Ubud: Balinese Shaman Healing & Temple Purification Day Trip

Summary

Balinese purification at Mengening Temple then healing with a shaman before Ubud’s art and rice fields

You’ll step into sacred waters at Mengening Temple for self-purification, receive traditional Balinese healing from a shaman in Batuan village, explore Ubud’s vibrant art villages and temples, sample fresh coffee at a plantation, then wander Tegalalang’s famous rice terraces — all with hotel pickup and lunch included. Let yourself be part of daily life here for just one day.

What’s the experience like?

He hands me a sarong, shows how to tie it — not too tight, he laughs — and I’m following him barefoot over the cool stones at Mengening Temple. The air smells green, like moss and incense. There’s this hush except for water trickling somewhere close by. Our guide (Wayan) explains “melukat” as we step into the holy spring, and honestly, I’m nervous but curious. The water is cold on my skin and I catch myself holding my breath as I move under each spout. Wayan quietly points out which one is for clearing the mind, which for letting go of old worries. It’s not crowded at all; just a few locals doing their own rituals nearby.

After drying off (sarong still damp around my knees), we drive to Batuan village for the Balinese healing part. The healer’s house is shaded by frangipani trees — chickens pecking in the yard — and inside it’s dim and smells faintly of oil and flowers. He greets us with a nod, then starts the massage: legs, toes, back, head… some spots ache more than I expected. He hums softly while working; at one point he taps my shoulder and says something about “energy stuck,” which makes me laugh nervously but also kind of believe him? Afterward there’s a quiet moment in his holy room, just incense smoke curling up and sunlight through bamboo slats.

The rest of the day is softer: watching silversmiths in Celuk village shape tiny dragons from molten metal (I tried to say thank you in Bahasa — got a big grin), wandering past woodcarvers and batik artists who let us touch their tools. At Batuan Temple our guide points out stone guardians with chipped noses from decades of ceremonies. We stop for coffee at a plantation where civet cats sleep in baskets — Bali kopi is strong enough to make your hands shake if you’re not careful — then lunch overlooking jungle so bright it almost hurts your eyes. Last stop: Tegalalang rice terrace, where kids shout from palm swings and the fields glow gold-green in late afternoon light.

I didn’t expect to feel lighter after this day trip from Ubud — maybe it was the water or maybe just being welcomed by so many patient people who do these rituals every week like it’s nothing special. But yeah, I still think about that first splash of cold water on my face when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Balinese healing and cultural visits

• Spiritual cleansing at Mengening Temple
• Balinese healing massage at Shaman house
• Visit Celuk silver and batik village
• Explore Batuan Temple
• Stop at coffee plantation for tasting
• Lunch break at local Balinese warung
• Visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Ubud Balinese healing tour take?

The tour lasts approximately one full day including pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

Is hotel pickup included in this day trip to Ubud?

Yes, private hotel pickup and return are included with an air-conditioned car.

What should I wear for temple purification at Mengening?

A sarong is required for temple entry; it will be provided by your guide before entering Mengening Temple.

Is lunch provided during this Ubud day trip?

Yes, lunch at a local Balinese warung with jungle views is included in your tour.

Are entry fees covered on this private Ubud tour?

All entrance fees and taxes are included in the price of your booking.

Can infants join this Balinese healing & purification tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult's lap during transport; public transportation options are also nearby.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour may not be recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to walking and steps involved.

Do we visit any art villages during this Ubud day trip?

Yes, you’ll stop at Celuk (silver making), see wood carving workshops, batik weaving, and painting galleries along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup and return by air-conditioned car, all entry fees and taxes covered upfront, an English-speaking local guide/driver throughout Ubud’s temples and villages, use of sarong clothing for temple visits or healing sessions, mineral water to keep you cool between stops, plus a traditional Balinese lunch before heading back in the afternoon.