Joanna James
Nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud is the island’s cultural and spiritual centre, offering an enriching experience that blends art, wellness, and traditional Balinese culture. A week in this serene town can leave you refreshed, inspired, and deeply connected with both the environment and your inner self—below is a detailed itinerary for a 7-day experience.
After arriving in Ubud, the journey begins with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, one of the town’s most iconic attractions. This lush sanctuary is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and is surrounded by beautiful jungle, ancient temple ruins, and banyan trees. The forest offers a tranquil start to your Ubud experience, allowing you to ease into the environment and observe the playful energy of the monkeys as they roam freely. In the afternoon, explore Ubud’s vibrant art scene by visiting the Ubud Art Market, where you can purchase local handicrafts, textiles, jewellery, and wood carvings.
Ubud is renowned for its stunning landscapes, and Day 2 is dedicated to exploring the verdant beauty of the surrounding countryside—undoubtedly one of the best Ubud things to do. Start with a visit to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its vibrant green paddies and intricate irrigation system. Take a leisurely walk along the terraces, enjoying the scenic views and learning about the traditional methods of rice cultivation. Next, embark on a nature walk through the nearby Campuhan Ridge, a peaceful trek that takes you through rolling hillsides and quiet streams, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. This walk is perfect for those seeking quiet moments of reflection and connection with nature.
On Day 3, immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bali. Begin the day by visiting Goa Gajah (the Elephant Cave Temple), a historic temple that dates back to the 11th century. The cave is adorned with intricate carvings, and the surrounding area offers peaceful gardens and sacred water pools, perfect for a tranquil visit. Next, visit Pura Taman Saraswati, a beautiful water temple located near the centre of Ubud. This temple is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and the arts, and is known for its elegant lotus ponds and traditional Balinese architecture.
Ubud is a wellness destination, and Day 4 is dedicated to rejuvenating your mind, body, and spirit. Start the day with a morning yoga session at your hotel or a yoga studio in Ubud. These studios offer classes for all levels, set in tranquil surroundings, making them the perfect place to connect with your breath and set positive intentions for the day. After your yoga session, indulge in a spa treatment at a luxury wellness retreat. Ubud is home to some of Bali’s most prestigious spa resorts, such as Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, where you can enjoy traditional crystal chakra balancing and wellness therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate.
Ubud has long been a haven for artists and creatives, and Day 5 celebrates this artistic legacy. Begin your day by visiting the Neka Art Museum, which houses a vast collection of traditional and contemporary Balinese artwork. This museum offers insight into the evolution of Balinese art, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and other art forms that tell the story of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Next, head to the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), which features both traditional and modern Balinese art. The museum offers a deep dive into the island’s artistic history and showcases the works of both local and international artists.
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.
