Your 10-Day Ubud & Yogyakarta Trip: Tirta Empul Temple & Beyond

Discover the oldest art museum in Bali, housing a significant collection of traditional and modern Balinese paintings and wood carvings, playing a vital role in preserving and developing Balinese art.

"A quiet place surrounded by a tropical garden. Must have for the art lovers and If you wanna jump seriously in a balinese culture. For the majority it’s a paint exhibition that tell you different story and give you different perspective of the rich balinese background🌺"— Gaia Di Vita

Explore the stunning Water Palace, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Saraswati. Admire the beautiful lotus pond and traditional Balinese architecture. A serene spot for spiritual reflection and cultural appreciation.

"Saraswati Temple in Ubud is a beautiful and peaceful place dedicated to Dewi Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, learning, and the arts. The temple is known for its classic Balinese architecture, intricate stone carvings, traditional split gates, and the stunning lotus flower ponds that create a serene atmosphere right in the center of Ubud. As a solo traveler, I had a wonderful experience here. It felt very calming and grounding. This temple holds strong cultural and spiritual significance for the Balinese people, so please respect the culture while visiting. There is a dress code at the entrance where shoulders and legs must be covered, and sarongs are provided if needed. A lovely stop for anyone looking to experience Bali beyond just sightseeing 🌿✨"— Preeti K

Visit the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces, renowned for their breathtaking tiered landscapes. Wander through the lush paddies, capture stunning photos, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and traditional irrigation system (subak).

"A very beautiful and peaceful place with stunning views of the rice terraces 🌿 The scenery is absolutely breathtaking and feels truly special, especially in the morning. What makes this place even better is the variety of cozy cafés and spots around the terraces, where you can relax, enjoy a coffee or lunch, and take in the view. Some places even offer swimming pools overlooking the rice fields — swimming with such a view is an amazing experience. Well worth a visit if you’re in Bali. Perfect for photos, relaxing, and enjoying nature at its best. Highly recommended 👍"— Piotr Kupiec

Embark on a thrilling white water rafting adventure down the Ayung River, including scenic transfers, safety briefing, and paddling through lush jungle and past hidden waterfalls. This activity provides an exciting blend of adventure and nature.

"Our rafting trip with Rafting Ubud Bali on the Ayung River was hands down one of the highlights of our time in Bali. From start to finish, everything was perfectly organised, safe, and incredibly fun. The scenery along the river was breathtaking — lush jungle, waterfalls, and stunning rock carvings that made the whole journey feel magical. What truly made the experience exceptional was our guide. He was absolutely amazing — so energetic, funny, and engaging, while also making us feel completely safe the entire time. His jokes, encouragement, and great vibe turned the rafting into a nonstop adventure full of laughter and excitement. You could tell he genuinely loves what he does, and that passion made all the difference. If you’re in Ubud and thinking about rafting, don’t hesitate — Rafting Ubud Bali Ayung River is a must-do. Incredible views, thrilling rapids, and the most fun guide you could ask for. We would 100% do it again! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"— Sarah Armitage

Wander through the bustling Ubud Art Market, a vibrant hub for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Balinese artwork. Practice your bargaining skills and find unique keepsakes.

"two different places UBUD MARKET WHICH IS A BUILDING WITH TWO FLOORS IN THE MAIN ROAD OF UBUD. UBUD ART MARKET which i think is small street opening to other streets where locals have small businesses. Ubud Art Market is a lively and colorful place right in the center of Ubud. You’ll find a huge variety of souvenirs such as dream catchers, magnets, T-shirts, bags, wooden crafts, paintings, and handmade decorations. Many stalls sell similar items, but if you take your time, you can find nice pieces at good prices. The atmosphere is vibrant and full of life, especially in the morning. Bargaining is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate politely. Prices usually start high but can go down a lot. It can get crowded and warm during the day, but that’s part of the experience. A great spot to buy souvenirs and feel the local market vibe while visiting Ubud."— Labadi Mongi

Engage in a hands-on experience at Lukman Batik Workshop, where you'll learn the traditional art of batik, from drawing with wax to dyeing fabrics, creating your own unique Balinese masterpiece.

