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Cooking Class in Ubud: Best Bali Culinary Experiences and Guide

Published On 23 September, 2025, Categories ,
Bali Culinary

Deciding to go to Bali for vacation can never go wrong because things you can do in Bali will never go out of stock; surfing in Canggu, shopping in Seminyak, partying the whole night in Kuta, healing in Ubud, and there are many more activities you can and should do when you’re exploring Bali.

Even though everyone has a different way to enjoy their vacation, there is one thing that we think nobody should miss when going to Bali, especially the Ubud area: joining a cooking class.

Joining a Balinese cooking class is definitely a must-do experience. Blending market tours, traditional spice-making, and hands-on cooking, all of these activities go to anyone who wants something different in Bali.

And down here, we have the complete guide about cooking class in Ubud that may help you. Check this out!

Why Cooking Classes Are a Must-Do in Ubud

cooking in Ubud

One word to describe Ubud will be ‘healing’. Ubud is often celebrated for its temples, rice terraces, and art scene, but it’s also where Bali’s culinary soul truly comes alive.

Just like ritual, foods in Ubud could have a story to tell. Joining cooking class allows you to dive into Bali’s world, whether by learning how to grind spices the traditional way or sharing hand-made beverages with your loved ones.

What to Expect in a Balinese Cooking Class

Balinese Cooking Class

If you think that Balinese cooking class is all about following a recipe and chopping some veggies, let us get this right for you, it’s absolutely wrong. Cooking class in Ubud is an immersive experience that usually unfolds like this:

  • Morning market tour to pick fresh produce, herbs, and spices.
  • Hands-on cooking using traditional tools like the cobek (mortar and pestle).
  • Signature dishes such as nasi goreng, satay lilit, and fiery sambal, traditional Indonesian beverages, even the authentic Balinese desserts you could never find anywhere else.
  • Cultural rituals that reveal how food and spirituality are intertwined.
  • Shared dining at the end, because most of Balinese meals are meant to be enjoyed together.

Top Cooking Classes in Ubud

Here’s a curated list of the best and most unique cooking experiences you’ll find in Ubud this year.

1. Paon Tarru at Abisena Wellness and Resort 

A true standout, Paon Tarru is more than a cooking class, it’s a cultural journey. Start with a trip to Tegalalang Market to handpick ingredients, then learn how to prepare Basa Rajang, the spice blend at the heart of Balinese cuisine. What makes this class extraordinary is the chance to take part in the sacred Mesaiban ritual, followed by a picnic-style lunch in a serene resort setting.

  • Duration: 5 hours (with market tour)
  • Price: IDR 1.600.000 ++ / couple
  • Unique Feature: Includes cultural ritual + intimate picnic lunch
  • Booking: Mandatory (2 hours in advance with market, or before 12:00 without)

2. Sejamuan at Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud

If you’re curious about Balinese herbal traditions, Sejamuan introduces you to Loloh, a refreshing herbal drink believed to detoxify and boost immunity. You’ll make it from scratch using local herbs and spices.

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Price: Complimentary for in-house guests
  • Unique Feature: Hands-on herbal wellness tradition
  • Schedule: Daily, 09:00–11:00 & 13:00–16:00

3. Sanja Lokha Cocktail Class at Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud

Not your typical cooking class, this one’s for cocktail lovers. Learn mixology techniques from Abisena’s in-house mixologist and craft your own signature Balinese-inspired drinks.

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Price: Complimentary for in-house guests
  • Unique Feature: Cocktail-making with local ingredients
  • Schedule: Daily, 17:00–19:00

4. Casa Luna Cooking School

A long-time favorite, Casa Luna offers traditional Balinese cooking experiences with a focus on storytelling and cultural insights.

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Price: IDR 400.000–500.000 per person
  • Unique Feature: Established school with strong storytelling focus

5. Jambangan Bali Cooking Class

Hands-on, family-run classes in a local home, complete with market visits and rice field walks.

  • Duration: 5–6 hours
  • Price: IDR 450.000–600.000 per person
  • Unique Feature: Authentic family kitchen experience

How to Choose the Right Cooking Class

With so many options available, picking the right cooking class can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, here’s a simple checklist to help you find the experience that matches your travel style:

  • Budget
    Decide whether you want a complimentary in-house activity or a more premium, full-day experience. Classes like Paon Tarru include market tours, ritual elements, and multi-course meals, while others in Ubud can range anywhere from budget-friendly group classes to high-end private chef sessions.
  • Dietary Preference
    Many Ubud cooking schools are mindful of dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, or halal-friendly menus. If you’re plant-based, look for classes that focus on farm-to-table or organic gardens, while meat lovers can dive into satay-making or grilled seafood. Always confirm in advance so the class can prepare alternative ingredients for you.
  • Group Size
    The vibe of your class depends a lot on group size. For something intimate, couples can enjoy experiences like Paon Tarru at Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud, where the focus is on connection and cultural immersion. Families or solo travelers may prefer larger, social group settings like those at Casa Luna or Green Kitchen, where the energy is lively and communal.
  • Cultural Depth
    Ask yourself: do you want a fun, casual cooking session, or a deeper dive into Balinese traditions? At Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud, classes like Paon Tarru go beyond cooking, they integrate rituals like Mesaiban, grounding you in spiritual traditions. Meanwhile, other kitchens in Ubud may lean more toward practical, hands-on cooking with less focus on rituals.

Tips for Travelers

  • Best Time to Book: Morning classes with market tours are the most immersive.
  • What to Wear: Comfortable clothing, avoid high heels, and bring sunscreen.
  • Etiquette: If joining a Balinese family class, be respectful of rituals and ask before taking photos.

Quick Tip: If you’re staying at a resort like Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud, many cooking experiences are complimentary for guests making it a value-packed choice.

FAQs

How much does a cooking class in Ubud cost?
Between IDR 400.000 to 1.600.000 per person/couple, depending on exclusivity.

Do classes include hotel pickup?
Yes, most paid classes (like Casa Luna or Jambangan) offer pickup. Abisena’s classes are on-site for guests.

Can kids join?
Yes, most family-run classes welcome children with adjusted menus.

Are vegan/vegetarian options available?
Absolutely Balinese cuisine naturally incorporates many plant-based dishes. Always confirm with the provider.

Conclusion

Cooking in Ubud is more than an activity it’s a window into Balinese life. Whether you want a deep dive into spice rituals at Abisena Wellness and Resort Ubud, a family kitchen experience, or a storytelling-driven class in central Ubud, there is something for every traveler. Book early, bring curiosity, and get ready to savor Bali from the inside out.

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