Bali: Tanah Lot, Ubud Monkey Forest & Rice Terraces Day Trip

Summary

Temple by the sea, playful monkeys, rice terraces and waterfalls in bali

You’ll feed cheeky monkeys in Ubud’s forest sanctuary, wander ancient temples with local insight, marvel at Tegalalang’s rice terraces and cool off by Tegenungan Waterfall—all with easy hotel pickup and a friendly guide who shares stories along the way. The day ends by the sea at Tanah Lot Temple as sunset colors wash over Bali’s coast.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to try?” our driver Wayan grinned, handing me a tiny banana at the entrance to Ubud’s Monkey Forest. I hesitated (the macaques looked so sure of themselves), but he just laughed and nodded. The monkeys were everywhere—some grooming each other on mossy stones, others darting through shafts of green light. One brushed past my leg and I caught a whiff of damp earth and fruit peels. It felt like being inside a living temple—roots tangled around statues, the sound of distant gamelan from somewhere beyond the trees.

We’d started early from Kuta, sleepy but excited for our Bali sightseeing tour. The drive up toward Ubud was all roadside shrines and women carrying baskets balanced on their heads—Wayan explained the daily offerings as we passed. At Batuan Temple, he showed us how to tie on sarongs (“Not too tight,” he joked), and pointed out the black palm roof that shimmered in the sun. I tried to pronounce “Pura Batuan” properly; Wayan smiled politely but I probably butchered it.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace was next—so green it almost hurt my eyes. We walked along narrow paths while farmers called out greetings from below. My shoes got muddy (should’ve worn sandals), but honestly? Didn’t care. Lunch was somewhere nearby—simple nasi campur with spicy sambal that made my nose run, eaten under a thatched roof as rain started tapping above us. I still think about that view: layers of rice fields curving away into mist.

Tegenungan Waterfall came after—a short walk down slippery steps, then suddenly there’s this roar and cool spray on your face. Some people were swimming in the plunge pool; I just sat on a rock for a while, letting my feet dangle in the water. By late afternoon we reached Tanah Lot Temple—the sea breeze carried salt and incense, and locals gathered for evening prayers as waves crashed against the rocks below. There were rumors about sacred snakes under the temple (I didn’t see any), but standing there watching the sky turn gold felt quietly special somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit temples, nature, and markets in Ubud

• Pickup from hotel area
• Visit Tanah Lot Temple by the sea
• Explore Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary
• Pass by Batuan Temple
• Stop at Ubud Art Market
• View Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Enjoy Tegenungan Waterfall and dip
• Drop off at hotel area

Top questions

How long does this Bali sightseeing tour take?

The tour is a full-day trip starting in the morning from Kuta or Ubud with return in the evening after sunset at Tanah Lot Temple.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Kuta Beach area and Ubud.

Are entrance fees covered for all attractions?

Yes, entry fees for all listed sites such as Monkey Forest, Batuan Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tegenungan Waterfall, and Tanah Lot are included.

Can small children join this Bali day trip?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers or sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No set lunch is included but there are stops near local eateries where you can buy food.

What should I wear for visiting temples?

You’ll need to wear a sarong when entering temples; your guide can help you tie one if needed.

Can you swim at Tegenungan Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim in the plunge pool at Tegenungan Waterfall if you like.

Will we have an English-speaking guide?

The tour includes an English-speaking driver who shares local insights throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with an English-speaking driver-guide, entry fees to all sites like Tanah Lot Temple and Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, plus hotel pickup and drop-off from Kuta or Ubud areas—so you won’t have to worry about tickets or getting around on your own.