Master your Bali Ubud 3-day itinerary with this simplified guide. Discover the best temples, rice terraces, and cultural experiences for a relaxed, unforgettable trip, all planned for your convenience.
Planning a trip to Bali can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time. How do you fit the magic of Ubud into just three days? Many travelers struggle to balance iconic sights with genuine relaxation, worrying they’ll miss out or feel rushed. But don’t fret! We’ve crafted a simple, step-by-step 3-day itinerary for Ubud that highlights its most enchanting spots. Get ready to explore lush landscapes, ancient temples, and vibrant culture with ease. Let’s dive into your perfect Ubud adventure!
Your Essential Bali Ubud 3-Day Itinerary: A Stress-Free Escape
Ubud, often called the cultural heart of Bali, is a place of serene beauty, spiritual energy, and vibrant artistic expression. It’s famous for its lush rice paddies, ancient temples, traditional dance performances, and a strong sense of community. This 3-day itinerary is designed for beginners, ensuring you experience the essence of Ubud without feeling overwhelmed. We’ve packed it with must-see attractions, delicious food options, and moments for pure relaxation. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this guide will help you navigate Ubud effortlessly.
When traveling, especially with children or for those who value extra comfort and security, packing the right essentials is key. Think about bringing along products like adult diapers or protective underwear for peace of mind during long journeys or excursions. Similarly, families might find child diapers a lifesaver for easy changes on the go. These simple preparations can significantly enhance your travel comfort, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.
Day 1: Temples, Tastes, and Tranquility
Your first day in Ubud is all about immersing yourself in its spiritual core and natural beauty. We’ll start with a visit to a sacred monkey forest, followed by a serene temple and a taste of local cuisine.
Morning: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary (Taman Kura Mandala Suci Wenara Wana)
Begin your Ubud adventure at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. This lush forest is home to over 700 long-tailed macaques, more than 120 species of trees, and three ancient temples.
- What to expect: Wander through the beautiful, dense jungle, observe the playful monkeys, and visit the temples that are still used for religious ceremonies by the local community.
- Tips for visiting:
- Keep a safe distance from the monkeys; do not feed them outside designated areas.
- Secure your belongings; monkeys are known to grab unattended items.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on uneven paths.
- Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
- If you are traveling with young children and need extra reassurance regarding hygiene or unexpected accidents, having youth briefs or adult protective underwear can offer significant peace of mind, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience without worry.
Location: Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Opening Hours: Typically around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (check for current times)
Late Morning: Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati)
Just a short walk from the Monkey Forest, you’ll find the Saraswati Temple, dedicated to the goddess of knowledge, music, arts, and wisdom. It’s a stunning example of Balinese architecture, set amidst beautiful lotus ponds.
- What to expect: Admire the intricate carvings and the serene atmosphere. The blooming lotus flowers create a picturesque scene.
- Photo opportunity: The temple entrance, with its detailed stone statues and lotus ponds, is incredibly photogenic, especially during the day.
- Note: While visitors can admire the exterior and courtyard, the inner sanctum is usually reserved for religious ceremonies.
Location: Jalan Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia (behind Starbucks)
Lunch: Culinary Delights in Ubud
Ubud is a foodie paradise! For lunch, explore the local eateries around Jalan Gootama or Jalan Hanoman.
- Warung Biah Biah: Known for its delicious and affordable Indonesian tapas.
- Melting Wok Warung: Offers simple, flavorful curries and noodle dishes in a charming setting.
- Local Warungs: Don’t shy away from small, local “warungs” (eateries) for an authentic taste of Balinese dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice) or Mie Goreng (fried noodles).
Afternoon: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
No trip to Ubud is complete without witnessing the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces. These UNESCO World Heritage sites showcase Java’s traditional irrigation system (Subak).
- What to expect: Breathtaking views of vibrant green rice paddies cascading down hillsides. You can walk down into the terraces, and there are often opportunities for swings and photo spots (for an additional fee).
- Best time to visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon offers softer light for photos and more pleasant temperatures.
- Getting there: It’s about a 20-30 minute drive north of Ubud town. You can hire a scooter, a taxi, or join a guided tour.
- Tip: Be prepared for slopes and potentially muddy paths if it has rained.
Location: Jalan Raya Tegalalang, Tegalalang, Kecamatan Tegalalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80451, Indonesia
Evening: Traditional Balinese Dance Performance & Dinner
End your first day with a captivating cultural experience. Ubud offers various venues for traditional Balinese dance performances, such as the Legong or Kecak dance.
- Where to watch: Often held at the Ubud Palace or the Pura Dalem (Temple). Check local listings for schedules and venues.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Ubud’s many restaurants. Consider:
- Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner): Famous for its crispy duck.
- Locavore: For a high-end, modern European dining experience.
- Mum’s Bakehouse & Cafe: If you’re looking for something more casual with great coffee and pastries.
Day 2: Arts, Crafts, and Spiritual Cleansing
Day two delves deeper into Ubud’s artistic soul and offers a chance for inner peace with a spiritual cleansing ritual.
Morning: Ubud Art Market & Yoga/Meditation
Start your day by exploring the vibrant Ubud Art Market. It’s a great place to find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local art.
- What to look for: Beautifully woven baskets, wood carvings, sarongs, paintings, and local jewelry.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is expected here, so feel free to negotiate prices politely.
- Tip: Visit early to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best selection.
Location: Jalan Raya Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia (directly opposite Ubud Palace)
After the market, indulge in Ubud’s renowned wellness scene. Many studios offer drop-in classes.
- Yoga Barn: One of Bali’s most famous yoga studios, offering a wide variety of classes for all levels.
- Radiantly Alive: Another popular choice with a diverse schedule and experienced instructors.
- Meditation: If meditation is more your focus, many centers offer guided sessions.
