventure. If you’re not sure if your partner or kids will enjoy it, you might want to skip this one. It’s really more of a commercial setup meant for photos rather than an authentic Balinese experience. It’s not a typical tourist site—just a business opportunity.
You can book your tour of Bali, including the Aloha Ubud Swing with optional transfers and activities, HERE.
A FOOD LOVER’S PARADISE WITH AN AWESOME VIBE - Lunch at Tebasari
Located at a 7 minute drive from Aloha Ubud Swing and a 3 minute walk from Alas Harum rice fields is this gorgeous two floored restaurant that looks onto a magnificent view of a sloping rice field adorned with coconut trees. Either take a seat on the first floor of the restaurant overlooking this view or take a seat at the cabana by the artificial pond housing orange Koi fish swimming in it. Definite recommendations here are the Bebek Bengil crispy duck, Ayam panggang (roasted chicken leg served with spices and steamed rice), Gado-Gado (a traditional Indonesian veg salad with mixed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and a rich peanut sauce) and Stir-fried tempeh and tofu with a delicious blend of vegetables and savory sauces. They also have a kids menu.
Address: Tebasari Resto, Bar & Lounge, Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80561, Indonesia The average meal price for two at Tebasari Resto, Bar & Lounge in Ubud is typically around 300,000 to 500,000 IDR ($20 to $35). |
Tirta Empul temple
Visiting Tirta Empul Temple was a fantastic experience! (You might be wondering why we didn’t check out the Alas Harum rice fields right next to the restaurant. Don’t worry—I cover that later in my post, so keep reading!) This temple is about a 20-minute drive from Alas Harum, located in Manukaya Village, Tampaksiring District, Gianyar Regency. It is famous for its holy water, where Balinese Hindus come for purification. Built around a large spring in 962 AD by King Sri Candrabhayasingha Warmadewa during the Warmadewa dynasty, the name "Tirta Empul" comes from the spring itself, which feeds from the Pakerisan River. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, the Hindu god of water.
If you’re starting from Ubud Palace, it’ll take around 40 minutes to get there. The entrance is well-organized with parking, a ticket counter, and an automatic ticketing system at the gate. Once you enter, the friendly staff will give you a colorful sarong to wear, which is included in the ticket price. After donning our sarongs, we explored the temple, which is divided into three parts: Jaba Pura (front yard), Jaba Tengah (middle yard), and Jeroan (inner yard). In Jaba Tengah, you'll find two pools with 30 fountains named Pengelukatan, Pebersihan, Sudamala, and Pancuran Cetik (poison). Worshippers dip their head under each of the 30 water spouts from left to right, as a part of the holy purification process. For this, you'll need to switch to a green sarong worn like a dress with a red waist belt.
Heads Up: The locker area and changing room are quite messy—think of a large hall with a dirty, wet floor. We had to change into our sarongs on this mucky floor, and with more wet people coming in after their purification, it just got worse. Honestly, if I weren’t in vacation mode, I probably wouldn’t have stayed in such a place, but my vacation spirit kicked in, and I managed to overlook the mess. |
After changing into the green sarongs, we finally entered the Jaba Tengah. The kids were excited to join in, so we all took the plunge into the icy cold water. Many people believe this water has healing properties, making the whole experience even more special. Inside the holy spring, we didn’t notice any mess—just a profound sense of holiness and peace. Pilgrims from around the globe were there, taking a dip under the sacred fountains in a cleansing ritual known as melukat. After completing the ritual with the kids, we had to head back to the not-so-great changing room to get back into our regular clothes. It was an unforgettable experience!
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Pemulan Coffee Plantation Tour
After our enlightening purification ritual, we were excited for a coffee break. Andy, our driver, took us to a charming spot near Ubud called Pemulan Coffee Plantation. There, we met the friendly caretaker who gave us a fascinating tour of the plantation. He explained how they grow and harvest robusta and arabica coffee, along with other plants like avocado, cinnamon, vanilla, ginger, and turmeric. We explored the 4-hectare area and then came to the highlight of the tour: the process of making Luwak coffee.
In Bali, Luwak coffee is made from beans that are eaten and then excreted by civet cats. Finding these beans on the forest floor is quite a task compared to picking regular coffee. The process of drying, peeling, roasting, and grinding these beans is meticulous, making this coffee quite valuable. During the tour, we tasted 20 different coffees and teas. Some of our favorites were the coconut cream coffee, avocado coffee, cocoa coffee, roselette tea, and lemongrass tea. We sampled one coffee at the plantation which costed us 80,000 IDR (around Rs. 400 or €4.5 for a sample). It was good, but didn’t exactly blow our minds. The cost of 250 grams of Luwak coffee is typically around 150,000 to 200,000 IDR ($10 to $14) in Bali and in India it is approximately $30! With a price point like that, it’s totally understandable to be concerned about whether Luwak coffee is genuinely made from civet-excreted beans and how ethical the process is.
