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Ubud has been growing as an artistic centre since the late 19th century.
Ubud is located in the centre of the island but within easy access of the beach and the capital city Denpasar. It is an ideally located town from which to base yourself if you are planning on exploring all that Bali has to offer.
History and culture of Ubud
Many Western artists and intellectuals began visiting the area in the 1930s and aided in the expansion of the local Balinese arts and crafts. Ubud is now Bali’s cultural nexus, rich with stone and woodcarving, temples and ceremonies, art galleries, dancing, silversmiths and amazing cuisine.
We will either base you in a hotel in the centre of the town, amid this colourful activity, or in the countryside, surrounded by terraced paddy fields, quiet and atmospheric rural retreats that are still within easy walking distance of markets, traditional handicrafts shops and restaurants.
Around Ubud
Some of Bali’s most ancient monuments and relics are found around Ubud, especially to the east and north.
Pura Samuan Tiga temple and Goa Gajah (or Elephant Cave)
Yeh Pulu is a 25 metre long carved cliff face that is believed to date back to the late 14th century, when it was used as a hermitage. Pura Samuan Tiga temple is close by and Goa Gajah, or Elephant Cave, dates back to the 11th century. For each of these places you need to be prepared to wear a sarong (men and women) as they are all considered to be holy sites. Celuk is a metalwork centre located just south of Ubud, where numerous jewellers sell gold and silver works.
Volcano of Gunung Batur
The volcanic cone of Gunung Batur, north of Ubud, stands at a height of 1,717 metres and there are some spectacular drives in the area with wonderful views of the surrounding rice paddies and terraces as well as of the volcano itself. Due west of here is the stunning Lake Bratan, home to the temple of Pura Ulun Danu Bratan framed by the dramatic backdrop of the Gunung Catur volcano.
East and southwest of Ubud
East of Ubud is the less visited area of Sideman and Iseh, with towering views of the sacred Gunung Agung. This area is also well known for its rural character and terraced paddy fields. Located to the southwest of Ubud is the secluded coast of Yeh Gangga, 17th century architecture at Kerambitan and Bali’s most famous and photographed temple: Pura Tanah Lot.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Ubud
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Ubud, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Ubud
- Sanur 13 miles away
- Seminyak 14 miles away
- Lembongan Island 18 miles away
- Jimbaran 20 miles away
- Munduk 21 miles away
- Candidasa 21 miles away
- Bukit Peninsula 23 miles away
- Tembok 27 miles away
- Lovina 29 miles away
- Medewi 32 miles away
- Bali 45 miles away
- Pemuteran 49 miles away
- Senggigi 55 miles away
- The Gili Islands 56 miles away
- Sire Beach 59 miles away
- Bali Barat National Park 59 miles away
- Medana Bay 61 miles away
- Ijen National Park 75 miles away
- Lombok 78 miles away
- Mount Rinjani 83 miles away
- Moyo Island 159 miles away
- Mount Bromo 164 miles away
- Malang 185 miles away
- Surabaya 193 miles away
- Tambolaka 280 miles away
- Komodo Island 287 miles away
- Pantai Marosi 290 miles away
- Pantai Nihiwatu 295 miles away
Photos of Ubud
Our expert guides to exploring Ubud
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Ubud, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Ubud at its best.
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Accommodation choices for Ubud
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Ubud. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Komaneka at Bisma
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Amandari
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Uma by COMO
Ubud -
Wapa Di Ume
Ubud -
Uma Kalai
Ubud
Ideas for experiencing Ubud
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Ubud, and which use the best local guides.
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Ascent of Mount Agung Ascent of Mount Agung
Ascent of Mount Agung
Mount Agung is Bali's highest and most sacred mountain. At 3,142 m its peak can be seen from right across the island and the Hindu population all line their beds toward it and sleep with their heads pointing in its direction as a sign of respect.
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Cycling at Jatiluwih rice terraces Cycling at Jatiluwih rice terraces
Cycling at Jatiluwih rice terraces
Cycle through colourful Balinese towns to the village of Jatiluwih (meaning 'really, really beautiful') which is famous for its magnificent panorama of the rice field terraces in this area.
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