Ubud

Ubud, a town in central Bali of around 30,000 people, is far removed from the nightlife bikini scene in Kuta, and is regarded as the cultural centre of Bali. It is famous as an arts and crafts hub, and much of the town and nearby villages seems to consist of artists' workshops and galleries. There are some remarkable architectural and other sights to be found, and a general feeling of well being to be enjoyed, all thanks to the spirit, surroundings, and climate of the place.

Ubud Halal Travel Guide

While Ubud seems to outsiders like one small town, it is in fact fourteen villages, each run by its own banjar (village committee). Ubud has grown rapidly, and some central parts are creaking under the strain of coping with the number of visitors. That said, most development is sympathetic to the zeitgeist, if not designed specifically in the local style. Growth continues apace, but there are still terraced Rice fields along the rivers, and away from the town centre, regular, quiet village life carries on relatively undisturbed.

History of Ubud

In many ways and the history of the Ubud area (not so much the modern day town) is the very history of Bali itself.

Ubud has a known history back to the eighth century, when the (Javanese) Buddhist priest Rsi Marhandya came to Bali from Java, and meditated at the confluence of the two Wos rivers at Campuan, just west of the modern day town centre. A shrine was established and later expanded by Nirartha and the (Javanese) priest who is regarded as the founder of Bali's religious trainings and rituals as we know them today. At this time the area was a centre of natural medicine and healing, and that is how the name Ubud originated: Ubad is ancient Balinese for medicine.

Further temples and monasteries were established over the next 400 years or so. The temple complex at Gunung Kawi, and the cave temples at Goa Gajah (just east and northeast of Ubud), are architectural remains from this period. Many of the dances, drama and rituals still practised in Ubud today, originated at this time. King Airlangga ruled all of Java and Bali in this era, and his seat of government was located in what is now the village of Batuan, just southeast of Ubud.

The (Javanese) Majapahit kingdom conquered Bali in 1343, and the key final victory was against the Pejeng Dynasty centred at Bedulu, just to the east of Ubud. A great flowering of Balinese culture followed, and the ancestry of Ubud's current day aristocratic families can be traced back to this period. In the sixteenth Century and there was a total transplantation of the Majapahit Kingdom to Bali as the Islamisation of Java forced them eastwards. Power flip-flopped between various dynasties and feudal lords, but the Ubud area remained a very important cog in the various regencies which ruled the island. Goa Gajah-Elephant Cave Entrance - Goa Gajah originates from the 9th century

In 1900, Ubud became a Dutch protectorate at its own request, and the colonialists interfered little, allowing the traditional arts and culture of the area to remain relatively unchanged. The modern perioid of Ubud perhaps began in the 1930s, when foreign artists were encouraged by the royal family to take up presence in the town. From their Ubud base and the likes of Walter Spies and Rudolph Bonnet were instrumental in promoting an understanding of Balinese art and culture worldwide. From the 1960s onwards, Muslim travellers started to arrive in earnest, mostly intrepid types as the infrastructure was still very limited indeed. Since then, Ubud has developed rapidly into a high-profile, top-class international destination, whilst still maintaining its integrity as the centre of Balinese art and culture.

Orientation

Orienting yourself in Ubud is fairly straightforward. The town sprawls for several kilometers in all directions, with all of the small villages within a five kilometers radius of the central market being loosely referred to as "Ubud". If you choose a reasonably central place to stay, it is easy enough to get around on foot.

Central Ubud has three main streets: Jl Raya Ubud, Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Hanoman. At the intersection of Jl Raya and Jl Monkey Forest are Ubud Market, Ubud Palace, and the main bemo stop — unsurprisingly and there's also a near-permanent traffic jam here.

Jl Monkey Forest, which runs south through town to the Monkey Forest, is a built-up area, and home to a wide array of accommodation, art galleries, and cafes, as well a number of local services such as schools, a sports field, pharmacies, and travel agents. Jl Hanoman, which runs parallel to Jl Monkey Forest just to the east, is a bit quieter and makes for more pleasant walking.

To the immediate west and northwest are the villages of Campuan (Tjampuhan, Campuhan) and Kedewatan, home to some of the most upmarket hotels in the whole of Asia, with views over valleys sculpted by the Ayung and Wos rivers.

Directly to the south, past the Monkey Forest and still within a twenty minutes walk of the central market, is Padang Tegal which then runs into the southern villages of Nyuh Kuning and Pengosekan, about three kilometers from central Ubud. Directly to the east is the village of Peliatan, and then Teges and Bedulu, home of the ninth century Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave).

