Ubud has an undeniable charm. I have been to Ubud thrice and still stay in their cafes, do yoga, and enjoy this little center’s vibe.
I get it. It can get crowded. It is crowded.
But, don’t let this discourage you.
I’ve found many hidden gems in Ubud away from the crowd. I even stayed for weeks in Ubud, walking distance from all the happenings yet away from all the noise! Yup, it’s possible.
Here are the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud – from temples, villages, attractions, and experiences. I’ll also reveal quiet accommodations you can stay in the end.
So you enjoy Ubud without the crowd.
Non-Touristy Temples in Ubud
No visit to Bali would be complete without visiting its temples. After all, you’re on the ‘Island of Gods’.
If you’re only visiting Bali for a few days or for the first time, I recommend visiting Ubud. You get a taste of everything Bali offers including beautiful temples.
Here are some of the quiet temples in Ubud:
1. Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu
Locals and tourists flood Pura Tirta Empul for melukat, a water purification ceremony. It’s common to wait two hours to get through lines on peak days.
You won’t see such crowds in Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu – a less famous spot.
When I visited this temple with my sister, I was amazed by how peaceful and quiet the temple is.
We even had our private water ceremonies. A Local Balinese priest guided us with meditations and the water blessing rituals.
It was a very beautiful experience. I’m happy I’ve experienced it without the usual rush and crowd.
2. Goa Gajah
The famous Lempuyang Temple is worth visiting for the views and iconic photos.
But if you’re looking for a quiet and meditative visit, head to Goa Gajah Temple, also known as the ‘Elephant Cave’.
This 11th-century temple used to be a meditation site. You will see curved spots inside the temple where meditators would sit for hours.
There is also a big garden that was also used as a meditation space. You’ll see this as you walk down from the local vendors.
Walk further, you’ll see my favorite spot — a jungle river. Mat and I sat on a rock and meditated, surrounded by the calming sounds.
I felt how spiritual and relaxing the whole area was. Best part? It’s only 15 minutes away from the Ubud center!
3. Pura Gunung Lebah
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the most surreal places in Bali. It has stunning views of rolling hills, rivers, and rice fields.
One of the sights you can stumble upon at the end of this route is the Pura Gunung Lebah.
The temple courtyard offers a spot to rest from your walk through the Ridge.
Here, you can admire the intricate 8th-century carvings dedicated to the Batur goddess.
Since the temple is far from the main roads and popular sights, you’re sure to have a quiet time. This is especially true if you come in the early morning or late afternoon.
Traditional Villages in Ubud
One of the curses of mass tourism is the commercialization of local culture. Even those advertised as traditional villages or kampungs have become too touristy.
Luckily, there are still lesser-known villages where you can experience the local Bali charm.
4. Nyuh Kuning Village
Nyuh Kuning Village is an alternative to the touristy Penglipuran Village.
It’s a good spot near the Monkey Forest to relax and experience authentic Bali life through art, food, and nature.
A walk through this small village will expose you to the local wood carving tradition and the people’s commitment to sustainable farming.
Did I mention the best warungs (small local restaurants) in Bali? You can also get a cup of local coffee at one of its thriving cafes!
5. Penglipuran Village Bamboo Forest
The Penglipuran Village might have gained popularity over the years but its Bamboo Forest is relatively undiscovered.
Even in peak seasons, crowds are thin. It seems like most tourists do not walk up here!
Bamboo is a symbol of resilience. It’s used to make houses, shoes, clothing, and many other local products in Bali.
As you walk through the forest, you’ll see over 10 different types of bamboo swaying with the breeze.
Listen to their unique sounds from their trunks to their leaves. It’s such a meditative and relaxing experience.
6. Sibetan Village
Sibetan, a village at the foot of Mount Agung, has a deep and interesting agricultural history. A visit here will make you appreciate the resourcefulness of the Balinese people.
Have you ever heard of the Salak or snake fruit?
