If you are planning a trip to Bali, you’re definitely going to want to spend some time in Ubud. The village of Ubud and surroundings is a "must visit" on your trip to Bali.
A lot of people say that Ubud has become a very touristic place. It is true that Bali now receives millions of tourists a year. And it’s a fact that over the years Ubud has changed a lot...But if you contact a local travel agency in Indonesia (like us) it is still possible to discover a real Ubud, an Ubud off the beaten path full of tradition and history. Indeed, what makes Bali so special is its culture and religion. Ubud is regardes as the cultural center of Bali. If you wonder if its Ubud worth visiting the answer is yes! You will meet the world’s friendliest people, taste delicious food, and discover a unique and vibrant culture. Rice paddies, rivers, palm trees and magical sunstes...
The Balinese are very spiritual people and celebrate their religion with towers of offerings, dance, music and colourful clothing. Bali is renowned for its bright and richly cultural ceremonies, and any visitor who spends more than a few days on the island will be certain to stumble upon a temple festival, colourful procession, or simply a village doing their ritual. Stay longer and you’ll bound to be invited to with family rituals such as birth celebrations, tooth filing ceremonies, weddings and cremations. Watching or even taking part in a Balinese Hindu ceremony is one of the most unforgettable things you can do in Bali.
So we will invite you to get lost in Ubud. Just 2kms form the main and most touristic places of Ubud you will find a real and authentic Ubud off the beaten track. Take a bike or just walk around and you will see that in Ubud families keep their traditions, their religion their ancient way of living. Do not be afraid and you will be surprised!
In that sense we strongly recommend you to stay in a traditional villa not in Ubud center but for example 5kms from the center. We love Suara Air Luxury Villa Ubud, a traditional and charming villa, very familiar...Approaching through a rural setting of terraced rice fields, located near a quiet village. Suara Air Luxury Villa is created in harmony with nature, surrounded by two small rivers, giving a very private and relaxing atmosphere for the guests. A very nice experience!
Another off the beaten track things to do in Ubud include scenic walks up through the rice fields...you will see the locals how they work and of course, they will be happy to talk with you! Local immersion in Bali!
You will also wonder what are the best temples in Bali to visit...Near Ubud we find one of the must-see temples in Bali: Gunung Kawi. Pura Gunung Kawi (Poet Mountain Temple), dating from the eleventh century, reached by climbing down 371 steps, the location at the bottom of a steep valley lined with paddy fields, is stunning. For us, is the best temple in Ubud:) We love it and if you are in Ubud you should not miss it! You will really adore it as well!
Another nice experience is visiting Ubud local market early in the morning. There are two markets in Ubud, one for the locals and one for tourists. While you can find some fun items at the tourist market, you need to go to the local morning market if you want an authentic Balinese market experience. We recommend you to go around 06.00AM.
And then do not leave Ubud without experiencing a Yoga class in the middle of nature! Ubud is yogi heaven! Starting your day with a yoga class is a great way to get into the relaxed, healthy Ubud vibe. You will have views over the rice fields and the jungle, relax, tranquility...Bali is a top destination for yoga around the world, and practice yoga in Ubud is the best spiritual sanctuary to truly connect with yourself.