What to Do in Ubud for Your Next Insta-Worthy Moment

Ubud is a paradise for travellers looking to immerse themselves in culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery—all while capturing picture-perfect moments for the ‘Gram. From dining on a cliff’s edge to chasing waterfalls and riding ATVs through the jungle, here’s your ultimate guide to what to do in Ubud to fill your feed with colour, charm, and unforgettable memories!

Lunch at CasCades Restaurant

Every great explorer needs energy, and there’s no better way to kickstart your Ubud experience than with a meal at CasCades Restaurant. Nestled on what feels like the edge of the earth, the venue offers panoramic views of the Valley of the Kings—a dramatic, jungle-cloaked ravine that makes every meal feel like dining in the clouds.

But what about the food?

CasCades champions homegrown ingredients from its on-site greenhouse, delivering a mix of Western and Indonesian gastronomy that caters to every craving.
Start with Beef Tartare, Tuna Crudo, or Burrata with Roast Pumpkin, before diving into classics like Oxtail Soup, Nasi Goreng, Satay Skewers, or Pan-Seared Barramundi. If you’re in the mood to share, go big with Wagyu Tomahawk, Salt-Crusted Whole Fish, or Seafood Paella.

Feeling cultural? The Balinese Rijsttafel (a feast of small, flavourful dishes) offers a deep dive into local flavours. Plus, traditional Balinese dance performances take place on select nights, making your meal even more immersive.

Don’t skip dessert—Homemade Ice Cream and Klepon (a delicious Balinese sweet treat) are must-tries. And if you’re looking to sip something fabulous, CasCades has a selection of coffee, juice, wine, and cocktails, best enjoyed at their peri-peri table.
Pro tip: The infinity pool beside the dining area is the perfect spot for an envy-inducing Insta shot, and the powder room is a surprisingly aesthetic little retreat. Oh, and parking? No stress—there’s plenty of space for scooters and cars. Find CasCades inside Viceroy Bali, Jalan Lanyahan, Banjar Nagi, Ubud—no need to stay at the resort to enjoy lunch, brunch, or dinner here.

Monkey Forest: A Selfie with the Locals

A visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest is like stepping into a real-life jungle book, where cheeky long-tailed macaques roam freely. This lush sanctuary is home to over 1,000 monkeys and ancient temple ruins, making it the perfect blend of nature, culture, wildlife, and, let’s face it—how many times do you get the chance to get up close and personal with monkeys?

Pro tip: Hold onto your sunglasses, hats, and snacks—these little guys are professional thieves. But if you play nice, you might just get a monkey selfie that’ll break the internet.

Location: Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud
Entrance Fee: ($5)

Pura Tirta Empul: A Spiritual Dip Worth Capturing

If there’s one place in Ubud that radiates serenity, it’s Pura Tirta Empul, Bali’s sacred water temple.

Here, locals and visitors alike take part in a centuries-old purification ritual, stepping into crystal-clear holy springs to cleanse the mind, body, and soul. Even if you’re not joining the ritual, the temple’s intricate carvings, koi-filled ponds, and reflective water pools make for breathtaking photos. Wear something light and flowy to capture that ethereal goddess-in-Bali moment.

Location: Tampaksiring, ~30 min from Ubud
Entrance Fee: ($3)

Tegallalang Rice Terraces: The Iconic Ubud Shot

Let’s be real—you cannot leave Ubud without a photo at Tegallalang Rice Terraces. This is the place for that dreamy, golden-hour Bali shot. Whether you’re strolling the narrow pathways, swinging over the lush fields, or sipping on coconut water from a bamboo hut, it’s impossible to take a bad photo here.

For an even better view, visit at sunrise when the morning mist creates a mystical, fairytale-like glow. Bonus points if you grab a shot in a flowy dress or linen outfit—trust me, it works.

Location: 20 min north of Ubud
Entrance Fee: ($3)

Yoga & Wellness: Stretch, Breathe, and Glow

If you’ve ever dreamed of doing a sunrise yoga session in the jungle, Ubud is the place.

