7 Free Things to Do in Ubud, Bali

Ubud, Bali is an incredible destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Southeast Asia. Known for its stunning natural landscape, fascinating culture, and vibrant nightlife, Ubud is a great place to visit for tourists of all ages. But what if you don’t have a lot of cash? Don’t worry – there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Ubud. Here are just seven of the best free things to do in Ubud, Bali.

1. Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is one of Ubud’s most popular attractions, and it won’t cost you a cent to visit. Located in the heart of Ubud, the sanctuary is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques. As you explore the forest, you’ll be able to observe the monkeys in their natural habitat. Be sure to respect their space, and keep your food and belongings hidden away in your bag.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary also contains a number of Hindu temples. These temples are over 600 years old and offer a window into Ubud’s spiritual past. Visitors can explore the temples and learn more about the religious practices of the Balinese people.

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is open seven days a week and admission is free. The sanctuary also offers guided tours for a small fee.

2. Wander Through Ubud’s Rice Fields

Ubud is known for its lush rice fields, and exploring them is one of the best free things to do in Ubud. Take a stroll through the fields and admire the stunning scenery. You’ll be able to observe local farmers as they go about their daily work. As you explore, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the terraced hills and the vibrant green of the rice.

The best way to explore the rice fields is on foot. Be sure to bring a camera – the views are gorgeous, and you’ll want to capture the moment. You can also explore the fields on a bicycle or scooter if you prefer.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try a guided tour. Many tour operators offer guided rice field tours for a small fee.

3. Take a Walk Through Ubud’s Streets

Exploring the streets of Ubud is the perfect way to experience the local culture. As you wander, you’ll be able to observe the colorful buildings and unique architecture. You’ll also be able to take in the sights and sounds of the busy streets. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many street vendors selling traditional Balinese snacks and souvenirs.

The best way to explore Ubud’s streets is on foot. Feel free to wander wherever your heart takes you – you’re sure to stumble across some fascinating places. Be sure to keep a close eye on your wallet and belongings – pickpocketing is not uncommon in tourist areas.

If you’d prefer a guided tour, there are plenty of companies offering walking tours of Ubud for a small fee.

4. Enjoy a Traditional Balinese Dance Performance

Enjoying a traditional Balinese dance performance is one of the best free things to do in Ubud. Every evening, local dancers perform traditional Balinese dances in the streets of Ubud. The performances are a great way to experience the culture and traditions of the Balinese people. Best of all, admission is free.

The performances usually start around 6pm and last until 9pm. The best place to enjoy the performances is at the intersection of Jalan Monkey Forest and Jalan Hanoman. Be sure to arrive early, as the performances often attract large crowds.

If you’d like to learn more about the dances, you can take a guided tour. Many tour operators offer guided tours of the performances for a small fee.

5. Explore Ubud’s Markets

Ubud is home to many vibrant markets, and exploring them is one of the best free things to do in Ubud. Wander through the busy stalls and haggle with the friendly vendors. You’ll be able to find everything from traditional clothing and crafts to fresh produce and snacks. Be sure to keep an eye out for the many souvenir stalls – they’re a great place to pick up some unique mementos.

The best markets to explore are Pasar Ubud, Pasar Seni, and Pasar Kumbasari. All three markets are open daily from 9am to 6pm. Be sure to bring some cash with you, as many vendors do not accept cards.

If you’d like to learn more about the markets, you can take a guided tour. Many tour operators offer guided tours of the markets for a small fee.

6. Visit Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) is an archaeological site located on the outskirts of Ubud. The site is home to a number of ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, and it offers a fascinating insight into Ubud’s spiritual past. Admission to the site is free.

The site is open daily from 8am to 6pm. Be sure to bring a camera – the temples are incredibly photogenic. You can also explore the site on a guided tour for a small fee.

7. Take a Dip in Tampaksiring’s Waterfalls

Tampaksiring is a small village located just outside of Ubud. The village is home to a number of stunning waterfalls, and exploring them is one of the best free things to do in Ubud. Take a dip in the cool waters of the falls and admire the stunning scenery. Be sure to bring a camera – the views are breathtaking.

The best way to explore the falls is on foot. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes – the terrain can be quite uneven. You can also explore the falls on a guided tour for a small fee.

Tampaksiring is located about 40km from Ubud. You can get there by car, motorbike, or public bus.

Summary

Ubud, Bali is an incredible destination for those looking to explore the beauty of Southeast Asia. Even if you don’t have a lot of cash, there are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Ubud. From exploring the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to taking a dip in Tampaksiring’s waterfalls, there are plenty of free things to do in Ubud. So don’t worry – you don’t have to break the bank to have a great holiday in Ubud, Bali.