'''Ubud''' is a town in central Bali, Indonesia. After Kuta, Ubud is the other favourite traveler's destination in Bali and is famous as a center of Balinese culture, arts and crafts.

Understand

Far removed from the drunken bikini scene in Kuta, Ubud can be described as a magical, wonderful, cultural center. Above all, it is famous as an arts and crafts hub. Half (if not more) of the town and nearby villages seem to consist of artists' workshops and galleries, mostly retailing cheap reproductions for tourists. There are some remarkable architectural sights, artistic gems to be found, and a general feeling of well being to be enjoyed thanks to the spirit, surroundings and climate.

While Ubud seems to outsiders like one small town, it is in fact 14 villages, each run by its own banjar (the land-owning married men's association; in effect the local government). It's clear that Ubud has been growing rapidly and some central parts are coping less well with the influx of tourists than in previous years (although the drop in visitors following 9/11 and the Kuta bombings slowed development). That said, most developments are sympathetic to the zeitgeist, if not designed specifically in the style of Balinese architecture. Growth is continuing due to the popularity of the Ubud area, but there are still terraced rice fields along the rivers and regular, quiet village life carries on relatively undisturbed just a stone's throw away. However, the encroachment of hotel rooms onto paddy fields, particularly near Monkey Forest and and along the Agung river is noticeable. Many hotels will promote themselves as being "in Ubud" when they are more likely to actually be located in one of the surrounding villages that make up the greater Ubud.

Due to its location 600 meters above sea level, Ubud enjoys somewhat cooler temperatures than the coast (bring a pullover for the evening), although the midday sun can still be scorching.

Orientation

Orienting yourself in Ubud is fairly straightforward. The town sprawls around for several kilometers in all directions, with all of the small villages within a 5km radius of the central market being loosely referred to as "Ubud." If you choose a reasonably central place to stay, it's easy enough to walk about on foot. Central Ubud has three main streets, '''Jl. Raya Ubud''' (the "Main Road" of Ubud), '''Jl. Monkey Forest''' and '''Jl. Hanoman'''. At the intersection of Jl. Raya and Jl. Monkey Forest is the Ubud Market, the Ubud Palace and the main bemo stop. Jl. Monkey Forest, south to the Monkey Forest itself, is the most built up in the area, and home to a wide array of accommodation, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and cafes, and essential services (schools, sports field, pharmacies, travel agents, etc). Jl. Hanoman, which runs parallel to Jl. Monkey Forest, is a bit quieter and makes for more pleasant walking. To the immediate west and northwest are the villages of Campuhan and Kedewatan, home to some of the most upmarket hotels in the area with views over the Agung River valley. Directly to the south, past Monkey Forest and still within a half hour walk of the central market is Padang Tegal, which then morphs into the southern villages of Nyuh Kuning, and Pengosekan, about 3 km from central Ubud. Directly to the east is the village of Peliatan, and then Teges, home of the Goa Gajah elephant cave.

Get in

Ubud is 43 km from Kuta and 30 km from Denpasar. Normal driving time from Seminyak is 45 mins to 1 hour.

By plane

There are pre-paid taxis from Denpasar's Ngurah Rai airport. Check current prices on the notice board in the taxi office just outside the arrivals hall.

By bemo

There are regular public bemos from Denpasar's Batubulan terminal to Ubud.

By taxi

If you want to take a taxi from southern Bali, it's best to charter the vehicle for a return trip, otherwise, you'll be hit with a 30% fee for going out-of-town. Metered fares, one-way ''not'' including surcharge, are around Rp 50,000 from Denpasar and Rp 100,000 from Kuta.

By Shuttle Bus

Perama Shuttle Bus offers regular direct transfers to Ubud from Denpasar's Ngurah Rai airport, Sanur, Lovina, and Candidasa/Padangbai that are convenient and inexpensive. (E.g; 4 times per day from Ngurah Rai Airport, Rp 30,000). Inconveniently the Permana Shuttle Bus terminal isn't located right in the centre of Ubud, but about 2 km south of the town centre, in Padang Tegal (on Jl. Hanoman, just south of the Intersection of Monkey Forest Rd).

Get around

Central Ubud can be covered on foot, but you'll need wheels to explore the extended vicinity. On the main streets, you might be accosted every few meters by people offering "transport"; prepare to bargain hard, but always keep bargaining rules in mind: start low, end with a smile, and enjoy the interaction. It also should be noted that sidewalks throughout Bali are simply the tops of sewers and only 2 ft wide, which can make for uncomfortable single-file walking as traffic screams past. Ubud is generally quieter and the streets calmer than the more urbanised parts of Bali (although anywhere in Indonesia, "calmness" is a matter of opinion!). Whilst traffic is slower than downtown Kuta, the sidewalk is often blocked with a motorbike or caved-in section necessitating a step off the sidewalk -- potentially placing you in the path of traffic. That traffic could be a tricycle or a truck, so keep your wits about you. One thing to remember is that the sidewalks are not smooth. Watch out for holes, uneven steps, etc, and carry a flashlight (torch) at night.