"Highly recommend this if you are in Ubud. I was there for over 3 hours and really enjoyed the whole process, there is no time limit, Nyoman even said I could come back and finish it another day if I wanted. Nyoman and his son were really friendly and helpful. I was there alone for most of the class and it was a really peaceful, meditative process."— Sorrel Ireland

Wander through this protected forest sanctuary, home to over 700 Balinese long-tailed macaques, ancient temples, and lush vegetation. Observe the monkeys in their natural habitat and explore the spiritual grounds.

"I visited the Monkey Forest on a warm Saturday morning with my husband while exploring Ubud. The staff were friendly and helpful, providing safe interactions with the monkeys and the lush and beautiful temples made it even more of a beautiful experience. With so much to see, you want to get there early as it can get very busy and since we got there early, we were able to observe the Monkeys get a little edgy when larger crowds were present. The monkeys were playful and were so fun to see how they interact with one another in their habitat. As long as you have boundaries and respect for wildlife, they will stay out of your way. Don’t look at them in the eye and if they jump on you just let them be and stay calm. Hide your glasses, keys, phone or anything important because they will take it. They know how to unzip your purse so keep it close to you. Wear comfort clothes and enjoy!"— Liz

Explore the Threads of Life Store, an ethical fair-trade gallery and shop that serves as a living museum, showcasing a stunning collection of traditional Indonesian textiles and preserving indigenous weaving traditions.

"This is one of the nicest shop I' ve been to. It feels like a small museum or an art exhebition with the rooms filled with weaving products in different styles, from all over the Indonesian islands. The textiles are so intricate in their patterns with different colours and also have a description of the meaning about them on the wall beside these products. There is baskets, bags, servettes, shawls, small notebooks etc. A bit expencive, as it should be considering the skilled artists. Absolutely worth a visit for everyone that has an interest in the true art of Indonesian weaving tradition."— Minna Aakko

Experience the captivating traditional Balinese Legong Dance, a highly stylized and dramatic performance, set in the historic Puri Saren Agung (Ubud Palace). This performance is a profound expression of Balinese culture and spirituality.

"⭐️ 5/5 stars Captivated by the magic of Bali’s culture! 🎨✨ Attended the *Legong Dance Show* at *Ubud Palace* today, and it was a breathtaking experience. The palace’s open-air courtyard, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture, set the perfect mood for this traditional masterpiece. Highlights: - The Performance: Graceful movements, vibrant costumes, and the Gamelan orchestra transported me to a mystical world. The story of the _Krasak Legong_ (a royal dance) was enchanting. - Seating: We sat on the *floor* (mat provided), but *reserved chairs* are available in some rows (worth upgrading if you need comfort). Arrive early to secure a spot. - Ambiance: Dusk fell as the show began – the blend of twilight, lanterns, and art was pure magic. Tips: - Arrive 30 mins early for a good seat. - Respect local customs: Dress modestly, no flash photography. - Duration: 1:30 hour (on Friday) - Local price: Per Person IDR 100,000 (INR ~₹525-540). - Location: Ubud Palace, Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud, Bali. Tips: Bring your own water bottles although water bottles and beer were available at a higher cost and were sold by local women. So, if you want to contribute, you may choose to buy from them and, they will generously show you the sitting area. A must-see for culture lovers! 🙏💃 Highly recommend- ***** (Five stars) #UbudPalace #LegongDance #BaliCulture #Travel #MustVisit"— Raajeev Narayann

Participate in the traditional purification ritual at this sacred Hindu Balinese water temple, believed to have healing properties. Immerse yourself in the spiritual customs and admire the temple's intricate architecture.

