Ubud: Monkey Forest, Rice Terraces & Sacred Temples | Indonesia

Experience the very best of Ubud on this perfectly curated full-day tour by Discova. Your journey begins in the morning with a comfortable hotel pick-up, followed by a scenic drive into the cultural heart of Bali. Begin the day at Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave, and explore the dramatic carved entrance, ancient bathing pools and surrounding temple ruins. Then head to the sacred Ubud Monkey Forest, a mystical jungle sanctuary filled with moss-covered temples, ancient stone carvings, and hundreds of free-roaming macaques. Wander along leafy pathways as your guide shares the beliefs, stories, and traditions connected to this much-loved spiritual site.

Continue with a short drive to the Ubud Royal Palace, one of the village’s most recognizable landmarks and a beautiful example of traditional Balinese design. As you explore the courtyard and intricate gateways, your guide will share stories about the descendants of Ubud’s royal family, who still live on parts of the palace grounds today. After the palace, enjoy some free time in central Ubud. Wander through the nearby market, browse small boutiques and souvenir stalls, or settle down for lunch at one of the many cafés and local restaurants in the area. If you’re unsure where to eat, your guide can recommend a few great options to suit your taste and budget.

In the early afternoon, continue to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, one of Bali’s most photographed landscapes. From the viewpoint, take in the sweeping layers of bright-green paddies carved into the hillside. There’s time for a short walk along the terraces, a few great photo stops, or simply a moment to enjoy the fresh air and scenery.

The experience then turns more intimate at Mengening Temple, a serene and lesser-known purification temple hidden within a lush jungle setting. Far quieter than Bali’s more famous sites, Mengening offers a calm and authentic atmosphere. Here, you’ll take part in a hands-on canang sari activity with your guide, learning how these daily offerings are prepared and what they symbolise. Guests who wish may also join an optional purification ritual (no extra charge), following local customs and guidance.

Afterward, sit back and relax for the comfortable journey back to your hotel, returning in the late afternoon or early evening.