Hotel car

Greater Ubud encompasses a number of neighbouring villages, and many hotels and larger losmen are happy to offer a complimentary drop-off and pickup service to central Ubud, and the Ubud Market. Expect to pay taxi prices if you are intending to go further.

By bemo

The Bemos are the local minibus transport that the Balinese primarily use; the ''Bule'' (foreigners) are welcome, too, and should expect to pay about twice what the locals do (Rp 2,000 instead of Rp 1,000 - but you may be asked for more). The Bemos are rented by the driver for the day and he gets a cut, so do treat your drivers well, and expect the same in return.

By taxi

While many drivers would be happy to do so, metered taxis from down south are officially ''not allowed'' to pick up passengers in Ubud and local drivers might have their say about this, perhaps even trying to prevent you from getting in. In practice metered "Taksis" are only seen dropping tourists off from the airport.

Local drivers

Most local transport comes in the form of Kijang SUVs or minivans that can be hired (with driver) for specific trips. Look for the circular yellow "E" logo on the windshield certifying them as Ubud Transport Association members. You can (and should) haggle a bit over the price and you should be able to pay less than with metered taxis. A short trip is about Rp 20,000 and drivers will be glad to wait for you for a return fare. Also, any guy with a motorbike is implicitly in the transport business and bike rides are about half the price of a passenger vehicle.

Push bikes

You can also rent a '''push bike''' - a regular bicycle, for about Rp 20,000 a day. There's a large selection available at the corner of the football field. You can arrange a half-day trip involving a gentle downhill cruise from the top of the island back to Ubud on rented bikes. Apart from a very few short, sharp uphill sections, the ride is very relaxed and is well worth the time if you want to see the surrounding country in a less "touristy" way.

See

The town of Ubud has few sights within walking distance, and you'll need some form of transport to get to the temples in the vicinity. The easiest option is to join a tour, or just charter a taxi/bemo for a few hours.

  • '''Botanic Garden''', Kutuh Kaja, ''+62 361'' 970 951, [http://www.botanicgardenbali.com/]. The recently opened Botanic Garden is a wonderful way to spend a few hours walking around and exploring the valley that it fills. It is best to go in the morning and avoid the afternoon heat.
  • '''Monkey Forest''', south end of Jl. Monkey Forest; [http://www.monkeyforestubud.com/]. A forest full of ravenous monkeys, so don't bring any food or risk bites and rabies injections. Stroll through to find Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, a Temple of the Dead.
  • '''Museum Puri Lukisan''' (Museum of Fine Arts), Jl. Raya Ubud (''spot the sign and cross the bridge to enter''), [http://www.museumpurilukisan.com]. Three buildings showcasing traditional and modern Balinese art. The displays are musty and English labeling is a little spotty, but some of the works, particularly the carvings, are quite amazing. Entrance Rp 20,000.
  • '''Museum Rudana''', Jl. Cok Rai Pudak 44, Peliatan, Ubud, [http://www.museumrudana.com]. Ph : Tel: ''+62 361'' 975779, Fax : ''+62 361'' 975091. E-mail: rudana@senatorrudana.com. Run by its owner and sole artist Nyoman Rudana.
  • '''Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women''', Jalan Sriwedari 2B, ''+62 361'' 975485, Banjar Taman, Ubud, [http://www.seniwatigallery.com/]. The Seniwati Gallery features art by women; "Seni" is Indonesian for "art" and "Wati" means "women".
  • All of the following temples cost Rp. 6000/3000 adults/children, and can be reached by taking bemos towards Tampaksiring. Everybody must wear a sash, available at the entrance for a Rp. 1000 donation, and either long pants or a sarong (from Rp. 5000 from hawkers).

  • '''Goa Gajah''' (Elephant Cave), 3 km east from Ubud. A popular little excursion from Ubud, the centerpiece here is a cave, whose entrance is an ornately carved demon's mouth. Inside are some fragmentary ''lingam'' and ''yoni'' (phallus and vagina) statues, as well as a statue of Ganesha. Statues stand guard around pools near the entrance and a little path leads to a waterfall, rice fields and some Buddhist stupa fragments.
  • '''Gunung Kawi''' (Poet Mountain), Tampaksiring, 18 km northeast from Ubud. Entrance fee is Rp. 6000, sarong is rented for free. Dating from the 11th century, this is presumed to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his many wives. Reached by climbing down 371 steps, the location at the bottom of a steep valley lined with paddy fields is stunning. The smaller complex on the south side of the river is presumed to be for the king's wives, while the larger complex is thought to be for the King himself and perhaps his concubines. You must take off your shoes before entering into the central pura complex. About one km downstream there are further tomb cloisters. On the way back up, take a break at '''Cafe Kawi''', which has cold drinks (Rp. 10,000 & up) and fresh breezes (free).
  • '''Tirta Empul''', Tampaksiring, 20 km northeast from Ubud. One of the holiest temples on Bali, built around hot springs that now bubble eerily in the central courtyard. Balinese themselves come here to bathe and purify themselves physically and spiritually, and during Galungan the sacred ''barong'' masks are bathed here. The complex dates to 960, but the present buildings are all modern reconstructions.
  • Do

    As a center of the arts, Ubud has dance and shadow puppet performances every night and plenty of spas for resynchronizing your healing chakras.

