Amed to Ubud is a journey that takes you from Bali’s quiet northeast coast to its lush cultural heart. Ubud sits in the Gianyar highlands, wrapped in rainforest, rice terraces, and cool mountain air, offering a peaceful contrast to the island’s busy southern beaches. Amed, known for its sleepy coastal vibe and volcanic scenery, feels worlds away in pace and atmosphere.
This guide covers everything you need for traveling from Amed to Ubud, the best routes, activities, and must-visit stops along the way. It’s your go-to resource for turning a simple transfer into a memorable adventure.
How Far is Amed from Ubud?
The Ubud to Amed distance is fairly long, with roughly 79 km separating the two areas. The route follows main roads and busy town centers, so traffic, especially near Gianyar and central Ubud, can stretch the journey to about 2 hours and 30 minutes, sometimes more if you’re staying deeper in Amed.
It’s a good idea to start the trip after enjoying a relaxing breakfast in Ubud, giving yourself plenty of time for the scenic drive without feeling rushed. But don’t forget to book your stay because there are plenty of accommodations to complete your travel experience.
If you choose to stay in Ubud, the area offers many options, from romantic resorts to some of the best hotels with private pools.
How to Travel from Amed to Ubud Easily
Amed to Ubud Bus
The shuttle bus is the most budget-friendly option and great for solo travelers. Companies like Perama Tour offer scheduled trips, but departures are limited, usually once or twice a day. The ride takes longer (around 3–4 hours) because it involves multiple pick-ups and drop-offs. It’s cheap and stress-free, but not door-to-door.
Amed to Ubud by Car (Private Driver)
Hiring a private driver is the most comfortable and flexible choice. It’s faster than the bus because you travel directly, and you can stop at scenic spots or famous temples in Ubud along the way, like Tirta Gangga or Taman Ujung. It’s door-to-door and smooth, making it the best option if you want convenience, though it costs more. This is the easiest way to experience Amed to Ubud driving at your own pace.
Renting a Motorcycle
This option is only for experienced riders. It can be quicker thanks to flexible navigation through traffic and is cheaper overall. But the long distance, varying terrain, and limited insurance coverage make it risky. Use this method only if you’re confident and prepared.
Online Ride Apps
Ride-hailing services such as Grab or Gojek are unreliable in Amed Bali and often extremely expensive when available. It’s not a practical or safe option for traveling long distances like this.
Amed to Ubud: Attraction & What to See
The Ubud to Amed travel time is about 2 hours and 49 minutes for the Ubud to Amed distance of roughly 72 km. Turning the journey into a half-day road trip makes the long route enjoyable.
Here are the best stops along the Amed to Ubud drive:
Historical & Royal Landmarks – Karangasem Area
Tirta Gangga (Water Palace)
A calm, scenic stop filled with fountains, koi ponds, and statues—perfect for breaking up the long Amed to Ubud trip.
Taman Ujung (Royal Water Palace)
A grand mix of Balinese and European architecture overlooking huge pools, hills, and the sea.
Temples & Mountain Views – Karangasem Highlands
Lempuyang Luhur Temple (Gate of Heaven)
Known worldwide for the Mount Agung backdrop framed by its iconic gates. A beautiful stop, though expect long lines and a steep climb.
Ancient Villages, Cultural Stops, and Shopping Spot – Toward Gianyar
Tenganan Pegringsingan Village
A traditional Bali Aga village famous for its preserved culture and the rare Tenun Gringsing double-ikat weaving.
Goa Lawah (Bat Cave Temple)
A striking coastal temple built around a cave of thousands of bats, adding a unique spiritual stop on your route.
Sukawati Market
You can shop for Balinese handicrafts and souvenirs at this market. In the morning, it is like a traditional market, but in the afternoon, it focuses more on selling knick-knacks. This is one of the shopping destinations in Ubud.
Goa Gajah
An archaeological site estimated to have been built in the 9th century. Its main attraction is the giant carving at the mouth of the cave that resembles a gaping monster.
Inside are statues of Ganesha and relics of Shiva. The area also has a bathing place (petirtaan) with seven statues of angels. One of the best temples in Ubud if you’re looking for cultural things.
Best Time to Travel from Amed to Ubud
Early Morning (7:00–8:00 AM)
Leave Amed before local traffic builds up in Karangasem and Klungkung. You’ll reach Ubud before the lunch rush, making the trip close to the minimum travel time of about 2.5 hours.
Late Afternoon (After 5:00 PM)
Traffic heading into Ubud usually eases by this time. It’s faster, but you’ll miss the beautiful landscapes that make Amed worth visiting in the first place.
Mid-Morning (9:00–10:00 AM)
Perfect if you want to enjoy the road trip. You can check out of Amed, visit places like Tirta Gangga before it gets crowded, and explore 2–3 attractions along the way. You’ll reach Ubud around 4:00–5:00 PM, just in time to settle in and try one of the many great restaurants in Ubud.
Rest and Relax After Traveling to Ubud at The Jungle Club
Traveling from Amed to Ubud is more than just a transfer; it’s a journey that moves you from Bali’s quiet coastal charm into its cultural and spiritual center. With scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and traditional villages along the way, the drive becomes an experience worth savoring.
Once you arrive, Ubud offers endless things to enjoy, from temples to markets to unforgettable dining spots. After your Amed to Ubud adventure, make time to unwind at The Jungle Club, a perfect place to take in jungle views, enjoy crafted drinks, and relax after a long journey. Book your spot through The Jungle Club’s website and elevate your Bali experience even more.