This was the only crop that could grow in Sibetan after a volcanic eruption in the 1960s. The villagers turned this fruit into wine for their livelihood.
Take part in the Salak harvest and winemaking. Even better, stay in a homestay for a deeper understanding of Sibetan life.
7. Secret Garden Village
The Secret Garden Village offers many non-touristy things to do in Ubud. Not a lot of people know that this gem even exists.
They cater to an array of interests. You can visit the herborist factory for natural skincare products.
You can also take a bartending class or visit a museum dedicated to the well-loved bean.
Relax by the grill (in the middle of a rice field!) or end the day with the best Indonesian cuisine in the Luwus buffet.
Best Nature Spots in Ubud
Sometimes you just need to get some fresh air and where’s the best way to do that than in nature?
Luckily (again), you don’t have to travel hours from Ubud to get that break. Here are some of the off-the-beaten-track Ubud for a nature escape:
8. Rice Fields Walk
Tegalalang Rice Terraces is truly breathtaking but it’s quite touristy.
I’ve discovered other off-the-beaten-path rice fields that are just as beautiful. My favorite are Kajeng Rice Terraces, Junik Manis and Campuhan Ridge Walk.
You can reach both Junik Manis and Kajeng Rice Terraces in one long walk. Instead of tourists, you’ll see locals doing their daily routine on the field.
A walk in these rice fields was a very immersive experience. I saw rice in its different stages, from the newly planted to the ones ready for harvest.
I like these spots so much that I celebrated my birthday in one of the warungs in Kajeng Rice Terraces.
Campuhan Ridge is my pick for a late afternoon walk. I went to the quiet Pura Gunung Lebah through this route.
It’s also perfect for stargazing because the sky is so vast and clear.
Art, Craft & Learning Experiences
In every place that I visit, I make sure to participate in their art, craft, and cuisine. It allows me to gain a deeper understanding of their culture and even bring a skill home.
Culture is best learned with some hands-on experience. What better way to do this than their cultural workshops?
9. Learn the Balinese Art of Batik
In this three-hour class, you’ll make and take home your very own batik, a traditional patterned cloth made with organic dyes and hot wax. You’ll have a Balinese art guru from start to finish.
At the end of your workshop, you’ll have some interesting knowledge of common Indonesian batik patterns and the philosophies behind them.
This is one of the best hidden gems in Ubud you can add to your itinerary.
10. Make Yummy Tempeh
Tempeh is a fermented soybean cake that’s often used as a meat alternative by vegans and vegetarians.
It is an important Indonesian ingredient that’s quite underrated internationally.
In a three-hour morning workshop, you can experience making tempeh and whipping it up into yummy meals from scratch.
You might make it into a curry, a sweet and sour dish, or even deep-fried with vegetables. All this will be done with the freshest Balinese ingredients.
The best thing about this workshop? You’ll also have lunch inside a local home.
11. Craft Your Own Bamboo Furniture
Bamboo grows abundantly on the island of Bali. It’s a durable material used for sustainable products including clothing, house decor, and furniture.
If you’re passionate about carpentry, you’ll love these bamboo workshops.
The Bamboo Creative hosts programs that last a few days to a few months, all dedicated to bamboo technique and design.
You’ll be under the care of Balinese craftsmen with deep technical and cultural knowledge about bamboo.
You’ll witness their genuine love for the art and you’ll be inspired to continue the craft even after the program has ended.
12. Make Your Own Balinese Offering
Every morning in Bali I get to witness their offerings. It’s a beautiful sight to start the day.
These colorful basket offerings adorn the streets of Bali every day, especially in front of houses, temples, and shrines. They carry the scent of incense and flowers so they’re hard to miss.
You can make your very own version of these canang sari offerings in a two-hour workshop.
You’ll learn about its purpose and intricate designs, all while wearing a traditional Balinese outfit.
Let your creativity flow as you use various petals, leaves, fruits, and more, each representing a Hindu deity. It might surprise you how spiritual the experience will be.