    Cultural performances

  • '''Puri Saren''' and '''Puri Saraswati''', Jl. Raya Ubud (''just east of Jl Monkey Forest''). Smack dab in the centre of town, dance performances (Rp. 50,000 up) are staged here almost nightly.
  • '''Pura Dalem''', Jl. Raya Ubud. For one of the best kecak performances in Ubud every Friday and Monday night(Rp. 50,000 up. Staged in beautiful surroundings outside under the banyan trees. Followed by fire dance. [http://wikitravel.org/upload/shared/6/6f/DSC0274.jpg]
  • '''Batubulan'''. A national performance dance ''Barong'' takes place there every day at 9:30AM. It lasts 1 hour, entrance fee - Rp. 50,000. This is a performance for tourists about everlasting battle between the good and the evil, where there is not much dancing, but more "talking". While buying a ticket, you'll also get a description (aka libretto) of what will be performed.
  • Spas

  • '''Bali Healing''', Jl Raya Hanoman 43, Padang Tegal, tel: ''+62 361'' 791104. This two-bed massage shop is incredible. Even for the experienced massage consumer, this is an experience. A one-hour massage is Rp 50,000. For an extra treat try the the Magic Warm Stone Massage for Rp 80,000. Several other deep tissue and reflexology treatments are available from Ni Made Suweti and her skilled team.
  • '''Bodyworks Healing Centre''', Jl. 25 Hanoman, tel: ''+62 361'' 975720, 971393, [http://www.ubudbodyworkscentre.com/]. Ubud Bodyworks Healing Centre was founded by Ketut Arsana. This centre was established 25 years ago and was the first bodyworks centre established in Ubud. Bodyworks is the home of Ketut Arsana; his family compound was already a place where many Balinese people would come for healing.
  • '''Milano''', Jl Monkey Forest (just past the football field), tel: ''+62 361'' 973488. Best manicures and pedicures in Ubud for only Rp 50,000. Try the creambath too for a classic Balinese head massage experience.
  • '''Verona Spa''', Jl Monkey Forest (at the end of the alley by Yulia Hotel), tel: ''+62 361'970975, [http://www.veronaspa.com/]. Sister spa to Milano, Verona offers individual or couples rooms that open onto a rice terrace yet remain private because of strategically placed plants and greenery. Go for the 4-hour package called the Verona Spa Experience, complete with a massage, body scrub, flower bath, facial, manicure, pedicure and the most divine hair creme bath (not to be missed if you like having your head massaged) -- all for Rp 330,000. Hands down the best value for money to be found in Ubud.
  • '''Padma Hastaa Spa''' Monkey Forest Road, tel: ''+62 081'' 23986311. This place offers a 3 1/2 hour spa treatment including milk bath, facial, body scrub, body massage and hair treatment for only Rp 205,000. Excellent way to spend the afternoon.
  • '''Pertenin Body Care''', Jl. Jatayu, tel: ''+62 361'' 972 834, [http://www.pertenin.com/]. Facial treatments and massage in a relaxing modern environment. From Rp 85000/hour, free pickup for two or more from anywhere in Ubud. This spa is owned by Tegal Sari Hotel and uses allows the custmer to select the right oils and herbs for the treatment. For Rp 175,000, you can have a one hour massage, body scrub and flower bath over two hours. A very relaxing environment and competent staff.
  • '''The Lembah Spa''', Jln. Lanyahan, Br Nagi, tel: ''+62 361'' 971777, [http://www.thelembahspa.com/]. The Lembah Spa offers the best of exotic Asian massages and treatments, combined with the expertise of masseurs in sophisticated European treatments.
  • '''Ubud Sari Health Resort''', Jl. Kajeng 35, Ubud, tel: ''+62 361'' 974393, [http://www.ubudsari.com/]. A resort with emphasis on Balinese-style healing therapy, offers an alternative health care, spa, beauty salon, health massage, vegetarian restaurant, yoga, wedding package.
  • Yoga and Meditation

  • '''Taman Hati Yoga and Meditation Center''', Banjar Nyuh Kuning, tel: ''+62 361'' 974739, tamanhati2000@yahoo.com.
  • '''The Yoga Barn''', Padangtegal, Ubud. Lovely yoga centre with a range of classes, and excellent set of teachers mostly in the ashtanga/vinnyasa school... upper studio has great views of surrounding terraces. [http://www.balispirit.com]
  • Buy

    Ubud has a vast assortment of art and jewelery shops. Head for boutiques for higher quality (and higher prices), or down to the market for bulk-produced cheapies.

