Ubud is one of the most popular places to visit in Bali. What used to be the gateway to rural Bali is now a bustling city with gridlocked streets and tourists flocking to see the same things, such as Monkey Forest, Tirta Empul, Ubud Art Market, Alas Haram/Cretya, Tegalalang Rice Terrace and popular waterfalls. However, you can still visit this part of Bali if you’re in search of some quieter activities and hidden gems. In this travel guide, we take you through the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud, so you don’t have to rub shoulders with thousands of other people, and you can experience the real Bali, even in a busy city.
The 17 Non-touristy Things to Do in Ubud
1. Take a Balinese Cooking Class
There’s no better way to learn about life, culture and food in Bali than a Balinese cooking class. We’d never done a cooking class before visiting Bali, and it was one of the best and most memorable things we did in our four months on the island. The great thing about cooking classes in Bali is you often have the opportunity to go to local markets with your guide to select the fresh produce you’re going to cook with, then you’ll head to the kitchen and prepare traditional Indonesian food using traditional Indonesian methods.
There are a few cooking classes to choose from in and around Ubud, these are the best rated:
- Authentic Cooking Class in a Local Village – includes local market, rice fields and 8 Balinese dishes.
- Cooking Class with Transfers and Optional Market Visit – market tour included in the morning option.
- Balinese Cooking Class at an Organic Farm – takes place in an open-air organic farm kitchen, where you also pick your ingredients after the market tour.
2. Wander the Campuhan Ridge Walk
Just outside Ubud’s busy city centre, you’ll find a beautiful ridge walk that is a peaceful escape, especially around sunrise. Although you are a short walk from the city, it feels like you’ve been dropped into the middle of nowhere. No noise from cars, scooters and people, just the sounds of nature and wind blowing through the long grass.
It’s a short and easy hike (it’s more of a walk). In total, it’s around 2 km, but you can turn back at any point, so it’s as long as you make it. The path follows along a ridge, with beautiful valleys on either side filled with lush trees and tall grass. It’s incredibly peaceful up here, you’ll probably only see a few people walking dogs or out for a morning run.
📸 On this Ubud highlights tour, you start the day on Campuhan Ridge, before visiting Saraswati Water Temple, Ubud Palace, the Sacred Monkey Forest and more. Pick up and drop off are included, as well as a tour guide and entrance costs.
3. Pedal Through Bali’s Hidden Villages on a Cycling Tour
One of the best ways to escape the busyness of the city is a cycling tour. There are cycling tours in the city, but we wouldn’t recommend riding around these streets – it’s chaotic, to say the least. Instead, we think one of the more adventurous non-touristy things to do in Ubud is go on a rural cycling tour. You head out into a village not far from Ubud, where you’ll get to witness local life, ride through the quiet streets and rice fields, see smaller temples and meet local people – it’s a great way to observe and appreciate local Balinese life.
🚴 Explore the best cycling tours in Ubud here.
4. Get Wet River Tubing
River tubing in Ubud is like floating through a hidden part of Bali most tourists never see. The best way to describe this experience is like the most jaw-dropping lazy river, with a few exhilarating rapids to get your heart pumping, but nothing too wild! As you glide down the river, passing farmland, rice fields and waterfalls, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud. All you can hear are the sounds of nature echoing around you – trust us, it’s as incredible as it sounds.
We’ve done a fair bit of travelling and were left speechless at the landscapes we saw. It made it onto the list of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud because we had just one other couple with us on our excursion, so it felt like a private, peaceful escape with a splash of adventure too!
💦 Book your river tubing in Ubud here.
5. Connect with Nature on Ubud Rice Fields Walk
There are plenty of famous rice fields in and around Ubud, including Tegallalang and Jatiluwih. While these are incredibly beautiful, they’ve become more about being a tourist attraction than the calm and peacefulness you’d associate with strolling around a rice field. However, not far from the centre of Ubud, you’ll find a rice field walk hardly anyone knows about; the Ubud Rice Fields Walk.
The trail is around 2 km, but you can turn back at any point. It’s an easy and relaxing stroll, especially if you do it before the hottest part of the day. You’ll see local life going on around you, farmers working the fields and people going about their daily lives. It’s the perfect escape from the busy city street, even though it’s just a short walk away. If you’re into quiet, non-touristy things to do in Ubud, this is definitely one to add to your list.
How to get to Ubud Rice Fields Walk:
Head up the small road to the left of Warung Ting Ting (this is as far as cars can go), then turn right at the top. Keep walking and you’ll see Paddy Point on the right. Continue on, following the path that curves around to the right. When you get to a cluster of trees, that’s where the Ubud Rice Fields Walk begins and continues until you hit Jl Raya Lungsiakan road.