13. Learn about Traditional Farming
The whole world has a lot to learn from Balinese farmers.
Their traditional farming methods based on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy are innately sustainable. One example is subak irrigation which draws natural water to their fields.
You don’t have to be a farmer to learn about these ingenious systems. You can walk to Mupu Rice Terrace a farmer couple will show you their daily farming practices for free (please donate though!).
After this experience, you’ll realize that Ubud off the beaten path often leads you to the simplest yet most meaningful experiences.
14. Learn Pottery at Serayu Pot
Most tourists walk Bali’s local markets to see elaborate traditional ceramics.
An off-the-beaten-track Ubud activity would be to get behind the pottery wheel and make one yourself.
In this Serayu Pottery class, you’ll be under the guidance of a professional instructor as you create your masterpiece.
It’s a fun and interactive activity where you can appreciate the skill of Ubud’s craftsmen.
Sign up for an earthenware drawing class to decorate pre-made ceramics OR go all in for a pottery class to turn a lump of clay into a masterpiece.
🤩 Make your very own pot – take 5% off with code “GLADISKLOOK”
Wellness and Retreats
Bali is my top choice for healing and wellness retreats. I did a meditation retreat, acupuncture, and even my yoga teacher training (YTT) on this beautiful island.
No matter how long or short your trip to Bali is, give yourself a favor and experience Bali’s healing.
15. Forest Spa at Svaha Spa Bisma Ubud
Treatment at the Svaha Spa Bisma is one of the non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
Trust me, it’ll be a spa session you’ve never had before. How often do you have a massage in the middle of the jungle?
The spa is on a stunning cliff with a relaxing river and a forest. Imagine watching the trees sway as you get body treatments or massages.
The spa also offers romantic packages for couples for a one-of-a-kind date.
16. Sound Healing at Pyramids of Chi
It’s amazing how something so intangible can produce a major healing effect.
At Pyramids of Chi, sound is used to restore the harmony between body and mind. It is believed that these methods have existed way before modern medicine.
Pyramids of Chi’s sound healing come in different forms. They can use ancient instruments, Reiki, light vibrations, and even voice to tap into our body’s self-healing function.
If you want to venture out of the usual yoga and meditation activities, this could be your new self-care session in Bali.
17. Acupuncture at Balancing Qi Chinese Acupuncture
I’ve wanted to try acupuncture for the longest time. I’m so happy that I did my first full-body acupuncture with Dr. Sophia at Balancing Qi!
Some may be scared about needles and fire-cupping procedures, but it didn’t hurt one bit! It even felt very light and healing. Plus, these have been proven to moderate stress and anxiety and boost the immune system.
The acupuncture clinic has a brilliant location. It’s in the middle of a forest in Ubud! It was very accessible yet it felt like a whole different world from the city center.
I can’t wait to do this again!
18. Yin Yoga at Heart Space
Yin is a quiet contemplative yoga that holds poses for an extended period. There are many yin classes in Ubud but I went to Heart Space after a friend’s recommendation.
And I’m so glad I did!
It’s the best yin class I’ve ever experienced. The session was relaxing and I felt like I released a lot of pent-up emotions. After the class, my heart felt lighter.
You should try this for a heart (and hips!) opening encounter in Ubud. They also offer other classes for sound healing and breathwork.
Read next: Best Wellness Retreats in Ubud
Cafes and Restaurants – Hidden Gems in Ubud
I’m not a coffee person, but my partner, Mat, is so we went to cafes a couple of times. He is also a foodie so we’ve discovered many restaurants around Ubud.
Here are our favorite ones:
19. Ubud Coffee Roastery
Ubud Coffee Roastery is a Ubud cafe that specializes in 100% Indonesian Arabica.
Mat is the ultimate coffee lover. He has tried coffee in different countries.
He said that the coffee here was the best coffee he ever tasted. He even added that it tasted “clean”.
Again, this is a high praise from someone who has had countless cups of coffee in his lifetime.