  • '''Ubud Market''', corner of Monkey Forest Rd and Jl. Raya Ubud. A two-story warren of stalls bursting at the seams with wood carvings, batik shirts, sarongs and anything else a tourist could possibly want as souvenirs. The merchants here haggle with tourists for a living and think nothing of asking for ten times the going price, so try to establish a baseline before you go in and buy. Try to avoid busy lunchtimes when the tour bus hordes arrive.
  • Murni's Warung Shop. ampuan-Ubud. urni's Restaurant by the bridge. 62 361 972146. ttp://www.murnis.com/. AM-10PM. Murni collects things and exhibits abroad. When she looks around her home and finds too many things, she puts them in her shop. Whether you're looking for antiques, collectibles or a special Balinese gift, you'll always find something you love in Murni's collection. www.murnis.com

  • '''Ganesha Bookstore''', corner of Post Office street and Jl. Raya Ubud. If you're looking for the best second hand bookstore in Bali, you've got to visit this place. Also, has great range of new books on Bali and Indonesia.
  • '''Outside Ubud'''

  • '''Craft villages between Sanur and Ubud:''' The road to Ubud from the south passes a series of small towns and villages which specialize in the production of particular arts and crafts. The towns are '''Batubulan''' for stone carvings, '''Celuk''' for jewelry, '''Batuan''' for paintings, and '''Mas''' for wood carvings. The area is sometimes referred to as the "craft villages" of Bali, though the area is a bit more built-up and congested than one might infer from the term "village." The whole scene has become rather commercialized. But still, it's the best area to see and buy a wide variety of the best Balinese craft work in a short period of time. The area has many large showrooms where arts and crafts in the Balinese style are offered for sale. Nearly all organized day-tours of central Bali stop at one or more of these showrooms (and the tour operators usually have a financial tie-up with the places where they stop, collecting a commission on purchases.) Even individual taxi drivers have their preferred stops.
  • '''Sukawati Art Market:''' The huge market in Sukawati town just after Celuk if coming from the south, is like a "one-stop" center for all the craft villages between Sanur and Ubud, except maybe for the huge stone carvings. Many souvenir shop owners from around Bali purchase their items here and prices are considerably lower that in the tourist centers like Kuta, Sanur and Ubud town. For a taste of every-day, go to the food and produce market opposite the art market.
  • Eat

    Budget

  • '''Warung Igelanc''' ("Iggy's"), Jl. Raya Ubud, tel: ''+62 81'' 58943251 (handphone). Cheap and cheerful Indonesian favorites like ''nasi campur'', fried rice and noodles, plus (this being Ubud) a range of herbal drinks, such as '''Ginger Jive'''.
  • '''Dewa Warung''', Jl. Gootama, Ubud. Dewa's is one of the best and cheapest places to eat in town; serves all the usual Balinese dishes. The most expensive item on the menu is the '''Cashew Ginger Chicken''' for Rp 15,000. Be sure to say hello to Ibu Dewa.
  • Mid-range

  • '''Cafe des Artistes''' located in Jalan Bisma, this Belgian-owned eatery serves delicious Indonesian dishes as well as a vast array of International classics. Famous for their grilled Tenderloin steaks, the place is always crowded with expats, locals and tourists alike. Extensive winelist, cocktails, belgian beers and homemade desserts. Free WIFI from 11AM till 6PM. To make sure you get a table for dinner, call to reserve ''+62 361'' 972706. open every day from 11AM till Midnight.
  • Ibu Oka Warung Babi Guling. l. Suweta. ocated behind Ubud's banjar, just north of the Jl Raya Ubud-Jl Suweta-Monkey Forest Road crossroads in the middle of Ubud town.. rom Rp. 25,000. Eating at Ibu Oka is the ultimate Bali culinary experience. The ''babi guling'' (spit-roasted pig) is almost world-famous and for regular pork lovers. This humble eating place is virtually a place of pilgrimage. Ibu Oka's deliciously flavoured spicy roast pork (as well as many other parts of the pig) is served on top of white rice. Order the ''special'' (Rp25,000) and you get a bit of everything. There are normal tables and chairs but you can also sit on the floor at low tables inside the ''bale'' (pavillion). Ibu Oka also has a branch in Mas (Tel: ''+62 361'' 976345) on the main Teges-Sukawati road, which makes it on the way between Ubud and the airport. Unlike the one in Ubud town, this outlet is a two-story restaurant which is spotless, airy and comfortable. And the food comes at no extra cost.

