Ubud Full-Day Tour: Monkey Forest, Ceking Rice Terraces, Tegenungan Waterfall & Tirta Empul

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest, known locally as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, is a shady nature reserve of about twelve hectares in the middle of Ubud. Tall trees, mossy stone statues and stepped paths shelter hundreds of long-tailed macaques, and three Hindu temples dating back several centuries stand inside the grounds. It is one of the most popular attractions in Bali and an easy start to the day.

Many visitors ask whether the Ubud Monkey Forest is safe. It is, if you follow the rules: do not carry loose food, keep sunglasses and phones in a closed bag, and do not touch or feed the monkeys. Plan about an hour here. The forest has clear paths and rangers, and the cool shade makes it pleasant even at midday.

Ceking Rice Terraces at Tegallalang

North of Ubud, the Ceking rice terraces near Tegallalang climb the sides of a river valley in bright green steps lined with palm trees. The terraces are part of the subak system, the traditional water-sharing method that is recognised by UNESCO as part of the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province, and it has watered Balinese rice fields for centuries.

A path runs along the terraces, with cafés and viewpoints along the ridge, and you can hike down through the fields to see the rice up close. The best time for photos is the morning, when the light is soft, and the greenest months are usually around the wet season. The optional Tegalalang swing is not included in the tour price.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Tegenungan Waterfall is a wide, powerful cascade in the village of Kemenuh, a short drive south-east of Ubud. The water falls about fifteen metres into a green pool, surrounded by jungle, and a series of steps leads down from the car park to the viewing points at the bottom.

It is one of the easiest waterfalls to reach near Ubud, which makes it a good stop for a rest and a swim. The steps back up can be tiring in the heat, so wear sturdy sandals and bring a towel if you plan to get in. The waterfall is at its fullest in the rainy season and calmer in the dry months.

Tirta Empul Holy Spring Temple

Tirta Empul in Tampaksiring is a Hindu water temple built around a sacred spring in the year 962, according to an inscription. Balinese people come here to perform melukat, a purification ritual in which worshippers immerse themselves under a row of spouts in the temple pools. The complex has several courtyards, carved gates and a quiet, reverent atmosphere.

Visitors can observe the ritual or take part respectfully, wearing a sarong that is provided at the entrance. If you would like to join in, tell your guide, bring a change of clothes and remember that the ritual is a religious act, not a photo opportunity. The temple is close to the Presidential Palace and is a good final stop before the return to Ubud.