As well as being the spiritual centre of Bali, Ubud is also a well-known hub for relaxation and wellness. As a place that visitors are drawn to, to simply come and chill out. So with that in mind, here are 6 relaxing things to do in Ubud to help you recharge your batteries during your stay.
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1. Visit a spa
Balinese massages are famous all around the world, so what better way to relax in Ubud than with a trip to the spa. You won’t have to look hard for one either. There are hundreds of spas in the area to choose from no matter your budget. The same goes for experiences too. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious day long retreat among the rice paddies or a couple of hours relaxation in town. Ubud’s spas offer so much variety that you’re bound to find exactly the experience you’re looking for.
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2. Discover the temples
Step back in time and into a place of peace and tranquillity at one of Ubud’s many temples. Each one exhibits wonderful examples of Balinese architecture where you can learn stories of the island’s history and culture. The most notable temples in the centre are Pura Taman Saraswati, Pura Dalem Ubud and Puri Saren Agung. Whilst those worth visiting outside of town include Goa Gajah and Pura Tirta Empul.
3. Enjoy some retail therapy
A spot of retail therapy is a great way to unwind, and in Ubud, there’s plenty of shopping opportunities to do just that. In the town, you’ll find a mixture of local merchants and international designers particular along
Jalan Raya, all with a focus on art and handicrafts. Or for hawker-style shopping, head to the Ubud Art Market – a thoroughfare of bright umbrellas shading everything from jewellery and paintings to carvings and touristy knickknacks. And not forgetting those insta-famous wicker Bali handbags of course.
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4. Do the Campuhan Ridge Walk
Other relaxing things to do in Ubud include the Campuhan Ridge Walk. This trek starts at the Pura Gunung Lebah temple, where a paved path takes you out along the ridge and into the countryside. It’s a very scenic and easy walk where you’re greeted by nothing but lush jungle, grassland and the peace and quiet. A few kilometres down the trail, you’ll also find a few cafes where you can stop for a drink, alongside luxury spas and boutique hotels.
5. Go to a yoga class
Ubud is a yogis dream. Like the spa scene, yoga is big here and is a great relaxing thing to do in Ubud. There are lots of yoga studios with classes for all ability levels and any yoga style you could wish for. Prices per class are usually around IDR 130k with studios such as The Yoga Barn, Ubud Yoga House and Radiantly Alive being ever popular with travellers.
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6. Chill out at Sweet Orange Warung
Experience how Ubud was in the 1980s at this warung hidden in the jungle. Although located just outside of the centre, you’ll feel worlds away at this alfresco restaurant overlooking rice fields and gardens. Their menu serves up traditional Balinese fare as well as fresh juices, shakes and Bintang of course! Though the highlight of the place is definitely the decor – aka quirky coconut heads hanging from the ceiling. You can even buy one yourself and write your own message on it, with proceedings going towards raising awareness of the importance of recycling in the local area.
There are many more relaxing things to do in Ubud than what’s listed above. But hopefully, it’s enough for you to start planning your own R&R break to this wonderful hillside town. Have fun!