Finding these beans is like a high-stakes treasure hunt! So as well try this free tour to know more about the coffee if not taste it 😉
A FOOD LOVER’S PARADISE WITH AN AWESOME VIBE - Taco fiesta
To end our day, we chose a Mexican vibe! We were feeling tacos and margaritas and Taco Fiesta in Ubud centre really gave us those feelings. Choose the little upper deck of the restaurant and enjoy a night of margaritas, Chicken Chimichangas and tacos. On Taco Tuesdays, they have live music which is excellent.
Day 3:
We had an early start this day, so we all were a bit groggy. We had to travel 2.5 hours east towards Karangasem to visit the much acclaimed Lempuyang temple.
Lempuyang Temple
Pura Lempuyang Temple is famous for its "Gateway to Heaven," which provides stunning views of Mount Agung through its gates. However, be prepared—it's quite the tourist hotspot (read on)! After a 2.5-hour drive and a 10-minute shuttle ride up the hill, you'll face a steep 15-minute walk to reach the gateway. Once you get there, you’ll find a set of split gates and unique statues framing the majestic backdrop of Mount Agung.
Just a quick tip: If you're planning to visit, take a moment to read up on the history beforehand. Even a quick look on Wikipedia can give you a good overview of the architecture and background. If your main goal is just to snag that perfect Instagram photo, feel free to go for it, but don't say I didn't warn you! |
While Pura Lempuyang Temple is a sacred site where only Balinese people can enter the main temple, it's also become famous as a photography spot. We were surprised to find ourselves in a 3-hour queue just to capture that iconic mirror-like image of the gates with the water reflection for Instagram! There were no guided tours or information about the temple's history, origin, or architecture. Although the architecture is truly stunning, the lack of context made it hard to appreciate. It seems like the temple's cultural significance has been overshadowed by its role as an Instagram hotspot.
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Pura Tirta Ganga Water Palace
If you're set on making the trip, I'd recommend visiting Pura Tirta Gangga Water Palace instead of Lempuyang Temple. It’s definitely worth the drive! Tirta Gangga, a former royal palace, is known for its stunning water gardens and peaceful ponds with stepping stones and statues. The elegant gardens and calming waters make it a delightful escape.
Pro Tip:
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Built in 1946, Tirta Gangga is a beautiful maze of manicured gardens, serene ponds, and detailed statues. Located in eastern Bali, this royal water palace is named after the sacred Ganges River in India. The palace features pools where visitors can take a refreshing dip in the spring water. Tirta Gangga includes two rectangular pools with carved stone steps leading down into them, with one pool originally built for the royal family and their guests.
Duration: You can easily spend an hour exploring the iconic water palace. Entrance Fees:
Additional Costs:
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Balinese Massage
I will always vouch for a traditional massage in any country in the Asian continent. They know their art and no one does it better than them! Similarly one must totally indulge in a complete Balinese massage. Balinese massage is a special treatment from Indonesia that combines different techniques to help you relax and feel great. It mixes acupressure, reflexology, and aromatherapy with kneading, rolling, and gentle strokes. They use soothing essential oils to make your skin feel supple and great and help balance your body’s energy.
In Ubud, you have some great options to try this massage. Karsa Spa offers a peaceful place with authentic Balinese massages. Sang Spa and Yoga is a luxurious spot right in the middle of Ubud. Kaveri Spa provides relaxing massage and bath in a flower pool. Each one offers a wonderful experience to help you unwind.
A FOOD LOVER’S PARADISE WITH AN AWESOME VIBE -
Cocktails and Live Music at Laughing Buddha Bar
We wrapped up the day perfectly with a dinner at Laughing Buddha, where we enjoyed delicious cocktails, tasty patata bravas, and live music. Arrive before the band starts to take advantage of happy hour drinks. The vibe picks up around 9 PM, with live music from the band running until 10:30 PM. They feature a different band every night. This place is a local favourite and a hit with tourists. Plus, they’re super welcoming to kids, making it a great spot for the whole family!
Day 4:
Gekko tubing Bali
After a very drunken night, we would normally sleep in late. But our adrenaline was pumped this morning as we were to go river tubing! Yes you heard that right. We were to take on a river adventure with our kids and we couldn’t wait for it.