  • Warung Aja. onkey Forest Road. bout halfway between the Monkey Forest Road-Jl Raya Ubud intersection and Monkey Forest. The warung is set back away from the road, on the right side if heading south towards Monkey Forest.. 62 361 973398. AM to late. eals from Rp26,000. Cosy and friendly, Warung Aja is run by a couple from Java and is a good place to sample Indonesian food from Java, such as ''nasi rawon'', ''nasi kuning'' and ''pecel''. There are also the usual Balinese food items on the menu like ''sate lilit'' and duck.

  • Murni's Warung. ampuan_ubud. y Campuan Bridge over the river. 62 361 975233. ttp://www.murnis.com/. AM-10PM. In 1974, Murni opened Ubud's first restaurant and since then thousands of people have enjoyed her food and hospitality. It's an institution. Today, Murni's Warung has four open-air levels that step down the steep hillside overlooking the river and it is still Ubud's most popular restaurant. Free WiFi. www.murnis.com

  • '''Casa Luna''', Jalan Raya Ubud, Bali, tel: ''+62 361'' 973282, [http://www.casalunabali.com/]. Western and local dishes, sometimes falling somewhere in between.
  • '''Dragonfly''', Jl. Dewi Sita (''off Jl. Monkey Forest at football field''), tel: ''+62 361'' 972973, [http://www.dragonflyubud.com/]. Opened in 2006, this conveniently located restaurant offers fusionesque "West-East" eats, traditional Indonesian fare, and even a few Mexican dishes. It also has free WiFi.
  • '''Gaia''', Jl. Dewi Sita, [http://www.narasoma.com/gaia/] offers a wide range of vegetarian, Balinese and Indonesian food.
  • '''Naughty Nuri's Warung and Grill''', Jl. Raya Sangiggan, opposite the Neka Art Museum half way up the hill heading north out of Ubud. tel: ''+62 361'' 977547. A laidback roadside watering hole that is a favorite of local expats. Microbrews, great martinis, and possibly the best large slabs of BBQ ribs in South East Asia! Main courses Rp.15,000 - Rp.60,000.
  • '''Nomad''', Jl. Raya Ubud 35 (Ubud Main Road), tel: ''+62 361'' 977169, [http://www.nomad-bali.com/]. A long-steanding institution that serves up a good selection of Balinese, Indonesian and Western dishes, but deservedly popular is their "tapas" selection, consisting of bite-sized portions of local flavors. 12 tapas with rice costs Rp. 60,000 and feeds two. Also, they serve wide-range of cocktails and spirits.
  • '''Tutmak''', Jl. Dewi Sita and next to football field, tel: ''+62 361'' 975754. A favorite with the expat crowd, Tutmak offers an international menu and an extensive selection of coffees.
  • '''Batan Waru''', Jl. Dewi Sita. Amazing Balinese and Indonesian food in a great space with colonial accents. Indoor and outdoor seating. Great coffee and desserts also available.
  • '''Babyface Resturant''', Jl. Monkey Forest road. Simple two-story building with a wide choice of food (starting at Rp. 30,000 for mains)including indonesian and japanease ome rice (stands for 'one hungry man size, interesting but rather large). This restaurant also has free wifi and lovely staff. The downstairs has more of a resturant feel but upstairs is more of a lounge, where you can relax and use internet on your laptop. Wifi is free, but if you need to use electricity, the first 20 mins free then Rp. 200 rp a min after that.
  • Splurge

  • '''Bebek Bengil''', Hanoman Rd. Bebek Bengil (Balinese for Dirty Duck) is an interesting restaurant with paddy field view and nice gardens. They are famous for their crispy fried duck, and some European based menu items. They have interesting selections of cakes as well. Expect to spend Rp. 100,000 per head. The fried duck dish is about Rp. 56,000, but for this, you get 1/2 a duck with the trimmings, either sauted potatoes and salad or steamed rice and Indonesian vegetables.
  • '''CasCades Restaurant''', Jln. Lanyahan, Br Nagi, Tel: ''+62 361'' 972111, [http://www.cascadesbali.com/]. Classical French food made with local ingredients. Dishes include ''Un Petit Jesus Dans Une Culotte de Velours'' (pan-fried duck liver on onion, date compote with passionfruit sorbet). Expect to pay about Rp.400,000 per person.
  • Drink

    Ubud has quite a few hip places for a quiet drink, but the strictly enforced regulation that all live performances must end by 10:30PM puts a bit of a clamp on the local nightlife.

  • '''Ary's Warung''', Jl. Raya Ubud 35 (''opp Puri Saraswati''). Don't be fooled by the name, this is a stylish watering hole with a large bar downstairs, complete with sofas and cow-leather bar stools, and a rather less busy restaurant upstairs. Drinks are expensive but generously sized.
  • '''Jazz Cafe''', Jl. Sukma No. 2 Tebesaya (''in Peliatan''), tel: ''+62 361'' 976594. Outdoor jazz bar with live bands nightly. A limited food menu and an overpriced selection of drinks (Rp. 50,000 and up). Cover charge Rp. 20,000.
  • Sleep

    Budget

    Ubud has many homestays which are the cheapest form of lodging and a good way to meet the locals.