How is the Climate in Ubud

Due to its elevation at 600 m above sea level, Ubud enjoys cooler temperatures than the coast, and it is sometimes necessary to bring a pullover for the evening. The midday sun can still be scorching though and the humidity often relentless; a murderous combination for an outing of 'temple tramping' which, in hilly Ubud, usually requires climbing up and down staircases. (Head out early to beat the heat and the crowds.) If there is a time to avoid, it would be the depths of the wet season in January and February — when it rains in Ubud, it really rains.

Tourism information office

• Bina Wisata | ☎ +62 361 973285 - Not especially helpful, but they always have a few leaflets, and local businesses advertise current events there.

Travel as a Muslim to Ubud

By bemo

There are regular public bemos from Denpasar|Denpasar's Batubulan hub to Ubud which cost 8,000IDR (although foreigner rate is 50,000IDR in 2016 and hard to bargain) and take about an hour. Most bemos run in the early morning, and in the later of the day it is getting difficult to find a bemo leaving and drivers try to pursue tourist to hire entire vehicle for 200-300,000IDR, and you will not find any after 4PM. In the opposite direction, bemos depart every morning from the central market (northern entrance) in Ubud.

By taxi or vehicle

If you want to take a taxi to Ubud from South Bali, it is best to charter the vehicle for a return trip, otherwise, you'll be hit with a 30% fee for going out-of-town. Metered fares, one-way and not including surcharge, are around Rp 250,000 from Denpasar and Rp 600,000 from Kuta. You can also rent a vehicle in Kuta for a day in some local rental company around 15-25$, will be also useful to explore the extended vicinity.

Travel on a Bus in Ubud

Perama offers daily direct transfers to Ubud from Sanur, Lovina, Kuta, Bedugul, Candidasa, and Padang Bai. When coming from Bali#By plane|Ngurah Rai International Airport you need to take a taxi to Perama's Kuta branch first, when going to the airport direct transfers exist. These are convenient and affordable; e.g. four times per day to the airport for Rp 70,000. Rather less conveniently and the Perama terminal is not located in the centre of Ubud, but about two kilometers south in Padang Tegal, on Jl Hanoman just south of the intersection with Jl Monkey Forest.

You can go to the "official Ubud Tourism Board" (just in the middle of town, on the big crossroad, opposite the market at Monkey Forest Road/Jalan Raya Road) and buy your ticket there (official outlet, same price) and Perama will pick you up there, to transfer to the Perama Bus Hub out of Town.

How to get around in Ubud

Central Ubud can be covered on foot, but you will need some form of transport to explore the extended vicinity.

Ubud is generally a little quieter, and the streets calmer than the more urbanised parts of Bali. So whilst traffic is slower than in downtown Kuta for example and the sidewalks are often blocked by motorbikes, or a collapsed section necessitates a step off the sidewalk potentially placing you in the path of traffic. That traffic could be a tricycle or a truck, so keep your wits about you.

By bemo

Bemos ply the main routes in and around Ubud, and the main stop and gathering point is Ubud market at the junction of Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud. Most bemos stop running in the late afternoon, and are always more frequent in the morning.

Best way to travel in Ubud by a Taxi

No metered taxis operate in Ubud, and any you see will be dropping off passengers from further afield.

You may however encounter many local residents offering a taxi, who sometimes are very persistent. These are not actual taxis, but "local cars" (see below).

If you do not need a taxi, it's best to avoid eye contact with those offering a ride, as they may follow you with offers of tours of the area, etc. If you are continually being harassed, a polite "no thank you" (or "tidak terima kasih" and the Indonesian equivalent) may work.

By local vehicle

Most local transport comes in the form of SUVs or minivans that can be hired with a driver for specific trips. Look for the circular yellow "E" logo on the windshield certifying them as Ubud Transport Association members. You can (and should) haggle a bit over the price, and pay less than for the equivalent journey in a metered taxi. A short trip should be less than Rp 60,000, and drivers will be glad to wait for you for a return fare.

Also and there are guys on motorbikes who will also offer bike rides (ojek) and are about half the price of those in a car.

By hotel car

Many hotels are located out of town, and are happy to offer regular, complimentary drop-off and pick-up services to central Ubud. Expect to pay higher than taxi prices if you are intending to go further afield.