The Ubud Coffee Roastery has now become one of our favorite hidden gems in Ubud. We stopped by every other day during our stay.
I also brought a couple of friends here and they said the same thing — it’s the best coffee they ever tasted.
For my fellow non-coffee drinkers, don’t worry. I absolutely loved their matcha and ceremonial cacaos! They have delicious pastries, too.
20. Alchemy Cafe & Yoga Centre
The Alchemy Yoga Centre follows a very unique approach with its sessions.
They categorize their classes into six: earth, water, fire, air, ether, and krama, according to the qualities of the elements.
For instance, earth classes focus on strength, while air classes focus on breath.
But its cafe is also one of Ubud hidden gems. You’ll also love the meals that come straight from their food forest to their restaurant.
It’s the perfect healthy fuel after a sweaty yoga session. Don’t miss this opportunity to nourish both the spirit and the physical body when you’re in Ubud!
21. Clear Cafe
Entering Clear Cafe is like stepping into a green paradise. You can see that they put as much attention into their mystical interior design as they did to their overall vision, the menu, and everything else.
They offer vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options at a reasonable price. They believe that healthy food should be accessible to their community.
It’s one of the non-touristy things to do in Ubud that makes you feel at home.
I’m getting hungry just thinking about their banana chocolate chip buckwheat pancakes paired with hot chai, or the pad thai and burritos. Take a peek at their menu to see the diverse food choices I’m talking about.
22. Abe-Do Organic Warung
The Balinese use the word warung to refer to a small family-owned eatery. Abe-Do Organic Warung took this traditional concept and elevated it.
We found this hidden gem in Ubud when we looked for an organic restaurant that’s not overpriced.
After tasting their C-booster and antioxidant juice, I wonder why this is not a famous spot!
From these refreshingly healthy juices to their traditional organic food, every item is truly healing. If you’re lucky you’ll also see their calming cat!
PRO TIP: Here are our favorites at Abe-Do: C-Booster, carrot juice (Mat’s favorite), pumpkin and coconut soup, tuna grill, and lemongrass chicken
23. Ubud Raw
I originally went to Ubud Raw for their ceremonial cacao. This is a kind of drink used for meditative rituals because cacao is believed to be a precious, heart-opening ingredient in Hindu culture.
When I got there, I was immediately curious about the chocolate on display. And I got one, of course!
It was heaven and easily the best chocolate I’ve ever tasted. The fact that it was vegan, gluten-free, and had no refined sugar or additives made it even better.
Choose a seat and order a cup of their ceremonial cacao for a full Ubud Raw experience.
Unique Things to Do in Ubud
Still looking for non-touristy things to do in Ubud? These unique experiences will inspire you to come back to Ubud. It happened to me!
24. Experience Kirtan
Kirtan is a kind of bhakti yoga that uses songs, chants, and mantras for emotional release.
It’s meant to clear our minds and hearts from anything that’s blocking our path to the divine.
I experienced a Kirtan ceremony during our YTT in Bali and nothing has ever felt more freeing than singing my heart out there.
Out of all the Ubud hidden gems, this is a standout for me. I’ll keep coming to Ubud for this.
I felt renewed energy inside me long after the ceremony ended. I highly recommend this. Don’t worry about how you look or sound. Just let go and experience the magic of Kirtan.
25. Paradiso Ubud
Catching a film at Cinema Paradiso is one of the best things to do in Ubud at night. They not only offer a good selection of local and international films. Their vegan snack bar is also a real treat.
Try their smoothie bowls or the intriguing tofu lemon cheesecake as you sit back and watch your film of choice.
The cinema has a limited capacity of 150 people so you’ll surely have a comfortable time without the stress of a crowd.
After the film and a snack, check out their boutiques and galleries for some genuine Balinese art.
26. Visit a Traditional Salt Maker
The Kusamba Salt Mining Village is an Ubud off the beaten path. It’s a site that’s always engulfed by the sun during the daytime and the view of the deep blue ocean is simply stunning.