  • '''Dewi Antara Homestay''', Jalan Sugriwa, Padang Tegal, tel: ''+62 361'' 976072. A Balinese family homestay. Quiet and clean bungalows. The father participates in nighttime activities, so it's fun to watch him in traditional dress. The son will happily give you a ride on his motorbike for free, if you exchange a little English with him. Breakfast included.
  • '''Mawar Homestay''', Jl.Raya Ubud, Tel: ''+62 361'' 975086 , E-mail: mawarfamily@gmail.com. Located in the heart of Ubud, approximately 300 meters west of Ubud Palace. Currently has 10 rooms. Prices range from Rp. 100,000-150,000. Room Facilities include: bathroom with hot and cold water and ceiling fans. Breakfast included.
  • '''Ketut and Geks House''', address="Bona , Gianyar Bali" directions="20 minute southeast of Ubud" phone="+62 361 945833" check out http://www.ketutandgekshouse.com" price="Rp.57,000/day with breakfast". Nice and cheap place to stay in rural Bali. with cold and hot shower, overlooking rice terrace. long or short stay.
  • '''Shana Homestay''', Jl Gautama No 7 Padang Tegal, tel: ''+62 361'' 97481. Very close to the traditional & art market and Nomad restaurant, Shana is a place where you feel stay in Balinese family. You wake up in a serene garden-like bangalow with breakfast ready and greetings from all the family members. Total of 3 bangalow, each comes with 2 beds for 3 persons. Breakfast included, starts from Rp.57,000. Definitely worth a stay.
  • '''Melati Cottages''', Jl Penestanan Ubud, tel:''+62 361'' 974650, email: melaticottages@hotmail.com). Quack like a classic Ubud rice field duck as you stroll out to these traditional style rooms set around a cafe by a pool. You can walk in from north or south. After dark, listen to nature's night music wafting in from the fields.
  • '''Narasoma Homestay''', Gang Beji off Jalan Monkey Forest, tel: ''+62 361'' 973404, [http://www.narasoma.com/narasoma/]. Just down a little lane off busy Jalan Monkey Forest, Narasoma is a family home and accommodation surrounded by coconut palms. Nyoman and Charlotte welcome you into their family to experience a Balinese compound setting with exquisitely carved traditional buildings. From the top floor, you will be able to see the sacred mountains to the west of Bali and on a clear day see Mount Agung to the East. Rooms are clean and airy. Start from Rp.140,000-170,000, breakfast included. A deluxe Balinese Honeymoon suite will be opened soon with a/c. Seasonal Rate start at around Rp.400,000 per night Breakfast included.
  • '''Rumah Roda Homestay and Restaurant''', Jalan Kajeng 24 Ubud, tel: ''+62 361'' 975487, [http://www.rumahroda.com/]. Lovely family compound with rooms. The restaurant is also a treat, catch the Sunday evening buffet. The book ''A Little Bit One O'Clock'' is about this place and family.
  • '''Family Guest House''', Banjar Tebesaya 39 Ubud, tel: ''+62 361'' 974054. fax: ''+62 361'' 978292, email: familyhouse@telkom.net. The superfriendly, devote Hindu family makes you feel right at home. Rooms are placed in a lovely compound and includes a good breakfast.
  • '''Dewa Bungalows''', 48 Jalan Hanuman, Pedangtegal, Ubud. Lovely family compound close to the center of town, currently has 8 rooms but expanding to double that soon. Family-run and gracious it has nice little slate pool perfect for noon time dips. Prices range from Rp.90,000-150,000.
  • Mid-range