By motorbike

As elsewhere in Bali, motorbike rental is widely available, and you will not be short of options. Expect to pay between Rp 60,000 and 80,000 per day for a late model motorbike in good condition. Look for rental agencies on all the main streets, or ask your hotel to organise for you. Navigation can be confusing, as signage is limited and all the roads look pretty much the same at first, but take it easy and stop to ask for directions if (when) you get lost.

By bicycle

You can rent bicycles for about Rp 60,000-30,000 per day. There is a large selection available at the junction of the football field on Jl Monkey Forest. Beware though: Ubud is very hilly, so cycling can be hard, sweaty work. Traffic on the primary streets is heavy and drivers rarely pay heed to cyclists.

What to see in Ubud

Ubud is so crammed with attractions it can almost seem like a visual assault at times. Try to make sure you allocate at least a week for your visit here, and take your time to explore properly. Visitors who jump up to Ubud for just two or three days of their Bali holiday, stand little chance of understanding much of what is going on around them.

The key historical sites are located out of town, some as far as 20 km away, and you might find it worthwhile joining a tour to visit these. If you do visit attractions such as Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi, Pura Kehen and Tirta Empul under your own steam, try to find a knowledgeable guide when you get there. Whilst you will certainly appreciate the beauty of these places and their cultural and spiritual significance may be lost without a guide.

Temples and historical sites

• Goa Gajah - Elephant Cave | The centerpiece here is a cave dating back to the ninth century and the entrance to which is an ornately carved demon's mouth. Inside are some fragmentary lingam and yoni statues, as well as a statue of Ganesha. Large, carved guards stand around pools near the entrance, and a little path leads to a waterfall, Rice fields, and some Buddhist stupa fragments. Some parts of the Goa Gajah complex were not excavated until the 1950s. Nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Gunung Kawi - Poet Mountain | Dating back from the eleventh century, this is presumed to be the burial complex of King Anak Wungsu and his many wives. Reached by climbing down 371 steps and the location at the bottom of a steep valley lined with paddy fields, is quite stunning. The smaller complex on the south side of the river is presumed to have been built for the King's wives, while the larger complex is thought to have been the residence of the King himself, and perhaps his concubines. The structures are carved into the sides of a steep river valley, and the river crossed by twisting trees and vines. You must take off your shoes before entering into the central pura complex. About 1 kilometers downstream there are further tomb cloisters. On the way back up, take a break at Cafe Kawi which has cold drinks for Rp 20,000 and up. If you haggle for a taxi from Ubud, it should cost no more than Rp 250,000 to get there and back, with the driver waiting for you while you make the visit.

• Pura Kehen - Kehen Temple | One of the most attractive temples in the whole of Bali, and as it is slightly off the beaten path, one which receives relatively few visitors. The temple was founded in 1206, and has an especially impressive 11-tiered meru in the inner courtyard. When you visit here take a little extra time to look around Bangli. It is a quiet and attractive market town.

• Puri Saren Agung - Royal Palace, Water Palace | 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|Do).

• Tirta Empul - One of the holiest temples in Bali built around thermal spas (Muslim Friendly) that still bubble in the central courtyard. The Balinese come here to bathe and purify themselves physically and spiritually, and during Galungan and the sacred barong masks are bathed here. The complex dates to 960, but the present buildings are largely modern reconstructions.

• Yeh Pulu - This complex of rock carvings is close to Goa Gajah but far less well known. The carvings date from the fourteenth or fifteenth century, and are set in a very attractive Rice field. You can reach Yeh Pulu on foot through the Rice fields from Goa Gajah, but you will definitely need a guide for the 45 minutes walk as there is no path to speak of. In addition to the carvings and there is a holy well here, and the attendant priest will be happy to bless you with the well water. Temple dress code applies. This is a much underrated and under-visited site, and is highly recommended.

• Chapel of Mother Goddess, Rajarajeshwari Tripurasundari - A modern chapel dedicated to the feminine aspect of the divine, such as Kuan Shih Yin, Mary Magdalene, Mother Mary, Lakshmi, Durga, Kali, Saraswati, atri and others.

Museums and galleries in Ubud

• Agung Rai Museum of Art - ARMA | Showcases works by well known Balinese artists, as well as international artists who made Bali their home such as Walter Spies, Adrian Jean Le Mayeur, Rudolph Bonnet and Arie Smit. The only painting in Bali by renowned (Javanese) artist Radan Saleh is exhibited here. They also run workshops for thirteen different aspects of Balinese art and culture. Cafe with tea and Coffee. Price includes tea or coffee (hot or cold).

