Ubud: Where Nature and Culture Meet
- Margaux Delang
- 30 sep 2024
- 4 minuten om te lezen
Nestled in the heart of Bali's lush countryside, Ubud is a cultural gem renowned for its serene landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and spiritual atmosphere. This charming town attracts travelers seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle, offering a tranquil sanctuary surrounded by rice paddies, lush forests, and sacred temples. From its bustling markets and traditional Balinese dance performances to its tranquil yoga retreats and rejuvenating spas, Ubud embodies the essence of Bali's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether exploring its quaint streets lined with artisanal boutiques and cafes or embarking on outdoor adventures amidst its picturesque surroundings, Ubud promises an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and serenity.
Ubud is definitely worth a visit for its beautiful rice terraces and the fun experience of renting a scooter to explore. However, if you prefer quieter, less touristy places, Ubud might feel a bit overwhelming. The town has become quite crowded with visitors. In that case, I’d recommend Munduk instead—equally stunning, with serene rice fields and a far more peaceful vibe.
What do do?
Rent a scooter
Ubud is very accessible for renting scooters, and perhaps it's even the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore the charming spots around Ubud. Often, you can rent a scooter through the accommodation where you're staying. They are familiar with local rental companies and can make arrangements for you. We paid 8 euros for a whole day for a scooter for two people, including two helmets. However, be aware that they often provide either no helmet or only one with the scooters. So, it's advisable to ask in advance if they can provide two helmets. Driving in Ubud is quite manageable. The only thing that took some getting used to was the fact that they drive on the left side of the road!
Pupuan Rice Terraces
Pupuan Rice Terraces offer breathtaking landscapes, where lush green rice paddies stretch across the hillsides. These terraces are meticulously maintained by local farmers, who have a deep connection with nature and celebrate the harvest with traditional ceremonies. Beyond rice cultivation, the village of Pupuan is adorned with cocoa, clove, and coffee plantations, along with groves of exotic fruits like mangosteen and durian. Explore the hidden waterfalls and streams in the surrounding tropical forests for a truly enchanting experience.
From Ubud center, you can contact a driver through grab or rent your own scooter for a day to drive up to the rice fields. Count on about an hour and a half to get to the rice terraces.
Tangkup Waterfall
Tangkup Waterfall, also known as Slau, is a hidden gem that requires some effort to reach. Its untouched beauty and pristine nature make the journey worthwhile.
To get to Tangkup Waterfall, you'll embark on a trek along steep paths and across clear river streams, adorned with unique natural rocks. This adventure adds to the allure of visiting such an unspoiled spot. As it is relatively unknown, you can enjoy the tranquility without the crowds.
To reach the waterfall, you have two options: you can either contact a driver via Grab or rent a scooter. You can park your scooter at the Tanguk Waterfall parking area. From there, it's a few minutes' walk straight ahead until you reach a small house. Here, you will find someone who, for a small fee, will allow you to access the path to the waterfall. The walk takes about half an hour along narrow and slippery paths and steps.
This waterfall is very little-known, so we didn't encounter anyone else during our visit. The walk from the parking area to the waterfall is already very beautiful. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views of expansive rice terraces.
Starting from the parking area, you can also walk a bit further and take a few steps up to a bar/restaurant called Wana Ayu Jelijih. We had a delicious meal here with a stunning view of the beautiful rice fields.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace
One of the most popular green attractions in Bali is the Tegallalang Rice Fields, also known as Tegallalang Rice Terrace. These beautifully arranged paddies follow the traditional Balinese irrigation system called “subak.” Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Tegallalang has gained popularity among international travelers. Despite this, it remains a great place to relax and unwind, offering a quiet and serene atmosphere.
Located just a 20-minute drive north of Ubud, Tegallalang Rice Terrace is easily accessible. For those who prefer walking, it’s a two-hour journey on foot. You can also reach it conveniently by rented car, motorcycle, or taxi, each mode of transport offering a unique experience.
The rice terrace is open daily from 06:00 to 19:00. Upon arrival, you'll find a ticket booth and a parking area. Parking is free for both cars and motorcycles, and staff are available to guide you if needed. The entrance fee for Tegallalang Rice Terrace is 1.50 euros per person. Nearby attractions such as Pakudui Tegalalang and Uma Ceking charge 0.50 euros and 3 euros per person, respectively. These sites are adjacent to each other but require separate tickets.
Monkey Forest Ubud
The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, Bali, is a renowned attraction, home to over 600 long-tailed macaques. This protected area features a dense, mystical forest with sacred trees, including the Pule Bandak, used for ceremonial masks.
An entrance ticket costs about one euro, and various walking paths guide visitors through the forest. While the areas with many monkeys can get crowded, quieter spots can be found further along the paths.
Besides the monkeys, the forest boasts 115 species of trees and other wildlife like Javanese deer and tropical birds. Three Hindu temples within the forest highlight its spiritual significance to the local community.
For a safe visit, avoid bringing food or plastic bags, as the bold monkeys may try to take them. Secure valuables in a sturdy backpack and refrain from feeding the monkeys. Generally, if you leave the monkeys alone, they will leave you alone.
