Set out on a captivating journey through the heart of Ubud, where ancient traditions and modern artistry collide. Experience the enchanting Barong dance, a dramatic performance showcasing the eternal struggle between good and evil. Explore the vibrant art villages, where skilled craftsmen proudly display their intricate works. Uncover the spiritual essence of Batuan Temple, before being mesmerized by the cascading waters of Tegenungan Waterfall. This immersive excursion promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Balinese culture, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s captivating essence.
Key Points
- Comprehensive culture in Bali’s spiritual heart, including a Barong dance performance, visits to craft villages, and exploration of natural attractions.
- Opportunity to observe traditional jewelry-making techniques and purchase handcrafted souvenirs in the renowned Celuk Village.
- Exploration of the ancient Batuan Temple and its intricate stone carvings, complemented by insights into the region’s artistic heritage.
- Discovery of the heart of Bali’s woodcarving tradition in Mas Village, where artisans showcase their carving skills.
- Venture to the stunning Tegenungan Waterfall and the Ubud Monkey Forest for a blend of nature and spirituality.
👉 Check out our guide to the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Ubud
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Barong Dance Performance
- Celuk Village Jewelry Making
- Batuan Temple and Painting
- Mas Carving Village
- Tegenungan Waterfall
- Ubud Monkey Forest
- Pickup and Pricing Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Much Extra Time Should I Budget for Each Activity?
- Are the Villages Wheelchair Accessible?
- Can I Take Photographs During the Barong Dance Performance?
- What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Batuan Temple?
- Are the Workshop Demonstrations Interactive or Just for Observation?
- 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
The Ubud Excursion offers visitors a comprehensive immersion into Bali’s spiritual and cultural heart.
With a private driver and guide, guests will explore Ubud, the island’s cultural capital. Highlights include watching the iconic Barong dance, visiting craft villages renowned for jewelry, painting, and woodcarving, and discovering Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall, and the Ubud Monkey Forest.
This tour promises a well-rounded experience, with 100% recommendation from 10 previous travelers.
From pickup at their hotel to the end of the day’s activities, guests can look forward to a seamless and enriching exploration of Bali’s artistic and natural wonders.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ubud.
Barong Dance Performance
Iconic Balinese dance at Batubulan village kicks off the Ubud Excursion at 9:30 am.
The Barong dance is a 45-60 minute performance accompanied by a live Gamelan orchestra. Barong is a mythical lion-like creature representing the forces of good, locked in an eternal battle against the demon queen Rangda.
Spectators will witness the iconic Balinese dance and its mesmerizing theatrical elements.
After the performance, the tour continues to Celuk Village, a major center for goldsmiths and silversmiths, where visitors can observe traditional jewelry making and purchase handcrafted products.
Celuk Village Jewelry Making
After the Barong dance performance, the tour takes visitors to Celuk Village, a major center for goldsmiths and silversmiths.
Here, travelers can observe the traditional jewelry-making process, with skilled artisans demonstrating their techniques. From intricate gold and silver filigree to stunning gemstone settings, the craftsmanship on display is truly impressive.
Visitors have the opportunity to browse and purchase a wide variety of handcrafted jewelry, ranging from delicate necklaces to bold statement pieces.
The village’s vibrant artistic community offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Bali’s renowned jewelry-making traditions.
Batuan Temple and Painting
From the captivating jewelry-making demonstrations, the tour moves on to explore the ancient Batuan Temple.
This 14th-century Hindu-Buddhist temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and fascinating history. Guests will have the opportunity to wander through the temple’s serene courtyards and observe the skilled painters of the Batuan village.
These talented artists are known for their distinctive painting style, which features vibrant colors and intricate depictions of Balinese culture and mythology.
The visit to Batuan Temple and the painting workshop provides a deeper understanding of Bali’s rich artistic heritage and the spiritual significance of these cultural traditions.
