Joanna James
As one of Bali's most popular beach hubs, Ubud offers visitors not only the chance to enjoy water sports but also to see some of the area's cultural and recreational highlights. Here are some of the top attractions to visit during a stay in Ubud.
Ranked among the most spectacular temples in all of Bali, this water palace cum shrine is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Saraswati who is the patron saint of knowledge, wisdom and the arts in the Hindu canon. In addition to the breathtaking architecture of the shrine, Pura Taman Saraswati is well worth a visit due to its intricate carvings as well as the daily performances that take place within the temple grounds.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is not only a nature lover's dream destination but also a cultural and spiritual heartland lined with temples, centuries-old sculptures and a thriving monkey population. Spread out across an impressive 30 acres, this leafy enclave with towering trees is the perfect location for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts to enjoy a wild adventure during a trip to Ubud.
As one of the most photographed sites in all of Bali, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a picture-postcard perfect rice terrace that's as lush as it is breathtaking. The neat stepped arrangement of the rice paddies in all directions is what makes this a captivating site from a visual standpoint. The terraces are actually arranged in such an unusual manner to make maximum use of the water available for cultivation.
Whether one is an art enthusiast or not, a visit to Agung Rai Museum of Art is a must for all those who are based at Anantara Ubud Bali Villas or any similar luxury residences for sale. As one of the best venues to learn about classical and modern Balinese art forms, the collection of work by renowned artists on display at the museum makes it a cultural hotspot like no other. The museum also often hosts traditional dance and music recitals in the evening hours.
Goa Gajah is another Hindu temple that's among the finest examples of Balinese architecture on the island. The entrance to the temple is set in a cave and this makes the venue a unique place of worship among the many ancient temples in Bali. Believed to have been a hub for meditation during its heyday, visitors will come across both Buddhist and Hindu icons on a tour of this cave temple.
Also known as the Holy Springs Temple, Tirta Empul Temple is one of Bali's most famous water temples. Steeped in legends, this iconic temple built around a healing spring remains a centre for healing and a pilgrimage hub for devotees who wish to drink from the purification pool at the temple to cure various ailments. Distributed via several spouts, the pool's waters and its ornamental features are some of the most coveted aspects of this highlight.
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.
