Ubud City Guide

Indonesia>Ubud
Ubud lies only 36 km from the resorts on the southern coast. The name for this royal village is derived from the Balinese word "ubad" (medicine), the moniker of an herb with healing properties which grows along the nearby Oos River.

The air here is pungent--it smells of earth, river, and rainforest. Ubud is higher and cooler than the south, with delightful fresh air and fewer flies and mosquitos. Wandering around in the night is pleasant course and it's safe.

Ubud has been a haven for both native and European artists. In an area of 10 square km around this village is the home of Bali's most accomplished dancers, musicians, painters, and carvers. Temple festivals, celebrations, and performing arts are offered somewhere in the area every day of the week.

Getting There and Moving Around

By road

Take advantage of the shuttle express services in vans from Ubud to Kuta/Sanur/Airport. The shuttle bus south usually drops people off at Sanur first, then drives on to the airport, then to Kuta.

If you have something to do in Sanur, you may stop over there and take another shuttle bus later in the day on the same ticket. There are two shuttle buses a day (40-50 minutes) to Denpasar's.

If there are three or four of you, consider hiring a bemo for a day or two of leisurely sightseeing. Your hotel might arrange car or motorcycle rentals.

Moving Around

It is easy to travel around Ubud as it is not very big and easily accessible by road.

Pushbikes are one of the best ways to explore the Ubud area--you're able to cover more territory than if you walked. There are a number of bike rental places with big one-speed models that fit Western frames for around.