We had made our bookings with Gekko river tubing company. This company which cooperates with the Tourism Village of Tampaksiring, has been arranging river tubing activities since 2012. Gekko Tubing Bali, offers a magnificent river of Pakerisan through Tubing Activities with are suitable for your family. They have a pick up service from your accommodation too but at an extra cost. We drove the office where they basically have a reception area where you complete the formalities like form filling, locker rental, and payment etc. After that we were guided to the area where they gave us our safety gear, helmets and waterproof jackets.
Pro Tip: For river tubing or for waterfall experiences, it’s better you carry waterproof footwear. Plus it can start pouring suddenly in Bali. The weather apps are of no use there. |
A small torn apart van of 10 persons capacity with no windows and no boot door rode us to the starting point. All through the 10 minute journey we were compelled to breathe in strong benzene smell thanks to the dilapidated condition of the van. However I must say that was the only negative thing about the whole experience. Once we reached the entrance point, we were guided to our boats, tandem for one kid and one adult, otherwise single for only adults and then were instructed clearly on the dos and donts. From get go, the guides assisted us through the whole journey, stationed at various points before every drop, to capture photos and videos of the whole experience. There were several points where the water got rough or the path got very rocky, but we didn’t have to worry one bit, because we could see we were in really good hands.
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After an hour of tubing, we were asked to get off our tubes and walk an uphill path of steps to get back to our van. We were handed a bottle of water and bath towels to freshen up. The facility at the reception had shower rooms equipped with soap; however I carried my own toiletries and they were very clean and neat. After a quick shower and change, they treated us to a basic lunch of nasi goreng and crackers. We are so thrilled that we did this experience with the kids. This one is one to remember.
For Booking please contact our reservation number +6281238047276 or also by this official website gekkoadventures.com.
Tegallalang Rice Fields
After an adrenaline pumped morning, we decided to make a beeline to the much acclaimed rice fields. Now there are several rice fields to check out in Bali, but the most popular one is the Tegallalang rice fields. Why didn't we visit Alas Harum?
I wanted to visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace because it promised a classic, serene experience with its beautiful walking paths and lush, green landscapes. The chance to immerse myself in Bali's iconic rice paddies in a peaceful setting really appealed to me.
Alas Harum looked super crowded from the outside when we were nearing it and the driver mentioned that it’s particularly popular with Indian tourists. I sensed it would be a very touristic and commercial experience. No doubt Alas Harum Bali mixes beautiful scenery with fun activities like a coffee plantation tour, coffee tastings, and even a zip line for a bit of excitement, but it was not a place for me.
For a quieter escape and to avoid the crowds, Jatiluweh is your best bet. It offers stunning rice terraces in a more relaxed setting compared to the busier Tegallalang and Alas Harum.
After maneuvering through some crazy Ubud traffic, we finally reached the Tegalalang rice fields. What we didn’t realize is how the whole place was designed for tourism purposes. The rice fields are not free to explore. The entrance area to any rice field is gated by a cafe or restaurant for which you need to pay an entrance fee (cover charge) or spend at their restaurant/cafe. This ticket gives access to the restaurant/cafe, services like the terrace seating, access to the swimming pool with a view of the fields, photo opportunities on swings that swing into the rice fields for an extra price and finally the entrance into the rice fields if you want to explore it on foot. We decided to not walk since it had started raining and instead use our drone to capture some fantastic videos and photos of lush landscape around.
Cretya Ubud and Dtur Ubud Bali are fantastic places to visit in Tegalalang. Cretya Ubud is all about luxury with its stunning infinity pools that offer incredible views of the rice terraces, with a touch of modern design with nature. We chose Dtur Ubud Bali for its eco-friendly vibes and its unqiue location considering we could do drone videos. |
Nearby, you can explore a vibrant market where you can buy local handicrafts, souvenirs, traditional Balinese clothes, and handcrafted jewelry. Don't forget to pick up some aromatic spices and Balinese coffee. There is also a Bali Swings at the Alas Harum Bali, a popular attraction where visitors can swing over the rice terraces for a thrilling experience and great photos.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Tegenungan waterfall is the nearest waterfall to Ubud, only a 15-minute drive away. It’s known for its 15-meter-high cascade that creates a lovely pool below. Tegenungan Waterfall is definitely one of Bali’s most beautiful spots, but it’s become quite commercialized. It tends to be very crowded, as it’s a popular tourist destination. To reach the falls, you’ll walk down a steep set of stairs. While the steps to the waterfall are manageable even with small kids, you’ll need sturdy trainers for the steep climb. Entry costs just 15,000 IDR, which is about $1.
