Top 10 Places to See in Ubud, Bali: A Budget Traveler’s Guide to Culture, Nature & Spirituality
Ubud — The Heart of Bali's Spiritual and Artistic Culture
If you’re looking to experience the cultural, natural, and spiritual soul of Bali without breaking the bank, Ubud is your perfect destination. Located in the uplands of central Bali, Ubud is surrounded by lush rice terraces, sacred temples, and vibrant art villages. It’s a serene retreat ideal for backpackers, digital nomads, solo travelers, and couples on a budget.
In this budget travel guide to Bali, we’ll highlight the top 10 places to see in Ubud, combining affordability, authenticity, and adventure.
1. Tegalalang Rice Terraces – Iconic Balinese Landscape
A staple on every Bali itinerary, the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a UNESCO-listed marvel and one of the top 10 places to see in Ubud. These emerald-green terraces are maintained by a traditional Balinese irrigation system known as subak.
Cost: IDR 15,000–20,000 entry fee
Budget Tip: Bring your own snacks and water to save money on overpriced vendors
Photo Opportunity: Don’t miss the iconic jungle swing overlooking the paddies!
2. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Ubud’s Most Playful Residents
Nestled in the center of Ubud, this sacred forest is home to over 1,200 long-tailed macaques and ancient temple ruins. It's not only a fun experience but also a spiritual one.
Entry Fee: IDR 80,000 (adults)
Budget Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and get better photos
Highlight: Ancient moss-covered temples amidst lush jungle
3. Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud) – The Creative Soul of Bali
Right across from Ubud Palace, the Ubud Art Market is a paradise for lovers of handcrafted goods. Here you’ll find batik fabrics, beaded bags, wooden carvings, and traditional Balinese souvenirs.
Cost: Free to explore, bargain hard for best prices
Budget Tip: Early morning visits often get the “morning price” (best deals)
4. Campuhan Ridge Walk – Ubud’s Free Nature Trail
This scenic ridge trail offers panoramic views of Ubud’s natural beauty. It’s a peaceful, crowd-free escape perfect for walkers, runners, and nature lovers.
Cost: Completely Free
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and better lighting
Experience: One of the best 10 things to do in Ubud that costs absolutely nothing!
5. Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) – Royal Heritage in the Town Center
A must-see for lovers of Balinese architecture and tradition, the Ubud Palace is a historic residence of the royal family. The front courtyard is open to the public, and at night, it hosts vibrant dance performances.
Entry Fee: Free for the courtyard; performances cost IDR 100,000
Budget Tip: Enjoy the architecture and garden for free during the day
6. Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati) – Lotus Temple in the Heart of Ubud
Dedicated to the goddess of knowledge and the arts, Saraswati Temple features a stunning lotus pond that’s become one of the most photographed spots in Ubud.
Cost: Free entry
Nearby: Café Lotus offers views of the temple while you sip coffee or tea
Why Visit: Spiritual beauty without spending a cent
7. Tegenungan Waterfall – Nature's Power Close to Ubud
Just a 20-minute drive from Ubud, Tegenungan Waterfall is a powerful cascade that you can swim under, climb beside, or admire from viewpoints.
Entry Fee: Approx. IDR 20,000
Tip: Bring your own towel and change of clothes
Budget Tip: Combine this with a visit to nearby Goa Gajah to save on transport
8. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) – A Mystical Underground Temple
Don’t let the name confuse you—there are no elephants here. Goa Gajah is a centuries-old Hindu temple with a cave entrance shaped like a demon’s mouth, leading to meditation chambers inside.
Cost: IDR 50,000 (includes sarong rental)
Why It’s Worth It: Unique spiritual experience, perfect for history lovers
Keyword Boost: Another staple among the top 10 places to see in Ubud
9. Blanco Renaissance Museum – Art, History & Jungle Views
Home to the late Don Antonio Blanco, a Spanish artist who settled in Bali, this museum offers a quirky and intimate look into his life and works.
Entry Fee: IDR 85,000
Bonus: Panoramic views of Campuhan River
Budget Tip: Combine with Campuhan Ridge Walk for a half-day itinerary
10. Local Warungs – Taste Bali on a Budget
While not a single location, Ubud’s traditional warungs (family-run restaurants) are a destination in themselves. Enjoy local delicacies like Nasi Campur, Babi Guling, and Tempeh Satay for less than $3 USD.
Top Warungs for Budget Travelers: Warung Biah Biah, Warung Tepi Sari, and Warung Laba Laba
Why It’s a Must: No budget travel guide to Bali is complete without authentic food!
How to Explore Ubud on a Budget
If you’re following a budget travel guide to Bali, Ubud is one of the most wallet-friendly destinations. Here are quick tips to help you save even more:
Transport: Rent a scooter for IDR 70,000/day or use local rideshare apps like Grab
Accommodation: Stay in guesthouses or hostels starting at IDR 150,000/night
Tours: Join free walking tours or group day trips to split costs
SIM Card: Buy a local SIM for cheap internet access and navigation
Best Time to Visit Ubud
Dry Season (April to October): Perfect for hiking and outdoor exploring
Wet Season (November to March): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and cheaper accommodations
Budget Tip: Shoulder months (April, May, September) offer the best value
Conclusion: Ubud Offers Rich Experiences Without the High Price
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, walking through rice terraces, meditating in ancient temples, or tasting local dishes, Ubud delivers authentic experiences on a budget. These top 10 places to see in Ubud are proof that you don’t need to spend big to make unforgettable memories.
If you're looking for a budget travel guide to Bali, consider spending a few days in Ubud—where culture, nature, and serenity converge.
