Ubud Guide
Everything you need to know about Ubud
In many ways Ubud is considered Bali's cultural heart. Located
in the cool mountains, just one hour's drive north of the airport
and the resorts of southern Bali, this traditional country town
is the home of the Balinese Royal family.
Ubud is also a flourishing crafts centre. Around Ubud the surrounding
villages like Camphuan, Penestanan, Peliatan and Batuan specialising in crafts and woodcarving which are sold all
over the island. There are hundreds of shops selling antiques, woodcarvings,
crafts, textiles, paintings and jewellry as well as some of the
best art museums in the country, dozens of art studios, an excellent
local craft market, and galleries selling local and international
art.
Ubud's role as the epicentre of Balinese culture makes it the perfect
place to see traditional Balinese dance and drama. From the early
1920's the royal family ensured that most talented teachers of dance,
music and drama were brought to Ubud to entertain the King and pass
on their knowledge. Dances like the Legong, Ramayana, Baris, Kecak
and Sanghyang (the fire dance) are performed nightly in the village
of Bona, just 15 minutes drive from Ubud. Bali's most accomplished
dancers, musicians, painters and carvers live in just 10 square
kilometres.
Balinese Hinduism remains stronger in Ubud than elsewhere in Bali
so it's highly likely you will come across a festival, cremation
ceremony or celebration of some kind during your stay. Balinese
Hinduism is distinct from that of India and has absorbed the animism
of Bali's pre-Hindu ancestors - inspired by the extraordinary beauty
of Bali's landscapes - rice fields, mountains, river gorges, villages
and ancient temples.
The outskirts of Ubud has some excellent five star hotels and luxury
villas in stunning locations like the stylish Maya Resort on the
river Ayung with its riverside Spa, and Alila Ubud in Payangan.
Smaller local hotels and guest houses can be found discreetly situated
around the town, enabling Ubud to retain its local charming atmosphere.
Hotels like the Puri
Wulandari, Kupu Kupu Barong, Four
Seasons Ubud, Pita Maha, Komenaka and Villa Teratai all have
a uniquely Ubud flavour. Hotels
in Ubud
Sightseeing
Visit the Ubud Monkey Forest - a natural forest
reserve popular with both locals and tourists. Inhabited by wild
monkeys (don't even think about petting them) who will steal your
camera, bananas, handbags, toupes, etc., These mischievous monkeys
provide lots of entertainment. Interesting meandering paths lead
to charming places like the bathing temple surrounded by lush remnants
of ancient forest.
Just off the main square a lovely arched stone bridge leads to
the Hindu elephant-headed Lord Ganesh overlooking a small, square,
moss-covered pool where several koi swim at his feet.
What to do in Ubud
Go whitewater rafting down the breathtaking Agung Gorge about half
an hour outside Ubud centre.
Ubud is an easy place to walk around. The main streets are lined
with local shops and restaurants, studios, gift shops and galleries.
Browse the art shops and take a leisurely stroll around the town.
Around Ubud
Peliatan: Located between Ubud and Mas, Peliatan is the traditional
centre of music, and dance.
Batubulan: A small town on the road to Ubud famous for its excellent
stone carvers. Workshops are located all along the roadside and
visitors are welcome to see the carvers at work. Local legend states
that all the men from teenagers to old men are accomplished carvers.
Traditional Dance
Ubud is one of the best places to see traditional dance and drama
accompanied by superb traditional orchestras. For information on
performances, transport schedules, temple festivals, and special
activities, inquire at the Ubud Tourist Information Center, across
from the Pura Desa (village temple).
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