Ubud Day Tour: Rice Terraces, Water Temple and Art Market

The route, stop by stop

We usually head first to Tegalalang, about 20 minutes north of central Ubud, where terraced paddies drop into a palm-lined valley. Morning light is softer and the paths are quieter, so arriving early makes a real difference. Walking down into the terraces involves uneven steps and small bridges, and local farmers may ask for a small donation at certain points.

From there the road continues to Tirta Empul in Tampaksiring, a temple built around a natural spring where Balinese Hindus come to purify themselves under a row of carved spouts. Visitors can join the ritual respectfully. After that we drive back toward town for lunch and the Ubud Art Market, then finish at the Monkey Forest if you want to see the long-tailed macaques among moss-covered temples.

Timing and what to expect

From Seminyak, Canggu or Kuta, the drive to Ubud alone can take 90 minutes or more, which is why the tour runs around 10 hours. A pickup between seven and eight in the morning gives you the best chance of cool air and thinner crowds at Tegalalang and Tirta Empul. By late morning both sites are busy, especially in July, August and over Christmas.

Afternoon traffic in central Ubud is often slow because the streets are narrow and one-way. Your driver will drop you close to the market and pick you up at an agreed spot so you are not walking in circles. In the wet season, roughly November to March, short heavy showers are common in the afternoon, which is another reason to start early.

Temple etiquette and what to bring

Temples require covered legs, and a sarong and sash are needed at Tirta Empul. Sarongs are usually available at the entrance, but bringing your own is convenient. If you plan to enter the purification pools, pack a change of clothes and a small towel, and keep phones in a zip bag. Women who are menstruating are traditionally asked not to enter temples.

At the Monkey Forest, keep sunglasses, hats and snacks out of sight, and do not touch or feed the monkeys. Wear comfortable shoes with grip for the rice terrace paths, bring sunscreen and a refillable bottle, and carry small cash for entrance tickets, donations and market shopping.

Who this tour suits

This is an easy-paced cultural day that works well for first-time visitors, couples, families with older children and anyone who wants a broad taste of Bali in one trip. The walking is moderate, but the terrace paths have steps, so it is less suitable for travellers with limited mobility unless they are happy to enjoy the view from the top.

Because the car is private, you can adjust the plan. Swap the Monkey Forest for a coffee plantation or a long lunch, or add a quick stop at a waterfall like Tibumana or Tegenungan if time allows.

Price, inclusions and booking

The fixed per-car price shown on this page includes the car, driver, fuel and parking for the day. Entrance tickets, meals, the driver's meal and personal expenses are not included. Pickup is available anywhere in South Bali. There is no deposit, you can pay by bank transfer or cash to the driver, and free cancellation or rescheduling is available up to 24 hours before pickup.