  • '''Oka Kartini''', Jl. Raya Ubud 35 (''just across the bridge in Peliatan, east of Ubud town center.''), Tel: ''+62 361'' 975759 [http://www.okakartini.com/]. Quirky old Balinese house complex on the edge of town, the rooms here are a bit long in tooth but decorated with more carvings and gold paint than the average temple. Friendly staff watched over by the remarkable lady Oka Kartini herself, large art gallery, small but pleasant garden pool, shadow puppet shows three days a week(separate charge). Fan/AC rooms Rp.340,000-511,000, including breakfast.
  • '''Ubud Aura''', ubudaura@gmail.com. Accommodation with yoga studio for retreat groups/ Jalan Hanoman, No 888, Padang Tegal-Ubud. 14 rooms with yoga studio and swimming pool and rice field surroundings. Close to Ubud Centre, just behind Zen Spa in a laneway off Hanoman Road. Nice Pool and clean energy.
  • '''Sri Bungalows''', Jl. Monkey Forest Road, Tel: ''+62 361'' 8528521, [http://www.sribungalows.com/]. Centrally located with 16 bright bungalow-style rooms tucked into lush gardens. It's only about 50 meters from the busy road, but it's very quiet except for the singing of birds. The rooms are simple, but nice. They have bamboo furniture, western toilets and hot water. There's a large pool in the back, and rice paddies beyond the pool. An internet cafe is also on the premises. Fan/AC rooms Rp.280,000-400,000 including breakfast.
  • '''Sri Ratih Cottages''', Campuhan, Tel: ''+62 361'' 8528521,[http://www.sriratihcottages.com]. 30 rooms set amongst the rice paddy fields of Penestanan. Pool, restaurant. Fan/AC rooms $340,000-$570,000 including breakfast.
  • '''Ubud Terrace''', Monkey Forest Road (''About 15 minutes south of the Monkey Forest Road-Jl. Raya Ubud crossroads, within two minutes of Monkey Forest''). Tel: ''+62 361'' 975690. Rooms start at Rp.150,000 (fan-cooled) while Rp.250,000 will get you a/c, hot and cold water in a very large room. Recently has had refurbishment so all rooms are very nice. Breakfast included and has nice swimming pool. Has very friendly staff and you can book all sorts of tours and shuttle buses from reception
  • '''Padi Prada Ubud''', Jl. Raya Monkey Forest. Tel: ''+62 361'' 8528521. [http://www.padipradaubud.com] Five Balinese-style villas. Restaurant, pool, pa, Jacuzzi and a Rice Bale with an unobstructed view facing the surrounding valley and terraced rice paddies.
  • '''Puri Asri Villa & Spa''', Jln. Nyuh Bulan, Nyuh Kuning Village. Tel: ''+62 361'' 972550. [http://www.puriasrivillaandspa.com] Budget villas and accommodation based in Ubud. Located off the main roads, but they offer a couple scheduled shuttle rides to Monkey Forest Rd and back each day. Also within walking distance if you cut through Monkey Forest Park. Villas offer spacious sleeping rooms, A/C, bath and shower (including outdoor showers), patio, and breakfast delivered to your room each morning if you so choose. Great value for money (Rp 500,000 including breakfast), but take cash as their credit card facilities don't always work.
  • Ketut and Geks House. ona , Gianyar Bali. 0 minute southeast of Ubud. 62 361 945833. ttp://www.ketutandgekshouse.com. p.57,000/day with breakfast. Nice and cheap place to stay in rural Bali. with cold and hot shower, overlooking rice terrace.

    Splurge

  • '''Agung Khalia Villa''' [http://www.agungkhalia.com] Banjar Sala, Ubud-Pejeng. Luxury 3 bedroom villa with panoramic rice field and Mount Agung views. Private pool, wonderful staff, and excellent service. Only 10 minutes from central Ubud. Grand Opening Special for 2009. Rp.1,500,000-2,000,000 per night for the whole villa.
  • '''Barong Resort and Spa''' [http://www.barong-resort.com/] Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Bali, 80571. Tel: +62-361-971759. Nestled in the paddy fields of Ubud, the resort provides both accommodation and spa facilities that reflect Bali's tranquility. Offering 5 star hotel rooms, prices start from Rp.2,300,000.
  • '''Bukit Naga''', tel: ''+62 361'' 730668, [http://www.bukitnaga.com/]. A 6 bedroom private villa with a full staff and private car.
  • '''Bumi Ayu Villa''' [http://www.webjaya.com/indexuk.html]. A two storey, two bedrooms, bungalow in the forest on a cliff overlooking the river behind the village of Sebatu. Sebatu is on the road from Ubud to Kintamani. Rp.1,800,000/person/day, including driver available for the full day.
  • '''Como Shambhala Estate''', [http://cse.como.bz/]. Formerly the Begawan Giri Estate. Price range Rp.3,100,000-41,000,000 per night. About a 15 minute drive from Ubud. Private residences.
  • '''Maya Ubud''' [http://www.mayaubud.com], Jl. Gunung Sari Peliatan, Tel: ''+62 361'' 977888. Ten hectare of land with nice villas, excellent spa and good restaurant. Free shuttle to centre of Ubud and two free form pools
  • Murni's Villas. ww.murnis.com. 0 minutes outside Ubud. 62 361 972146. ttp://www.murnis.com/. Twenty minutes outside Ubud. Murni lives in villa and offers the other to guests. Infinity pool, television, jacuzzi, meals.