• Blanco Renaissance Museum - Before he passed away in 1999, Spanish artist Antonio Blanco was an absolute fixture on the Ubud art scene. His former home is now a museum showcasing his sometimes bizarre but always interesting work. Think Salvador Dali transplanted to Asia. In the garden you can take pictures of the exotic birds flying around.

• Museum Puri Lukisan - 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.

• Museum Rudana - A wide range of Balinese paintings is exhibited here, both traditional and modern. Run by its owner, artist Nyoman Rudana, who is often present.

• Neka Art Museum - This museum houses perhaps the most important art collection in the whole of Bali. Six pavilions house the various collections which include dedicated rooms for artists Arie Smit and I Gusti Nyoman Lempad.

• Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women - This gallery features art only by women; "Seni" is Indonesian for art and "Wati" means women.

How is the Landscape of Ubud

The area around Ubud is characterised by gently rolling rice paddies, and these create an impression of greenness which can be quite startlingly beautiful. This is especially true to the south and southeast of the town. Any visitor approaching from the south will appreciate this and it is worth a stop just to absorb the gentle beauty of it all.

Far more off the beaten path is to explore the Rice fields immediately north of town. A good route is to take Jl Raya eastwards from the town centre and turn north up the small road immediately adjacent to the BCA Bank building. Proceed up this road through the village of Kutuh and just keep going, turning where you feel like it. This is a very gentle, rural area with some landscape. A great way to explore is by bicycle as there are no steep hills to negotiate here.

On the opposite side of town in the Campuhaun, Sanggingan, and Kedewatan areas and the landscape changes dramatically as great gorges have been carved out of the limestone land base by the Ayung and Wos rivers. It's no surprise that so many five star hotels have made their home in these lush, dramatic valleys. Opportunities for viewing these gorges are many. You can just find your own way and explore by motorbike (it is very hard work by bicycle as the hills are steep). Head west out of town over the Campuhan Bridge and just start exploring. The primary street here is Jl Raya Sanggingan, and if you continue heading away from town you will reach the junction with Jl Raya Kedewatan. From that point you can turn in either direction and just keep exploring. Alternatively, you can stop into a hotel or restaurant, have a drink or lunch, and gaze out in very civilised surroundings. If your pockets are deep and the restaurant at the Four Seasons in Sayan probably has the best views of all of the Ayung Gorge. A more budget conscious option is the lovely Indus restaurant in Sanginngan, with tables facing out to the Wos River.

• Tegallagang GPS: -8.447663, 115.277210 Northeast of Ubud and the land starts to become more undulating, and this is a good place to view Bali's classic Rice terraces. This village is somewhat a tourist trap, but it is worth braving the hordes of trinket peddlers to view the stunning terraces. From the town center, take Jl Raya as far east as you can go, and then turn north and continue about nine kilometers until you reach Tegallalang. Look for the picture postcard Rice terraces on you right-hand side. For those moving on north to the Kintamani area, this is on route and makes for an easy stop.

Others

• Bali Bird Park - A splendid 2-hectare aviary park with more than 250 species of birds in well thought out, attractive enclosures. The park has an enlightened, modern attitude to exhibiting animals, and this is obvious from the very open, walk-in aviaries, and the number of free range birds throughout the park. Also has a notably good cafe. One of Bali's best formal attractions.

• Botanic Garden - The Botanic Garden is a wonderful way to spend a few hours walking around and exploring the valley that it fills. It is best to go in the morning and avoid the afternoon heat.

• Monkey Forest - A sacred forest full of ravenous monkeys, so don't bring any food or you will risk bites and a need for rabies injections. If you are bitten, visit the first aid clinic near the entrance at the bottom of Jalan Monkey Forest. If you want to feed the monkeys despite the risk of getting bitten and there are bananas for sale. Stroll through to find Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal, a temple of the dead. A visit to the very informative website beforehand is highly recommended.

