Indian Travelers Guide to Ubud, Indonesia - 2025

Ubud, located in the cultural heart of Bali, Indonesia, is a haven for anyone looking to explore art, culture, nature, and wellness. Famous for its lush greenery, art markets, yoga retreats, and traditional Balinese festivals, Ubud offers a serene yet vibrant experience. Here's a comprehensive guide tailored to Indian tourists planning a trip to Ubud in 2025.

A 2025 Indian Traveler's Guide to Bali’s Cultural Wonderland

1. Getting to Ubud

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Ubud is located about 40 kilometers north of Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar). The drive takes roughly 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic. Here’s how you can get to Ubud:

By taxi or private transfer: Pre-book a taxi or private transfer from the airport to Ubud. Indian travelers often find apps like Grab or Gojek reliable for booking rides.

By shuttle bus: Some hotels in Ubud offer airport shuttle services, but these may need to be arranged in advance.

By renting a car: You can also rent a car, but be sure you have an International Driving Permit. Traffic in Bali can be chaotic, so it’s only recommended for confident drivers.

2. Visa requirements for Indian travelers

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Indians visiting Indonesia for tourism purposes can enter Bali with a visa-on-arrival (VoA), which is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days.

Visa on Arrival (VoA): Costs approximately IDR 500,000 (around ₹2,500) and can be paid at the airport.

Pro tip: Carry a copy of your hotel booking and travel itinerary to expedite the process at immigration.

Also read: How to Get a Travel Visa to Indonesia? Indian Travelers Guide

3. Best places to stay in Ubud

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Ubud has a wide range of accommodations catering to various budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.

Luxury stays:

Four Seasons Resort at Sayan: Overlooking the Ayung River, this resort offers world-class luxury with traditional Balinese elements.

• Average price per night per room: ₹80,000

Viceroy Bali: This family-owned boutique hotel is perfect for Indian honeymooners seeking privacy and exclusivity.

• Average price per night per room: ₹50,000

Mid-range hotels:

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Alaya Resort Ubud: A modern resort that blends traditional Balinese art and architecture with contemporary comforts.

• Average price per night per room: ₹8,000

Sankara Resort: Surrounded by plantations of the Balinese frangipani, mangosteen trees, and the arrays of coconut trees, it offers a peaceful retreat without breaking the bank.

• Average price per night per room: ₹7,500

Budget stays:

Green Field Hotel: Affordable yet comfortable, surrounded by lush rice fields and a convenient location close to the center of Ubud.

• Average price per night per room: ₹4,700

Tebesaya Cottage: A cozy, family-run guesthouse with personalized service, only 10-minutes from central Ubud.

• Average price per night per room: ₹3,000

Pro tip: Many resorts offer yoga retreats and wellness packages, a great way to immerse in the local culture and relax.

Also read: How Much Does a Bali Trip Cost for Couples? Budget Guide for Indian Travelers

4. Best places to eat in Ubud

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Ubud is known for its vibrant culinary scene, from traditional Balinese warungs (small eateries) to upscale restaurants serving fusion cuisine.

Local flavors:

• Warung Biah Biah: A great spot for Indian travelers to try home-style cooked Balinese food, including Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) and Mie Goreng (Indonesian stir-fried noodles).

• Bebek Bengil (Dirty Duck Diner): Famous for its crispy duck, this restaurant offers a signature Balinese dining experience.

Vegetarian/Vegan-friendly:

• Zest Ubud: An organic, vegan restaurant serving locally sourced food that represents Balinese heritage in a relaxing ambiance.

• Soma: A popular spot for health-conscious Indian travelers, offering organic, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Cafés:

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• Seniman Coffee Studio: A favorite among locals and tourists for its artisanal coffee and cool ambiance. Try the Kopi Luwak, the famous civet coffee.

• Anomali Coffee: Known for its ethically sourced beans, it’s a great spot to enjoy an authentic Balinese coffee.

Sweet shops:

• Ubud Traditional Market: Head to this bustling local market to find stalls offering traditional treats like Bubur Injin (black rice pudding) and Laklak (mini Balinese pancakes topped with coconut and palm sugar).

• Tukies Coconut Shop: Famous for its coconut-based desserts, Tukies offers Es Kopyor (shredded coconut ice dessert) and coconut cookies, a must-try for coconut lovers.

Indian cuisine:

• Queen’s of India: One of the best Indian restaurants in Ubud, offering everything from chole bhature to masala dosa.

• Ganesha Ek Sanskriti: A fine dining experience where you can enjoy traditional curries, tandoori dishes, and more.

Also read: 10 Best Wedding Venues in Bali for Your Fairytale Wedding

5. Getting around Ubud

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Ubud is a small town, and many of the attractions can be explored on foot. However, for longer distances, there are several options:

Walking: Ubud’s central area is easy to explore on foot, with charming streets lined with shops, cafés, and art galleries.

Scooter rental: Many Indian travelers choose to rent a scooter for convenience. Once again, remember that you’ll need an International Driving Permit to legally rent and drive.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps: Bargaining is common for short taxi rides in Ubud. Always agree on a price before getting in. However, if you do not want the hassle, apps like Grab and Gojek offer convenient and affordable taxi services.

Private drivers: Hiring a private driver is a popular option for Indian tourists, especially for day trips to nearby attractions like the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and Sacred Monkey Forest.

6. Shopping in Ubud

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Ubud is a paradise for shoppers looking for local crafts, artwork, and unique souvenirs. Here are some must-visit spots:

Ubud Art Market: A vibrant market selling handmade crafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Indian travelers often find beautiful batik fabrics and wood carvings here.

Tegallalang Handicraft Center: Located near the famous rice terraces, this area is known for its artisan woodwork, perfect for bringing home a piece of Balinese culture.

Threads of Life: A fair-trade shop selling traditional, ethically-made, high-quality textiles from across Indonesia. You’ll find exquisite ikat and songket pieces here.

Kou Bali Soap and Perfume: Ideal for picking up fragrant, handmade soaps and body products.

Shopping tip: Many markets and shops sell traditional Balinese masks, which are often used in ceremonial dances. These make for unique souvenirs with cultural significance.

7. Best time to visit Ubud

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April to October: Ideal for outdoor activities with warm, sunny days and minimal rain.

April, May, September: Perfect for fewer crowds, peaceful exploration, and pleasant weather.

November to March: Wet season with frequent rainfall and higher humidity, best to avoid if you prefer dry conditions.

Also read: 10 Best Things to Do in Bali for Indian Tourists

Ubud, Indonesia, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and relaxation. For Indian travelers seeking both adventure and serenity, Ubud offers a perfect blend of Balinese traditions, wellness retreats, and artistic flair. Whether you're hiking through rice terraces, practicing yoga at a retreat, or savoring local flavors, Ubud promises an unforgettable journey.