Bali: Ubud Tour with Sacred Monkey Forest & Rice Terraces

If you’re planning a visit to Bali and want a well-rounded experience that combines scenic landscapes with cultural highlights, this Ubud tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of Bali’s artistic traditions, spiritual sites, and breathtaking scenery—all in one day. While it’s a full day of sightseeing, the focus on authentic experiences makes it a journey worth considering.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit local artisan workshops—a great way to see traditional crafts at work. Second, the Sacred Monkey Forest offers both adorable monkeys and ancient temple ruins, blending nature with history. Third, exploring Tirta Empul allows for a spiritual cleanse in the holy spring waters. The only thing to keep in mind is the timing—with around six stops packed into 8 hours, you’ll need to be ready for some walking and a busy schedule. This tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Ubud’s highlights in a manageable day.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Visiting workshops and local artisan villages.
• Stunning Natural Landscapes: From lush rice terraces to sacred forests.
• Spiritual Insights: Opportunities for traditional cleansing rituals at Tirta Empul.
• Family-friendly & Inclusive: Best suited for travelers without mobility restrictions.
• Private Group: Personalized experience with flexible timing.
• Value for Money: Combines transportation, guided visits, and shopping.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ubud Experience

Convenient Pickups and Private Transportation

Starting from either Kuta or Ubud, the tour includes hotel pickups, typically in the morning. The driver will meet you in front of your hotel lobby holding a sign with your name—no confusion there. The use of private transportation means you’re not stuck in a large group, allowing for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention from your guide. The 8-hour duration makes it a full but comfortable day, giving plenty of time at each stop.

Visiting the Batik Workshop and Silversmith Village

The first stops are Bali Bidadari Batik and UC Silver Gold. These are more than just shopping excursions; they are an opportunity to see artisans at work. In the batik workshop, you’ll observe how traditional fabric patterns are created with wax-resist dyeing, offering a glimpse into Bali’s textile heritage. The silversmith village showcases intricate jewelry making, with artisans crafting jewelry by hand. As one reviewer notes, “You get to see the process from start to finish,” which adds a layer of appreciation when browsing the shops.

While shopping is optional, the quality craftsmanship and the opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs make these stops worthwhile—plus, supporting local artisans feels good. Expect to spend around 105 minutes here, a good length to soak in the craft without feeling rushed.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

Next, you’ll visit the Sacred Monkey Forest—a highlight for many. This lush, green space is home to hundreds of playful macaques and ancient temple ruins. The forest is compact enough to explore in about an hour, but don’t be surprised if you spend longer watching the monkeys interact or capturing photos of the temple architecture.

• Be aware that monkeys are mischievous—they’re used to visitors but can snatch loose items like sunglasses or hats. It’s wise to keep your belongings secure.
• The atmosphere is lively but still tranquil, providing a wonderful contrast to the bustling city life.

A previous visitor remarked, “The monkeys are adorable, but they’re cheeky—watch your bags!” This stop is perfect for animal lovers and those interested in Balinese spiritual sites, as the forest covers several ancient temples.

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Spiritually Refreshing Tirta Empul Temple

The next stop is Tirta Empul, a revered water temple where locals and travelers alike participate in purification rituals. Here, you can witness or partake in traditional cleansing in the crystal-clear spring waters, believed to have healing powers.

Expect about one hour at this site. The temple layout is intricate, with pools, fountains, and carved stone structures. Many reviews highlight the sense of tranquility visitors feel while bathing in the holy waters. Remember to dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees—and be respectful of local customs.

Some travelers comment that this is a meaningful spiritual experience, even if you’re not religious. It’s a chance to connect with Bali’s religious traditions in a very tangible way.

The Breathtaking Tegalalang Rice Terrace

No visit to Ubud is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The expansive, terraced fields offer stunning panoramic views and are ideal for photos, walks, or simply soaking in the tropical landscape.

The visit lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to snap shots or grab a cool drink at a nearby café overlooking the fields. Many guides recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon when the light is best and the crowds are smaller, so plan accordingly.

Travelers often mention how peaceful it feels to be among the rice paddies, with lush greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. This stop perfectly rounds off the tour with a dose of serenity and natural beauty.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration, Timing, and Group Size

This 8-hour private tour runs with flexible start times, so you can choose a morning or midday departure. The private group setup ensures a personalized experience, with the guide tailoring the pace if needed. It’s suitable for most travelers, but not for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, as some sites involve walking and standing.

What to Bring

To make the most of your day, pack comfortable shoes suitable for walking, a hat for sun protection, a camera to capture the scenery, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. The tour provides a well-organized experience, but personal items like sunglasses or small snacks can enhance your comfort.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified, this tour offers good value given the inclusions—personal transport, guides, and entrance fees. The opportunity to visit multiple key sites in one day, combined with the personal touch of a private group, makes it a worthwhile investment for those wanting a comprehensive Ubud experience. Keep in mind that shopping stops are optional but add a cultural and souvenir-shopping element that many find enriching.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits cultural enthusiasts eager to see Bali’s artisan traditions, nature lovers wanting scenic landscapes, and spiritual seekers interested in sacred sites. It’s particularly ideal for those who prefer a private, flexible schedule over large group tours. Because the day involves walking and some exposure to outdoor elements, it’s best for active travelers without mobility restrictions.

Final Thoughts

This Ubud tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse into Bali’s artistic, spiritual, and natural charms. Visiting workshops provides insight into traditional crafts, while the Sacred Monkey Forest and Tirta Empul offer memorable encounters with Bali’s wildlife and spiritual practices. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace crowns the day with stunning views that stay with you long after the tour ends.

The experience balances sightseeing with authentic interactions, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The private setup ensures you get attention from your guide and the flexibility to adjust the pace if needed.

This tour offers excellent value for those keen on discovering Bali’s heart and soul in a single day—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip craving new sights. It’s best for lively, curious travelers ready to explore Bali’s cultural richness and scenic beauty.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, visits to each site, and guided sightseeing.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from about 1 hour for each main site, giving enough time for photos, exploration, and understanding without overloading your day.

Is shopping part of the tour?
Yes, there are shopping stops at Bali Bidadari Batik and UC Silver Gold, where you can browse or purchase local crafts. These are optional.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and modest clothing for temple visits—cover shoulders and knees.

Can I participate in the purification rituals at Tirta Empul?
Yes, visitors are often encouraged to partake in the cleansing ceremonies, which are open to all respectful visitors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the physical nature of walking and the need for supervision around monkeys and temple sites.

How flexible is the schedule?
Being a private tour, guide and timing can often be adjusted slightly to suit your preferences.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Food is not included, but you might find options at the rice terrace or nearby cafes. Check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

In summary, this Ubud tour is a solid choice for travelers wanting an authentic, scenic, and culturally rich day in Bali. It’s a fantastic way to see key sights without the chaos of large tours, and the focus on local craftsmanship and natural beauty makes it stand out.

You can check availability for your dates here: