Puri Saren Agung (Ubud Palace)
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About
Located at the central crossroads of Ubud, the Royal Palace is the historic seat of the local monarchy and a prime example of traditional Balinese architecture. Built during the 1800s, the palace features intricate stone carvings, gilded wooden doors, and lush tropical courtyards. While the royal family still resides in parts of the complex, much of the front section is open to the public. Every evening, the courtyard transforms into a stage for traditional Balinese dance performances under the moonlight. The sensory experience is a blend of cultural grandeur and the bustling energy of Ubud town. Experts recommend visiting in the late afternoon to admire the detail of the gates before the dance crowds arrive. Pro tip: Entrance to the palace grounds during the day is free, but tickets are required for the evening dance performances.
Highlights
- Royal palace architecture
- Nightly traditional dance shows
- Historical Ubud landmark
- Central cultural meeting point
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Ibu Oka Babi Guling
Once made famous by Anthony Bourdain, Ibu Oka is the most iconic spot in Bali to try Babi Guling (Suckling Pig). Traditionally a ceremonial dish, the pork is stuffed with a rich 'basa gede' spice paste and slow-roasted over an open fire. The sensory experience is a texture-rich journey—from the glass-like crunch of the crackling to the tender, spiced meat. Experts recommend ordering the 'Special' plate to get a bit of everything, including blood sausage and fried innards. Pro tip: The restaurant usually opens at 11:00 AM and stays open until the pig runs out; arrive early (by noon) to ensure you get the best cuts and the coveted crispy skin before it sells out.
Ubud Art Market
Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud) is the cultural shopping heart of the island, where you can find everything from handcrafted woven bags and silk scarves to traditional Ikat textiles and wood carvings. Many of the items sold here are made in the neighboring villages of Pengosekan, Tegallalang, and Payangan. The market was also a filming location for 'Eat Pray Love,' which cemented its global fame. The sensory experience is a vibrant chaos of colors, textures, and the lively sounds of bargaining. Experts recommend looking for the iconic 'Ata' round rattan bags, which are a local specialty. Pro tip: Arrive as early as 8:00 AM to get 'morning prices,' as many vendors believe the first sale of the day brings good luck. Remember to bargain politely; a good rule of thumb is to start at half the initial asking price.
Pura Taman Saraswati
Dedicated to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning, literature, and art, this temple is famous for its stunning outdoor foyer featuring two massive ponds filled with blooming pink lotuses. The water garden creates a serene path leading to the ornate main temple gate, which is a masterpiece of Balinese stone carving. The sensory experience is one of quiet elegance, with the soft scent of lotus blossoms and the backdrop of traditional architecture. Experts recommend visiting in the evening when the temple is illuminated and hosts traditional dance performances. Pro tip: The best view of the temple is from the adjacent Cafe Lotus or Starbucks; while you need to pay to enter the inner temple for prayer, the lotus pond walk is accessible and provides one of Ubud's most beautiful photo opportunities.
Shichirin Ubud
Shichirin is an intimate Japanese Konro Grill restaurant located in the lush valley of Ubud. It specializes in the art of tabletop grilling using traditional 'Shichirin' ceramic stoves and premium Binchotan charcoal, which imparts a unique smoky flavor to the meats. The atmosphere is upscale and Zen-like, focusing on the craftsmanship of the chefs who prepare high-quality Wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and organic vegetables right before your eyes. The sensory experience is interactive, marked by the sizzle of fat on hot coals and the delicate presentation of Japanese aesthetics. Experts recommend the 'Wagyu A5' set for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pro tip: With limited seating around the chef's counter, reservations are essential for dinner; the restaurant's location on Jalan Bisma offers a quieter, more refined vibe than central Ubud.
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