Ubud at night: 8 epic adventures after dark

Ubud is a city in touch with its roots, and that is never more evident than at night. As the sun goes down, temples and theaters welcome visitors to experience traditional Balinese arts firsthand, including trance performances, fire dancing, puppetry, and more.

In contrast to the neon, pulsating, exhilarating cities in the south of Bali, Ubud offers an opportunity to sit back, reflect, and fully immerse yourself in a different culture. From the palace to the traditional markets to the sacred volcano, there are many enriching things to do in Ubud at night.

Top ranked: Ubud at night

Best attractions to visit at night: Ubud Palace, Ubud Night Market, Kecak and fire dances

Best neighborhood for nightlife: The center city or near the Sacred Monkey Forest

Best night activities for kids: Firefly tours in Taro Village

1. Feel the heat at a Kecak and fire dance

This mesmerizing musical art form, in which a large chorus of men chants and moves in complex and rhythmic ways, is not only one of the best things to do in Ubud at night but one of the most unique experiences in all of Bali. The Kecak vocalists create a trance-like state, accompanying actor-dancers in elaborate costumes, acting out the Ramayana epic tale.

Why do this at night?

The performances are held just after sunset so the fire can be wielded by the performers to maximum effect.

Address and opening hours

The Kecak dances are held at multiple locations throughout the city, always at sunset.

2. Search for treasures at the night markets

Markets in Ubud are everywhere, offering clothing, handmade crafts, religious articles, and much more. Experiencing the whirlwind of fabrics, glittering crystals, persistent hagglers, delicious morsels, and enticing smells is one of the most fun things to do at night in Ubud. Snag a guide to get tips on deal-hunting.

Why do this at night?

While daytime markets like the Traditional Art Market are a fun way to spend your afternoon, they are created specifically for visitors to the city. If you want to mingle with the locals and have a truly authentic shopping experience, the night market is your best bet.

Address and opening hours

Night Market Peliatan: F7J9+VG7, Peliatan, Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali 80571.

Sayan Night Market: no 80571, Jl. Raya Tebongkang No.39, Singakerta, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open daily, approximately 6:00 PM-11:00 PM.

3. Experience traditional theater at Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace sits in the center of the city and is open during the day to explore for free. Come nightfall, it features a rotating roster of traditional theatrical and dance events, including Barong, Keris, Legong, and Kecak performances. Being whisked away into this world of ancient folklore is an unmissable aspect of Ubud at night.

Why do this at night?

All of the traditional dances are only performed at sunset or after nightfall.

Address and opening hours

Jl. Raya Ubud No.8, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571.

4. Climb Mount Batur in the dark for an awe-inspiring summit sunrise

Many tourists imagine Bali as either a relaxing beach vacation spot or a non-stop party, but there’s an adventurous side to the island, too. Tours depart from Ubud around 2:00 AM daily for the foot of Mount Batur, a volcano sacred to Balinese Hinduism. A guide will provide you with a headlamp and a walking stick and lead you along the long, dark scramble up the mountain. This may not initially sound like the most enjoyable thing to do in Ubud at night, but the once-in-a-lifetime views of the sunrise from the summit make every moment worth it.

Why do this at night?

While Mount Batur is a gorgeous hike at any time, greeting the sunrise from the top of a volcano is an entirely unique experience.

Address and opening hours

South Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali. Open 24 hours.

5. Try a new cuisine at a Balinese cooking class

Food is one of the best ways to get familiar with a culture, and learning in a local cooking class takes that experience to another level. Try your hand at making delicious dishes like nasi campur (mixed rice with a variety of side dishes and curries), sate (also known as satay), corn fritters, and tempeh (fried fermented soybeans) under the watchful eye of an expert.

Why do this at night?

The tropical climate of Bali combined with the heat of cooking with an open flame can be exhausting if you’re not used to it. Book your cooking classes in Ubud at night to take advantage of the cooler temperatures.

6. Enjoy the musical nightlife of Ubud

While Ubud does not have the same level of party atmosphere as Canggu or Kuta in the south of Bali, there are still plenty of fun bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit different tastes. The city comes alive with musicians after sunset, making wandering between different nightlife spots one of the most fun things to do at night in Ubud. If you’d prefer a laid-back, hippie atmosphere, the area around the Sacred Monkey Forest has lots of options.

Why do this at night?

Most bars and restaurants in Ubud are open during the day, but the live music options are more varied and energetic after dark.

7. Enter a dream world of fireflies

Head to nearby Taro Village to experience the magic of the Fire Flies Garden, a conservation area carefully maintained to restore the habitat of these beautiful creatures. You can visit alone or book a tour with food, transport, and expert insight. Either way, the cost of your admission ticket goes directly to support this project.

Why do this at night?

The sensation of being enveloped in thousands of gently twinkling lights is unforgettable and surely one of the most relaxing ways to spend your time in Ubud at night.

8. Enjoy a movie at Paradiso Ubud

When you’re exhausted from trying out all the other exciting things on this list, you’ve earned a cozy night in Ubud. Look no further than Paradiso Ubud, a locally owned cultural center, movie cinema, and vegan restaurant. This warm and welcoming space is filled with couches to curl up on and watch classic, vintage, and cult films — and don’t miss out on the food and drink, which you can have brought directly to you.

Why do this at night?

While Paradiso is open during the day, the space is mostly used for community events and classes. In the evenings, the couches are brought out, the screen comes down, and the cinema comes to life!

Address and opening hours

Jl. Goutama Sel., Ubud, Kec. Gianyar, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571. Open daily; hours depend on what events have been booked.

Ubud at Night: FAQs

Is it safe to take a nighttime stroll in Ubud?

In terms of crime, Bali is incredibly safe, and there is no concern when out late in Ubud at night. However, large portions of the city do not have sidewalks, and it is potentially dangerous for pedestrians to walk on streets overflowing with scooters and motorbikes.

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Ubud?

For a romantic night out, check out some of the resorts and spas near the Sacred Monkey Forest. After a Balinese couple's massage, you can treat yourselves to dinner or cocktails.

What are some of the top nighttime activities in Ubud?

Popular nighttime activities include attending traditional dance performances like Kecak, Legong, or Barong, as well as bargaining for goods at the night market.

What are the most popular night tours in Ubud?

Some of the most popular night tours include hiking Mount Batur for the sunrise, visiting the fireflies in Taro village, and night market food tours.

What are some fun activities to do with kids in Ubud at night?

Taking your kids to see thousands of fireflies in Taro is sure to be a travel memory that lasts them a lifetime. Don’t forget your camera!