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Ubud is located in the hills of Bali and harnesses a completely different energy than the hectic tourism of Kuta or the posh party scene of Cangu. Known as the cultural capital, this is the place to dive into the true Balinese culture. Including art and food, cooking classes, museums and traditions, it’s all here.
This is a special place where your first visit implants a deep love of Bali that can never be removed. The cultural centre of Bali, Ubud holds many traditions and festivals still today. The offerings on the street, the outfits of traditional dress that are still voluntarily worn today. Ubud is the place to relax and rejuvenate. A tranquil energy by itself even before the yoga, massage and spas are added on top. The seductive qualities of this place is a real phenomenon and the amount of immigrants living here from all over Europe, Australia and everywhere else is proof. Soon you will find yourself living in Ubud for six months and loving every minute of it. Meanwhile here is our beginners guide for where to eat, play and stay in Ubud
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Where To Stay
One of the greatest things about Ubud are the traditional dwellings with the intense quality and craftswork that goes into them. When in Bali don’t settle for a big box hotel when you can have an amazing local experience, stay in an Ubud villa. Imagine all the comforts of home in a luxury private setting. The sun peeks through the curtains and invites you to take in the beautiful view of the rice fields and valleys. You stroll through the quiet, calm house to your private beautifully landscaped pool and take a morning dip. After exploring ubud all day return home to an artfully prepared dinner by a private chef and drinks on your private outdoor terrace under the stars surrounded by all of your friends.
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Where To Eat
Of course, when visiting another land one must experience the local life and culture, see first hand how the locals live their daily life. It is all too easy to get caught up in the glitz of the hotels, shopping malls and fancy restaurants, especially given the affordability of Bali for tourists. Try the local warungs and street food stands, get something that is not familiar to you. Ask the locals where they eat. This will enhance your experience like nothing else could. Aside from that there are also fabulous restaurants with the top quality and creativity that one must indulge in while spending only a short time in Ubud. Here are our top pics.
Moksa
A passion for nature and exquisitely crafted flavours. Top tier service and dishes are served daily. A plant based restaurant with a focus on health will excite your palate. Settle in for a comfortable dining experience with a view of their own cultivated garden.
Ibu Susu
A lesser known restaurant that has made quite the reputation. Serving Asian fusion like pandan pancakes for all day breakfast to soft shell crab burgers for dinner. The food is good but the cocktails are great! The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini is at the top of Bali’s very best cocktails.
Indus
Find a seat outside or near a window to take in the breathtaking view of the Tjampuhan ridge and towering Mount Agung volcano. And if the view wasn’t enough, while you wait for your food you can marvel at the hand carved wood columns, the gorgeous antique teak furniture and the beautiful terrazzo floors. This all has set a high expectation for the food and you won’t be let down.
From the pork and prawn gyoza to the croissant pandan ice cream sandwich. East meets west and beauty meets delicious at this favourite spot for internationals. Be sure to be here at sunset for an incredibly memorable end to your day.
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Where To Play
Campuhan Ridge Walk
If you’re up for a bit of a walk through nature then the Campuhan Ridge Walk is the place! Located slightly out of town, it’s a beautiful walk with views of the valley and jungle.
Art Galleries
As the cultural capital of Bali, Ubud has the highest concentration of art galleries on the island. Anywhere you go there’s a cute little gallery to wander into and check out their art.
Museum Puri Lukisan
A great art gallery that intersects with a museum that has English language explanations of the history of art in Southeast Asia. A wide range of artwork and artists that is curated by local artist Cokorda Gede Agung Sukawati who was a prince and a member of the Royal Family of Ubud.
Legong dance
A traditional dance based on a legend from East Java that from the twelfth century. Mesmerizing music and incredible dancers perform a story from long ago. You can see Legong dance in Ubud at Puri Saren, Peliatan Village, and Pura Dalem Puri.
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