Head to The Yoga Barn or Radiantly Alive for a soul-refreshing flow, complete with open-air pavilions, soft candlelight, and the distant sound of tropical birds. Even if you’re not into yoga, a visit to a Balinese spa is non-negotiable. Book a flower bath at Karsa Spa or try a sound healing session at Pyramids of Chi—you’ll leave feeling like a new person (and yes, it makes for an aesthetic post, too).

Location: The Yoga Barn, Radiantly Alive, Karsa Spa, Pyramids of Chi
Cost: Yoga classes start at ($9)

Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung): The Heart of Ubud’s History

If you want to glimpse Ubud’s royal past, Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is a must-visit. Located right in the centre of town, this beautiful royal residence blends traditional Balinese architecture and intricate carvings, making it a perfect spot for a cultural photo op.

If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional Balinese dance performance in the evening. It’s history, art, and culture all wrapped up in one stunning location!

Location: Ubud Town
Entrance Fee: Free for the palace grounds; dance performances typically cost ($5)

Ubud Art Market: Shop Like a Local, Snap Like a Pro

No trip to Ubud is complete without a stroll through the Ubud Art Market.

This market is filled with unique handicrafts, from woven baskets and sarongs to wooden sculptures and hand-painted textiles. Not only is it the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, but the colours, patterns, and textures make for some seriously artsy photos. And, hey, you might even get a behind-the-scenes shot of local artisans working on their crafts.

Location: Ubud Center
Entrance Fee: Free (but bring cash for shopping!)

Chasing Waterfalls: Bali’s Hidden Gems

Ubud’s lush jungle isn’t just home to temples and rice terraces—it’s also where you’ll find some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Bali.
Tegenungan Waterfall – A short trek leads to a powerful cascade perfect for a mid-day dip.
Tibumana Waterfall – A hidden gem with a silky curtain of water, straight out of a fairytale.
Kanto Lampo Waterfall – Tiered rock formations create a natural staircase of water—ideal for striking a pose.

Be sure to take a dip beneath the falls for that perfect, splashy shot, or hike along hidden trails to discover some of Bali’s best-kept waterfall secrets. These refreshing oases are just waiting for your next Insta-worthy moment.

Locations: Various, ~20-40 min from Ubud
Entrance Fee: ($1) to ($3), depending on the waterfall

ATV Rides & Ayung River Rafting

Get down and dirty on an ATV adventure through Ubud’s rugged jungle trails, rivers, and even hidden waterfalls. The action shots? Guaranteed to make your followers jealous. Mud-splattered and grinning ear to ear—that’s the energy we love!

Or, if you’re craving a water-based thrill, hop on a raft and ride the rapids of the Ayung River. This exhilarating experience takes you through stunning gorges, waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Prepare for a wet-and-wild adventure that’s both adrenaline-pumping and absolutely photogenic!

Museum Hopping: A Peek into Ubud’s Art & Culture Scene

For art lovers, Ubud is home to a treasure trove of museums and galleries that are just as stunning as the landscapes. Start with the Neka Art Museum, where you’ll find a mix of traditional Balinese art and contemporary masterpieces.

Or, visit The Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) for an immersive experience in both art and culture, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Don’t forget the Puri Lukisan Museum, which showcases Ubud’s rich artistic history and features stunning works of both local and international artists.

Locations: Various spots in Ubud
Entrance Fees: start at ($3)

Final Thoughts

Ubud isn’t just a place—it’s an experience brimming with adventure, culture, and moments that are made to be captured. Whether you’re trekking through the sacred Monkey Forest, rafting down the Ayung River, or chasing Bali’s breathtaking waterfalls, every corner of Ubud promises something magical.

But before the day’s adventures begin—or after you’ve explored to your heart’s content—there’s one place that perfectly blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and world-class cuisine: CasCades Restaurant at Viceroy Bali. So book your table for lunch or dinner today!