Photo: Chainwit., CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
This was the palace of the kings of Ubud until the 1940s, and some royal descendants live there to this day. Parts of the complex are off limits to the public, but entry to the rest is free, and this is Ubud's best setting for dance performances (see Do). 10-15 min visit without a guide.
The Ubud Palace, officially Puri Saren Agung, is a historical building complex situated in Ubud, Gianyar Regency of Bali, Indonesia.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
just east of Jl Monkey Forest
Smack dab in the centre of town, dance performances are staged here almost nightly.
Pura Taman Saraswati
Taman Saraswati Temple, also known as Pura Taman Kemuda Saraswati, is a graceful water temple located in the heart of Ubud, Bali. Dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, learning, and the arts, this temple is renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its striking beauty—especially the elegant lotus pond and water garden that stretch out in front of its ornately carved gates.^Built in the late 20th century by famed Balinese architect I Gusti Nyoman Lempad under commission from the Ubud royal family, the temple blends traditional Balinese architecture with classical Hindu iconography. Intricate stone reliefs adorn the walls and gateways, many of which depict figures from Hindu mythology, including Saraswati herself holding a manuscript and a veena, symbolizing knowledge and the arts.
A wide path flanked by blooming pink lotuses leads visitors from the street to the temple entrance, though the inner sanctum is reserved for worshippers, the outer courtyard and pond are accessible and are particularly atmospheric around sunset, when the temple is bathed in golden light.
Pura Gunung Lebah sits at the confluence of the Campuhan and Wos rivers beside Campuhan Bridge. Dating from the 8th century, it is one of Ubud's oldest and most sacred temples. Dedicated to the spirit of the surrounding valleys, the temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere, traditional stone carvings and lush jungle setting. It also marks the southern entrance to the popular Campuhan Ridge Walk.
Museum of Fine Arts
When it opened in 1954, this was the first private museum in Bali. Three buildings showcase traditional and modern Balinese art. The displays are a little musty and English labeling is spotty, but some of the works, particularly the carvings, are quite amazing. Exhibits by noted artists I Gusti Nyoman Lempad and Rudolph Bonnet, among others.
The Sweet Orange Walk is even better than the Campuhan Ridge Walk was before it was ruined by development. It follows narrow paths through rice fields just north of central Ubud, passing cafés, rice fields, homestays and art studios. It is a relaxing walk suitable for most visitors. Loop back into central Ubud by turning onto Jalan Kajeng and browse its art and trinket stalls.
Friendly and attentive service in a comfortable setting, with interiors featuring soft cream colours and tasteful ornaments. The therapists deliver top-notch therapeutic massages. You can enjoy cups of comforting rosella or ginger tea at the cosy seating area after treatment.