Joanna James
Ubud is Bali's cultural capital; a province steeped in beautiful countryside and the famous rice paddy terraces of Bali. Here you can shop for handicrafts & treat the culture buff in you!
The Ubud Monkey Forest is Bali's most popular, amongst other long-tailed Macaque reserves on the island. The place is well known for its location; easy to reach from Ubud Bali resorts, on the outskirts of the town centre. The community-based management of the place too draws the attention of a number of curious visitors. The monkey forest is looked after and protected by the people of the Padangtegal Village; hence you may hear the place being referred to as the Padangtegal Monkey Forest and its official name Mandala Wisata Wenara Wana. Deep within the forest cover are a number of temples deemed sacred by the local villagers; these with the monkey colony are closely guarded. The forest apart for being a sacred ground serves as a research centre, where scientific explorations into the monkeys' characteristics, habitats etc. are monitored.
Some of the most beautiful terraced scenery in South East Asia can be viewed in Ubud. The irrigation system known as Subak has created, in the village of Tegallalang, beautiful terraced paddy fields. About a 35-minute drive from Alila Ubud, are the cool climes of Tegallalang. A must stop for scenic photos and invigorating vistas of Bali's countryside, the region is also where you can score a number of unique souvenirs. At the edge of the terraces are a number of souvenir stalls that offer unique handmade products. Close by is the village of Pakudui, there you can shop for handmade ornamental woodwork and intricate carvings of many designs. Make sure you look out for a figurine of the mythical Garuda, a majestic creature that is present in all Bali mythology.
Located on the southern end of Bedulu Village, the Elephant Cave, is one of Bali's most prominent archaeological sites. It is about 6 kilometres from the city centre of Ubud and well worth a visit. At the entrance to the cave is a flight of stairs. And heading down these one emerges within a relic filled vintage courtyard. The main cave belonging to the 11th century has rock wall paintings and a beautiful meditation cove. Outside of the temple are some Hindu shrines and a beautiful bathing pool complete with water fountains; these relics were excavated in 1954. To the back of the temple is a forest, inhabited by the sacred Macaque monkeys of Ubud.
Just next to the vibrant Ubud Art Market is the residence of the Ubud royal family; Puri Saren Agung. This is an iconic landmark in Ubud and must be visited for a taste of local culture and tradition. The palace was built during the time of his Lordship the late Ida Tjokorda Putu Kandel and has since been well-preserved by his heirs. The place is a marvellous example of ancient Balinese architecture that has been well preserved.
If you find yourself hankering for a respite away from the hustle and bustle of the Ubud city centre; take a sojourn into the foothills of Campuhan Ridge. There, the air is cool and fresh, while gorgeous vistas of the surroundings are food for the weary soul.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