  • '''Nandini Bali Jungle Resort & Spa''' [http://www.nandinibali.com]. Br. Susut, Desa Buahan, Payangan, Ubud, Bali. Tel: ''+62 361'' 982777. The 18 guestrooms at the Nandini Bali Jungle Resort and Spa Ubud are designed as separate chalets. All have panoramic views of the forest valley. Balconies grant guests the opportunity to absorb the surrounding jungle's canopy, while inside the rooms, amenities are functional and straight-forward. Prices start from Rp.1,900,000.
  • '''Santi Mandala Villa and Spa''' [http://santimandalavilla.com] Banjar Bucuan, Desa Batuan, Ubud, Bali, Tel.: ''+62 361'' 297800. Located at the outskirts of Ubud, the resort has a spa center, poolside sunken bar and large private villas, which start at Rp.1,400,000.
  • '''Ubud Hanging Gardens''' [http://ubudhanginggardens.com] Desa Buahan, Desa Payangan, Gianyar,Bali, Indonesia Tel.: ''+62 361'' 982700. Ubud Hanging Gardens is strikingly set with dramatic views over the Ayung River gorge. Two funicular lifts connect the reception to the river gorge and to the pool villas. Built in contemporary Balinese style, each villa uses local furnishing and thatched roofs. Each villa has its own heated infinity-edged pool. Pool villas from Rp.3,800,000/night.
  • '''The Viceroy Bali''', Jln. Lanyahan, Br Nagi., Tel: ''+62 361'' 971777, [http://www.theviceroybali.com/]. The Viceroy Bali is a luxury resort situated 5 min by car from the center of Ubud and offers private villas with pools, satellite TV, bath, shower, king beds, free broadband internet access and helicopter transfers. Rp.9,000,000-28,400,000 per night.
  • '''Villa Alamanda''', [http://www.alamandabali.com/]. A 3 bedroom staffed villa of classic Bali design.
  • '''Villa Amala Ubud''', [http://www.hotubudvillas.com/]. Amala is situated on the edge of a padi field, overlooking the river Wos. It sits between the villages of Sebali and Keliki , in the province of Tegallalang, Ubud. It is an hour_fs ride from Bali_fs Ngurah Rai airport, and only a 15 minute car ride from the famed centre of art and culture ? Ubud.
  • '''Villa di Abing''', [http://villadiabing.com/]. Villa di Abing is a 3-story, 3-bedroom, fully-staffed, luxury villa, in Central Ubud, offering bed & breakfast.This open Balinese-style villa is luxuriously appointed, and has a beautiful pool hugging the contours of a lush stream. Privately nestled with jungle views, the villa is within walking distance of the shops and restaurants.
  • '''Villa Melati''', [http://villamelati.com/]. Convienent villa for relaxation with style
  • '''Villa Vajra''', [http://www.villavajra.com/]. A 3 bedroom villa located right in the heart of Ubud. Rates run from Rp. 5,100,000- 6,400,000 per night (depending on the season).
  • '''Wakanamya Resort and Spa''', Jl. Penestanan, tel: ''+62 361'' 975719, 975719. Email: info@wakanamya.com[http://wakanamya.com]. Waka Namya Resort and Spa is a luxury Balinese Architecture 15 rooms villa in Ubud, Bali with a beautiful spa treatment. The resort is a haven of quite in the bstling heart of Penestanan Ubud, Bali's famous painter community village, and built in the traditional Balinese architecture or Lumbung design ( Balinese rice storage ). It is developed by Nyoman Rudana, the founder of Museum Rudana. DRIVING HOURS : Ngurah Rai International Airport : 45 minutes drives, Denpasar/Sanur: 35 minutes drives, Ubud Center/market: 10 minutes drives.
  • Hotel Tjampuhan Spa. 62 361 975368. ttp://www.tjampuhan-bali.com. ates start at Rp.5,200,000. The hotel is located on a spiritually charged piece of landscape at the conjunction of two flowing rivers. It offers inspiring dining alternatives to complement the visual appeal of this historic landmark in local Balinese hospitality. They offer Tjampuhan Spa that is dedicated to the therapeutic properties of water. Hotel Tjampuhan & Spa is a refreshing retreat to unwind amidst the full splendor of nature's bounty. Jl. Raya Tjampuhan PO Box 198, Ubud.

  • The Royal Pita Maha. 62 361 980022. ttp://www.royalpitamaha-bali.com. ates start at Rp.18,400,000. The Royal Pita Maha is a captivating resort of refined Balinese villas embracing a precious parcel of valley landscape that descends down to the Ayung River.It is located on the outer boundary of the spiritually charged village of Ubud. The resort offers a fine collection of aesthetically designed villas for discerning travelers seeking the quality time out surrounded by that natural beauty of the Ubud valley. It was designed as a place for peaceful contemplation with plenty of water features for swimming and to enjoy communing with the environment. Desa Kedewatan PO Box 198, Ubud.

  • Pita Maha Resort and Spa. 62 361 974330. ttp://www.pitamaha-bali.com. ates start at Rp.11,700,000. Situated into the hillside that overlooks the Tjampuhan valley in Ubud, Pita Maha Resort & Spa encompasses 24 private villas in a style reminiscent of an intimate Balinese village. It ends itself to a diverse collection of enriching leisure activities. Apart from spending time at the pool or indulging in a spa treatment, guests have the opportunity to partake in a number of cultural pastimes. Jl. Raya Sanggingan PO Box 198, Ubud.

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