"Extremely serene,peaceful and calm, this powerful Hindu temple provides soothing experience. Ample car parking and shops all around, entry ticket needed for foreign nationals. They provide a sarong to be worn for entry to the temple. The complex is excellent Balinese architecture with a rich ancient culture and lots of temples inside.The sacred holy spring is mesmerising to watch .Also the sacred and important purification ritual is elaborate and meant to alleviate devotees from any issues. Medicinal and healing benefits of the purification ritual is well known alongwith providing purification of mind and heart. A serene lake with colourful filled beautiful koi fishes is an added attraction and not to be missed. A must visit powerful temple in Bali."— Deepak

Explore the unique traditional architecture and community layout of Penglipuran, one of Bali's cleanest and best-preserved villages. Wander through its bamboo forests and traditional homes.

"I really loved visiting this traditional Indonesian village. It was such a nice experience discovering the architecture and the traditional houses, it was honestly a beautiful surprise. Walking around the village really makes you feel connected to Indonesian culture and craftsmanship. It’s definitely a spot worth visiting if you’re around Bali. A very enjoyable and unique experience that I truly recommend! 🇮🇩"— anis aboulhacene

Start your day with a tranquil walk along the scenic Campuhan Ridge, offering panoramic views of lush green valleys and a refreshing natural experience.

"Had an enjoyable walk on the Campuhan Ridge today. It’s a relatively short trail, with quite some climb in the beginning, but the views make it worth it — especially near the top, where you get wide open panoramas of the lush green hills and valleys. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a nice escape from the busier streets of Ubud. I went around noon on a cloudy, cooler February day, after some rain, and it turned out to be a great choice. The temperature was quite pleasant and the light was good for photos. I wouldn’t recommend doing it at noon on a sunny day though — there’s little shade and it can get quite hot. The path is well paved and easy to follow, making it suitable for most fitness levels. I recommend wearing sneakers rather than flip-flops, though. At the end of the trail, I stopped at Karsa Café for a fresh coconut drink — the perfect way to relax after the walk. Sitting there overlooking the rice fields was a great finish to the experience. Afterwards, I took a Grab bike back to town, which is an easy option if you don’t feel like walking the same route back. Overall, a simple but beautiful walk. Highly recommended if you’re in Ubud and want something scenic without committing to a long hike."— Sorin Kertesz

Explore the ancient Goa Gajah, an archaeological site featuring a rock-cut cave with intricate carvings, a meditation complex, and sacred bathing pools.

"Beautiful, ancient temple with a lot of history. Reasonable entrance price, but you can only pay cash and they don’t have an ATM, so you have to walk 10 mins to the closest one. At the entrance/parking lot the vendors are really pushy and annoying, they’re forcefully trying to sell sarongs to you claiming that you’re going to need it to enter, but you can get them for free when you step on the terrein of the facility. A self-appointed local guide started to walk with us (without us asking for guidance) and showed the whole temple around, while explaining everything “for free as he works for a non-profit organisation as a voluntary religious coach”. He did a decent job explaining many things, but in the end he charged us “minimum 150k IDR” out of the blue for his service. This isn’t particularly a negative remark, but be aware that if they start talking to you, that’s going to be a pricey conversation."— Kinga Z. Birkl

Visit the beautiful Tegenungan Waterfall, where you can admire the powerful cascades, take photos, and feel the refreshing mist of this natural wonder.

"The visual experience of this particular body of water was truly remarkable, especially considering the substantial flow observed in January. It is important to note that this was a ticketed event, with admission available for purchase at the point of entry. The descent from the parking area to the water's edge involved a downhill trek, which was manageable in difficulty."— Andrew Le

Witness the exceptional craftsmanship of Balinese artisans at Celuk Village, renowned for its intricate silver and gold jewelry. Observe traditional techniques firsthand.

"Most amazing experience my wife and I had here at the Celuk Bali Silver Class. From the moment Andika welcomed us in and explained the process and helped us pick out designs to m along our one of a kind rings was amazing. My wife was assisted by Cito who was amazing with his skills and instructing through the entire process. Jonet assisted me in making a ring for my wife as she made mine and it was a special design they didn’t even have, they both turned out fantastic. This was surely our favorite and will be the most memorable of all our trip that will remind us of our special time, not just in Bali but at Celuk Bali Silver. All the smiles and warm hospitality we experienced through the entire process was truly special and will surely return the next time we are here in Bali. To their amazing team; Thank you All and if you are here in Bali you won’t regret going and making an amazing memory here for the rest of your lives just as we have. 💍🙏🫶🙏💍"— Ken Olson

Learn about the process of Balinese coffee cultivation, including the famous Luwak coffee. Enjoy a guided tour and sample various local coffees and teas.

