What to do in Ubud Bali – 12 Hidden Gems You’ve Probably Never Heard Of!

What to do in Ubud Bali – 12 Hidden Gems You’ve Probably Never Heard Of!

So, let’s dive into my list of What to Do in Ubud, Bali! 🌿 Each of these 12 hidden gems has been handpicked from my personal experiences after visiting Bali 12 times. These aren’t the usual tourist hotspots you’ll find on every other list of things to do in Bali — they’re the unique, lesser-known spots that truly make Ubud and Central Bali special.

Ubud isn’t just Bali’s cultural heart, it’s the epi-center of lushous landscapes and the soul filled playground for travelers who want more than the usual touristy beach clubs and hot spots.

How to get around Ubud Bali

Getting around Ubud is part of the adventure, and there are a few ways to do it depending on your vibe. For short trips around town hiring a scooter or bike is a fun, flexible way to explore at your own pace. Just be mindful of traffic and always wear a helmet! For longer day trips that take you across central Bali, Norther Bali or out toward Sidemen, it’s much easier to hire a driver. You can hire a private driver through Klook. This way, you get a reliable ride with fixed, upfront prices, that are usually cheaper than negotiating with a local driver, there’s no haggling, no surprises, and no risk of being overcharged. It’s a stress-free way to tick off all the hidden gems and must-see spots without worrying about transport logistics. We also like to use this Private Driver, when he is available, he is very reliable, and speaks great english.

Lastly you can book a day tour which will include a lot of great spots packed into one epic day, meet new friends, and get some insider tips and hidden gems.

We usually use either Klook or GetYourGuide -. Luckily for you we have a discount Code for both!

Discount Codes

Klook – Up to 10% off – TRAVELLIVNKLOOK

GetYourGuide – (Download the App for 5% off) TRAVELLIVN%

Where I stayed in Ubud Bali

Ubud is the perfect base for exploring Central Bali… from Mount Batur and Kintamani to Sidemen and all the magic right in Ubud itself. Most of the top spots are within an hour’s drive, and with a private driver, you can easily combine a few in one day for the ultimate adventure. 🚗🌿

We stayed at Asvara Resort, a dreamy villa-style escape that’s perfectly tucked away from the chaos but still close to all of Ubud’s best spots. Among ubud hotels, Asvara stands out for its peaceful setting and unique villa experience, offering a tranquil retreat while remaining accessible to the main attractions. This stay was everything I needed, morning floating breakfasts, blissful spa treatments, and the kind of staff who make you feel like family from the moment you arrive. It’s that perfect mix of peace, convenience, and serious Bali chill vibes. ☀️

Asvara Resort overlooks lush rice fields and features private one and two-bedroom villas complete with their own pools, outdoor jacuzzis, and huge open-plan bathrooms (mine was literally the size of my bedroom back home!). The interiors are modern yet warm, with touches of Balinese design and plenty of natural light. The resort is surrounded by a beautiful tropical garden, adding to its serene atmosphere. Trust me, you never want to leave.

Pro Tip: Don’t stay right in the heart of Ubud. Traffic in the town center and central ubud has become a real headache, and you’ll spend hours just trying to get in or out. Choosing a resort like Asvara gives you all the tranquility of Bali without sacrificing location — it’s the best of both worlds. 🌾💫

Book here – Asvara Resort

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What to Do in Ubud Bali – 12 Hidden Gems You’ve Probably Never Heard Of!

As a renowned tourist destination, Ubud draws visitors from around the world with its unique blend of culture, nature, and relaxation. BUT they all seem to visit the same spots! Sure, the usual tourist attractions like the sacred monkey forest, the rice terraces and jungle views are breathtaking. But, there’s a whole side of Ubud that many visitors don’t get to see! Hidden waterfalls, tucked-away temples, beach clubs in the jungle and quirky instagramable spots.

This list dives into experiences that give you the untouched Ubud vibe. Plus, a few gems in the surrounding central Bali and Sidemen region that most tourists miss.

Be sure to use this list of what to do in Ubud Bali, when you visit Ubud to discover experiences beyond the ordinary. This isn’t your regular list of the top tourist traps… It will be those experiences where you will be having that “I found something magical” feeling.

Goa Rang Reng Waterfall

Goa Rang Reng Waterfall is just a 40-minute drive from Ubud, and honestly… it completely blew me away. You know when you visit a place with high expectations and end up disappointed? Yeah, this was not one of those times. It’s a solid 10/10 experience from start to finish. 💦

Entry costs 30,000 IDR, with an additional 200,000 IDR guide fee — and trust me, the guide is essential, there is a locked gate you will need to go through and you will not find your way yourself. They’ll provide reef shoes, carry a waterproof bag with your phone and camera, and help you explore all the best spots (plus they’re great at snapping photos and videos!).

The walk down to the river takes about 5–10 minutes, followed by a short trek upstream. After about 10 minutes, you’ll reach a narrow gorge where you can swim or pull yourself along ropes. If you’re not a confident swimmer, don’t worry — they’ve got life jackets and ropes along the rocks for extra support.

