How to celebrate Easter in Ubud: A complete guide

Easter in Ubud coincides with the end of the wet season, which means clear mornings and comfortable temperatures for visitors. While Bali is predominantly Hindu, the time around Easter sees unique experiences, with local Christians gathering at Gereja Kristen Protestan church and resorts hosting holiday brunches and afternoon teas. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Ubud at Easter, start with a sunrise walk along the Campuhan Ridge, explore the city’s art markets, or visit a traditional water temple for spiritual renewal. Here’s how to spend Easter in Ubud.

Everything to know about how to spend Easter in Ubud

Easter traditions: Christian Easter services at Gereja Kristen Protestan Bali.
Best free Easter activity: Walking the Campuhan Ridge or rice terraces at sunrise or visiting the local art market to see spring-themed displays.
Average temperatures around Easter: Around 75-88 F (24-31 C).
Festive food to try: Pandan-spiced hot cross buns and Easter eggs decorated with Balinese patterns.

1. Watch the sunrise along the Campuhan Ridge

The clear morning skies make April one of the best times to visit Ubud and hike its iconic walking trail. The ridge offers breathtaking views of mist-covered valleys and distant volcanoes, with tropical plants and trees at their greenest following the rainy season.

Insider tip

Start your walk from the Warwick IBAH entrance at 6 AM to catch the sunrise, and bring some cash for a traditional Balinese coffee at the halfway point.

Address

Warwick IBAH Luxury Villas & Spa, Jalan Raya Campuhan, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Opening hours

Open daily from 5:30 AM to 6 PM.

2. Join a Balinese cooking class

April is the beginning of the dry season, and there are special cooking workshops and classes in Ubud focusing on traditional dishes that celebrate new beginnings and renewal — themes that resonate with both Easter traditions and Balinese culture. You’ll shop for fresh spring ingredients at a local market, then learn to make dishes like yellow coconut curry (symbolizing the golden sun) and traditional sweets wrapped in young banana leaves.

Insider tip

Choose a class that includes crafting Balinese pandan-leaf baskets, which can be used as unique souvenirs or decorative Easter egg baskets.

3. Visit a water temple for spiritual renewal

When looking at how to spend Easter in Ubud, you’ll find that few experiences can match the serenity of a visit to the Tirta Empul water temple. Considered holy in Balinese culture, the temple’s waters represent purification and renewal, providing a peaceful setting for reflection during the holiday season.

Insider tip

As one of the most popular places to visit in Ubud, Tirta Empul gets crowded. For a more serene temple experience, time your visit for early morning (before 9 AM) and enter through the less-used east gate.

Address

Jalan Tirta, Manukaya, Tampaksiring, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia.

Opening hours

Open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM.

4. Explore Ubud’s art markets and galleries

Around Easter, the bustling morning market in Ubud has special displays of hand-painted eggs and spring-themed crafts alongside traditional Balinese artworks.

Insider tip

After hitting the morning market, head to Ubud’s galleries, such as the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA) or the Neka Art Museum, to see even more contemporary and traditional artwork.

Address

Ubud Art Market: Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia.

Opening hours

Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM.

5. Taste Easter treats at a brunch or afternoon tea

A few luxury hotels offer special brunches or afternoon teas during Easter in Ubud that blend European flavors and Balinese cuisine with dishes from Ubud. Expect three-tiered stands piled with local fruit tarts, pandan-flavored scones, and chocolate eggs decorated with traditional Balinese patterns.

Highlight

The brunch at Kubu at Mandapa features hand-painted Easter eggs created by local artisans, while their pastry chefs prepare hot cross buns using aromatic Balinese spices.

6. Attend an Easter service at Gereja Kristen Protestan church

While Bali is predominantly Hindu, the island’s Christian community comes together during Easter at the historic Gereja Kristen Protestan Bali. The church’s blend of colonial architecture and Balinese design elements creates a unique spiritual setting in Ubud for Easter celebrations, where local Christian traditions merge with cultural touches.

Insider tip

Arrive early to meet members of Ubud’s diverse expat community, who often organize inclusive post-service gatherings featuring both traditional Easter treats and local Balinese delicacies.

Address

Jl. Debes No.6 Denpasar, Bali

Opening hours

Regular services on Sundays at 10 AM, with special services throughout Easter week. Contact the church office for the Easter schedule.

Easter in Ubud: FAQs

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Are there Easter holidays in Bali?

Easter is recognized as a public holiday in Bali, allowing for celebrations among the Christian community. While Hinduism is predominant, Catholicism and Protestantism are among the other main religions, granting the ability to celebrate Christian festivals like Easter.

What is the weather like in Ubud during Easter?

Easter in Ubud typically falls during the dry season, which means you can expect warm and sunny weather. Temperatures usually range from 24 C to 30 C (75 F to 86 F). It’s a great time to explore the lush landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities without the interruption of rain, though there might still be some residual rainy occasions.

Are there any special events or festivals in Ubud during Easter?

Ubud is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and while Easter is not traditionally celebrated, you may find art exhibitions, dance performances, and music events happening around this time. The Ubud Palace and various cultural centers often host events that showcase Balinese arts and traditions.

What are some must-visit attractions in Ubud during Easter?

During Easter, take the opportunity to visit iconic Ubud attractions such as the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Ubud Art Market. These sites offer a glimpse into the natural beauty and rich culture of the area. Additionally, consider exploring nearby temples like Goa Gajah and Tirta Empul.

What should I pack for a trip to Ubud during Easter?

When visiting Ubud during Easter, pack light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, along with a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the area’s attractions. If you plan on visiting temples, bring a sarong or scarf to cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.