While Ubud's famous monkey forest and iconic rice terraces draw crowds year-round, the real magic lies in its quiet corners away from viral destinations and Instagram recommendations!
From sacred retreats and terraced rice fields to traditional art markets and luxurious wellness sanctuaries, Ubud invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and natural beauty that has made this secluded destination a favorite among travelers seeking both adventure and serenity in a tropical paradise.
Our curated guide by local experts at Abisena will dive deep into the path less traveled and introduce you to the beauty of Bali with the best non-touristy things to do in Ubud.
More than just transforming the beauty of heritage, Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud also offers curated retreats, including the Bhava Asmawara Retreat at our Dirasha Wellness. We recommend taking the immersive 5-night experience that focuses on rejuvenating and healing the body and soul— the perfect non-touristy activity in Bali for an unforgettable holiday!
This retreat features nourishing daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, complemented by grounding & orientation sessions. You will also enjoy a variety of holistic programs, including healing meditation guided by our own Healer Gede, exclusive spa treatments, sunrise meditation & sunset yoga, and even Sacred Water Purification Ceremony.
Additionally, this retreat includes a special Keliki treasure experience, an introduction to the authentic Balinese life and tradition to further immerse you in the beauty of Keliki.
Find out more about our curated offers here.
Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud, Jl. Raya Keliki No.123, Keliki
Phone: (0361) 6201123
For vegan and non-vegan enthusiasts alike, a tempeh workshop is one of the most unique, non-touristy activities to do when you’re in Ubud. Instead of taking home unique souvenirs, why not bring practical skills with you back home!
Tempeh is one of the staple ingredients in Indonesian cuisine long before it became a popular item in vegan and vegetarian restaurants. And at Tempego Experience, you can get hands-on experience in traditional tempeh making from scratch. This dedicated space for all things tempe provides an educational experience that you can take home with you after your holiday!
Tempego Experience, Jl. Anak Agung Rai Gang Sehat No 8, Banjar, Jl. Silungan, Lodtunduh, Ubud (50 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: 0812-3935-2948
If you’ve roamed the streets of Bali, you’ve definitely seen the little offerings often found on the side of the road or in front of shops. These things are known as Canang Sari, or traditional offerings made to show gratitude, and attract prosperity and fortune.
At Padma Ubud, guests can create their own handmade Canang Saris among other Balinese technical skills, such as weaving or even traditional Jamu making classes.
Padma Resort Ubud, Banjar Carik (30 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: (0361) 3011111
Filled with colorful vases and painted ceramics, Serayu Pottery is one of the island’s most Instagrammable spots in Bali! With colorful hanging pots, all hand made and hand finished, these potteries are the perfect splash of color to your Ubud exploration.
On the second floor, you can dabble in pottery yourself as their workshop features various classes to suit your skills. Join a group pottery-making class, or be a part of the finishing process, flexing your painting and decorating skills on vases, plates, mugs, and more.
Serayu Pot, Jl. Gn. Sari No.3, Peliatan, Ubud (30 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: 0813-5302-2235
As the epicenter for all wellness retreats, from a quick spa session to immersive holistic healing programs, Ubud has a variety of offerings to nourish the body and mind. For a truly unique, non-touristy activity in Ubud, consider joining one of these healing classes, like a calming sound healing experience at Pyramid of Chi!
This world-class wellness retreat invites you to a restorative experience with certified therapists/instrumentalists, discovering the healing properties of sound. From empowering mantras to ancient instruments, every treatment will transport guests to a world of rejuvenation.
Pyramids of Chi, Banjar Bentuyung Ubud, Jalan Kelebang Moding No.22, Tegallalang (20 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: 0821-4782-3397
If you’re looking for waterfall recommendations to elevate your island holiday without the hectic crowds, then we definitely suggest Suwat Waterfall.
It’s smaller and more secluded, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of Bali without having to deal with a queue. Our guests enjoy floating on the bamboo rafts for the perfect photo opportunity. The smooth rock is also perfect for a leap of faith into the serene waters!
The entrance fee is IDR 20,000 - IDR 30,000 per person.
Suwat Waterfall, Jl. Pura Dalem, Desa, Suwat (45 minutes from Abisena)
Phone: 0857-3904-6295
As the cultural center of Bali, Ubud houses a variety of art museums you can visit to truly experience the artisanal spirit of Bali. From traditional Balinese art to contemporary paintings, Ubud houses a variety of art museums that our guests enjoyed exploring, such as Puri Lukisan Museum.
Since 1956, Puri Lukisan has housed a collection of traditional Balinese style in four buildings that contain rich history. Aside from marvelling at the incredible showcase of paintings and sculptures, visitors can also join traditional art classes. From Balinese dance, classical painting, even woodcarving, be a part of the heritage at Puri Lukisan Museum.
The entrance fee as of 2025 is IDR 95,000.