At the end, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning hidden oasis and the main waterfall — complete with a cute swing that’s made for those Instagram shots. 📸 The whole experience takes a couple of hours, and if you’re in Bali, this one absolutely deserves a top spot on your must-visit list!

Gembleng Waterfall

The next waterfall on my list is one that is located in Sideman, about an hours drive from Ubud. Tucked away in the lush hills of Sidemen, it’s peaceful, scenic, and totally worth the detour. 🌿💦 The waterfall itself cascades gently over smooth rocks into natural infinity-style pools that overlook a stunning valley of rice terraces. On a clear day, you can even spot Mount Agung in the distance — talk about a view with a wow factor!

The steep but short walk up only takes about 10 minutes, though it’s a bit steep in parts. But once you reach the top and step into those crystal-clear pools, all that effort melts away. It’s the perfect spot to cool off, take some incredible photos, or just soak in the kind of serenity that’s getting harder to find in Bali.

There’s no big crowd here, just a small donation box, a few friendly locals, and pure jungle bliss. If you’re looking for an authentic Bali experience that’s still off the typical tourist trail, Gembleng Waterfall deserves a top spot on your list. 🌴✨

Koli Koli

Perched above the rice terraces of Sidemen, this hidden gem blends tropical jungle club vibes with Bali’s serene natural beauty. Across the terraced platforms, you’ll find mini round plunge pools overlooking lush jungle valleys — and with so many private spots to choose from, it’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time. 🌿💦

The food and cocktails are just as impressive as the view, featuring fresh local dishes, tropical drinks, and plenty of space to unwind or snap that perfect photo. 📸

Koli Koli Day Club is one of Bali’s most beautiful and underrated escapes — and yes, it’s every bit as dreamy in person as it looks online. 🌴✨

Paperhills

What makes Paperhills, Kintamani stand out from the many aesthetic cafés and restaurants in the area is that it’s not just a café — it’s also a jungle pool club, restaurant, and ultimate chill-out space. 🌿🍹 After a recent renovation, Paperhills now offers twice the space, twice the views, and even more photo-worthy spots. Guests are treated to panoramic views of rolling hills, surrounding mountains, and the majestic Mount Batur in the distance.

The vibe is perfectly relaxed — ideal for a morning coffee, a lazy brunch, or all-day cocktails by the pool while soaking in the fresh mountain air. The property is filled with creative spots for photos, including netted day beds, floating daybeds, an infinity pool, and various seating areas that make the most of the scenery — so make sure your camera is ready! 📸

The menu serves a mix of local and Western dishes alongside refreshing drinks, perfect for pairing with the views. Paperhills is the kind of place where you can happily spend an hour or several, unwinding in style.

• Only 30 minutes from Ubud
• Open daily from 5:30 AM (sunrise) to 10 PM
• Pool club access has a small charge

Cinze Villa and Hot Spring

Cinze Villas and Hot Spring is a brand-new wellness retreat nestled in the serene hills of Kintamani, Bali. Perched above the tranquil waters of Lake Batur, this hidden gem offers breathtaking views of the lake and Mount Batur, creating a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The resort’s design features terraced, mineral-rich hot spring pools that cascade down the hillside, reminiscent of the famed terraces of Greece or Turkey. The upper pools are bath hot, gradually cooling as they descend, culminating in a refreshing cold plunge at the base—perfect for invigorating the senses.

Being a recent addition to Bali’s wellness scene, Cinze remains a quiet escape, allowing guests to enjoy its beauty without the usual crowds.

They also have accomodation and each villa comes equipped with private plunge pools, offering an intimate setting to unwind while soaking in the panoramic vistas.

Located just 50 minutes from Ubud, Cinze Villas and Hot Spring is open daily. Please note that access to the pool club requires a small fee of 150000 idr.

The road up is a little dodgy but there is ample space in the car park.

For more information or to book your stay, visit Cinze Villas and Hot Spring

Sari Timbul

Sari Timbul is one of Bali’s most Instagrammable spots🌿✨ This magical café and photo park offers lush gardens, fairy-tale-inspired structures with foggy mist to add to the aesthetics. They also have unique swings that stand out from the typical Bali swings.

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings, take photos in the creatively designed gardens, or explore the working glass-blowing studio for a glimpse of local craftsmanship.

Swing packages start around 200,000 IDR, while general entry is 50,000 IDR for adults and 30,000 IDR for kids.

Mengening Temple

Pura Mengening Temple and Waterfalls offers a peaceful alternative to the more famous Tirta Empul, which has become overcrowded and far less serene. Surrounded by lush greenery and moss-covered stone structures, it’s the perfect spot to experience Bali’s spiritual side and enjoy some tranquility away from the crowds. 🌿

Visitors can participate in the traditional Melukat purification ritual, bathing under the temple’s sacred springs to cleanse both body and mind.

The temple is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entrance fee of 30,000 IDR, which includes a sarong. You can also hire a guide for 50,000 IDR, and pay for a locker, offerings, and sarong rentals at 20–30,000 IDR each. For the full experience, it’s recommended to bring a towel and a change of clothes if you plan to participate in the bathing ceremony.

Arrive early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and take your time exploring the temple grounds, beautifully framed by rice terraces and tropical foliage.

