Ubud experience

#5 ranked travel attraction in Bali

Why Ubud is special

The town of Ubud is the undeniable artistic heart and soul of Bali's art. It rests among lush hills and rice terraces.

The vacation lifestyle is markedly different from Kuta's, the island's other major tourist magnet. It's more cultural, less hedonistic.

Life proceeds at a slow pace in Ubud, even for visitors, which is part of the charm.

The locales are open and friendly -- and you encounter few pushy vendors.

Day trippers from the southern beach resorts miss out on the special sense of place. You need to stay in the Ubud area for at least several days. It's an insightful, unforgettable experience.

Checklist of key

attractions & activities

in and around Ubud

Traditional dance and gamelan orchestra performances - There's a quality performance practically every night. (Click the "2" button for brief descriptions of Balinese dances and music.)

Art shops, galleries and studios - You find many in Ubud and nearby villages, including in the neighboring village of Penestanam (renowned for its refreshing Young Artist School style of painting).

Museums - The area has world-class museums. Namely, the Neka, Puri Lukisan and Agong Rai. (Click the "top runners-up" button for brief descriptions of those institutions.)

Ubud Palace  - Small, walled complex of embellished buildings and courtyards smack in the middle of town.

Restaurants - Good variety to suit different tastes and wallets. Nearly all have a relaxed, unpretentious tone.

Hiking - One of Bali's best areas for short walks on scenic foot paths.

Whitewater rafting - Run the rapids down the eye-arresting Agung River gorge. Easy but challenging enough to thrill novice river rafters. Basic swimming proficiency recommended in case the rapids get the better of your rubber raft.

Doing nothing - Some visitors unwind by renting a cottage or villa with a picturesque rural view -- and hole up with a good book or companion.

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learn why the top ten Bali

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I hope your Bali travel dreams come true - and that 

my Rice Terrace page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

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