You can start the Ubud Rice Fields Walk from the north or south.
🎒 Recommended rice field tours:
1. Ubud: Downhill Jungle & Rice Terrace Cycling Tour with Meals
2. Ubud: Rice Terraces & Villages Half-Day Fat Tire E-Bike Tour
3. E-Bike: Ubud Rice Terraces & Traditional Villages Cycling
6. Eat at Sweet Orange Warung
Sweet Orange Warung is one of the most picturesque and tasty warungs we ate at during our time in Bali, and that’s saying something after enjoying the incredible restaurants in Sidemen and Munduk’s best food spots. Located down an alley behind one of the main streets in Ubud, you follow this narrow trail that looks a bit sketchy at first, but soon opens up into sprawling rice fields. Not many people even know that this gem exists. It’s the perfect trail for a sunset stroll before tucking into some tasty Indonesian food.
Here is the Google Maps pin for the start of the path to Sweet Orange.
We met friends at the beginning of the trail and took a leisurely walk (actually going past Sweet Orange Warung). We stopped at Brick Warung for a beer and to watch the sunset, before heading back to Sweet Orange Warung for dinner. It’s such a relaxing way to spend the evening and the remote location makes it one of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud as you see rural Bali without the interruptions of Udud tourism.
By far, this was one of our favourite non-touristy things to do in Ubud, and it’s very similar to the Ubud Rice Fields Walk, with the addition of a must-visit warung.
🚗 Did you know? It’s popular in Bali to book a driver for the day, so you can tick off several places in a short amount of time, arrive at the busier spots early and customise your day.
7. Chase Bali’s Beautiful Hidden Waterfalls
A lot of people head to Ubud in search of waterfalls, and it’s easy to understand why. There are hundreds of waterfalls near Ubud, with more being discovered all the time. However, most visitors and tour groups gravitate towards the same popular spots, meaning they get incredibly crowded and you don’t really get to experience the serenity of the waterfall. That’s why we suggest seeking out the less-known waterfalls as one of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud to enjoy a quieter, more authentic side of Ubud.
The waterfalls we recommend visiting are:
- Uma Anyar Waterfall
- Sumampan Waterfall
- Goa Rang Reng
- Taman Sari Waterfall and Natural Pool
💦 Find Ubud waterfall tours here.
🚗 On this private customisable tour, you can plan your own itinerary with a driver. Head to all the less-touristy waterfalls in one day and even tick off other spots along the way as they’re all close to each other.
You Might Like: A Guide to the 10 Best Waterfalls Near Ubud, Bali
8. Take a Day Trip to Sidemen
One of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud is to actually get out of Ubud and explore lesser-travelled villages in surrounding areas. Around a 1-hour drive east of Ubud, you’ll find Sidemen village. This place is peacefulness personified. Only recently has Sidemen become known to tourists, with most still not knowing it exists. The streets are quiet, the greenery is lush, and it’s probably one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever visited. Out here, you’re at one with nature and can truly immerse yourself in rural Balinese life.
Even though it’s small and rural, there are some great things to do in Sidemen and places to eat. If you can, we’d recommend spending at least a few nights here, but if not, spend at least a day exploring this stunning part of Bali.
🎒 Take this 5-star Sidemen village trekking experience for a genuine glimpse into local life in Sidemen. You’ll trek along rivers and rice paddies untouched by tourists, meet farmers tending to their rice fields and farmland, witness the daily routines of villagers, visit their sacred temples and admire views of Mount Agung.
9. Escape to Munduk and North Bali
Another quieter and less-touristy area of Bali is Munduk, about 1 hour 30 minutes north of Ubud. High up in the hills of north Bali, Munduk is a completely different experience than we had anywhere else. The cooler climate, with stunning mountain and valley views in every direction, makes it incredibly picturesque. However, the main reason most people come up here is the waterfalls. Munduk is home to some of the best and most impressive waterfalls in Bali, including Banyumala Twin Waterfall, Sekumpul Waterfall (Bali’s tallest waterfall) and Aling Aling Waterfall.
Often, tourists don’t venture this far from Ubud, so it’s definitely more peaceful, which is why we recommend it as one of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
🎒 Tip: The best way to explore Munduk from Ubud is to book a combination tour or a north Bali waterfalls tour. Most tours typically include transport to and from Ubud.
