Ubud Sacred Spring Tour: Monkey Forest, Rice Terrace & Tirta Empul

Summary

Private Ubud Tour with Local Guide and Custom Itinerary

You’ll get close to Bali’s long-tail macaques in Ubud’s Monkey Forest, walk through lush rice terraces in Tegalalang, join locals at Tirta Empul’s holy springs, and taste fresh Luwak coffee—all with your own guide and comfy ride.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the first sound that hit me at the Monkey Forest—just this wild chatter from somewhere above, then a flash of gray tail as one of the macaques darted past. Our guide, Pak Made, handed us a handful of peanuts (strictly for the monkeys) and pointed out the mossy dragon bridge. The air was thick and earthy; you could smell damp leaves everywhere. We wandered under banyan trees while little groups of monkeys watched us just as much as we watched them. If you look up near the old stone temple, you’ll spot a few elders grooming each other in the shade—it’s their favorite spot after noon.

After that, we drove up to Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The view opens up suddenly—green steps cut into the hillside, water glinting between rows. Pak Made explained how Subak works; it’s this ancient irrigation system that keeps everything alive here. I tried the swing over the terraces (honestly, my legs shook a bit), but once you’re up there, you forget everything except the wind and those endless rice paddies below. There’s a little warung at the edge where we grabbed iced tea—best way to cool off before heading on.

Tirta Empul Temple was next. You can hear water trickling before you even see it—locals lining up at the holy spring fountains for purification rituals. The temple dates back to 969 AD, which is wild to think about when you’re standing barefoot on cold stone. Our guide showed us how people move from fountain to fountain in order; he said each one has its own meaning. The scent of incense mixed with volcanic spring water hangs in the air. If you time it right around midday, sunlight filters through the temple gates just so—it’s quiet except for soft chanting.

Last stop: a coffee plantation tucked behind some banana trees. We tried Luwak coffee—the beans are eaten by civets first (sounds odd but tastes rich). The owner let us watch her roast beans over an open flame; smoke drifted through the garden while chickens scratched nearby. I picked up a small bag to take home—couldn’t resist after that first sip.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ubud Sacred Spring & Nature Tour

• Guided walk at Monkey Forest
• Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace
• Swing experience with rice terrace view
• Spiritual bathing at Tirta Empul Temple
• Coffee plantation and Luwak coffee tasting

Top questions

Is this Ubud tour suitable for families with young kids?

Yes! Infants and small children can join comfortably—even prams or strollers are fine along most paths.

Do I need to bring anything special for Tirta Empul Temple?

A sarong is needed for temple entry but your guide will provide one if you don’t have it.

How long does each stop usually take?

You’ll spend about an hour at each main site—timing can be flexible depending on your interests.

Is lunch included in this tour?

Yes, lunch is included! There are local options along the route—your guide will suggest good spots based on your preferences.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation in an air-conditioned car, all entry tickets (Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul Temple), guided swing experience over rice fields, coffee tasting at a plantation, plus lunch and your own local driver-guide throughout.