Joanna James
Tipped to be one of Bali's most popular beach areas, Ubud is rightfully identified as the cultural heart of the island. Ideally situated 35km away from the beach capitals of Seminyak and Kuta, Ubud is where travellers can not only find stunning seaside resorts but also ancient temples, natural wonders, and traditional crafts. From relying on public transport options to taking matters into your own hands, here are some of the most convenient ways to reach this beach paradise with a rich history.
Those who are touching down at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport will only have two options when it comes to reaching your hotel on the island and they include hired cars and airport taxis. Although there are bus services from the airport, the schedule is hardly reliable while the journey also involves two chaotic transfers. The drive from the airport to your rest at Anantara Ubud Bali Villas or any nearby hotel will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes and visitors can book a taxi via the taxi counter at the Ngurah Rai International Airport upon arrival. Keep in mind that these taxis are slightly more costly than private taxi transfers available via online cab companies the likes of Gojek, Grab and Bali Cab. Those who prefer to use this cheaper taxi service are welcome to make a booking online prior to their arrival or walk to the taxi stand that's outside the airport. These particular taxi companies are not allowed to park inside the airport so it is necessary to walk over to the taxi stand located on the outer perimeter of the airport.
Ranked among the most budget-friendly ways to reach Ubud from nearby beach towns the likes of Seminyak or Kuta, minibuses are operated by two companies in Bali. These minivan transfers by the Kura Kura Tourist Bus service and Perama Tours depart at various hours while the journey takes about one and a half hours in total. Those who are based in Kuta but wish to discover Ubud's attractions on a day trip will find that Perama minivans are available from 10 am to 1:30 pm only and the buses depart from the Perama Tour Office in the heart of Kuta. Tourists based in Seminyak, however, will need to grab a taxi to reach the Perama Tour Office as it is not within close range. The Kura Kura bus, on the other hand, is operational from 9 am to 2:30 pm and departs from Kura's DFS Galleria main terminal. Also called Bemos, these minivans are ideal for families and groups.
Those who wish to reach Ubud from the airport will find that Perama Tours offers transfers 4 times a day. This is perhaps the most budget-friendly way to reach Ubud although the bus stop in Ubud is not located in the heart of the city Padang Tegal, 2km to the south of Ubud. This means that tourists will need to hop on a taxi to reach their accommodation provider.
Shuttle bus transport services to Ubud are usually run by local travel agents and tour companies and it is best to book a shuttle bus via your resort base or by contacting the tour agencies. If you are honeymooning in Ubud, you will need to share the 6-10 seater van with fellow passengers while those who are travelling in groups of 4 -8 will be encouraged to secure a private shuttle bus for their party.
Tourists will find that their accommodation provider, whether it is a resort or a homestay with a local family will also offer airport transfer services for an additional fee. It is necessary to inform your hotel or homestay coordinator that an airport pick-up service is required beforehand as it will not do to simply call them up upon arriving in Bali.
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