Mas Carving Village
Continuing the journey, the tour heads to the charming village of Mas, known as the heart of Bali’s renowned woodcarving tradition.
Visitors can witness the skilled artisans skillfully carving intricate wooden figures, masks, and statues using traditional techniques passed down through generations. From ornate religious icons to whimsical animal sculptures, the array of handcrafted masterpieces on display is truly impressive.
Guests have the opportunity to browse the workshops and galleries, gaining insight into the creative process and perhaps even selecting a unique souvenir to take home.
The vibrant artistic energy of Mas Village provides a captivating glimpse into Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Tegenungan Waterfall
Next, the tour brings visitors to the stunning Tegenungan Waterfall. This 65-meter-high waterfall is one of the most popular natural attractions in the Ubud region. Visitors can admire the cascading water and lush green surroundings from various viewpoints.
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The waterfall is located about 10 kilometers from Ubud, making it an easy day trip.
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Guests can swim in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall, though caution is advised due to the strong currents.
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Nearby, there are several cafes and restaurants offering stunning views of the waterfall.
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Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution when exploring the area around the waterfall.
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Photography opportunities abound, with the waterfall and its verdant setting providing a picturesque backdrop.
Ubud Monkey Forest
After exploring the captivating Tegenungan Waterfall, the tour takes visitors to the renowned Ubud Monkey Forest.
This sacred nature reserve is home to over 700 grey long-tailed macaques, roaming freely through the lush forest. Visitors can observe the monkeys up close, but should exercise caution and avoid direct contact.
The forest also features ancient temples and a network of trails, providing opportunities to take in Bali’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
With its unique blend of wildlife and spirituality, the Ubud Monkey Forest offers a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.
Pickup and Pricing Details
The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off options for guests staying in various Bali locations.
The private air-conditioned vehicle can pick up and drop off travelers at their hotels in Sanur, Ubud, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, and Denpasar. Guests should be ready in their hotel lobby at the scheduled pickup time.
The tour price starts from $65.00 and varies based on group size. Admission tickets for the Barong Dance are included, while food, drink, and optional gratuities are available for purchase.
The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
- Convenient pickup/drop-off at hotels across Bali
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- Flexible pricing based on group size
- Barong Dance admission included
- Free cancellation policy
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Extra Time Should I Budget for Each Activity?
The itinerary suggests budgeting an hour for the Barong dance, 1-2 hours for each craft village, and 1-2 hours for the Batuan Temple, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Ubud Monkey Forest. Flexibility is key to fully enjoy the cultural experiences.
Are the Villages Wheelchair Accessible?
The villages on this tour generally have paved walkways, but some areas may have uneven terrain or steps that could be challenging for wheelchair users. The tour operator can provide details on accessibility and accommodate visitors’ needs.
Can I Take Photographs During the Barong Dance Performance?
Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs during the Barong dance performance. However, they should be respectful and avoid using flash or disturbing the performers.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Batuan Temple?
Visitors to Batuan Temple should wear modest, conservative clothing covering the shoulders and knees. Shorts, tank tops, and mini-skirts are not appropriate. Sarongs may be provided at the temple for those who need to cover up.
Are the Workshop Demonstrations Interactive or Just for Observation?
The workshop demonstrations are interactive, allowing visitors to observe and sometimes participate in the traditional crafting processes. Travelers can engage with the artisans and learn firsthand about the techniques used in jewelry making, painting, and wood carving.
Ubud Excursion: Barong Dance, Art Villages, Nature, Temple and Waterfall
“Was a very good trip, I enjoyed and my driver was lovely. Took me where I wanted to go. I thought the art in Bali is amazing.”
Recap
The Ubud Excursion offers a captivating blend of Bali’s cultural and natural wonders. From the dramatic Barong Dance to the intricate artistry of the villages, this tour immerses visitors in the island’s rich heritage. The serene temple and the stunning waterfall provide moments of tranquility, while the Monkey Forest adds a touch of playfulness to this unforgettable Balinese adventure.
