Ubud

UBUD

Highlights

The name “Ubud” is derived from the Balinese word “ubad,” meaning medicine. Historically, Ubud served as a center for natural healing, thanks to the abundance of medicinal plants found in its surrounding jungles. In the 8th century, a Javanese Hindu priest named Rsi Markandeya meditated at the confluence of the two rivers in Campuhan, giving Ubud spiritual significance that continues to this day. Over time, Ubud became a hub for Balinese culture, attracting artists, musicians, and spiritual seekers.

In the early 20th century, Ubud gained international recognition as a center for arts and crafts, with significant contributions from foreign artists like Walter Spies and Rudolf Bonnet. These collaborations led to the establishment of renowned institutions like the Puri Lukisan Museum and the Ubud Palace as artistic and cultural landmarks.

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Ubud
6:44 am, Apr 4, 2025
temperature icon 25°C
Humidity 88 %
Sunrise Sunrise: 6:21 am
Sunset Sunset: 6:21 pm

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Tegallalang Rice Terraces

Art Market

Elephant Cave

Bali Swing

Ubud at a Glance

Ubud is a beautiful town in central Bali, surrounded by green jungles, rice fields, and calm rivers. It is known as the cultural and spiritual center of Bali. Ubud is about 25 kilometers north of Denpasar, Bali’s busy capital, and can be reached easily by car or scooter. It is a peaceful getaway for those looking for relaxation and inspiration.

Ubud is a great place to experience Balinese culture. You can watch traditional dances, visit art galleries, and learn about local crafts like painting, wood carving, and batik making. It is also a wellness hub, offering yoga classes, meditation retreats, and relaxing spa treatments.

Explore the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, where you can walk through a green sanctuary with ancient temples and friendly monkeys. Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces to enjoy the stunning views and learn about traditional farming. At the Ubud Art Market, you can shop for handmade jewelry, colorful textiles, and other unique souvenirs. Take a peaceful hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, which offers amazing views of hills and nature. Discover Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), a historical site with fascinating carvings and a serene atmosphere. Watch Balinese Dance Performances at the royal palace for a cultural experience. Try the Bali Swing to swing high above the jungle and capture incredible photos.

Ubud offers something special for everyone, whether you love art, nature, or relaxation.

EXPERIENCES

Travel information

EMERGENCY INFORMATION IN UBUD

Stay prepared with these essential contacts during your trip to Ubud. Save them for quick access.

If you face an emergency while traveling in Ubud or across Bali, you can call the following numbers:

  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance: 118
  • Fire Brigade: 113
  • Search & Rescue: 115

📌 Tip: Make sure to use an Indonesian SIM card to dial these numbers.

If you need medical help, here are some hospitals in or near Ubud:

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If you lose your passport or need assistance, visit your country’s consulate. Here are some of the main consulates in Bali:

Australia
  • Consulate-General
    • Address: Jalan Tantular No.32, Renon, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 200 3100
    • Emergency: +61 2 6261 3305
United States
  • Consular Agency
    • Address: Jalan Hayam Wuruk Tanjung Bungkak No.310, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 233 605
United Kingdom
  • Consulate
    • Address: Jalan Tantular No 32, Sanur, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 21 2356 5200
Germany
  • Honorary Consulate
    • Address: Jalan Pantai Karang No.17, Sanur
    • Phone: +62 361 288 535
France
  • Consular Agency
    • Address: Griya Abasan No.18, Padangsambian Klod
    • Phone: +62 21 2355 8000
Netherlands
  • Consulate
    • Address: Raya Kuta No.127, Kuta
    • Phone: +62 815 5666 7777
Japan
  • Consular Office
    • Address: Jalan Raya Puputan No.170, Renon, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 227 628
New Zealand
  • Honorary Consulate
    • Address: Villa Taman Berawa Jl. Subak Sari No.10, Tibubeneng
    • Phone: +62 819 9947 7552
Italy
  • Honorary Consulate
    • Address:Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai – Gedung Asia Lotus Tour, Jimbaran
    • Phone: +62 361 701 005
China
  • Consulate-General
    • Address: Jalan Tukad Badung No.8X, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 239 901
South Korea
  • Consulate
    • Address: Jl. Prof. Moh. Yamin No.8, Sumerta Kelod, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 4455 037
India
  • Consulate
    • Address: Jalan Raya Puputan No.163, Renon, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 259 502
Russia
  • Consular Office
    • Address: Ungasan, South Kuta
    • Phone: +62 851 0079 1560
Switzerland
  • Honorary Consulate
    • Address: Ganetri B No.9 D, Tonja, Denpasar
    • Phone: +62 361 264 149
  • Book a private driver with Bali Tour Getaways at a reliable and affordable price, call +62 813 5377 1393.
  • Use Blue Bird Taxi, known for being reliable and safe. Their call center number is +62 361 701 111 or use their Blue Bird App.
  • Alternatively, use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab. These apps let you book car or bike taxis and even order food, deliveries, or pay with their e-wallets like GoPay or OVO.
  • If you face issues with these apps, use their in-app help feature for quick assistance.

The safest way to exchange money in Canggu is by using licensed money changers, such as PT Gita Gemilang Money Changer. These are reputable services that ensure secure and fair transactions.

💡 Tips to Identify a Licensed Money Changer in Bali:
  1. Check for an Official License:
    • Look for authorized money changers with a blue PVA Berizin license sticker issued by Bank Indonesia and OJK (Financial Services Authority) logos prominently displayed.
  2. Compare Exchange Rates:
    • Check the official rates on the Bank Indonesia website (Currency Rate Calculator).
    • Ensure the offered rate is close to the official rate.
  3. Count Your Cash:
    • Always double-check your cash before leaving the counter to avoid errors.
  4. Avoid Suspicious Locations:
    • Stay away from small, unmarked money changers or those offering unusually high rates, as they are often scams.

Yes, it is safe to withdraw cash in Ubud. Here are some tips:

  • Use ATMs attached to banks, as they often have 24/7 security.
  • The largest bills you can withdraw are 100,000 IDR and 50,000 IDR.
  • Avoid standalone ATMs in quiet areas to minimize the risk of card skimming.