Things to Do

Ubud Introduction

If you are seeking a hideaway from Bali’s chaotic Kuta, Ubud provides a welcome respite with its secluded paths, calming temples and specialised spa resorts. Surrounded by rice paddies, coconut trees and lush forests of green, Ubud is seen as the cultural centre of Bali.

The road leading up to Ubud features little villages specializing in handicrafts like Celuk (silver jewellery), Batuan (paintings) and Mas (wood carvings). Ubud, itself, produces all sorts of handicrafts in its peaceful foothills. There are also numerous art galleries, workshops and courses on offer for the budding artist.

The Monkey Forest is a popular tourist drawcard with its ravenous monkey population lunging at anything resembling food. The 9th-century Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, showcases the island’s historic past and there is the regular Ubud Market for modern-day souvenir hunters.

Ubud is a place for relaxation and many yoga and meditation centres have developed over the years on Indonesia’s most popular island.