Day Trips from Ubud: The Best Places to Explore in One Day

Ubud is often described as the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, but what truly makes it special is its location. From this lush inland town, you can reach waterfalls hidden in jungle valleys, volcanic landscapes at sunrise, quiet mountain lakes, dramatic temples, and even offshore islands—all within a single day. That is why day trips from Ubud are so popular: they allow travelers to experience Bali’s diversity without changing accommodation or packing and unpacking every night.

At the same time, Bali is bigger than it looks on a map. Traffic, winding mountain roads, ferry schedules, and physical fatigue can quickly turn an ambitious plan into an exhausting one. Some destinations that seem close in kilometers may take hours to reach, while others are surprisingly easy if timed well. This guide focuses on the best day trips from Ubud, with realistic travel times, honest assessments of effort, and suggestions for different travel styles—from relaxed sightseeing to adventure and premium experiences.

Whether you are visiting Bali for a short stay or spending several weeks in Ubud, this article will help you choose day trips that feel rewarding rather than rushed.

Why Ubud Is a Perfect Base for Day Trips

Ubud sits roughly in the center of southern Bali, slightly elevated above the coast. This position gives it a unique advantage. From Ubud, you can travel north toward volcanoes and lakes, east toward ancient temples and royal water gardens, south to waterfalls and cultural landmarks, or west toward rice terraces and less-developed countryside.

Another advantage is infrastructure. Ubud has a high concentration of private drivers, tour operators, and experienced guides, making logistics relatively easy even if you do not ride a scooter. For travelers who prefer not to drive themselves, this flexibility is essential.

However, Ubud’s popularity also means congestion. Roads in and out of town can become slow during peak hours, especially mid-morning and late afternoon. Understanding when to leave—and when to return—is just as important as choosing where to go.

Best Day Trips from Ubud

Tegenungan Waterfall and Nearby Jungle Spots

Tegenungan Waterfall is one of the closest natural attractions to Ubud, located about 30–40 minutes by car depending on traffic. Because of its accessibility, it is also one of the most visited waterfalls in Bali.

The waterfall itself is powerful and impressive, especially during the rainy season when water volume increases dramatically. There are stairs leading down to the base, and while the walk is not long, it can be slippery and steep in places. Swimming is possible when conditions are safe, though currents can be strong.

What makes Tegenungan work well as a day trip is not just the waterfall, but the surrounding area. Many travelers combine it with smaller, less-known jungle waterfalls nearby or with stops at villages and viewpoints along the way. This creates a half-day excursion rather than a rushed photo stop.

Who it’s best for:
Travelers with limited time, families with older children, and anyone who wants nature without a long drive.

Mount Batur Sunrise Day Trip

A sunrise trip to Mount Batur is one of the most iconic day tours from Ubud. It is also one of the most physically and logistically demanding. Most tours start between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m., with a drive of around 1.5 hours to the base of the volcano.

The hike itself is moderately challenging. While it does not require technical climbing skills, it involves walking uphill in the dark over volcanic gravel. Temperatures at the summit can be cold, especially before sunrise, which surprises many travelers after days in tropical heat.

For those who complete it, the reward is significant: sunrise views over Lake Batur and Mount Agung, often above a sea of clouds. After the hike, many tours include breakfast and a visit to nearby hot springs, which helps ease tired muscles.

That said, this is not a relaxing day trip. Lack of sleep, physical exertion, and crowds—sometimes hundreds of hikers on the same trail—can reduce enjoyment for some travelers.

Who it’s best for:
Active travelers, hikers, and those who prioritize iconic experiences over comfort.

North Bali: Ulun Danu Beratan Temple and Twin Lakes

North Bali offers cooler air, mountain scenery, and a slower pace compared to the south. A popular day trip from Ubud includes Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, located on Lake Beratan, and the nearby Twin Lakes (Buyan and Tamblingan).

The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours each way, depending on traffic and stops. Roads are scenic but winding, which can cause fatigue if you are sensitive to motion sickness. The reward is a dramatic change in atmosphere: misty lakes, pine forests, and a sense of calm that contrasts sharply with coastal Bali.

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is one of the most photographed temples on the island, often appearing to float on the water when lake levels are high. While it can be busy, visiting earlier in the morning helps avoid peak crowds.

