If beaches are South Bali's thing, Ubud is the island's green, cultural heart — rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, art and slow jungle mornings. In line with the 2026 trend toward slower, more intentional travel, Ubud is where a lot of visitors now spend most of their trip.
15 best things to do in Ubud
- Tegallalang Rice Terraces — the iconic stepped green valley, plus the famous jungle swings.
- Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary — temples and hundreds of cheeky long-tailed macaques.
- Tirta Empul — the holy water temple where Balinese come to purify.
- Campuhan Ridge Walk — an easy, free morning walk over green hills.
- Tegenungan Waterfall — a powerful, swimmable waterfall close to town.
- Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) — an ancient archaeological site.
- Ubud Art Market — woodwork, textiles and souvenirs (haggle politely).
- Saraswati Temple — a beautiful lotus-pond temple in the centre of town.
- Coffee plantation tour — taste Balinese coffee and the famous luwak.
- A yoga or wellness class — Ubud is the wellness capital of Bali.
- Café-hopping — jungle-view cafés and healthy food everywhere.
- Balinese cooking class — learn to make satay and nasi goreng.
- A traditional dance performance — Legong or Kecak in the evening.
- Sunrise trek up Mount Batur (day trip from Ubud).
- Just slow down — long breakfasts, a villa pool and birdsong.
How long should you stay in Ubud?
2–3 nights is the sweet spot — enough for the temples, terraces and a waterfall without feeling rushed.
Dress code reminder
Many Ubud sights are temples — bring a sarong and cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
See it with us
Ubud is a highlight of our Bali group trip — rice terraces, Monkey Forest and waterfalls, with a host who knows the quiet corners. See the itinerary →
Need help with a visa or trip?
Rashid Travel & Visa Consultants, Islamabad — visa consultancy, appointments, documentation, ticketing and tour packages. Honest help, embassy-ready files.