This tour includes a chance to witness traditional Kusamba salt-making, a livelihood that has been passed down for generations.
After the demonstration, you will visit some of the island’s most well-preserved structures like the Tenganan Ancient Village and the Ujung Water Palace.
Pro Tip: There is a virgin beach in Karangasem on your tour route. It’s a non-touristy site so enjoy the peace and the sun! You can also get 5% off when you use GLADISKLOOK discount code.
Day Trips from Ubud
Now, if you really want to take a quick break from Ubud, here are the spots we highly recommend so you can get away from the crowds:
27. Lake Bratan
One of the best-kept secrets of Bali is Lake Bratan. It’s a caldera lake, a hollow formed after a volcanic eruption.
At 1,000+ meters above sea level, you’ll spend your time wrapped in a pleasantly cold breeze.
The great thing about this spot is that it satisfies both the adrenaline junkie and the calm traveler.
You can do water sports like parasailing and motorboating, or take some quiet time at the Ulun Danu Bratan temple.
You can also easily access chill cafes or other attractions including two more lakes, a waterfall, and a botanical garden.
28. Tukad Cepung Waterfall
The Tukad Cepung Waterfall is a place you have to visit before it becomes popular among tourists.
Right now, it’s still a relatively unknown area in Bangli. It may be hard to find but I assure you that it’s worth it.
The view of the water flowing into a circular stone cliff is simply heavenly. You can best appreciate this in daylight when the sun illuminates the waterfall, creating a rainbow effect. The captivating sight is made even better by the lush green trees.
Prepare your cameras and your swimsuits. It’s one of the best waterfalls near Ubud.
🤩 Enjoy a day trip to Tukad Cepung Waterfall – take 5% off with code “GLADISKLOOK”
Related: Best Waterfalls near Ubud
29. Sidemen Valley
I discovered Sidemen Valley after I attended a weekend meditation retreat there. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the untouched beauty of its rice terraces, rivers, and local villages. And I’m sure you will, too.
Simply put, nature is the best thing about this place. You’ll be enchanted by the peaceful fields, the sounds of flowing water, and the mighty Mount Agung enticing you to go on a trek.
For a more cultural experience, you can visit locals weaving centers and traditional bookstores.
30. Mt Agung, Bali’s Holiest Mountain
Speaking of Mount Agung, this majestic mountain deserves a trip of its own. It’s the highest point on the island! Locals even believe that the thrones of the Hindu gods are perched up there.
There are a couple of temples from which you can admire the holy splendor of Agung, like Pura Besakih and Lempuyang Temple. However, nothing beats a hike to the peak or the crater rim.
A climb before sunrise will reward you with the most beautiful view: stretches of green surrounding you from all sides. Up there, it’s easy to understand why Agung is so sacred.
31. Tamblingan Lake
Tamblingan Lake is the highlight of our visit to Munduk. It has extremely peaceful scenery that’s worth a day trip from Ubud.
Many visitors accidentally stumble upon this lake on their way to another attraction.
However, the calm waters, lush rainforest, and the Ulun Danu Tamblingan temple attract them so much that they decide to explore the place even more.
You can pack up a picnic and spend an afternoon on the grass enjoying the lakeside view here. If you have some time to spare, you can also visit Tamblingan’s twin, Buyan Lake.
You can also take a day trip to all the hidden gems of Munduk.
FULL POST: Best Day Trips from Ubud
Best Quiet Stays in Ubud
As promised, you can stay in Ubud —within walking distance of all its attractions and still rest in a quiet apartment or homestay.
Here are the quiet accommodations that made your stay in Ubud vibrant yet calming:
32. Hideout Bali
If you want a not-so-typical hotel stay in Bali, Hideout’s iconic bamboo houses are for you.
Their name perfectly describes their vision — a non-touristy eco-lodge hidden in the mountains of East Bali, away from the chaos of the city.
