10 Must-Visit Attractions in Ubud, Bali

The iconic stone-carved façade with ornately crafted demons and embellishments is just one interesting thing about the ancient temple. Goa Gajah (which means Elephant Cave) is a sanctuary complex with exquisite figures from Hindu and Buddhism. The cave is estimated to originate in the 11th century due to its architectural style. The complex has bathing pools and fountains surrounded by illustrious statues and carved walls worth observing.

Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, Ubud, Indonesia

Pura Taman Saraswati

Building, Shrine

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Pura Taman Saraswati | © Jorge Láscar/Flickr

This glorious water palace has a delicate lotus pond in front of the majestic traditional Balinese gate, which makes it one of the most iconic sights from Ubud. The palace honors Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, knowledge and arts. And seeing the thriving cultural and artistic scene in Ubud, the utmost reverence to the goddess seems fitting, with epic architecture, water overflowing like Ubud artists’ creativity, and graceful carvings that honor the Hindu deity. But beyond that excellent architecture, Saraswati Palace is also one of the best spots to watch traditional performances.

Jalan Kajeng, Ubud, Indonesia

Tirta Empul Temple

Hindu Temple

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Bathing at Tirta Empul Temple | © Antonia / Flickr

Tirta Empul means ‘holy water spring’, which is at the heart of this beautiful temple. Legends tell stories about a feud between a king named Mayadenawa and Lord Indra, the Hindu god for the heavens, storms, rains, and river flows. While fleeing the god, King Mayadenawa crafted a poisoned spring that brought down Lord Indra’s troops. But the god immediately created another spring that healed his men. That magical spring continues to be a source of healing and purification, distributed through stone-carved spouts that pour sacred water into the purification pool inside the temple.

Jalan Tirta, Bali, 80552, Indonesia

Ubud Palace

Building

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Entrance to Ubud Palace | © Antonia / Flickr

The Ubud Palace, or Puri Saren Agung, is one of Ubud’s most prominent landmarks and is centrally located in the neighborhood, surrounded by markets, restaurants, and other destinations. Packed with prominent cultural and historical significance, the palace reflects traditional Balinese architecture at its finest, with tastefully manicured gardens, ornate carvings, and impressively grand gates. During the evening, this palace’s yard turns into a magnificent stage for various traditional performances.

8 Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud, 80571, Indonesia

Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Natural Feature

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The postcard-worthy scenery of delicate rice terraces surrounded by lush palm trees and tropical greeneries sure makes Tegalalang such a visually appealing sight to behold. But exotic beauty is only part of this attraction’s charm. Ubud’s rice terraces are purposefully built to facilitate effective use of water resources and organize local social units. In other words, these glorious rice terraces do not only attract tourists from across the globe, they actually bring people together and reflect the values and philosophy of Balinese culture. Tourists can also explore the villages nearby to hear fascinating local stories and observe the customs and lifestyles of people who built and currently maintain the glorious rice terraces.

Jalan Raya Tegallalang, Bali, 80561, Indonesia

Tegenungan Waterfall

Natural Feature

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Tegenungan Waterfall | © Amelia Isa / Flickr

Beyond world-famous beaches, Bali’s diverse natural landscape stretches far up the hills of Ubud. Tegenungan Waterfall near Ubud is one of Bali’s must-see natural attractions. The waterfall is surrounded by Ubud’s signature lush greeneries and tropical highland ambiance. It is safe to hike and explore up to the top of the waterfall. On certain days when the water is high enough, it’s safe to do a 10-meter cliff jump and plunge into the cool water below.

Jalan Ir. Sutami, Ubud, Gianyar, 80581, Indonesia

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Natural Feature, Hiking Trail

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Among Ubud’s many splendid hills and landscapes, Campuhan Ridge remains one of the most visited and popular spots for hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. The area covers the ornate and historical Gunung Lebah temple, rivers, valleys, and a gorgeous stretch of palm trees and fresh tropical greeneries lining up the trek. This neighborhood is also closely tied to Ubud’s ancient history as the meeting point between two rivers where the Hindu priest Rsi Markandeya received divine inspiration and built the town’s first temple – an event that later spurred Ubud’s significance as a spiritual escape.

Jalan Raya Campuan, Ubud, Gianyar, 80571, Indonesia

Blanco Renaissance Museum

Art Gallery, Museum

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Located at the legendary painter Don Antonio Blanco’s mansion on a gorgeous hilltop in Ubud, this museum presents a unique mix of cultures that inspired and influenced the maestro’s works throughout his life. Even though many of Blanco’s collections of paintings, illustrated poetry, and erotic artworks came to being in Ubud, where he relocated and his art flourished, his mansion is a European baroque-style building with a touch of renaissance grandeur. Aside from the maestro’s best works and the building’s impressive architecture, tourists will also appreciate the glorious view from the hills where the mansion stands.

8 Jalan Jalan Raya Penestanan, Ubud, Gianyar, 80571, Indonesia

+62361975502

Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)

Museum

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ARMA, in Ubud, is popular for its cultural, artistic, and architectural importance. It’s a cozy place to learn about Balinese art, both classical and contemporary. It houses an impressive collection of works by prominent artists from across the Indonesian archipelago, especially Bali, many of whom are contemporary artists adapting traditional styles. The museum often hosts cultural events like traditional dance and music during the evenings.

Jalan Raya Pengosekan Ubud, Ubud, Gianyar, 80571, Indonesia

+62361976659