Ubud Water Palace is a must-visit cultural and historical spot in Ubud, Bali. Known for its beautiful royal gardens, it features stunning pools, and traditional Balinese architecture. It’s also a favorite spot for photos, thanks to its statues, temples, and scenic water features.
The palace blends traditional Balinese design with peaceful waterscapes. It was once a resting and recreational place for the royal family and hosted certain ritual ceremonies. This is a handy guide for visitors looking to explore Ubud Water Palace.
The History of Ubud Water Palace
Water Palace Ubud was originally built by Tjokorda Gede Agung Sukawati, a king who strongly supported Balinese arts and culture. The palace blends Hindu spirituality with nature in its architecture, featuring intricate carvings and beautiful designs.
During the Dutch colonial period, it was the center of local government, and after Indonesia gained independence, it became a popular tourist destination and arts hub. In the 1950s, the palace was restored with help from German artist Walter Spies, who worked alongside the royal family to preserve Balinese culture.
Water Palace Ubud is now a venue for traditional Balinese arts, including the Legong Dance, which draws many visitors. You can also enjoy delicious Balinese food at the Lotus Cafe, overlooking a serene lotus pond, making the experience even more magical.
Remember, Pura Taman Saraswati (Saraswati Temple) is a different spot from the Ubud Palace, but both are rich in culture and history.
Ubud Water Palace Location & Entrance Fee
Bali offers plenty of free attractions, especially in cultural areas like waterfalls in Ubud and the Campuhan Ridge Walk. Located on Jalan Kajeng in Ubud, Gianyar Regency, this attraction requires an entrance fee, but it is affordable
For international visitors, the entrance fee is IDR 60,000 for adults and IDR 45,000 for children. There are also photo packages available, such as Entrance + 1 timed photo for IDR 100,000 per person, or a 3-piece photo package for IDR 100,000. If you’d like additional prints, they cost IDR 40,000 per photo.
For local visitors, the fee is IDR 35,000 for adults and IDR 25,000 for children. The same photo packages apply, with Entrance + 1 timed photo for IDR 75,000 and the 3-piece photo package for IDR 100,000. Additional prints also cost IDR 40,000 per photo. This is just one stop in your Ubud guide to exploring the area’s rich cultural offerings.
Best Time To Visit Ubud Water Palace
The best time to visit Ubud Water Palace really depends on the weather. According to the Ubud Weather Guide, the ideal time is during the dry season (April to October), perfect for outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak season, so it can get crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting at the start of the dry season, like late March or early April.
There are a few great times to visit Ubud Water Palace. First, you can go in the morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM), when it’s cooler and the soft morning light is great for photos. The downside is that there are no Legong Dance Ubud performances at this time.
Another good time is in the afternoon (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM), when the warm evening light creates a beautiful atmosphere for photos. However, the place starts to get busier before the dance at Ubud Palace.
Finally, the evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM) is when traditional dance performances start at 7:30 PM every night except Friday. The downside is that it can get cooler, so make sure to dress accordingly.
How to Get to Ubud Water Palace?
There are several ways to get to Ubud Water Palace since it’s located right in the heart of Ubud. If you’re already in Ubud, you can easily walk there or take a shuttle from your hotel.
For those staying in more remote areas like Denpasar or Gianyar, you can use online motorcycle taxis like Gojek or Grab. Another option is renting a motorcycle if the distance isn’t too far also gives you the freedom to explore other spots like cafes, restaurants, or hidden day clubs along the way.
However, if you plan to travel further, it’s better to take a Grab car, rent a car, or grab a taxi for a more comfortable ride. Keep in mind that renting a motorcycle is not ideal for long distances, as traffic can be heavy and unfamiliar roads might be tricky, especially for inexperienced riders.
What to wear to Ubud Water Palace?
To show respect at this sacred place, all visitors are required to wear the traditional attire provided at the entrance. When you arrive, you’ll be given a sarong to wear.
