Ubud: Monkey Forest, Tirta Empul Temple & Rice Terrace Tour

Summary

Monkey Forest laughter, holy springs ritual and rice field walks in Ubud

You’ll feed cheeky monkeys in Ubud’s forest, watch sacred rituals at Tirta Empul Temple, walk muddy paths among Tegalalang’s rice terraces with local farmers, then cool off by Tegenungan Waterfall—all with hotel pickup and an English-speaking guide by your side.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened wasn’t on the itinerary—our driver Wayan grinned as he handed me a tiny banana for the monkeys. “Don’t look them in the eye,” he said, but of course I did, and one bold macaque snatched it right out of my hand. The Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud is loud with monkey chatter and the smell of damp earth. We wandered under banyan trees while Wayan pointed out little shrines—he told us his grandmother still brings offerings here every full moon. I tried to snap a photo but honestly, I was too busy laughing at how fearless those monkeys are.

After that chaos, Tirta Empul Temple felt almost silent. The air smelled like incense and wet stone. Locals lined up quietly at the holy spring, waiting for their turn under each fountain. Our guide explained which ones were for luck or cleansing—I watched a woman close her eyes as water poured over her head, and something about it made me feel oddly peaceful. I didn’t expect to feel anything special but standing barefoot on those cold stones kind of got to me.

We drove through villages where kids waved from scooters before stopping at Tegalalang Rice Terrace. It’s steeper than I thought—mud squished under my sandals as we followed a farmer who showed us his old wooden sickle (I tried to say thank you in Bahasa but probably butchered it). The view over the valley is all sharp green lines and coconut palms swaying. Lunch was simple fried rice from a roadside stall; nothing fancy but tasted good after walking those terraces.

Tegenungan Waterfall was our last stop—the sound of it hits you before you see it. Some people swam but I just dipped my feet in because I forgot my swimsuit (classic). Even so, feeling that spray on my face after a long day was perfect. On the drive back to Ubud, windows down, I kept thinking about that quiet moment at Tirta Empul. Sometimes you don’t realize what’ll stick with you until later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and culture

• Pickup from hotel in Bali area
• Visit Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest
• See Balinese farmers at Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Experience ritual purification at Tirta Empul Temple
• Swim and relax at Tegenungan Waterfall

Top questions

How long does the Ubud day trip take?

The tour lasts around 8-10 hours including all stops and transfers from most Bali areas.

Is entry to Monkey Forest and temples included?

Yes, entry fees for all destinations are included if you select the option with tickets.

Can I swim at Tegenungan Waterfall?

Yes, swimming is allowed at Tegenungan Waterfall—bring your bathing suit if you plan to swim.

Are hotel pickups available outside Ubud?

Pickups are available from most Bali areas; check when booking if your area is covered.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No traditional lunch is included; you’ll have time to buy food during the tour.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Are there any dress codes for visiting Tirta Empul Temple?

Dress smart casual; women during menstruation aren’t allowed inside the temple area due to local customs.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour involves some walking on uneven ground; not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in most Bali areas, private transportation with fuel and air conditioning all day, bottled water whenever you need it, all parking fees covered along the route, plus entry tickets to each destination if selected—so you can just focus on soaking up Ubud’s sights without worrying about logistics.