Ubud will always hold a special place it my heart. It has this undeniable energy that I just haven’t felt anywhere else in Bali or the world (at least not in my travels so far).
I did my yoga teacher training here at the start of 2016, which was one of the most life changing experiences of my life. So needless to say it was pretty special to return back here, and what was even more special was to take Tom to some of the places I had been on my yoga training and share those experiences with him.
The food culture can hold its own to Canggu (read more about that here), however the overall vibe is totally different. The lush green jungle surrounds, the scatterings of beautifully dilapidated temples throughout the city streets.
THINGS TO DO
Tegalalang Rice Terrace
You’ve definitely seen this place on Instagram, but it doesn’t make it any less breathtaking to see it in real life. The timing of the rice harvest will effect how it is looking aka lush overgrown greens vs freshly harvested. But to be honest, either way it is still beautiful.
Tegenungan Waterfall
There are definitely more beautiful waterfalls further north of Ubud, however this one is the closest. I would suggest going early in the morning to try and beat the crowds. Tom and I scootered our way there (be sure to save your maps offline on Google so you don’t get lost). If you’re up for an extra bit of adventure, you can scale up through the jungle to get to the top of the waterfall. Just like a private (well likely a semi-private) little oasis.
Tirta Empul Temple
Whether or not you think you’re a temple person. If you’re going to go to one in Bali, this is the one. It is a water temple, and one of oldest in Bali. The water streaming out of the fountains you can literally see bubbling up from the earth, and it is the FRESHEST water you could ever imagine. You can go through the fountains, wish I would suggest. It’s pretty magical – taking in the smells of burning incense from the offerings scattered on the statues, wading through the crystal clear water with koi fish swimming alongside you (NB I cannot verify if they are in fact Koi, thats just a stab in the dark of what they look like, but I would not consider myself an expert in fish).
If you did get a guide they could probably explain what each of them mean, but I would suggest just making your own ritual of it. I spent my time meditating on the things I was grateful for and trying to be present in each of the sensations I was experiencing at the time. Tom on the other hand was wishing for amazing waves.
Flower Bath at Five Elements
I mean its pretty self explanatory, but if you need extra convincing, check out their website. Imagine soaking in a bath, overflowing with vibrant flowers, overlooking the river… in Bali… Magic right?
WHERE TO EAT
Sage
One of our absolute favourites. All vegan deliciousness. Think jackfruit, plantain and all kinds of other delightfully uncommon things. The salad bowls are heaven too. I would definitely suggest leaving extra room for dessert. The coconut cake and the caramel apple cake are both INSANE.
Soma Cafe
For some reason this place has really mediocre reviews online. I had been here whilst doing my yoga teacher training and was keen to head back. However when I read up online I was a little hesitant. Needless to say I was pleasantly surprised again. Soma has a good range of vegan, vegetarian and I believe some fish options (can’t say I pay much attention to this though, so don’t quote me on it). There is a veggie stack that is super dreamy and the pizza, whilst nothing like your average pizza, was super delicious. Can highly recommend the vegan brownie with ice-cream too.
Earth Cafe
This is a chain that you’ll likely see around in other places in Bali, also goes by its pseudo name of Down to Earth. It’s not the MOST amazing food I’ve ever had, but definitely worth a visit. The have both vegan and vegetarian options and a pretty decent amount of variety aka burgers, nachos, salad bowls.
Alchemy
This is an all raw vegan shindig, but don’t let that scare you off. The meals are still super hearty and delicious.
Garden Kafe @ Yoga Barn
After you’re done getting all bendy at the beautiful Yoga Barn, just mosey upstairs to their in-house cafe that has a delicious variety of healthy vegan, vegetarian and Ayurvedic options. Their smoothies are heavenly, and their cashew mylk iced latte is to die for (definitely ask for no sugar, or sugar on the side).
Veggie Table
Now if you’re looking for a super cheap, healthy vegan feast look no further. This place has changed since I was last there, I think they are only doing a vegan buffet now which is 50,000 IDR (roughly $5 AUD). They also have super cheap and delicious mango juice.
WHERE TO STAY
We only stayed 3 nights in Ubud this time, so just wanted something comfortable and affordable. The place we ended up staying, we booked last minute as all our first choices were booked out. It was called Pertiwi Bismi II (yes, there is more than one Pertiwi Bismi). Location was great, just one road behind Monkey Forest, so I could easily walk to Yoga Barn in the morning. The rooms were clean and simple. The second pool though was what made it – an infinity pool overlooking a vast valley of palm trees. Pretty dreamy.
Other places I’ve stayed or had highly recommended are:
Five Elements | Bambuh Indah | Hideout Bali | Alila Ubud
But remember Airbnb is always a great place to look out for more unique spots.