• The White Herons of Petulu | Every evening between 15,000 and 20,000 cattle egrets, known colloquially as white herons and in Balinese, kokokan, roost in the village of Petulu just ten minutes north of Ubud. It is quite a spectacle as these large, elegant white and rusty orange birds arrive in countless groups and tussle for the prime roosting spots. Each morning at dawn they leave en-masse to find feeding spots around the island. Some also breed in the area and nests can be seen in the roadside trees. The cattle egrets are joined by smaller numbers of little egrets and Javan pond herons.
  According to local legend and the egrets first appeared here in such large numbers after one of the worst massacres of suspected communists during the troubles of 1965. This led local villagers to believe that these birds are the souls of the slaughtered, and ceremonies to that effect are still held today.
  The village of Petulu is reached by heading east from Ubud town centre on Jl Raya Ubud until you meet the obvious junction with Jl Raya Andong. Turn left, and go up the hill for about 2 km until you see the sign posted left turning on Jalan Kintamani to Petulu village. Go into the village and you will see signs and Halal warungs set up in the best places to view the spectacle. Get there by 5:30PM.

What to do in Ubud

As a centre of the arts, Ubud has dance and shadow puppet performances every night. There are also plenty of spas for resynchronising your chakras, and all manner of spiritual classes and treatments, some distinctly less genuine than others.

Art courses

• Bali Center for Artistic Creativity (BCAC) - Nyoman Art Gallery | Art studio nestled in beautiful grounds and galleries offering art classes from beginners to teachers, and internationally accredited courses run by Bruce Sherratt.

Cooking classes

• Payuk Bali Home Cooking Class | Traditional Balinese cooking such as sate lilit, Balinese salad, and nasi kuning.

• Paon Bali Cooking Class - Traditional Balinese cooking class in the home of a very hospitable family. They offer a pick-up in Ubud.

• Pemulan Bali - Balinese Farm Cooking School - first farm cooking school in Ubud | A new community project to save the organic farmer in the village. They have the cooking classes every day for Vegetarian and Meat lovers. The program consists of a visit to a local market, an organic farm tour, picking some ingredients for cooking and hands-on cooking experience (you will cook your food).

• Ubad Ubud Bali Cooking Class - Introduction to the exotic ingredients and unique culinary legacy of Bali, set in Balinese compound.

Cultural performances

• Barong Dance | A Barong dance performance takes place here every day at 9:30AM, lasting about an hour. It is very much a performance for tourists, and the story is of the never ending battle between good and evil. There is actually not much dancing and a lot of talking in this performance. While buying a ticket, you will get a description of the forthcoming performance.

• Pura Dalem - One of the best kecak performances in Ubud, every Friday and Monday evening. Staged in beautiful surroundings outside under the banyan trees, and followed by a fire dance. Excellent ambiance and the fire dance at the end is impressive. A leaflet in several languages is at disposal to understand the illustrated Ramayana story. However, parts of the performance can get repetitive.

Spas

• Bali Healing - Even for the experienced massage consumer, this six bed massage centre is an experience. A 1 hs massage is about Rp 80,000. Magic warm stone massage for Rp 220,000. Several other deep tissue and reflexology treatments are available

• Bamboo Bali Spa - 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.

• Sang Spa - Small full-service day spa, owned and run by a young couple named Ngurah and Asti. Simple, secluded, clean and nicely decorated. Very professional staff.

• SenS Spa - SenS Spa, inside the SenS Hotel & Spa, features 1 couples treatment suite, 2 single suites and 3 foot reflexology stations.

• Spa Hati | Prices start at Rp 210,000. The grounds are lovely and there is a swimming swimmingpool and jacuzzi. This spa is a non-profit organisation which uses its income for charity programs. They offer pick up from your hotel.

• Ubud Sari Health Resort | Emphasis on Balinese-style healing therapy. Offers alternative health care, a day spa, beauty salon, health massage, Vegetarian restaurant and yoga.

Canyoning activities

• Adventure & Spirit | Canyoning is an ultimate outdoor adventure and sport using a variety of techniques that may include walking, abseiling, jumping, sliding down natural slopes and swimming in white water for aquatic canyons. And of course discover beautiful and hidden places at the heart of Balinese nature.

Whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities

There is good rafting available on the Ayung River at Sayan, just west of Ubud. Almost as good as the rafting itself is the wonderful experience of being right down inside the Ayung gorge. This is the domain of high-end resorts like the Four Seasons and Amandari, and it is a very scenic area indeed. The rapids are Class II and Class III, and best during the rainy season as the river can run a bit dry from June to September. There are two well established operators, both with offices on the primary street in Sayan, close to Amandari, however other operators have sprung up recently as well.

White Water Rafting become the most popular attraction.

