An all-season guide to the best time to visit Ubud

An all-season guide to the best time to visit Ubud

Sunrise hikes in summer or museums in fall? Create your perfect trip with this month-by-month guide to Ubud.

The cultural heart of Bali boasts lush landscapes, ancient temples, and a vibrant art scene. But what is the best time to visit Ubud? With this month-by-month guide to Bali’s spiritual center, you’ll find the ideal times to experience its top attractions, such as the Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Tirta Empul Temple. You’ll also know when to plan your visit to captivating festivals, including the Ubud Food and Bali Arts Festival. Whether you’re searching for the best month to go to Ubud for fewer crowds, outdoor adventures, or budget-friendly travel, this detailed breakdown will give you the insight you need.

Choosing the best time to go to Ubud

Best time for outdoor lovers

From April to October, Ubud’s dry season is perfect for outdoor adventures like sunrise hikes at Mount Batur, cycling through rice fields, and kayaking on the Ayung River. Popular spots like Tegenungan Waterfall are also ideal for nature lovers during this time.

Best time for people on a budget

November to March is Ubud’s rainy season, offering budget-friendly rates on flights and accommodations. As elaborated below in this month-by-month guide to Ubud, it’s also the perfect time to negotiate deals and find unique souvenirs at local markets.

Best time for sightseeing

For a more relaxed visit, explore Ubud’s temples, museums, and galleries in April or October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are small. Either would be the best month to go to Ubud. Don’t miss Pura Taman Saraswati, a peaceful water temple with beautiful lotus ponds.

Ubud throughout the seasons

Spring in Ubud (March to May)

Spring in Ubud is a transition from the rainy to the dry season, with blossoming flowers and renewed nature creating a beautiful backdrop for outdoor explorations. This is also a great time to join workshops and attend cultural events, such as the Bali Spirit Festival, Ubud Food Festival, or Nyepi — the Balinese Day of Silence.

Summer in Ubud (June to August)

Summer in Ubud is characterized by warm temperatures and sunshine, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the vibrant local culture. The Bali Art Festival, held between June and July, delves into Balinese culture, showcasing art, dance, and music. This season is also popular for yoga retreats and wellness activities, attracting travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Fall in Ubud (September to November)

As fall arrives in Ubud, temperatures cool slightly, creating pleasant conditions for outdoor adventures and exploration. You can enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant festivals with fewer crowds. Events like the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival provide opportunities to attend workshops, participate in discussions, and interact with renowned writers.

Winter in Ubud (December to February)

During winter in Ubud, the rainy season is in full swing with frequent showers. The rain typically arrives in short bursts, leaving ample opportunity to enjoy spa treatments. January and February witness the highest rainfall, but the lush surroundings of Ubud thrive during this time, especially its waterfalls and rice fields.

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Experience Galungan in Bali, where streets come alive with vibrant Penjor poles symbolizing prosperity.

January in Ubud

January is part of Ubud’s wettest season, but it’s a great time to experience Ubud’s lush, vibrant greenery. Spend your days exploring art galleries, taking yoga classes, or visiting indoor markets. A highlight is a Legong dinner show and Galungan, a Balinese holiday celebrating the victory of good over evil with colorful offerings and processions.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 73 F to 82 F (23 C to 28 C) with frequent rain showers.

Secure your seat for the Legong dinner show in Ubud

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Embrace mindfulness and serenity with yoga amidst Bali’s tropical paradise.

February in Ubud

February offers similar conditions to January, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Make the most of the rainy season by visiting the region’s famous healing retreats and spas. Ubud’s tranquil atmosphere during this time is ideal for rejuvenation and meditation.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 73 F to 84 F (23 C to 29 C) with heavy rain.

Book relaxing spas in Ubud

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A striking demon effigy from Bali’s Ogoh-Ogoh parades, symbolizing the cleansing of negative spirits before Nyepi.

March in Ubud

March is known for Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. It’s a unique experience where the entire island shuts down for 24 hours, even its airport. Before Nyepi, Ogoh-Ogoh parades occur, where giant, demon-like statues are paraded through the streets. It’s a memorable time to experience Balinese culture and traditions.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 84 F (24 C to 29 C) with intermittent rain.

Explore Balinese culture in Ubud

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The picturesque Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali showcase traditional Balinese irrigation.

April in Ubud

April marks the start of the dry season, making it one of the best times to visit Ubud. Explore the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and the Campuhan Ridge Walk under clear skies. It’s also the perfect time for a day trip to nearby beaches, including Canggu Beach, Sanur Beach, or Nusa Dua Beach.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 86 F (24 C to 30 C) with a few showers.

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Immerse yourself in spiritual purification at the sacred Tirta Empul temple, a key cultural site in Bali.

May in Ubud

May offers consistently sunny weather, ideal for outdoor adventures like white-water rafting on the Ayung River or visiting the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave). As it’s still before the peak tourist season, you can enjoy a peaceful visit to temples like Tirta Empul without large crowds. Bali Spirit Festival also takes place in May, welcoming you to a global celebration of yoga, dance, music, and healing.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 86 F (24 C to 30 C) with minimal rain.