More Munduk Travel Guides:
The 11 Best Things to Do in Munduk, Bali
The 7 Best Munduk Restaurants You Shouldn’t Miss
10. Craft Your Own Silver Jewellery
To get your hands on a personalised souvenir from your trip to Bali, one of the most enjoyable things you can do is take part in a silver jewellery-making workshop. We did ours in Sidemen, but there are a few great places to do it in Ubud too. You’ll go through the whole jewellery crafting process – from picking your design, melting, bending and preparing the silver, to crafting it into the shape, imprinting the design and polishing it.
We both made rings, engraved with our initials and our anniversary (pretty cute, right?), but you can also make bracelets, earrings and pendants for necklaces.
It’s an unforgettable experience that we highly recommend and one of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
There are a few jewellery-making workshops in Ubud to choose from, here are the best rated ones:
- 2-Hour Make Your Own Silver Jewellery Class
- Jewelry Making Near Ubud’s Monkey Forest
- Ubud Silver Artistry Class
11. Take Part in Spiritual Cleansing and Healing
If you’re keen to tap into the spiritual side of Bali, taking part in a traditional cleansing ceremony is a great way to do it. A purification ritual in Bali is known as Melukat, and uses holy water to wash away negative energy and reset your body and mind – it has been part of Balinese culture for generations. There are very touristy and popular places to do this like Pura Tirta Empul, but there are quieter, more intimate temples where the experience feels much more personal and meaningful.
What makes these ceremonies so special is how personal they feel. On a tour like this one at a tucked-away temple, a local Balinese shaman will guide you through each step, helping you connect with the island’s spiritual energy. You’ll move from one water fountain to the next, dipping your head under the rushing water. You can offer up a prayer, reflect or simply focus on what you want to cleanse from your life. You can feel the water literally washing away stress and bad energy. It’s a rare chance to escape the usual distractions, giving you a raw, authentic experience that goes way beyond the tourist trail.
If you’re looking for unique non-touristy things to do in Ubud, spiritual cleansing offers a chance to step away from the more commercial side of Bali and connect with it’s deeper, spiritual roots.
💦 Experience Bali’s spiritual cleansing on this tour in a peaceful, hidden temple far from the usual tourist spots.
12. Experience Magic in Firefly-Lit Rice Fields
Looking for something unforgettable? How about an evening stroll through rice fields, lit only by fireflies and starlight? Just 30 minutes north of Ubud, in the village of Taro, there is a tour that takes you into a local’s home for dinner and learning all about Balinese culture and traditions.
Then, as night falls, you head out into the rice fields where nothing but the stars and fireflies floating around light the way. It really is magical, something most tourists miss out on and why it’s one of the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
✨ Book your Ubud night fireflies tour in Taro village here.
13. Get Adventurous with Canyoning
Bali has some pretty impressive waterfalls and canyons, but you don’t often get the chance to experience them like this. In fact, not many people know that Ubud is a hotspot for this adrenaline-pumping activity! During this experience, you’ll get to cliff-jump, zipline, slide down cliff faces, abseil and swim, making this an epic choice for any thrill-seeker looking for something off the beaten path and adventurous non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
Breakfast and lunch are included (you’ll need the fuel), and the whole adventure is captured on a GoPro, so you can relive the excitement whenever you want. If you’re craving a break from the usual tourist activities, this is an unforgettable way to experience Bali’s wild side.
🎒 Book your canyoning trip here.
14. Get Crafty with Traditional Balinese Wood Carving
If you’re looking to get hands-on and creative, a traditional Balinese wood carving session is definitely something you’d enjoy. You’ll notice right away that wood carving is everywhere in Bali. Furniture, statues, pillars, temples and many more things rely on expertly crafted wood – it’s a huge part of the culture.
In this 3-hour workshop, you’ll learn the same techniques locals have been using for centuries and get to carve your own piece. By the end, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind souvenir from your trip to Bali. Unsurprisingly, wood carving is up there as one of the most non-touristy things to do in Ubud, so you’re guaranteed a small group and intimate setting.
15. Glam Up for a Photoshoot in Traditional Balinese Attire
One thing that’ll hit you fast in Bali is how deeply culture and traditions are woven into everyday life. Coming from the UK, where that isn’t as common, it’s pretty mind-blowing to see. To this day, traditional dress, make-up, and dances are still very much a part of the scene here, and it’s seriously impressive and beautiful to see.
If you want to dive into these traditions yourself, one of the coolest non-touristy things to do in Ubud is to get a full Balinese makeover. On this Balinese makeover excursion, you’ll get dressed in stunning traditional attire, have your makeup done and enjoy a professional photoshoot to capture it all.