Late Morning/Lunch: Campuhan Ridge Walk
Enjoy a refreshing walk along the Campuhan Ridge. This paved path offers stunning panoramic views of lush green hills and valleys, a beautiful contrast to the bustling town.
- What to expect: An easy, relatively flat walk, perfect for sunrise or sunset, but enjoyable any time of day.
- Tips:
- Go in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense sun.
- Bring water and wear sunscreen.
- There are local vendors at the start and end selling drinks and snacks.
- Location: Jalan Bangkiang Sidem Village, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia (trails start near Warwick Ibah Luxury Villas & Spa)
For lunch, find a cafe or warung near the ridge or head back into central Ubud.
Afternoon: Tirta Empul Temple (Holy Water Temple)
Experience a unique spiritual cleansing ritual at Tirta Empul Temple. This holy water temple is a place of purification for Balinese Hindus. Visitors are also welcome to partake in the ritual.
- What to expect: You can observe the ritual or participate. If you wish to participate, you’ll enter the spring-fed pools to cleanse yourself under the water spouts.
- Dress code: You must wear a sarong and sash, which are usually available for rent or included with entry. For the purification ritual, wear modest swimwear or comfortable clothing that can get wet.
- Important: It’s considered disrespectful to wear underwear during the purification ritual.
- Tips: Bring a change of clothes and a towel. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
Location: Jalan Tirta Empul, Manukaya, Kecamatan Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Opening Hours: Typically 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The purification ritual is available during these hours.
External Resource: You can learn more about Balinese water temples and the concept of purification on the UNESCO World Heritage site for the Subak system, which is a core part of Balinese water management and spiritual beliefs.
Evening: Balinese Cooking Class & Dinner
Why not learn to make some of the delicious Balinese dishes you’ve been trying? Many cooking schools in and around Ubud offer classes that include a market visit and end with you enjoying the meal you prepared.
- Popular options: Paon Bali Cooking Class, Lobong Culinary Experience.
- What to expect: A hands-on experience learning about local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
This is a very popular activity, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Day 3: Nature’s Wonders and Departure Preparation
Your final day is about savoring the natural beauty surrounding Ubud and preparing for your departure.
Morning: Tegenungan Waterfall
Head to Tegenungan Waterfall, one of Bali’s most accessible and popular waterfalls. It’s a refreshing spot to enjoy nature’s power.
- What to expect: A beautiful cascade of water into a pool where you can swim. There are stairs leading down to the waterfall.
- Tips:
- Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy a cooler experience.
- Wear appropriate footwear as the paths can be slippery.
- There’s a small entrance fee and sometimes a fee for changing rooms.
- If you don’t want to swim, you can enjoy the view from the platforms above.
Location: Jalan Tegenungan Waterfall, Kemenuh, Kecamatan Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80581, Indonesia
Late Morning: Coffee Plantation Visit (Optional)
Many tours include a stop at a local coffee plantation, particularly famous for Kopi Luwak (civet coffee). Even if you don’t try the specialized coffee, it’s a great way to learn about local produce.
- What to expect: See how coffee is grown and processed, and taste various local coffees and teas for free.
- Ethical considerations: Be mindful of how the civets are kept. Look for plantations that prioritize animal welfare.
Lunch: Farewell Meal in Ubud
Enjoy your last Balinese meal. Perhaps revisit a favorite warung or try a highly-rated restaurant you missed earlier.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Souvenirs or Relaxation
Spend your remaining time picking up those last-minute souvenirs, enjoying a traditional Balinese massage, or simply relaxing at a cafe, soaking in the Ubud atmosphere.
- Shopping: Explore smaller boutiques for unique clothing, jewelry, or art.
- Spa Treatments: Ubud offers a wide range of spas, from luxurious to affordable. A Balinese massage is a must-try for relaxation.
Late Afternoon: Departure Preparation
Head back to your accommodation to freshen up and pack. Ensure all your belongings are accounted for. If you’re traveling with children, double-check that all their essentials, like extra clothing and any diaper changing accessories, are packed and easily accessible for your journey home.
Bali Ubud 3-Day Itinerary at a Glance (Table)
Here’s a quick overview of your packed three days:
| Day | Morning | Late Morning/Lunch | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Culture & Scenery | Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary | Saraswati Temple & Lunch | Tegalalang Rice Terraces | Balinese Dance Show & Dinner |
| Day 2: Arts & Spirituality | Ubud Art Market & Yoga/Meditation | Campuhan Ridge Walk & Lunch | Tirta Empul Temple (Holy Water) | Balinese Cooking Class & Dinner |
| Day 3: Nature & Departure | Tegenungan Waterfall | Coffee Plantation (Optional) & Lunch | Last-Minute Souvenirs / Relaxation | Departure Preparation |
Essential Packing Tips for Ubud
To make your trip as smooth as possible, here are some key items to pack, keeping comfort and practicality in mind:
- Lightweight Clothing: Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are best for Bali’s tropical climate.
- Modest Attire: For temple visits, pack at least one outfit that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes/Sandals: You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Swimwear: For waterfalls and hotel pools.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Insect Repellent: Especially for evenings and jungle areas.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Small Backpack/Day Bag: For carrying essentials during day trips.
- Camera: To capture the incredible sights.
- Travel Adapters: Indonesia uses Type C and Type F plugs.
- Personal Comfort Items: If you travel with young children or need extra support, consider packing items like adult briefs or child diapers. These can offer invaluable security and comfort for long days exploring or during transit, helping to prevent disruptions to your travel plans and ensuring everyone feels secure.
Getting Around Ubud
Navigating Ubud is relatively easy, with several convenient options:
- Walking: Central Ubud is very walkable, perfect for exploring markets and cafes.
- Scooter Rental