• Ayung River Rafting | Free hotel transfer, 2.5 hours rafting experience. Guide, all boats in good condition, waterproof bag, helmets, lunch and insurance also included. They also do volcano climbs, countryside cycle tour, etc.

Cycle tours are an increasingly widespread and popular option.

• Bali Countryside Cycling | A/C hotel return, 3.5 hours downhill biking, Light Breakfast, Bike and Safety equipment, Guide, Mineral water en route, Lunch and Insurance covered.

Yoga and meditation

• Taman Hati Yoga and Meditation Center | This centre was founded in 2000 by two local men, both from families containing many generations of Hindu priests. Set up for both complete beginners, and those already experienced but wishing to broaden their horizons. Every Wednesday at 7:30PM and there is a free class entitled "World Peace Meditation".

• Ubud Yoga Centre | Expat-run centre offers everything from single attendance classes up to residential yoga instructor training courses.

• The Yoga Barn | Range of classes and an excellent set of teachers mostly in the Ashtanga/Vinnyasa school. Upper studio has great views of the surrounding Rice terraces. Residential packages, multiple day classes and simple single entry classes. If you are a teacher and they offer the possibility of renting the centre to host your classes.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Ubud

Ubud has a vast assortment of art and jewelry shops. Head for the boutique type stores on Jl Monkey Forest and Jl Raya Ubud for higher quality goods (with appropriately higher prices), or down to the market for bulk-produced cheapies.

• Ubud Market - This is a double storey warren of stalls bursting at the seams with wood carvings, batik shirts, sarongs, and all manner of other souvenirs aimed specifically at tourists. The merchants here haggle with tourists for a living, and think nothing of asking for ten times the going price, so try to establish a baseline before you go in to buy. Most of the merchants downstairs will lose interest if you try to get a reasonable price. It is better to try the shops upstairs where you will find the same products often for sale at lower prices. You will still need to use your best bargaining skills of course. Try to avoid the period from 11AM Monday - 2PM when tour buses from further afield tend to arrive en-masse. :If hiring a vehicle for a day, it might be worth it to make a stop in Tegallalang, where they are geared more towards wholesale buyers. The Sukawati Market is crowded and sells trinkets in bulk as well, but quality is dubious.

Craft villages between Ubud and Sanur

The 25 kilometers road to Ubud from Sanur in the south passes through a series of small towns and villages which specialize in the production of particular arts and crafts. The towns are Batubulan/Singakerta for stone carvings, Celuk for silver jewellery, Batuan for paintings, and Mas for wood carvings. The whole area is sometimes referred to as the "craft villages" of Bali, although it is all a bit more built-up and congested than one might infer from the term "village."

This is the best area to see and buy a wide variety of Balinese craftwork in a short period of time. There are many large showrooms where arts and crafts in the Balinese style are offered for sale. Nearly all organised day-tours of central Bali stop at one or more of these showrooms (and the tour operators usually have a financial tie-up with the places where they stop, collecting a commission on purchases.) Be careful, many of these shops specialise in pricing based on huge commissions to the drivers and tour busses.

Other shops & markets

• Ganesha Bookstore - Second hand bookstore. Also has great range of new books about Bali and Indonesia. Been around since 1986 and now has a second branch in Seminyak.

• Pondok Pecak Library | This privately run community library often has decent fiction and other books for sale. By buying here you are supporting their mission to make free books available to Balinese schoolkids. When you visit, check to see if they have any cultural performances coming up. Also has a small cafe serving home-made Snacks.

• Sukawati Art Market | This huge market is like a one-stop centre for all the craft villages between Sanur and Ubud. Many souvenir shop owners from around Bali wholesale purchase their items here, and prices are considerably lower than in the tourist centers like Kuta, Sanur, and Ubud town centre. For a taste of everyday, go to the food and produce market opposite the art market.

• Threads of Life | A fair trade store that stocks commercially made, traditional hand-woven textiles from Bali and all points east in Indonesia. Or better yet, go to the shops that are actually from the villages and outer islands like Timor and Flores, and specialize in traditional weavings.

Halal Restaurants in Ubud

Ubud is renowned in Bali for its wide range of Halal restaurants, and is probably second only to Seminyak in terms of the quality of the offerings. Travelers on a budget will not be short of options, as there are many simple Halal warungs serving up the standard Indonesian staples.

• Sawah Indah Warung Ikan Bakar | Lunch or dinner with a Rice field view. Fish pond. Relaxing and good for a family or group.