It’s hard to believe that such luxurious rooms could be rented in the middle of nowhere but that’s the charm of Hideout.
They have a radical take on peace and relaxation, something many tired travelers could benefit from.
I think these pretty houses look like they belong to a forest fairy. What do you think?
33. Bambu Indah
If we’re talking about Ubud’s hidden gems, Bambu Indah should definitely be on the list.
This boutique hotel looks like it has been carved right out of the jungle. The walkways, the roofs, the hammocks–everything feels like a natural part of the location. You wouldn’t believe you were still in Ubud.
As a guest, you’ll also enjoy locally grown food from their gardens. The open dining area overlooks Ayung River so every bite is accompanied by the sound of nature.
I highly recommend this hotel for a laid-back retreat and a truly spiritual stay in Ubud.
34. Yudha Ubud
Yudha Ubud is a charming garden house that’s only a 15-minute walk from the city center. We stayed here during my trip and I fully understand why they have a lot of regulars.
I couldn’t believe it was in the heart of Ubud. There was no noise at all and it felt like having our own home.
There was a big garden where a delicious breakfast was served every morning. We also did our morning yoga on our balcony.
Despite the calm and quiet, it was still within walking distance from all the Ubud attractions, making it a perfect base while we worked and did yoga during our slow travel.
35. Nuaja Balinese Guest House
A homestay is one of the most spiritual things you can do in Bali. Our top pick for this is the Nuaja Balinese Guest House.
We’re happy that we found this place. The facade of the home made it feel like we were staying inside a temple.
I actually thought it was a temple when I first visited Mat who first checked in while I was in my YTT. Coincidentally, it leads to an actual temple nearby.
My favorite part was smelling the fresh incense and offerings all over the beautiful garden every morning. The mesmerizing koi pond is a close second.
And the owners? They are one of the best hosts we’ve ever encountered.
Wrap Up: Ubud Off the Beaten Path
So before you skip Ubud because of the crowd, visit one or two of these non-touristy spots. You might find Ubud calming despite its vibrancy just like we did.
If you received value from this post, please consider supporting my work. Thank you so much! If you have a question, write it in the message box and I’ll get back to you asap!
Read more About Bali:
- My Ultimate Bali Guide
- The Most Spiritual Things To Do in Bali
- Best Things To Do in Ubud at Night
- Best Waterfalls near Ubud
- Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- The Ultimate Guide to Munduk
- Karang Boma Cliff: A Complete Guide to Bali’s Most Beautiful Cliff
- Lempuyang Temple: A Complete Bali’s Most Beautiful Temple
- 20 Amazing Things To Do In Kuta, Bali
- The Most Beautiful Beaches in Sanur
- Nyepi in Bali: How to Honor the Day of Silence as a Tourist
- Best Wellness Retreats in Bali
Slow Travel Planning Guide
✈️ How to find the best flight to Bali?
I always use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. It’s a search engine that compares prices across many airlines to get you the best deals.
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance?
Absolutely YES! For just $5-10 USD per day, SafetyWing gives you peace of mind with its affordable coverage.
📲 Where to buy a local sim in Bali?
I’ve switched to eSIMs for all my travels and it’s been a game-changer! Airalo’s eSIM offers cheap data in 200+ countries without roaming fees. Super easy to set up and top up! Get your Indonesia eSIM here.
🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodations in Bali?
It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
🗺️ How do I find local experiences and tours?
I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISKLOOK”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
🚗 Is renting a motorbike a good idea in Bali?
Absolutely! If you can drive a motorbike, I highly recommend renting one through BikesBooking. Bali doesn’t have a good public transport. We saved a lot of time and money in Bali by having a motorbike, and it was so much fun!
🏦 What is the best way to withdraw money in Bali?
I use my Wise card. Wise.com provides free global accounts and the most affordable money transfers. I can manage multiple currencies easily and withdraw cash at very low costs. Plus, I find their exchange rates are among the best available!
