Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples

Discover Ubud’s Spiritual and Natural Treasures in a Day

If you’re looking to experience Bali beyond the beaches, the Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of the island’s most iconic and tranquil sights. For just $35 per person, you get a flexible, privately guided day extended over 8 to 10 hours, taking you from the sacred waters of Tirta Empul to the lush, terraced landscapes of Tegallalang, and finishing with a refreshing waterfall dip. With pickup included and the chance to customize your stops, this tour is a practical and immersive way to soak in Bali’s spiritual essence and natural beauty.

What we really love about this experience? First, the personal touch of having a dedicated driver-guide means no rushing, no crowded group, just a tailored pace that respects your interests. Second, the diverse stops — from ancient temples to jungle waterfalls — capture the full spectrum of Bali’s cultural and natural allure.

A potential consideration? Since some sites charge entrance fees (~IDR 200K per person), it’s wise to budget for those in advance. Also, if you’re particularly keen on the Monkey Forest, note it’s optional and may not be included unless you add it on.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authenticity — small groups or couples wanting a personalized day — and those eager to see Bali’s spiritual sites and stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. Based on glowing reviews, it’s especially ideal for first-timers or anyone seeking a balanced mix of culture, nature, and comfort.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience ensures a relaxed, personalized day.
• Cultural highlights include Tirta Empul or Goa Gajah, offering insights into Balinese spirituality.
• Scenic landscapes like Tegallalang Rice Terraces and jungle waterfalls provide stunning photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides make the experience richer with local insights.
• Value for money at $35 per person, including guide and transportation, makes this a cost-effective choice.
• Optional stops like the Monkey Forest add flexibility depending on your interests.

Exploring the Richness of Ubud: What the Tour Offers

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Ubud’s spiritual and natural identity. It’s designed for travelers who want a seamless, engaging day with a local guide who can shed light on Bali’s traditions while taking you to some of its most striking sights. The key is the personal driver-guide, who not only drives safely but also ensures your experience is tailored, informative, and relaxed.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

Hotel Pickup at 8:30 AM
Your day begins early with hotel pickup, a major advantage for avoiding the midday heat or the crowds. The private vehicle offers air-conditioned comfort, keeping you cool as you navigate Bali’s lush countryside. The flexibility to start at a time that suits your schedule means you’re not constrained by rigid group timings.

Tirta Empul Temple or Goa Gajah
First stop is Tirta Empul, famous for its holy spring water, where locals and visitors alike participate in purification rituals. The atmosphere here is serene but vibrant, with worshippers and travelers mingling in the sacred pools. Alternatively, Goa Gajah, the Elephant Cave, offers a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual past with its carved stone entrances and ancient relics. The guided explanation enhances the experience, helping you understand the significance of these sites.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces
No trip to Ubud is complete without walking through the UNESCO-listed rice terraces. The terraces’ emerald hues are even more breathtaking in person, especially with the morning light. We loved the way the guide pointed out the irrigation system and shared insights into rice farming, making it more than just a pretty photo op.

Jungle Waterfalls (Tegenungan or Tukad Cepung)
Cooling off at a waterfall is a highlight. Whether you choose Tegenungan or Tukad Cepung, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush jungle, with waterfalls cascading into pools perfect for a quick dip. The reviews praise the waterfalls as “hidden gems,” and indeed, they are less crowded than other Bali attractions, offering a tranquil escape.

Optional: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
This stop is optional, but many travelers find it adds a fun, quirky element. Walking among long-tailed macaques and ancient temples, you’ll experience Bali’s spiritual flora and fauna. The guide can help you navigate the site responsibly, respecting the monkeys and the sacred grounds.

Scenic Drive & Local Lunch
Before returning to your hotel, a drive through villages and paddy fields offers a taste of daily Balinese life. The lunch stop at D Alas Warung provides a chance to sample local flavors (lunch is at your own expense), with many reviews noting the beautiful countryside scenery along the way.

Drop-off in the Late Afternoon
As the day winds down, your driver will return you comfortably to your hotel, ending a day full of memorable sights and stories.

Authenticity and Value

The real strength of this tour lies in its combination of cost-effectiveness and personalized experience. At $35, including guide, transportation, bottled water, and park fees, it offers more value than many crowded group tours. The private setup ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the flexible itinerary allows you to spend more time at sites that fascinate you most.

The reviews reinforce this, with travelers praising the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer raved about how Dewa was “very kind, polite, and informative,” helping them feel comfortable and well-informed. Others appreciated the ability to take beautiful photos thanks to the helpful guide, making their memories more vivid.

What You’ll Love

• The ability to customize your stops depending on your interests.
• The chance to learn about Balinese culture from a knowledgeable local guide.
• Stunning vistas and peaceful spots that are often less crowded than other Bali attractions.
• The comfort of a private vehicle and flexible timing, making the day flow smoothly.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

• Entrance fees are not included, so budget approximately IDR 200K (~$14) per person.
• Lunch is at your own expense, offering a chance to indulge in local dishes but requiring planning.
• For those with mobility issues, some waterfalls or temple steps might require extra attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups, couples, or families who want a manageable, personalized day exploring Bali’s spiritual sites and natural beauty. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value local insights and flexibility over rigid group schedules. If you enjoy scenic drives, cultural stops, and the chance to relax in nature, this tour fits the bill.

Those seeking a more comprehensive or adrenaline-filled adventure might prefer other options, but if your goal is to enjoy Bali’s highlights comfortably and authentically, this private tour strikes a fine balance.

Final Thoughts

This Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples tour offers a worthwhile, well-paced glimpse into Bali’s sacred and scenic side. For a modest price, you get a private guide who can tailor your experience, along with a carefully curated set of stops that showcase Bali’s spiritual heart and lush landscapes.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or anyone eager to avoid the hassle of planning. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and flexible scheduling makes it a solid choice for those wanting to make the most of a single day in Ubud.

If you’re looking for an authentic, manageable way to explore Bali’s spiritual sites and natural beauty, this tour delivers on both fronts, leaving you with memories of peaceful temples, verdant rice fields, and refreshing waterfalls.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $35 fee covers the private air-conditioned vehicle, professional English-speaking driver-guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and parking fees.

Are entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets (about IDR 200K per person) are paid separately by travelers at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private and flexible, allowing you to spend more time at places you’re most interested in. The guide can adjust the stops accordingly.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, with a scenic countryside stop at D Alas Warung where you can enjoy local dishes.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the flexible schedule and private setup make it suitable for families or small groups seeking a comfortable, guided experience.

How early does the tour start?
Pickup is typically at 8:30 AM, but the start time can be customized.

What about the waterfalls?
You’ll visit either Tegenungan or Tukad Cepung, both beautiful jungle waterfalls known for their peaceful surroundings and photo opportunities.

Is the Sacred Monkey Forest optional?
Yes, it’s an optional stop, depending on your interests and time constraints.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and cash for entrance fees and lunch.

What is the main benefit of this tour?
The private, tailored nature of the experience, combined with expert guidance, makes it a relaxed way to see Bali’s spiritual and natural gems efficiently.

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide if the Hidden Ubud: Waterfalls & Sacred Temples tour fits your Bali adventure plans. Whether you seek serene temples, lush rice paddies, or a refreshing waterfall, it offers a genuine taste of Bali’s soul all in one manageable day.