Puri Lukisan Museum, Ubud, Gianyar (30 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: (0361) 971159
Experience the authentic flavors of Bali by visiting a local warung! Aside from avoiding crowded eateries most tourists would flock toward, you can find plenty of roadside warungs to satisfy your cravings.
This is often worrisome for first time tourists as they might worry about getting “Bali belly” from the unfamiliar flavors, but the thing about a traditional Nasi Campur is that you can pick and choose what you want to try in small portions.
One popular warung that has become a favorite among our guests is Sawobali, a vegan, buffet-style eatery that allows you to pick and choose your sides of choice!
Sawobali, Jl. Sukma Kesuma No.19, Peliatan, Ubud
Jewellery making is the best non touristy thing to do in Ubud! Known for their incredible pure silver and precious stone accessories, you can find a variety of shops and stores that offer unique accessories. Some shops might even offer the chance to create your own signature pieces, like Alas Arum Silver.
Under the guidance of local artisans, you'll learn time-honored techniques passed down through generations of Balinese silversmiths. These hands-on workshops typically begin with an introduction to the cultural significance of silverwork in Balinese society, followed by demonstrations of traditional tools and methods.
The price for classes range from IDR 450,000 per person, IDR 850,000 per couple, and IDR 400,000 per child.
Alas Arum Silver, Jl. Alas Arum II, Batuan, Sukawati, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80582 (29 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: 0823-4182-0260
Escape the crowded attractions and immerse yourself in Balinese culture through hands-on art workshops at Five Arts Ubud. This non-touristy hidden gem in Bali offers intimate classes where local master artists teach traditional techniques in woodcarving, batik, and miniature keliki paintings.
Guests can create their own meaningful souvenirs while gaining deeper insight into the spiritual and cultural significance behind Balinese artistic traditions.
Five Arts Ubud, Jl. Raya Keliki, Keliki, Tegallalang
Phone: 0812-2540-9203
While most tourists flock to the famous Tegallalang terraces, Banjar Mancingan offers equally stunning agricultural landscapes without the crowds or entrance fees! Consider enjoying an early morning sunrise trek along these lush greeneries, perfect for photography enthusiasts or simply those looking to get away from the crowds.
There is no entrance fee, however, you can consider donating to support the locals and the upkeep of this stunning trail that spans over 1.5 km!
Banjar Mancingan Rice Terrace, Manukaya, Kec. Tampaksiring, Kabupaten Gianyar (25 minutes to Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Don’t be fooled—you can still enjoy a poolside club experience amid the dense jungles and forest canopies! Skip the crowded beach clubs and viral spots in the crowd-favorite neighborhoods like Canggu and Seminyak and opt for the serene ambiance of pool bars like Wanna Jungle Pool & Bar, nestled atop Kayon Ubud!
Make the most of their day passes for full access to the pool and a wide variety of delicacies to satisfy the senses.
Wanna Jungle Pool & Bar, Kayon Ubud, Banjar Bresela, Payangan (15 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
Phone: (0361) 978098
Just south of the Sacred Monkey Forest but worlds away in atmosphere, Nyuh Kuning Village offers a glimpse into authentic Balinese community life. Similar to Penglipuran Village with lesser crowds, Nyuh Kuning's streets are peaceful, lined with small family compounds where artisans work on woodcarvings and paintings.
Within this village, our guests often discover hidden gems — from charming local eateries to cozy spots perfect for sipping a fresh coconut. Fittingly, the village’s name, Nyuh Kuning, directly translates to 'yellow coconut'!
Pura Desa Puseh Nyuh Kuning, Jl. Nyuh Bulan No.24, MAS, Ubud (20 minutes from Abisena Wellness & Resort Ubud)
There are plenty of tranquil escapes away from the crowded tourist spots around Bali! For instance, Keliki area in Ubud is still relatively calm, perfect for a spa session or a quiet moment of reflection.
Consider avoiding the southern areas of Bali, including Canggu, Pererenan, all the way to Uluwatu and Ungasan if you're looking to escape the crowds.
It’s always wise to be mindful of your items while walking around Ubud. Especially if you’re visiting areas like Monkey Forest, where the cheeky monkeys tend to grab your things quickly.
Additionally, stay hydrated during your day of exploration as the Bali sun may be intense. It is important to note that the tap water in Ubud, and all around Bali in general, is not safe to drink. You can bring your own bottle or purchase bottled water at a nearby convenience store.
There are plenty of things to do in Ubud for free! Aside from several of our aforementioned attractions above, the Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular activity as visitors are free to walk, jog, and even bring pets around this trail!
The Ubud Market is another budget-friendly activity, where you can browse vibrant displays of traditional goods and handcrafted trinkets, and maybe even find something worth taking home!
Ubud is home to several charming areas. Among the most popular are Sayan, known for its breathtaking views of the Ayung River, and Keliki, a quaint rural village that proudly preserves its authentic artistic heritage.