For women, the sarong must cover down to your ankles, and you will also need to tie a scarf around your waist. For men, the sarong needs to cover their legs to at least the knees. While scarves are usually optional for men, it’s a good idea to have your shoulders covered with a sleeved shirt.
This means you absolutely cannot wear shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. The rule applies to everyone, whether you’re planning to fully explore the temple grounds or just take a quick photo by the famous pond.
This dress code is all about dressing modestly out of respect for the local culture. So, remember to dress appropriately or just use the provided clothing to make sure your visit is smooth and respectful.
Other Destinations Near The Water Palace of Ubud
1. Museum Puri Lukisan
After you see the Ubud Water Palace, make sure to stop by the Puri Lukisan Museum. It’s the oldest art museum in Ubud and has an amazing mix of traditional and modern Balinese art. You’ll find all kinds of paintings, sculptures, and wood carvings that tell the story of how art has changed on the island over the years. It’s a great spot for art fans, photographers, or anyone curious about local culture. A little tip: try to get there early in the morning to enjoy everything without the crowds. You can find it at Jl. Raya Ubud No. 23.
2. Ubud Art Market
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head over to the Ubud Art Market. This is the go-to place for all kinds of Balinese souvenirs like batik clothes, silver jewelry, paintings, and handmade wood crafts. Don’t forget to bargain, it’s all part of the fun! For the best deals and a more relaxed experience, try visiting in the morning or late afternoon when it’s less busy. The market is located on Jl. Raya Ubud in Peliatan.
3. Elephant Cave (Goa Gajah)
Another cool place to check out is Goa Gajah, also known as the Elephant Cave. It’s an ancient site with really neat carvings, statues, and a cave that has a lot of spiritual meaning. It’s perfect if you’re into history, culture, or just want to take some unique photos. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes because there are quite a few steps and some uneven ground. Mornings are the best time to go to avoid the heat and the bigger tour groups. It’s located about 5 km from central Ubud.
4. Day Club with View: The Jungle Club Ubud
If you’re looking for fun daytime entertainment, you should definitely check out a day club. Ubud isn’t just about spirituality and culture; it also knows how to have a good time! While it might not have the beach clubs you find in Canggu or Seminyak, Ubud’s day clubs are something special, tucked right into the gorgeous jungle.
One of the most amazing spots is The Jungle Club. It has absolutely stunning views over the jungle and valley, plus an incredible infinity pool that you won’t want to leave. The whole place is built with bamboo and natural stone, so it feels like it really belongs in the beautiful surroundings. It’s such a cool bar and hangout, you might just fall in love the moment you see it.
5. Restaurant with View and Infinity Pool: Habitat Bistro
Ubud is famous for its unique restaurants that make the most of the beautiful natural surroundings. One great spot is Habitat Bistro, known for its amazing views of the tropical forest. The bistro serves a mix of Italian and French dishes and has a relaxed, nostalgic 2000s vibe. You’ll find everything from steaks and pastas to vegetarian options.
It’s also a perfect place to unwind with a drink, as they offer a wide selection of cocktails and wines. Cocktail bars in Ubud like this make it easy to enjoy the sunset while sipping something refreshing in a chill atmosphere.
Accommodation Near Ubud Water Palace
1. Maar Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for a peaceful and private place to stay, we highly recommend this resort. It’s nestled among beautiful rice fields in Payangan, making it the perfect spot to truly unwind. You can choose from a few different villas, like a spacious one-bedroom with its own private pool, a cozy one-bedroom with a jacuzzi, a larger two-bedroom villa, or a comfortable family suite.
When you get hungry, you don’t have to go far. Their restaurant, Cantina Classe Ubud, serves amazing Italian food right in the middle of Bali’s lush greenery. For the ultimate relaxation, you can also book a famous traditional Balinese massage at the on-site Svaha Spa. Plus, it’s a great home base for exploring, as you’ll be close to lots of natural attractions.
