Best Things to Do in Ubud: Cooking Classes, Sunrise Trekking & More

Ubud is a great base for travelers who want more than sightseeing. You can spend a morning learning family recipes, explore green landscapes in the afternoon, and plan an early-morning mountain adventure on another day. The best experiences combine genuine local connections with enough breathing room to enjoy them.

1. Take an Authentic Balinese Cooking Class

One of the most rewarding things to do in Ubud is learn how Balinese food is made. Instead of only tasting a dish in a restaurant, you discover how fresh ingredients, aromatic spices and family techniques come together. It is an experience you can carry home with you.

At Tumang Ubud Cooking Class, guests cook traditional Balinese recipes with local hosts in the countryside. The experience is particularly well suited to couples, families and curious travelers who enjoy cultural activities with a hands-on element.

For a closer look at the ingredients and culinary traditions behind the recipes, read our guide to Balinese food and learn about the local family behind the experience.

2. Watch Sunrise on Mount Batur

If you enjoy hiking, a Mount Batur sunrise trek makes a memorable contrast to Ubud’s peaceful village atmosphere. The experience typically begins well before dawn, with a guided ascent toward viewpoints overlooking the volcanic landscape. Conditions, visibility and access depend on the weather and local regulations.

Travelers looking for a dedicated hiking experience can explore guided Mount Batur sunrise trekking to understand the route, preparation and available arrangements. If you prefer to join other travelers rather than arrange a private departure, a shared Mount Batur trekking option may be worth considering.

What to bring for the hike

• Comfortable shoes with reliable grip
• A warm layer for cooler pre-sunrise conditions
• Water, a small snack and a headlamp if requested by your guide
• A flexible attitude toward weather-related changes

3. Walk Through Rice Terraces and Rural Landscapes

Ubud’s rice-growing landscapes are an important part of its character. A leisurely village walk or a visit to a rice terrace offers a chance to notice irrigation channels, farming routines and the relationship between the land and local life.

Go early or later in the afternoon for more comfortable temperatures. Stay on marked paths, respect working farmland and follow any local entrance or access rules. If you are already staying in the countryside, even a short walk near your accommodation can be rewarding.

4. Discover Temples, Traditional Arts and Local Markets

Ubud is also known for its cultural life. Browse a local market, visit an art gallery or arrange a temple visit with a knowledgeable local guide. Temples are active places of worship, so wear appropriate clothing, follow posted guidance and avoid disrupting ceremonies.

Rather than rushing through several stops, choose one or two experiences that genuinely interest you. A quiet afternoon learning about woodcarving, painting or Balinese customs can be more meaningful than an overloaded itinerary.

5. Leave Time for Ubud's Slower Side

Ubud rewards unhurried travel. Enjoy a relaxed meal, visit a café overlooking greenery, or spend time at your accommodation after a busy day. Travelers interested in hands-on creativity can also explore a craft workshop, while nature lovers may prefer a gentle walk.

The best things to do in Ubud are not always the most dramatic. Often, a conversation with a local host or the pleasure of cooking something new becomes the highlight of a trip.

How to Choose the Right Ubud Experiences

For food lovers: Start with a cooking class and a visit to a local market. For active travelers: Add a guided mountain hike. For couples and families: Balance one hands-on activity with plenty of free time. For short stays: Choose quality over quantity.

If your priority is connecting with Balinese culture, a cooking class is a natural starting point: it brings people, stories and flavors together in a way that a typical sightseeing stop cannot.

Frequently Asked Questions