7 best views in Ubud: Rice terraces, temples, and more

The emerald rice terraces, misty valleys, and ancient temples of Ubud create a landscape that begs to be viewed from above. Whether you’re exploring elevated temple grounds or discovering hidden paths through the paddies, the best things to do in Ubud reveal the soul of Bali’s cultural heart.

Some of the most fun activities in Ubud offer incredible views, like a visit to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace or a stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk. From families seeking adventure to photographers chasing the perfect shot, these eight best views in Ubud show off the island of Bali's unparalleled beauty.

Where to get the best views in Ubud

Best rice terrace views: Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Kajeng Rice Fields

Best temple views: Pura Gunung Lebah

Best jungle views: Campuhan Ridge Walk and Sari Organic Walk

1. Enjoy sweeping views at the Tegallalang Rice Terrace

The Tegallalang Rice Terrace offers some of Ubud's most breathtaking views. Head to the eastern viewing platform to take in the emerald-green terraces that cascade down the valley like a natural amphitheater. Traditional farmers tend to their crops in this UNESCO World Heritage Site using traditional Balinese techniques, balancing on narrow terrace walls to plant rice seedlings by hand and controlling water flows through clever bamboo channels.

Highlights

• Visit at sunrise when morning mist clings to the terraces.
• Look for traditional irrigation channels called subak that show ancient water management techniques.
• Find the perfect angle by trying out multiple viewing platforms.
• Watch how the shadows dance across the terraces as the position of the sun changes throughout the day.

Address and opening hours

Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kec. Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80561. Open daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

2. Discover hidden views at Kajeng Rice Fields

Just minutes from downtown Ubud, the Kajeng Rice Fields allow you to get up close and personal with traditional farming life. The narrow, elevated paths between terraces provide intimate views of the cultivation process, while small shrines and offerings dot the farming landscape. Once here, you’ll be able to see the patchwork of paddies that stretches all the way to groves of towering palm trees.

Best time to go

This is one of the best Ubud photography spots if you visit early in the morning. You'll have the best chance to take that magic shot without large tourist crowds.

Address

Jl. Kajeng No.88, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open 24 hours.

3. Find a peaceful escape at Pura Gunung Lebah

The ancient temple of Pura Gunung Lebah, nestled in the sacred Campuhan Valley, is one of the most peaceful scenic spots in Ubud. The temple’s strategic position in an elevated courtyard offers views of the surrounding river valleys and jungle. You’ll also spot multi-tiered shrines that create striking silhouettes against the jungle backdrop, along with moss-covered stone dragons and demon statues standing guard over the valleys below.

Insider tip

Walk slowly and quietly in the early morning to enjoy Ubud's nature. The light at this hour makes for perfect picture-taking conditions.

Address and opening hours

Jl. Raya Ubud No.23, Sayan, Kec. Payangan, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

4. Explore the water gardens of Pura Taman Saraswati

The Pura Taman Saraswati is a clear example of classical Ubud garden design. The lotus-filled pools reflect ornate temple architecture in their mirror-like surface, while raised walkways offer beautiful views across flowery ponds. The garden’s design is an architectural marvel, as every angle will give you a new perspective of the aquatic sanctuary.

Highlights

• If you visit between June and August, you'll have a chance to see lotus flowers in full bloom.
• Watch for kingfishers and other local birds diving into the temple pools.
• Look out for traditional offerings being placed around the grounds.

Address and opening hours

F7V6+JHX, Jl. Kajeng, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

5. Lose yourself in the sacred grounds of Pura Dalem Agung

Set on elevated ground in central Ubud, this ancient temple dedicated to Shiva offers peaceful views over the surrounding area. The temple’s position above the Ubud jungle makes it one of the quintessential scenic spots in Ubud — and a favorite spot for photographers, with its traditional split gates framing distant palm trees and rice fields.

Best time to go

Late afternoon visitors can enjoy the warm sunlight filtering through the temple’s ancient trees, creating captivating shadows across the grounds.

Address and opening hours

Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open Thursday–Tuesday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed on Wednesdays.

6. Walk the heights of Campuhan Ridge Walk

The Campuhan Ridge Walk looks over Ubud's jungle skyline as it winds along a natural ridge between two rivers. The paved walkway provides uninterrupted views of palm-filled valleys on both sides, with morning mist filling the lowlands to create an ethereal atmosphere. This is one of the most popular Ubud photography spots, where you can take beautiful shots of the pristine Bali jungle.

Highlights

• Look for traditional Balinese houses with their distinctive red-tiled roofs and ornate family temples peeking through the palms below.
• Watch for tropical birds like the Java kingfisher and yellow-vented bulbuls gliding through the valley.
• Find the perfect photo spot at "halfway point" where both river valleys meet.
• Stop and one of the several bamboo benches along the path to catch a break from the Ubud heat.

Address

Kelusa, Payangan, Jl. Raya Campuhan, Sayan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open 24 hours.

7. Follow the Sari Organic Walk

This easy Ubud hike winds through working rice fields and lush tropical vegetation. With a modest elevation, the narrow trail has some of the best free views in Ubud. Catch intimate glimpses of local farming life and spectacular views of the paddies as the path gains elevation.

Insider tip

You don’t need to wear advanced hiking gear for this gentle walk. While sneakers are ideal, any comfortable closed-toe shoes will work fine on the packed dirt path. Bring a hat and a water bottle as there's limited shade along some sections. You may want to bring a small towel as well, since Ubud's humidity could easily make you break a sweat.

Address

F7X5+F7H, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571. Open 24 hours.

FAQs

What are the best viewpoints in Ubud?

Catch the most spectacular views of Ubud at Tegallalang Rice Terrace, or walk along the elevated path of the Campuhan Ridge Walk for some of the best free views in Ubud.

Where can I see rice terraces in Ubud?

An ideal family-friendly activity in Ubud is a visit to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace or Kajeng Rice Fields. Both offer excellent views of traditional Balinese agriculture in a safe environment.

Which temples have the best views in Ubud?

Pura Gunung Lebah offers the best views in Ubud, especially during morning prayers. It’s an ideal place to enjoy the scenery with a touch of authentic local culture.

When is the best time to visit the top Ubud viewpoints?

Early morning provides the most fascinating views in Ubud, as the mist clings to the valleys and the sun rises. Photographers will enjoy the golden-light perfection that arrives at sunset.

What is the most peaceful viewpoint in Ubud?

Take in peaceful water garden views from Pura Taman Saraswati. Its lotus-filled ponds reflect traditional Balinese architecture, making this one of the most romantic things to do in Ubud.