2. Kaamala Resort & Spa Ubud
Our next pick is the super luxurious Kaamala Resort. This place is all about offering a private and intimate getaway. It’s located on Jalan Bisma in Ubud, which is the best of both worlds: it’s incredibly peaceful and quiet, but still only a 10-15 minute walk from the busy main street. You’ll be surrounded by amazing jungle valley views the whole time.
They have ten different types of gorgeous rooms to choose from, everything from a Forest View Suite to a huge two-bedroom villa with its own private pool and rice field views. But it’s not just the rooms that are great. They have fantastic restaurants like Seven Paintings Ubud and Habitat Bistro. And for the best spa experience in Ubud, you have to try the treatments at their Svaha Spa Bisma. You can also relax in an infinity pool that looks out over the beautiful valley. It’s the ideal spot for anyone who wants to be right near the heart of Ubud without any of the noise.
3. Asvara Villa
This next recommendation is a bit different, it’s a private villa, not a resort. But don’t worry, it’s just as luxurious as the other places we’ve mentioned. Tucked away among peaceful rice paddies at Jl. Bangkiang Sidem No. 88 has a super relaxing vibe.
You can choose from three amazing villa types: a grand one-bedroom with a private pool and rice field views, a royal one-bedroom that also includes a jacuzzi, or a spacious two-bedroom villa with both a private pool and a jacuzzi.
One of the best perks is the free shuttle service they offer to central Ubud. This is perfect if you don’t want to rent a car or scooter but still want to go exploring easily. They also offer special packages if you’re planning to celebrate a big event, making it a great choice for something extra memorable.
4. Asvara Resort & Spa
If you’re looking for something a bit different, our next suggestion is a private villa. Just because it’s not a large resort doesn’t mean it’s any less luxurious. Set right in the middle of beautiful rice paddies at Jl. Bangkiang Sidem No. 88, it’s the perfect resort to totally unwind.
You can pick from three gorgeous villa options. There’s a grand one-bedroom villa with a private pool and lovely rice field views, a royal one-bedroom that comes with both a private pool and a jacuzzi, or a larger royal two-bedroom villa that also has its own pool and jacuzzi.
A really handy feature is their free shuttle service to central Ubud. This is great if you’d prefer not to rent your own transport but still want to see the sights. They also put together special packages for celebrations, making it an ideal spot for a big occasion.
5. Amarea Resort & Spa
Looking for a peaceful and private luxury getaway? Check out Amarea Resort Ubud. It’s surrounded by Ubud’s beautiful natural scenery.
Even though it feels like a hidden escape away from the crowds, you’re still close enough to easily explore all of Ubud’s famous cultural and natural attractions.
You’ll have plenty of choices here, with nine different types of rooms and villas. Options range from a cozy Ubud Cottage all the way up to a Grand Two-Bedroom Loft that includes a private pool and gorgeous forest views. When you’re not out exploring, you can enjoy delicious food at Norii Japanese Restaurant or treat yourself to a famous traditional massage at Svaha Spa Teges.
Let’s Explore The Water Palace of Ubud
A visit to the Ubud Water Palace offers more than just a glimpse into Bali’s royal history, it’s an immersive experience where art, nature, and spirituality come together. From its serene lotus ponds and intricate architecture to its rich cultural significance, this iconic site captures the heart of Ubud’s heritage.
Whether you’re admiring the traditional dance performances, strolling through the lush gardens, or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, the Ubud Water Palace leaves a lasting impression of beauty and reverence.
After exploring the cultural treasures of Ubud, why not unwind in style? Head over to The Jungle Club, the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing. With its breathtaking jungle views, stunning infinity pool, and laid-back vibe, it’s easily one of the best activities in Ubud.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Bali’s natural beauty from this incredible vantage point. Plan your visit today and make your Ubud adventure truly unforgettable!