Secure your seat for river rafting in Ubud

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A glimpse of Bali’s Art Festival, celebrating rich traditions with colorful street parades and cultural displays.

June in Ubud

June is the beginning of the high season, and for good reason. The weather is perfect for exploring Ubud’s countryside or attending cultural events like the Bali Arts Festival and the Ubud Food Festival. It’s also a great time to discover nearby attractions, such as Mount Batur, during a sunrise trek.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 84 F (24 C to 29 C) with low humidity.

Go on Mount Batur hikes in Ubud

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Bali’s Kite Festival fills the skies with colorful kites, a celebration of art and culture against a stunning backdrop.

July in Ubud

July is a popular month in Ubud, with many visitors coming to enjoy the ideal weather and cultural festivals, such as Bali Kite Festival. Be sure to book accommodations early, as July is one of the busiest months in Ubud.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 73 F to 82 F (23 C to 28 C) with clear skies.

Discover culture and history in Ubud

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The serene Pura Taman Saraswati temple in Ubud, a masterpiece of Balinese artistry surrounded by lotus ponds.

August in Ubud

August is peak season in Ubud, and its stunning landscapes attract many travelers. It’s the perfect time for biking tours through the rice terraces or visiting Pura Taman Saraswati, a water temple known for its beautiful lotus pond. The Ubud Village Jazz Festival also usually takes place at the beginning of August — in some years at the end of July — adding a vibrant musical flair to the serene surroundings.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 73 F to 84 F (23 C to 29 C) with little rainfall.

Visit some of the best temples and shrines in Ubud

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The iconic entrance of Goa Gajah temple, a historic site blending spirituality and Balinese culture.

September in Ubud

September offers pleasant weather with slightly fewer crowds than July and August. It’s an excellent time for those who enjoy a relaxed pace while benefiting from the dry season. Consider visiting Goa Gajah Temple or joining a traditional Balinese cooking class.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 86 F (24 C to 30 C) with minimal rain.

Book fun cooking classes in Ubud

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Reading moment at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, a hub for literature and creativity in Bali.

October in Ubud

October is the last month of the dry season, offering warm weather and a quieter atmosphere. It’s an excellent time to explore Ubud’s museums and exhibitions and attend the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, an annual gathering of literary enthusiasts.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 75 F to 86 F (24 C to 30 C) with occasional rain showers.

Check out the museums and exhibitions in Ubud

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Rejuvenate with traditional Balinese spa treatments, designed to relax the body and soul.

November in Ubud

November signals the start of the rainy season, but it’s a peaceful time to visit Ubud. Expect afternoon showers during which you can opt for rainy-day activities like spa treatments, market visits, or the Neka Art Museum.

Weather:

Average temperature of 75 F to 84 F (24 C to 29 C) with increasing rain.

Explore rainy-day activities in Ubud

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Experience the beauty of Bali’s waterfalls, just a 25-minute journey from Ubud.

December in Ubud

December is a festive time in Ubud, with Christmas and New Year celebrations blending with Balinese traditions. Although it’s rainy, the waterfalls and rice fields are particularly stunning. It’s a good time to experience Ubud’s cultural dance performances and Balinese temple ceremonies.

Weather:

Average temperatures of 73 F to 82 F (23 C to 28 C) with frequent rain.

Book your seat for cultural shows in Ubud

Best time to visit Ubud: FAQs

What’s the best month to go to Ubud?

April to October is the best time to visit Ubud, as the sunny weather is ideal for outdoor activities. During this period, you can fully enjoy Ubud’s stunning scenery, including its famous rice terraces and waterfalls, while participating in local festivals celebrating Balinese culture.

What’s the cheapest month to visit Ubud?

November to March is the most affordable and best time to visit Ubud if you are after lower accommodation prices. Many hotels and guesthouses offer special discounts during this rainy season, making it an attractive option for budget travelers looking to experience the beauty of Ubud without breaking the bank.

Is Ubud crowded in July?

Yes, July is a peak tourist month in Ubud, so expect more visitors and higher prices. The influx of tourists can lead to longer wait times at the city’s popular attractions, so planning your visits early in the day or during off-peak hours is advisable to enhance your experience.

When should I avoid visiting Ubud?

If you want to avoid rain, avoid January and February when showers are most frequent, as this wouldn’t be the best time to visit Ubud. During these months, heavy rains can sometimes lead to road closures or hinder outdoor activities, making it less ideal for those seeking to explore Ubud’s natural beauty.

When is the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival?

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival typically takes place in October, drawing literary enthusiasts from around the world. This vibrant event features renowned authors and speakers and offers workshops, discussions, and performances, making it a cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike.

Read more about Ubud

A first-timer’s guide to Ubud: Everything you need to know