"Best place for coffee, but I don't know price difference in comparison to other coffee shops like this. I had tested sp many coffee flavour here, and purchased accordingly."— Taran Jit

Immerse yourself in Balinese art with a hands-on painting workshop, learning traditional techniques and creating your own masterpiece. This is a relaxing and engaging cultural experience.

"This is one of the best and most profound experiences you can have with a friend or as a couple. Connecting with your soul and spirit, and being able to take the painting home and connect with it every day- it’s truly amazing. 🤩 💚"— Ros Denis

Wander through the serene Ubud Botanical Garden, exploring its diverse collection of tropical plants, vibrant flowers, and tranquil pathways. A perfect spot for nature lovers and a relaxed stroll.

"Closed down, but there is an unnamed woodwork store (?) here that you should walk into just to see the sculptures. Don't go down the back, there's only mosquitoes and ants."— Arjen K.

Relax and swim at Padang Padang Beach, a beautiful white-sand cove framed by dramatic rock formations, popular for its clear waters.

"We had to go down many stairs until we reached the beach ⛱️. The stairs were very small and it was also very crowded. We didn't get the place to sit and enjoy the beach sadly. We thought we could use our towels for sitting on the beach and enjoying the sun but it was just a dream 😁🙈 because it was fully crowded. You can still bathing on the sea of course 😉!"— Moonlight85

Explore the expansive cultural park featuring the iconic, towering statue of Lord Vishnu riding the mythical Garuda bird, along with various cultural performances and art exhibits.

"We visited Garuda Wisnu Kencana with a group of friends. We weren’t expecting too much, but it turned out to be a really fun and memorable experience. From the moment we entered, we were impressed by how massive the area was and how grand all three main statues looked in real life. Every corner felt like a perfect photo spot. We spent time walking around, taking photos, watching cultural performances, and even chilling at one of the restaurants inside the park while enjoying a free refreshing drink included with the ticket. The facilities, such as the toilets, were clean and comfortable, which made our visit even more pleasant. Although there are some paid activities inside, they’re optional, so you can easily choose what suits you or skip them entirely and still have a great experience. For anyone planning to visit, I’d recommend buying tickets online in advance to skip the line and plan your time better. By the end of the day, the ticket price didn’t feel like an issue considering the experience you get in return. We left feeling happy and already thinking about coming back."— Davinda Permana

Wander the cliff-edge temple grounds, marvel at the breathtaking ocean vistas, and observe the playful resident monkeys. Be mindful of your belongings.

"Grab dropped us near the entrance and I didn’t expect the walk to stretch that far along the cliff, the path just keeps going with the ocean way down below. Wind was strong that day, like actually pushing against you a bit. The cliffs are steep, really steep, and you feel it when you look over the edge. Crowd was already building even before sunset. Not chaotic, just steady streams of people stopping every few steps for photos. I slowed down too, figured no point rushing since everyone kind of moves at the same pace anyway. The monkeys are real here, not just one or two. Saw one grab a pair of sunglasses from someone and staff helped get it back, so yeah keep your stuff tight. Stayed for the Kecak dance and that part gets packed. Seating fills up quick. But hearing the chanting with the sky turning orange behind the cliff is something else, it’s dramatic in a way that photos don’t fully show. It’s busy, yes, and you’ll share the space with a lot of other sunset hunters, but walking that cliff path with the waves crashing below makes it worth it. Just go a bit earlier if you want it calmer."— Kadek Vincent Nasution

Embark on a guided trek through the lush Ubud jungle, discovering local flora and fauna, and culminating in a refreshing swim at a secluded waterfall. This soft adventure offers stunning nature views and a unique perspective of Bali's countryside.