• Alchemy - A 100% raw vegan organic cafe & juice bar, organic health food store, and holistic clinic. Yummy breakfast bar with fruits, nuts, seeds, and raw vegan organic nutmilks and yoghurts from 07-11AM, delicious salad bar with amazing superfoods and toppings from 11AM Monday - 9PM. Alchemy´s has an Instagram account at

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Ubud

Ubud - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Ubud, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Ubud. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Ubud and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Ubud. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Ubud. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inUbud: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Ubud.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Ubud: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Ubud, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Ubud.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Ubud, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Ubud, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Ubud and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Ubud, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Ubud, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Ubud without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Ubud is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Ubud.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Ubud is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Ubud, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Ubud Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Ubud

eHalal Group Ubud is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Ubud. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Ubud.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Ubud ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Ubud. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Ubud, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Ubud are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Ubud

Ubud has a vast selection of lodging for all budgets. Many visitors prefer to stay out in nearby rural areas instead of in the town centre, ideally with views of the famous Rice terraces, but this can make it a little difficult to get around. As in most of Bali, in all but the grandest of hotels, check-in and check-out times are a bit of a moveable feast. It is safe to assume about 2PM and 11AM.

Ubud has many homestays which are the cheapest form of lodging, a good way to meet the local residents, and the natural replacement for hostels on the backpacker circuit. If you want to stay in town and the area around Jl Monkey Forest is generally the most expensive little more expensive (from Rp 80,000-100,000 per day). If you want cheaper prices try the areas around Jl Hanoman, north of Jl Raya Ubud and further out in Peliatan. In the low season especially, bargains can be had by those willing to bargain. Jn Kajeng, close to the centre, is a peaceful, mostly pedestrianised street with many small budget to mid-range homestays - those on the west side have views at the rear towards the river, waterfall or nearby Rice fields.

• Alam Ubud Cultures Villas & Residences
• Alila Ubud Hotel Bali
• Bali Rich Luxury Villa & Spa Ubud Hotel
• Bali Rich Villa & Spa Ubud
• Puri Wulandari A Boutique Resort & Spa Ubud
• Royal Kamuela At Monkey Forest Ubud - Villas & Spa
• Santi Mandala Villa & Spa Ubud Hotel

Stay Safe

Ubud is a safe town to visit and few problems will ever be encountered.

• Police station - just east of the town centre. Follow Jl Raya Ubud east to the end, turn north and the police station is on your right hand side.

Be wary around the monkeys that occupy the Monkey Forest. They are experts at stealing possessions like glasses, earrings, cameras and even handbags, and have been known to attack people carrying food. Bali is currently battling a rabies outbreak, and the likelihood is that these monkeys could carry the disease. No matter how cute they look, feeding them is just asking for trouble.

Medical issues in Ubud

Dengue fever outbreaks are not uncommon, so be diligent with mosquito repellant. Ubud does not have a fully fledged hospital and the nearest is about 20 kilometers to the south in Denpasar. There are a number of reasonable clinics, though, which are used to treating typical traveller ailments.

• Toya Medika Clinic - Four doctors and four nurses as well as two drivers and two ambulances (plus administrative staff). Very highly regarded by visitors and local residents alike. Open 24/7; emergency and first responder services available as well as the ability to arrange for evacuation, if necessary. Normal services include checkups, medications, vaccination, lab & radiology services, referral to specialists and hospital admissions in Indonesia and overseas. Able to provide visits to caller’s home or hotel.

• Ubud Clinic - Four resident GPs and blood test station to cover basic infections, tests and stiches. Strong focus on international guest, GPs speak English with varying degree. Blood test lab is open from 8AM Monday - 3PM (standard blood test takes 4-5 hrs), very basic dentist services. 24/7 GP onsite and basic emergency service. Pharmacy is connected to the clinic.

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Ubud

Ubud is well located for moving on to other areas of Bali.

• If you are heading east and the road to Candidasa and beyond via Klungkung is often busy with trucks, but a nice one hour drive nonetheless.
• Bedugul has a traditional fruit market, a splendid botanical garden, and the Ulun Danu Bratan temple, about one hour north by car.
• The region around Tabanan has Mount Batukaru and the Batukaru Temple, as well as the Rice fields around Jati Luwih, about one hour north by car.
• Lovina is an easy-going black-sand beach, about two hours north by car.

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