Another waterfall which is equally popular is the Kanto Lampo Waterfall. Kanto Lampo Waterfall is known for its stunning, tiered cascades and is open from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with a 15,000 IDR ($1, 1 EUR, 8 INR) entrance fee. Early visits offer the best light and fewer crowds, though late afternoons can also be enjoyable.
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Despite these downsides, the refreshing mist and lush surroundings make it worth the trip. The sight of the powerful cascade is truly stunning, and the cool water is perfect for a quick, revitalizing dip.
A great alternative is to visit OMMA Dayclub Bali. We thoroughly enjoyed lounging by the infinity pool with its breathtaking view of Tegenungan Waterfall. The music added to the atmosphere, and we didn't mind it at all. We savored delicious meals and drinks while taking in the spectacular waterfall backdrop. |
Other beautiful waterfalls to explore which are not so touristy:
Tukad Cepung Waterfall - This magical spot offers a stunning light show as sunlight filters through a cave. A small entrance fee of 15,000 IDR (1 $, 0.9 €, 8 INR).
Tibumana Waterfall - Known for its peaceful twin falls and clear pool, Tibumana Waterfall is a great place to unwind. Entrance fee of 15,000 IDR (1 $, 0.9 €, 8 INR). Early mornings or late afternoons are best for a serene visit.
Leke Leke Waterfall - Hidden in lush jungle, Leke Leke Waterfall offers a tranquil escape. It’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the heat, with an entrance fee of 50,000 IDR ($3.5).
Ubud Town Center
This vibrant town center is one to explore. With innumerable chic cafes, trendy restaurants offering live music and traditional restaurants offering an authentic Balinese experience, small eateries, boutique shops, souvenir stores, local handcrafted items, lovely footpaths running uphill and downhill at places, and the vibe is unmatched like none other I have seen. No wonder travellers and tourists flock to Ubud for a great experience of a lifetime. In Ubud town center, you can wander through charming streets filled with art galleries, shops, and cafes. In the heart of Ubud, the lively Ubud Market offers a delightful shopping experience and it is a must-visit. Early in the morning, from 3 AM to 8 AM, it’s a traditional market with fresh produce. Later in the day, it transforms into the vibrant Art Market, full of unique items like handbags, kitchenware, decorations, and souvenirs. Be sure to bargain for the best deals on beautiful souvenirs and unique gifts.
Some of my fav places while exploring Ubud town center have been:
Sacred Cacao for their raw Bali chocolate experience
Olive for their Mediterranean cuisine
Other Places to Visit In and Around Ubud:
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (Pura Ulun Danu Bratan)
There are many temples in Bali, but this one particularly stands out because of its beautiful water temple on Lake Beratan. It is perfect for serene reflection and stunning photography. What sets this temple apart is not just its stunning lakeside location but also its dedication to Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. It features a series of tiered pagodas that rise above the lake. Its unique floating appearance on the lake makes it iconic.
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The Mount Batur Sunrise/ Sunset Trekking
We would have definitely considered this tour if it were just Sidd and me, but with the kids and a 2 AM pickup, it would have been tough to convince them to stay up all night for “just a sunrise” (as they’d put it)! You can either hike up Mount Batur for a sunrise view or take a jeep for a stunning panoramic experience. I’ve heard from a friend that it gets pretty crowded at the top, so enjoying the sunrise peacefully might be a bit of a challenge. Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy a simple but hearty breakfast with hot drinks right there on the mountain.
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Besakih Temple
Besakih Temple, known as the "Mother Temple of Bali," is the largest and holiest temple complex on the island. It is set on the slopes of Mount Agung, offering breathtaking views and a deep spiritual experience with its multiple shrines and terraces.
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Pura Gunung Kawi
Pura Gunung Kawi is an amazing historical site with ancient temples carved into rock about a thousand years ago! These impressive 7-meter-high shrines give you a glimpse into Bali's past architecture. You’ll walk down a long staircase into a beautiful river valley to explore these remnants amidst serene rice paddies.
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Closing Thoughts
As you finish up your 4-day adventure in Ubud, Bali, I hope this guide has shown you the real magic of this incredible place beyond the Instagram posts. Ubud has so much more to offer than meets the eye. From soaking in the beauty of ancient temples to savoring delicious local dishes, or exploring lush landscapes, Ubud’s charm is all around you. Enjoy every moment and remember, the best part of Bali is the unique experiences you create along the way. Safe travels and happy exploring!
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Amy's tips are very good, super detailed, and really took me to Bali. They really helped me build my itinerary for traveling with my family next year.