Ubud & Mount Batur: Private Day Trip with Local Lunch

Summary

Private Bali tour to Ubud’s monkeys, rice fields & volcano

You’ll wander among monkeys in Ubud’s forest, taste local food with Mount Batur’s crater as your backdrop, walk rice terraces tangled in green light, and watch holy rituals at Tirta Empul Temple. With a local guide and private car included, this day trip lets you feel Bali’s rhythm up close — not just see it.

What’s the experience like?

“If you’re quiet, they’ll come closer,” Wayan whispered as we stepped under the thick green canopy of Ubud Monkey Forest. I was still fumbling with my camera strap when a young macaque darted past my feet — honestly, I flinched. The air smelled like wet leaves and incense from a nearby shrine. Wayan knew every shortcut through the trees and pointed out a mother monkey grooming her baby. He grinned, “They’re cheeky but family first.” I tried not to laugh too loud — didn’t want to scare them off.

After that, we wandered through the Ubud Art Market where the colors were almost dizzying — bright sarongs, wood carvings, baskets stacked high. I tried bargaining for a little woven bag (not very well), but the woman selling it just smiled and gave me a fair price anyway. The palace was right across the street; we caught a glimpse of kids practicing dance moves in one corner. It felt like everyone in Ubud had some secret talent or story.

The drive up toward Mount Batur was longer than I expected — winding roads and sudden bursts of rain tapping on the car roof. When we finally reached the restaurant overlooking the volcano and lake, it was almost noon. The buffet lunch wasn’t fancy but tasted honest: warm rice, spicy chicken, vegetables with that smoky edge only Balinese kitchens seem to get right. Eating with that view in front of us — mist drifting over the crater rim — made everything slow down for a bit. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

On our way back, Wayan stopped at a little plantation where someone handed us coffee beans to smell — earthy and sharp at once. Then came Tirta Empul Temple. The water was cold around my ankles; locals moved quietly through their blessings while we watched from the edge (I didn’t join in but felt something settle inside me just being there). We left shoes at the entrance and walked barefoot over cool stone tiles, which somehow made everything feel more real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ubud and Mount Batur highlights

• Visit Ubud Monkey Forest
• Walk to Ubud traditional market
• See Ubud King Palace
• Walk through Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Have buffet lunch with Mount Batur view
• Stop at herbs and local plantation
• Visit Tirta Empul holy spring temple

Top questions

How long is the private day trip from Ubud to Mount Batur?

The tour lasts approximately one full day with early morning pickup from your hotel in Bali.

Is lunch included on this Ubud & Mount Batur tour?

Yes, a buffet lunch overlooking Mount Batur and Lake Batur is included.

What attractions are visited during this Bali day trip?

You’ll visit Ubud Monkey Forest, Ubud Art Market, Ubud Palace, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Mount Batur viewpoint for lunch, a local plantation stop, and Tirta Empul Temple.

Can I participate in rituals at Tirta Empul Temple?

You can join the holy blessing ritual if you wish or simply observe respectfully.

Is hotel pickup provided for this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included anywhere in Bali.

Are entry fees covered on this day trip?

All taxes, entry fees, and handling charges are included in your booking.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

The tour is suitable for all ages; infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere in Bali by private air-conditioned car; all entry fees; bottled water; guidance from a local expert; plus a buffet lunch served at a restaurant facing Mount Batur before heading back in comfort.