Ubud: Monkey Forest, Waterfalls & Rice Terraces Day Trip

Summary

Wander sacred forests, rice fields and holy springs in Bali’s heart

You’ll wander Ubud’s Monkey Forest with playful macaques, gaze out over Tegalalang’s layered rice terraces, witness rituals at Tirta Empul Temple, and feel mist on your skin at Tegenungan Waterfall. With private transport, a local guide who shares stories along the way, and a Balinese lunch included, you’ll get more than just photos — you’ll feel something real.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the monkeys to be so bold in Ubud’s Monkey Forest — one just plopped down beside me like we were old friends. Our guide, Kadek, laughed and handed me a peanut (I fumbled it; the monkey was much faster). The air smelled green, if that makes sense — damp leaves and incense from a temple nearby. There was this moment under the giant banyan roots where everything felt hushed except for the monkeys chattering overhead. Kind of magical, honestly.

We wove through narrow roads to Tegalalang Rice Terrace next. I’d seen photos before but standing there is different; it’s all layered greens and sunlight flickering off water channels. Kadek explained how the subak system works — he made it sound simple but I still don’t get how they figured all that out centuries ago. We tried the Bali Swing too (I screamed, not gonna lie), then lunch at a spot overlooking the terraces. The fried tempeh was crisp and salty, and there was this ginger tea that warmed my hands after the breeze up there.

Tirta Empul Temple came after — lots of locals in bright sarongs lining up for water purification. Kadek showed us how to tie our sashes properly (mine kept slipping). The scent of wet stone mixed with frangipani flowers stuck with me. Some people went into the pools; I just watched quietly, feeling like an outsider but welcome at the same time. Tegenungan Waterfall was loud and wild by comparison — spray on my face, slippery rocks underfoot. We didn’t swim but just sitting there for a bit felt good after all the moving around.

I keep thinking about those moments — especially when Kadek told us about his grandmother’s offerings at sunrise. It’s not just sights here; it’s little details you carry back home without meaning to.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud's nature and culture

• Visit Sacred Monkey Forest
• See Tegalalang Rice Terraces
• Experience Tirta Empul Temple ritual
• Try Bali Swing adventure
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Explore Tegenungan Waterfall

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Ubud day trip?

Yes, private transportation with pickup from select locations is included.

Can I join the water purification ritual at Tirta Empul Temple?

Yes, visitors can participate or observe; your guide will explain what to do.

Are entrance fees covered in this tour?

Entrance fees are included only for the All Inclusive Option.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

Lunch is included only with the All Inclusive Option at a local restaurant.

How long does it take to reach Ubud from most hotels?

It depends on traffic but usually around 1–1.5 hours from main tourist areas like Seminyak or Kuta.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Are there accessibility options for wheelchairs?

The tour offers wheelchair accessible transportation options.

What should I wear for visiting temples in Bali?

You’ll need to wear a sarong and sash; your guide can help provide or arrange these.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water throughout the journey, entry fees if you choose the all inclusive option, plus a Balinese lunch overlooking rice fields (also only with all inclusive). Tour insurance covers you along the way, and all parking and fuel costs are taken care of so you can just focus on soaking up Ubud’s colors and sounds.