Read more: Bali travel guides
16. Unleash Your Creative Side at a Batik Painting Workshop
Ubud and the surrounding areas of Bali have been a haven for artists for years. There’s something about the contrast of a busy city and peaceful nature with the calmness of Balinese traditions that sparks creativity. Everywhere you go on this island, you’ll see beautiful artwork and taking a painting class is one of the few ways you can truly connect with this dimension of Bali.
Batik is a traditional painting method that uses wax and dyes to produce artwork on fabric. This is another of the arts and crafts non-touristy things to do in Ubud that leaves you with a unique souvenir from your time in Bali and is a great, therapeutic way to spend an afternoon and escape the heat of the day.
🎨 Book your Batik making class here.
17. Live Your Own Eat, Pray, Love Moment in Bali
Ubud is the heart of Bali’s spiritual and wellness scene and if you’ve watched Eat, Pray, Love, you’ll recognise the vibe instantly.
To channel your inner Elizabeth Gilbert, start with some meditation or yoga at one of Ubud’s many studios, where both newbies and experienced yogis are welcome. The goal is to unplug, focus on yourself, and maybe even figure out what’s next in your life. Take it a step further and meet with a local healer, or balian, who will sit with you and tell you things about your health and well-being using Balinese methods. Even something as simple as a walk through the rice fields or a visit to a local cafe for some quiet time can bring about a sense of peace, reflection and clarity.
Experiencing Bali like Elizabeth Gilbert did in Eat, Pray, Love is all about slowing down, tuning in to your surroundings and enjoying the moment.
Bali Travel Essentials
Now that we’ve got the non-touristy things to do in Ubud down, let’s make sure the rest of your Bali trip goes smoothly.
First things first, have you thought about how you’ll get around Bali?
🛵 If you’re comfortable on a scooter, it’s one of the easiest ways to travel. You can book your scooter here. Most companies deliver and collect from your accommodation for free.
🚗 If you prefer to have a private driver so you can customise your own itinerary, you can book this full-day private customisable tour option here.
😴 Still need a place to stay? You can book your Ubud accommodation here.
✋ And don’t forget about travel insurance. It’s super important to be covered for any unexpected events. Grab your travel insurance here.
FAQs about Visiting Ubud, Bali
Is Ubud Bali touristy?
Yes, Ubud is pretty touristy, especially around the main attractions like the Monkey Forest and Tegalalang Rice Terraces. But, it still has a laid-back vibe compared to places like Kuta or Canggu. If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Ubud, there are still plenty of hidden gems, like visiting hidden waterfalls, river tubing or taking a stroll through the less-touristy rice fields.
Why is Ubud so popular?
Ubud is popular because because it’s the cultural hub of Bali. You’ve got beautiful temples, rolling rice terraces and a chance to experience traditional Balinese life. Plus, it’s a hotspot for wellness retreats, yoga and delicious food.
Is Ubud too crowded?
It can definitely feel crowded in Ubud, especially in peak tourist seasons. The main streets get busy and the top attractions can get packed, but there are ways to avoid the busiest spots. Venturing a little off the beaten path, you’ll discover quieter areas and non-touristy things to do in Ubud that are perfect if you’re looking to experience a more authentic side of Ubud.
How do people get around in Ubud?
The easiest way to get around Ubud is on a scooter or using ride apps like Grab and GoJek. The streets here are incredibly busy, and you’ll often find yourself in gridlocked traffic, no matter how you’re getting around. If you’re in a car, your journey times can be much longer.
The reason having your own scooter is preferential is because the ride apps, although convenient, aren’t always reliable in Ubud. This is because local taxi drivers and community leaders have restricted their use in some areas to protect local businesses as these apps tend to undercut traditional taxi services, making it harder for them to make a living.
Is Ubud a walkable city?
Yes! Ubud’s centre is pretty walkable with actual pathways/sidewalks (which is rare for Bali!). It’s safe to stroll around the main areas, but if you’re staying further out, you might want to grab a scooter or ride app to get into town and then walk from there.
Is there partying in Ubud?
There isn’t really partying in Ubud – it isn’t the place to go if you’re looking for a wild night out. It’s more chill, with bars and cafes where you can grab a drink, but nothing like the clubbing scene in other parts of Bali. Ubud’s all about relaxation and peace.
When is the best time to visit Ubud?
The shoulder seasons are the best time to visit Ubud. September-October and April-June have the highest chance of being dry and quieter. During the summer months (July – August), the area gets ridiculously busy and getting around becomes near impossible. Whereas, during the rainy season (November – March), there is a high chance you’ll get a substantial amount of rainfall every day.
If you’re looking to avoid the biggest crowds and explore non-touristy things to do in Ubud, visiting in the shoulder months of May or September can be a good balance between great weather and fewer tourists.
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