Highlight • Historical Site
Hiking
4.7
(14)
Cycling
4.5
(9)
Ubud Palace, officially known as Puri Saren Agung, is a captivating historical building complex nestled in the heart of Ubud, Gianyar Regency, Bali, Indonesia. Situated at an elevation of 250 meters, this site serves as the official residence of the Ubud royal family and stands as a vibrant testament to Balinese heritage and tradition. It is a prime example of traditional Balinese architecture, characterized by its ornate carvings, intricate stonework, and distinctive thatched roofs.
Visitors consistently praise the palace for…
Tips
March 27, 2024
Cycling
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Ubud Palace
4.3
(18)
87
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
65
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
2.18km
00:35
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 4 April
32°C
22°C
95 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Ubud Palace is generally open to the public daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry to the public areas of the palace grounds is free of charge. However, there is a separate fee if you wish to attend the traditional Balinese dance performances held nightly in the palace courtyard.
While Ubud Palace itself is a historical complex, its central location in Ubud makes it an excellent starting point for various walking routes. You can easily access walks that lead to the Ubud Art Market, the Saraswati Temple, or even longer strolls towards the Campuhan Ridge Walk for more natural scenery. These routes are generally easy to moderate, suitable for most walkers.
Ubud does not have an extensive public bus system like larger cities. The most common public transport options to reach Ubud Palace are local bemo (minivans), ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek, or hiring a private driver. Many visitors also choose to walk if their accommodation is within Ubud center, as the palace is centrally located on Jalan Raya Ubud.
Walks directly around Ubud Palace and in the immediate town center are primarily on paved sidewalks and roads, making them generally flat and easy. If you venture slightly further to areas like the Campuhan Ridge Walk, you'll encounter gentle inclines and well-maintained dirt paths, offering a mix of urban and natural walking experiences.
Due to its historical architecture and traditional Balinese design, Ubud Palace has limited wheelchair accessibility. While the main courtyards might be navigable, many areas involve steps, uneven surfaces, and narrow pathways, which could pose challenges for wheelchair users.
Ubud Palace is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy exploring the ornate architecture and gardens. The highlight for many families is attending the evening Balinese dance performances, which offer a captivating cultural experience with vibrant costumes and music. Nearby, the Ubud Art Market provides an opportunity for children to see local crafts and souvenirs.
Generally, historical sites and temples in Bali, including Ubud Palace, do not permit dogs inside the complex. For dog-friendly options in the wider Ubud area, it's best to check with individual cafes, restaurants, or accommodations, as policies can vary. Many outdoor walking paths, however, are suitable for walks with leashed dogs.
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring the public areas of Ubud Palace. If you plan to attend an evening dance performance, allocate an additional 1.5 to 2 hours for the show itself, including arrival and seating time.
While there isn't a strict dress code for Ubud Palace as it's not a temple, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting any religious or cultural site in Bali. It's recommended to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal due to Bali's warm climate.
Beyond the well-known Ubud Art Market and Saraswati Temple, consider exploring the nearby Puri Saren Agung (the royal family's private residence, parts of which are sometimes open), or venture slightly further to discover smaller, local temples tucked away in the rice fields. The Museum Puri Lukisan is also a short walk away and offers a deeper dive into Balinese art history.
Being in the heart of Ubud, there are numerous accommodation options within walking distance of Ubud Palace, ranging from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels and luxury resorts. Many offer traditional Balinese architecture and lush garden settings, providing easy access to the palace, restaurants, and shops.
The architecture of Ubud Palace is a profound expression of Balinese culture and philosophy. It adheres to the concept of Tri Hita Karana, emphasizing harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world. Key elements like the ornate carvings, intricate stonework, and distinctive thatched roofs are not merely decorative but tell stories of Balinese craftsmanship, spiritual devotion, and royal heritage, reflecting centuries of tradition.