Omma Day Club

Omma Day Club is one of Bali’s most unique poolside escapes. Unlike beach clubs like Finns, Omma offers stunning views of Tegenungan Waterfall directly from the infinity pool and terraced decks. It’s perfect for a day of sun, cocktails, and chill vibes, with a DJ spinning laid-back beats. 🌴

The infinity pool overlooking Tegenungan Waterfall is the star, surrounded by loungers and daybeds starting at 4,000,000 IDR, which can be used toward food and drinks and shared by a group.

💡 Pro tip: For full pool access without paying a fortune for a daybed, sit on the terrace rather than inside the restaurant — it’s closer and easier to reach the pool deck. For the best value, book your day pass through Klook, it’s cheaper than on-site, and it includes a drink and food credit so you can sip cocktails and enjoy snacks while lounging. 🍹🍴

Klook Day Pass: Includes drink + food credit, cheaper than on-site. Buy 24 hours prior

Taman Beji Griya Waterfall & Temple

Some experiences in Bali stay with you forever, and Taman Beji Griya Waterfall & Temple is absolutely one of them. 🌿✨ From the moment you arrive, you feel the energy of the place — serene, sacred, and incredibly moving. For 300,000 IDR, you can join a full Hindu ceremony that lasts around 1.5 hours, and trust me, it’s worth every second.

Arriving early is a must if you want to have the temple and surrounding waterfalls almost to yourself. The experience begins with a walk through carved-out caves and over gentle streams, each step winding deeper into the sacred site. Waterfalls cascade around you, adding a natural soundtrack to the ceremony as you move through the ritual spaces.

The ceremony itself is mesmerizing — a blend of prayer, offerings, and ritual movement culminating in a powerful screaming ceremony, designed to release energy and connect with the spirit of the place. The intensity of this moment is both humbling and exhilarating, leaving a lasting impression on your senses and your heart.

The journey finishes with a walk through a dragon carved directly into the rock, a stunning final touch that embodies Bali’s artistry, mythology, and spiritual depth. Every detail, from the cascading water to the carved stones, creates an experience that is stunning, magical, and unforgettable.🐉✨

Varuna Bali – Underwater Theatrical Performance

Not to be dramatic… but this might just be one of the most magical dining shows I’ve ever seen. ✨

This NEW Bali Attraction, isn’t your typical dinner and a show — it’s a full-blown theatrical performance paired with a fine-dining, three-course meal.

It blends the underwater world with out-of-water action.

It’s immersive, breathtaking, and unlike anything else I’ve seen in Bali.

Grab your Tickets here, and make sure you prebook, as this one sells out – Varuna Underwater Theatrical Dining Experience – Bali Safari & Marine Park

Bali Marine Safari

Another NEW kid on the block in Bali is the Bali Marine Safari!

Officially opened last year Bali Marine Safari is redefining marine tourism in Indonesia.

Spanning six immersive zones from lush rainforests to deep oceans, it’s a haven for marine life and conservation enthusiasts.

💚 Committed to conservation, education, and wildlife protection, including breeding programs for endangered species and behind-the-scenes initiatives.

👐 They educate through ethical, animal-led interactions, including dolphins, penguin feedings, stingrays, capybaras, and even shark cave dives — there’s something for every level of adrenaline!

🌴 It’s a Bali experience like no other. Plan 1–2 days to fully explore.

Grab Tickets here (and use my discount code for 10% off)

Hikaria: Bali’s First Immersive Night Walk

Step into a glowing fairytale at Hikaria, Bali’s first immersive night walk, nestled in the lush landscapes of Tegallalang, Ubud. This enchanting experience blends traditional storytelling with cutting-edge technology, transforming the forest into a luminous wonderland. Through advanced projection mapping and interactive visuals, Hikaria brings Balinese myths, legends, and nature to life, creating a magical journey for audiences of all ages

The walk takes you on a 60–90 minute journey along illuminated pathways, where you’ll encounter highlights like the Giant Moon and the statues of Sanjara & Wisaka.

For those looking to capture magical moments, Hikaria offers complimentary dress rentals (kimono, Balinese traditional outfit, or one-piece dress) and free professional photography services

Location: Google Pin
Hours: Open daily from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Tickets: Hikaria – Starting from IDR 242,000
Duration: 45–90 minutes

Skip Bali and go here instead

🌿 Conclusion: The Real Magic of What to do in Ubud Lies Off the Beaten Path

So, there you have it — 12 hidden gems that prove Ubud isn’t just yoga mats, rice terraces, and smoothie bowls (though we love those too). This part of Bali has a heartbeat that’s wild, spiritual, and endlessly surprising — and once you wander off the tourist trail, that’s where the magic truly begins. ✨

So when you plan your next Bali adventure, skip the overdone “Top 10 Things to Do in Ubud” lists and dive deeper, explore, get lost, find your hidden gems, and let Ubud show you her real, untamed beauty. 🌾💫

Oh, and don’t forget to use my discount codes and to make your trip even smoother, because your Ubud journey deserves to be as unforgettable as the view from a jungle infinity pool at sunset. 🌅