"Actually very tricky to get down to this waterfall. You need proper hiking boots and be really fit. So it’s not for everyone. There are no signs either and if you’re lucky a local dude will show you the way."— Muriel Siddle

Depart from Ubud and transfer to Denpasar's Ngurah Rai International Airport for your flight to Yogyakarta.

"Booked return transfers from Seminyak to North Bali then back to airport. Easy to deal with, good price. Had to make a last minute change to dates and pick up location due to flight cancellation and they were very helpful with thsu and great for communication. Our driver, Ketut, was excellent - felt very safe with him in some very busy traffic conditions, and he was very interesting to talk to. Would use this company again, and have no hesitation in recommending to others."— Diane Rawley

Board your domestic flight from Denpasar to Yogyakarta International Airport. Enjoy the aerial views as you transition between islands.

"If you are traveling to Yogyakarta, the new airport is a great arrival point: Yogyakarta International Airport. The airport is quite large and very clean, giving a comfortable first impression to visitors. The architecture is impressive, with a modern and well-designed interior that feels spacious and organized. It even has its own airport train station, which makes transportation to the city much more convenient. However, I had a disappointing experience with the staff at the boarding gate. The gate staff were very unfriendly and did not provide good service. I am a Sky Priority member, but I was still asked to queue together with economy passengers. This was quite frustrating, as the whole point of Sky Priority is to receive priority service. Overall, while the airport facilities and design are excellent, the service quality—especially at the gate—needs improvement to match the high standard of the airport itself."— I Putu Eko Apriliana Bayu Putra

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Yogyakarta's oldest market. Explore a vibrant array of batik, traditional snacks, spices, and local crafts. This is a great opportunity for souvenir shopping and trying street food.

"I had such a fun experience visiting Pasar Beringharjo, one of the traditional morning markets in Yogyakarta. The atmosphere in the early morning is lively and authentic, filled with local vendors, fresh produce, and the aroma of traditional snacks. Walking around the market was an adventure on its own. There are so many choices of local breakfast dishes and traditional snacks to try. I loved buying small bites from different stalls and tasting a little bit of everything. The sellers were friendly, and the prices were very affordable. The market truly gives you a glimpse of local daily life in Jogja. It’s not just about shopping, but about experiencing the culture, the flavors, and the warm interactions with the people. If you’re in Yogyakarta, visiting a traditional morning market like this is definitely a must-try experience!"— I Putu Eko Apriliana Bayu Putra

Explore the historic district of Kotagede, the former capital of the Mataram Kingdom. Wander through its narrow streets, admire traditional Javanese architecture, and discover silver craft workshops unique to the area.

"I wish they have a proper walking trail map, where you can do self guided tour through the old kotagede zone, following all the places of interest, numbered, with pdf telling the history of the buildings."— J Seth

Explore the opulent palace of the Sultan of Yogyakarta, a vibrant center of Javanese culture and tradition. Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of this royal residence.

"One of the iconic and historical sites to visit in Yogyakarta. Visited this palace and the experience here is amazing! Came here on a weekday, and you get to see the performance of gamelan in the noon. Besides that, you get to see the magnificent architecture of the palace, which is very breathtaking and artistic. You also can learn some history and Javanese culture here. The place is quite sacred, so there are plenty of rules that you must obey when visiting this palace. Definitely a great site to visit!"— Sadewa 48

Wander through the fascinating ruins of the former royal garden, also known as the Water Castle. Discover its elaborate bathing pools, underground tunnels, and unique architectural features.

"A must-visit historical site in Yogyakarta, also known as the Water Castle. We visited around 1pm and the place was packed with locals. It was an incredibly hot day, but the bright sun made the photos look amazing! ​Inside, you'll find several guides; some will offer to take your pictures or lead you to the underground path to mosque. We actually decided to explore the neglected side of the castle on our own instead. It was quite an interesting experience but if you are on a tight schedule, just stick to the main water castle area."— Lena

Take a leisurely stroll around the iconic South Square, a large open green space central to Javanese culture. Observe locals and soak in the relaxed atmosphere near the Sultan's Palace.

