Ubud must see´s and off the beaten path adventures

The most famous rice terrace around Ubud is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. You can get there by scooter and walk around. Get there early as they are very famous and a lot of people will visit. There is also something magical if you go at the sunrise. You can also enjoy a fresh coconut or fruit juice in one of the cafe´s below the road.

Get the location here (google maps).

Off course there are the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces but it is hard to visit them with no one else around. It is definitely worth to see though. But those who want to see rice terraces in a more secluded, natural way should check out the location in the following map. There is also a balinese painter who gives painting classes. It is a beautiful place surround by nature.

Get the location here (google maps).

Real balinese painting is found at this place. Check it out and ask for a class. It is at the same location as the rice fields mentioned above.

Isn't that a peaceful place where you wanna do your own painting? For those of you who are creative painters or who want to dive into balinese painting as a beginner this would be my favorite place to go to. Surrounded by rice fields and nothing else but nature.

Get the location here (google maps).

The Campuhan Ridge Walk starts behind the Temple (Parahyangan Jagat Payogan Agung Gunung Lebah) near the bridge. On its left side is a small path which follows up to a ridge. You can also go the other way around.

We rode with bycicles. But be careful and take care as there are others who are walking and the path is sometimes very narrow.

It is also really nice to walk the Campuhan Ridge. Take enough sun screen and water. There will also be some nice cafe´s on the way for some refreshments.

Get the location here (google maps).

If you need some adventure you should go on a rafting tour. You will pass lush jungle trees and waterfalls will get you wet too. It is definitely worth it. They boat ride isn't to crazy so rafting experts will be unsatisfied but for all others its a lot of fun.

There are several booking "offices" in and around Ubud where you can book your tour. Normally, they will pick you up and get you back to where you stay. Depending on the season (rainy/dry) the river gets more adventurous and waterfalls carrying a lot more water. You can have a shower standing underneath a waterfall or just let you float down the river in your lifejacket. There are also spots for cliff jumping. Ask your guide. Some of them will show you where you can jump. It is definitely fun. It is also a great way to meet new people from around the world.

You can hike up to Mount Batur and watch the sunrise. They sell the tour including a guide who will show you the way up. During high season, there will be so many people that you can follow other people. There is only one way up. You don't really need a guide. Anyway, you can get a guide at the huge parking lot where all the hikers start.

What to bring:

• Torches/Flashlight
• Some breakfast (bananas/sandwich)
• Camera/GoPro
• Windproof jacket
• A planket to sit on
• Hiking shoes preferred / we walked in normal shoes (they will get dirty!!!)

Start here if you go without guide (google maps).

For westerners it is ridiculous to see animals fight against each other. But it is part of balinese culture and this should be respected. Many balinese people do not support it either. Anyway it feels like being in an arena where gladiators fight. It is definitely worth an experience.

While we have visited the location, I have seen only few other western people. This is as "local" as it gets. There is a place in Ubud with regular fights.

Additionally you will find amazing genuine food.

But be aware. In a place like this you will have to eat like the locals do. With their right hand. Sometimes they have a spoon or a fork for you.

Check out this location by scooter and ask for the next event (google maps).

Babi Guling is a traditional dish which is similar to a BBQ Pork. It is grilled upon charcoal. They have their traditional receipts to prepare and serve it. Give it a try. It is unique.

Ask locals or just drive around with the scooter and look out for Babi Guling. The chances are better to find Babi Guling in the little villages outside of Ubud.

Let´s call it a day. After you've done some exploring it´s nice to relax with some drinks listening to live music. There are several places for nightlife and life music. Check out CP Lounge for a drink within an relaxed atmosphere and comfortable seating.

Get directions below (google maps).