Tucked away in the lush central highlands of Bali, Ubud offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the pristine environment and traditional architecture of Penglipuran Village, before venturing into the enchanting Sacred Monkey Forest, where playful long-tailed Macaques roam amidst ancient temples and verdant foliage. For those seeking to unwind, the luxurious Cretya Ubud resort provides the perfect respite, with its stunning rice terrace views, multiple pools, and delectable culinary offerings. This enchanting destination promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression on all who explore its treasures.
Key Points
- The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ubud’s cultural and natural wonders, starting at $19.62 per person for a flexible 4-hour to full-day experience.
- Penglipuran Village, a well-preserved Balinese cultural heritage site, is renowned for its clean environment and traditional architectural style.
- The Sacred Monkey Forest provides an opportunity to observe long-tailed Macaques in their natural habitat and explore ancient temples in a serene setting.
- Tirta Empul Temple is a significant pilgrimage site where visitors can experience Balinese Hindu purification rituals and learn about the spiritual practices.
- Cretya Ubud, a luxurious day club and restaurant, offers a picturesque setting with stunning rice terrace views, multiple pools, and daily DJ performances.
👉 Check out our guide to the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Ubud
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Penglipuran Village
- Sacred Monkey Forest
- Tirta Empul Temple
- Coffee Plantation
- Cretya Ubud
- Customer Experiences
- Important Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
- Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites Visited?
- Are There Any Discounts or Group Packages Available?
- How Experienced Are the Tour Guides, and Do They Provide Multilingual Support?
- What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Ubud
- More Tour Reviews in Ubud
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Ubud we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ubud’s cultural and natural wonders. Priced from $19.62 per person, the 4-hour to full-day experience allows flexibility in planning.
Availability varies, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup from Ubud, Kuta, or Seminyak is included, and private or small group options are available.
The tour is led by English and Indonesian-speaking guides, who provide informative commentary. Highlights include visits to the traditional Penglipuran Village, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and the Tirta Empul Holy Water Temple.
An optional stop at a coffee plantation and the Cretya Ubud luxury restaurant can also be included.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ubud.
Penglipuran Village
Penglipuran Village, nestled in the Bangli Regency of Bali, is renowned for its unwavering commitment to preserving the island’s rich cultural heritage.
This traditional village, recognized as one of the cleanest globally, has been awarded the prestigious ISTA 2017 and is included in the Sustainable Destinations Top 100 by the Green Destinations Foundation.
Visitors can explore the harmonious architecture and layout, inspired by the Tri Hita Karana philosophy, which emphasizes the balance between human, nature, and the divine.
The well-preserved traditional houses, temples, and the community’s dedication to maintaining their ancestral ways captivate all who visit, offering a glimpse into Bali’s enduring cultural traditions.
Sacred Monkey Forest
Nestled within the lush greenery of Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a nature reserve that houses approximately 340 long-tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis) in four distinct territorial groups.
Visitors can observe the monkeys in their natural habitat, where they engage in various social behaviors, such as grooming, playing, and foraging.
The sanctuary is also home to ancient temples, serene pathways, and diverse flora, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Key highlights of the Sacred Monkey Forest include:
- Observing the monkeys’ intricate social dynamics and interactions.
- Exploring the ancient temples and learning about their cultural significance.
- Taking in the sanctuary’s tranquil atmosphere and lush, verdant surroundings.
Tirta Empul Temple
What makes Tirta Empul Temple a significant site for Balinese spirituality and rituals? The temple is known for its sacred spring-fed pools, where Balinese Hindus come to purify themselves through a ritual bathing ceremony. The water is believed to have healing powers, and the temple is an important destination for pilgrims seeking spiritual renewal.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Source | Spring-fed pools |
| Ritual | Purification bathing |
| Beliefs | Healing powers |
| Significance | Spiritual renewal for pilgrims |
| Importance | Central to Balinese Hinduism |
The temple’s central role in Balinese Hinduism and its sacred waters make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to understand the island’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
More Great Tours NearbyCoffee Plantation
After visiting the sacred Tirta Empul Temple and learning about Bali’s rich spiritual traditions, the tour may continue to a local coffee plantation.
Here, visitors can explore the process of producing the renowned Balinese Luwak coffee, also known as "civet coffee."
The tour includes:
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Observing the Luwak, a small nocturnal mammal that consumes coffee cherries and excretes the partially digested beans, which are then collected, washed, and processed.
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Learning about the unique fermentation process that gives Luwak coffee its distinctive flavor profile, often described as smooth, earthy, and low in bitterness.
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Sampling a variety of Balinese coffee blends, including the premium Luwak coffee, to appreciate the region’s diverse coffee culture.
Cretya Ubud
How does the tour continue to the luxurious Cretya Ubud, a day club and restaurant featuring stunning rice terrace views, multiple pools, and a daily DJ performance?
Open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM, Cretya Ubud offers a picturesque setting to unwind and indulge. Visitors can savor a variety of culinary delights while admiring the lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
However, children under 18 are prohibited from swimming for safety reasons.
After exploring the village, temple, and nature reserve, Cretya Ubud provides a relaxing conclusion to the tour experience, allowing travelers to soak in the beauty of Bali’s natural and cultural wonders.
Customer Experiences
According to traveler reviews, the guided tours have received overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Alessio from Italy praised the guide Somi for providing clear explanations and an authentic experience of Indonesian tradition.
Similarly, Mirko from Italy commended guide Iko for knowledgeable responses and accurate explanations about Bali and its customs.
The tour has a 5/5 rating based on traveler reviews.
The highlights include:
- Knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring the destinations to life.
- Opportunities to immerse in Balinese culture and traditions.
- Seamless organization and coordination throughout the tour.
Important Information
When planning for the tour, travelers should consider bringing a camera and cash.
While alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, the tour does provide bottled water and includes entrance fees to the selected attractions, as well as private car transportation with air conditioning and hotel pickup and drop-off, excluding the small group option.
However, the tour may not be suitable for babies under 1 year or people over 70 years of age. Personal expenses and tips are also not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour allows travelers to bring their own food and drinks, but bottled water is provided. Personal snacks and beverages can be enjoyed during the tour, though consuming alcohol is not permitted.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites Visited?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited on the tour, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting activities. It’s recommended to check with the guide about any specific photography restrictions at each location.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Packages Available?
The tour offers private and small group packages that may provide discounts, but specific pricing details are not provided. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest group package options and pricing.
How Experienced Are the Tour Guides, and Do They Provide Multilingual Support?
The tour guides are experienced and knowledgeable, providing live commentary in both English and Indonesian. Multilingual audio guides are also available for self-guided exploration at select sites.
What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for the Tour?
The tour recommends visitors wear comfortable and lightweight clothing, as the destinations may involve walking in warm tropical weather. Closed-toe shoes are advised for safety. Visitors should also dress modestly, avoiding revealing outfits, when visiting sacred temples.
Ubud: Penglipuran Village & Monkey Forest & Cretya Ubud
Recap
Ubud offers a unique blend of cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can explore the traditional architecture of Penglipuran Village, observe the playful Macaques at the Sacred Monkey Forest, and unwind at the luxurious Cretya Ubud resort. This captivating destination allows travelers to enjoy Bali’s rich heritage and natural beauty, creating an unforgettable experience.
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