Some travelers add short jungle walks or viewpoints overlooking the Twin Lakes, but it is important not to overpack the itinerary. North Bali deserves time.

Who it’s best for:
Photographers, couples, and travelers seeking cooler weather and scenic landscapes.

Nusa Penida Day Trip from Ubud

A day trip from Ubud to Nusa Penida is technically possible, but it is one of the most demanding options on this list. The journey involves a drive from Ubud to the coast, a fast boat crossing, and then road travel on Nusa Penida itself, where infrastructure is still developing.

Popular sites like Kelingking Beach, Broken Beach, and Angel’s Billabong are visually stunning, but distances between them are greater than they appear, and roads can be rough. Time pressure is constant, as missing the return boat can cause serious logistical problems.

Many travelers attempt this trip because of Nusa Penida’s dramatic scenery, but leave feeling rushed. If your schedule allows, an overnight stay on the island often results in a much better experience.

Who it’s best for:
Travelers with high energy levels and limited total time in Bali—but with realistic expectations.

East Bali: Lempuyang Temple and Tirta Gangga

East Bali feels more traditional and less developed than areas closer to Ubud. A day trip east often includes Lempuyang Temple—famous for the “Gates of Heaven”—and the Tirta Gangga water palace.

The drive from Ubud takes around 2 hours. Lempuyang Temple has gained immense popularity due to social media, which means queues can be long, especially for photos at the gates. The “reflection” effect often seen in photos is created with a mirror, something many visitors only discover on arrival.

Tirta Gangga, by contrast, is calmer. Its pools, fountains, and gardens offer a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to slow down after the intensity of Lempuyang.

Who it’s best for:
Travelers interested in traditional architecture, water gardens, and quieter parts of Bali.

How to Get Around: Driver, Scooter, or Tour

Choosing transportation has a major impact on your experience of day trips from Ubud.

A private driver is the most popular option. It allows flexibility, local knowledge, and the ability to adjust plans based on traffic or fatigue. Costs are reasonable by international standards, and many drivers act as informal guides.

Riding a scooter offers independence, but it also involves risk. Long distances, unfamiliar roads, and Bali’s traffic conditions can be challenging, especially for inexperienced riders.

Organized tours simplify planning but often follow rigid schedules. They can be efficient for complex trips like Mount Batur, but less satisfying for scenic exploration.

Helicopter Day Trips from Ubud: A Different Perspective

Why a Helicopter Changes the Experience

Bali’s biggest travel challenge is not distance—it is time. Helicopter travel bypasses traffic entirely, transforming journeys that take hours by road into short scenic flights. From the air, the island’s geography becomes clear: volcanoes rising from jungle, rivers cutting through valleys, and cliffs dropping into the ocean.

A helicopter day trip from Ubud allows travelers to experience remote or distant locations without the exhaustion that often accompanies long drives. It also offers perspectives that are impossible to see from the ground.

Flying with Balicopter

Balicopter operates licensed helicopter tours across Bali, including custom routes tailored to individual preferences. Flights can focus on volcanoes, waterfalls, coastline, or offshore islands like Nusa Penida. For travelers with limited time, physical constraints, or a desire for a premium experience, helicopter travel can turn an overwhelming itinerary into a smooth, memorable day.

This option is particularly appealing for couples, photographers, and travelers celebrating special occasions, as well as those who simply want to experience Bali without spending half the day in traffic.

Practical Tips for Planning the Perfect Day Trip

Start early whenever possible, especially for popular sites. Morning hours offer cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and smoother traffic. Avoid scheduling too many major attractions in one day; Bali’s pace rewards patience.

Be honest about your energy levels. A destination that looks amazing online may not be worth it if it leaves you exhausted. In some cases, staying closer to Ubud and exploring slowly creates a more meaningful experience than chasing distant highlights.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Day Trips from Ubud

Ubud is an exceptional base for exploring Bali, but the key to enjoying day trips from Ubud lies in choosing wisely. Not every destination suits every traveler, and not every iconic place needs to be seen in a single visit.

By understanding distances, travel times, and your own priorities, you can design day trips that feel balanced and enriching. Whether you opt for a short waterfall visit, a challenging volcano hike, a scenic journey to the north, or a helicopter flight above the island, Ubud offers access to some of Bali’s most unforgettable experiences—if approached with clarity and intention.