"Great for people watching and grabbing good street food. Plenty of space for the kids to run around and have fun too. Very good experience."— Shaun Hannah

Visit Yogyakarta’s most recognizable landmark, a meaningful city axis marker. Capture photos and appreciate its historical significance at this central monument.

"Tugu Jogja, an emblematic monument located in the heart of Yogyakarta, stands as a symbol of the city’s unity and enduring spirit. Set in an open square, it offers visitors a unique spot for photography, leisurely walks, and immersing in the local culture. Its prime location near Malioboro Street makes it easily accessible and a must-see destination for travelers seeking an authentic Yogyakarta experience. Visitor Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon for serene ambiance and ideal lighting for photos. Open and freely accessible to all visitors. Pair your visit with a walk along Malioboro Street to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere."— mohamed saied

Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta's main commercial artery. Browse for local crafts, batik, and souvenirs, and sample various street snacks.

"Teras Malioboro 2 stands as an extensive souvenir shop complex situated on the iconic Malioboro Street. With over a thousand souvenir stalls, it offers a diverse range of mementos, including t-shirts, pants, necklaces, batik, bracelets, toys, and more. This bustling complex is a haven for those seeking a wide selection of souvenirs to commemorate their visit to Yogyakarta. Additionally, the presence of public toilets adds to the convenience, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience."— Februar Barkah

Immerse yourself in local arts and culture at this cultural park, which often hosts exhibitions and performances. Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the grounds and any current displays.

"Visited there yesterday to watch the theatrical of “Anne Boleyn” (August 10th 2024) and it was great experience. For the place itself is great, but it’s better if you come when there is an event"— Tonny

Discover a unique local market bustling with ornamental plants and various pets. This provides a fascinating glimpse into local life and hobbies, offering a different perspective on nature and animals.

"Yogyakarta's premier plant market offers a vast selection of floral treasures. Whether you're seeking to expand your plant collection or simply admire the diverse offerings, this market is a must-visit. With its extensive range of plants and affordable prices, it's no wonder why it's a favorite among plant enthusiasts. I recently purchased a variety of plants, including roses, orchids, jasmine, butterfly pea flowers, and lilies. The friendly sellers were even open to negotiation, making the shopping experience even more enjoyable. Dates of visit: 23 June 2023 1 October 2024"— Laily Lanisy

Spend the morning wandering through Kotagede, the former capital of the Mataram Sultanate. Explore its narrow alleys, traditional Javanese houses, and historic sites. Observe artisans at work in one of the renowned silver workshops, appreciating the intricate local craft.

"experienced buy a helmet via online. cheap but the service need to improve..slow respon and need more flexibility. you as seller sometimes need to understand what buyer expectation, not just focus on margin."— wisnomo

Visit the historic Great Mosque of Kotagede, an important spiritual landmark that showcases a unique blend of Javanese and traditional mosque architecture. Take time to appreciate the serene atmosphere and its historical significance. Remember to dress modestly.

"one of the old mosques in Yogyakarta. the preserved structures located in d middle f common residence. still used for moslems' activities. good photo spot with historical back stories to learn."— novi susanto

Transfer from your hotel to Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) for your international flight back home to New York, NY. Allow ample time for traffic, check-in, and security procedures.

"If you are traveling to Yogyakarta, the new airport is a great arrival point: Yogyakarta International Airport. The airport is quite large and very clean, giving a comfortable first impression to visitors. The architecture is impressive, with a modern and well-designed interior that feels spacious and organized. It even has its own airport train station, which makes transportation to the city much more convenient. However, I had a disappointing experience with the staff at the boarding gate. The gate staff were very unfriendly and did not provide good service. I am a Sky Priority member, but I was still asked to queue together with economy passengers. This was quite frustrating, as the whole point of Sky Priority is to receive priority service. Overall, while the airport facilities and design are excellent, the service quality—especially at the gate—needs improvement to match the high standard of the airport itself."— I Putu Eko Apriliana Bayu Putra