Canggu to Ubud is a popular route for travelers who want to experience the best of Bali, from the laid-back surf vibes of the coast to the peaceful greenery of the highlands. Ubud sits in the heart of Gianyar Regency, surrounded by rice fields and art villages, while Canggu lies along Bali’s southern shoreline in Badung Regency, just north of Seminyak.
In this guide, you’ll find the most convenient ways to travel from Canggu to Ubud, along with helpful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
How Far is Canggu from Ubud
Canggu to Ubud distance is approximately 28 kilometers or 17 miles, making it a manageable and scenic journey across the heart of Bali.
It’s easy to get from Canggu to Ubud, with many travelers choosing motorbikes for flexibility or private cars for comfort. The main route via Jl. Raya Munggu–Kapal helps avoid narrow roads, while some enjoy a slower drive through Jl. Raya Canggu and Goa Gajah. Along the way, you’ll pass lush landscapes and even some popular day clubs in Bali, adding more color to the trip.
How to Travel from Canggu to Ubud Easily
Route
Traveling Canggu to Ubud by motorbike offers a smoother and more scenic ride, especially since you can use shortcuts through rice fields that aren’t available to cars. The journey starts by leaving the Canggu area via Jalan Raya Canggu or quieter backroads toward Pererenan, eventually connecting to Jalan Raya Munggu–Kapal.
As you ride inland and leave the coastal region behind, you’ll pass through Kapal or Mengwi, one of Bali’s busiest intersections where traffic from Denpasar, Badung, and Canggu merges. After this, the road opens up as you head northeast toward Ubud, usually taking Jalan Raya Sangeh or Kedewatan depending on your route.
The final approach to Central Ubud is often via Jalan Raya Goa Gajah, a popular entry point into the heart of the town. The last few kilometers along Jalan Raya Ubud or Monkey Forest Road can be slow due to narrow roads and heavy traffic, but they’re lined with charming cafes in Ubud, perfect for a break once you arrive. For the return trip, Ubud to Canggu follows a similar path, just as scenic, but best done outside peak traffic hours.
Transportation:
1. Scooter Ride (Gojek/Grab Bike)
Taking a scooter from Canggu to Ubud is the fastest and most flexible choice for solo travelers. You can cut through village shortcuts and scenic rice fields, avoiding traffic that cars can’t bypass.
This option is great if you’re traveling light and planning to hop between day clubs or explore without time pressure. But it’s not ideal if you’re carrying luggage or caught in the rain. The ride takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, with online bike services like Gojek costing between IDR 60,000–90,000.
2. Online Car Taxi (Gojek/Grab Car)
A more comfortable ride for those with bags or traveling in pairs. Air-conditioned and app-based, this is a reliable option, but it’s slower due to traffic and car-only routes. Also, note that Canggu has red zones where app-based pickups might be tricky. The fare ranges between IDR 200,000–300,000, depending on time and traffic.
3. Private Driver
If you’re traveling with friends, family, or just want a smoother ride, hiring a private driver is ideal. Door-to-door service in spacious vehicles makes the journey easier, especially with lots of bags or planned stops.
While more costly (IDR 350,000–1,000,000), this option is flexible and often negotiable, great for those debating if it’s better to stay in Canggu or Ubud. And this option is the best if you want to stop along the way, like visiting restaurants or bars in Ubud.
4. Shuttle Service
Many villas or resorts offer shuttle trips between major tourist areas like Ubud and Seminyak. It’s a convenient add-on if your stay includes it, though you’ll need to stick to a fixed pickup time. This option works best for travelers with a relaxed schedule who don’t mind fewer stops along the way.
5. Conventional Taxi
Although online apps are more common now, traditional taxis are still a dependable way to travel. They offer metered fares, especially when using trusted companies like Blue Bird.
You’ll often spot them around Seminyak or Legian, but catching one in Canggu might take a little more effort. The Canggu to Ubud taxi price usually ranges from IDR 250,000 to 400,000, depending on pick-up point and traffic, especially during peak hours when delays are frequent.
6. Bus Ride
Taking the Canggu to Ubud bus is the most budget-friendly option, ideal for backpackers and travelers who don’t mind a bit of planning. While the ride isn’t door-to-door, it’s perfect for those traveling light and wanting a greener option.
You’ll need to get to a pickup location like Kuta or Seminyak and hop off at a designated stop in Ubud. Expect to pay around IDR 60,000–100,000, depending on the bus provider and route.
Canggu Vs Ubud: What’s the Difference Between These Areas
Canggu
Situated along Bali’s southern coast in Badung Regency, Canggu is a modern beachside hub known for its black sand beaches and former rice paddies that have transformed into trendy cafes and residences. The vibe here is fast-paced and social, shaped by a youthful crowd of surfers, digital nomads, and global creatives.
Daily life in Canggu revolves around surf sessions at Batu Bolong or Echo Beach, visits to beach clubs, boutique shopping, and Instagram-worthy brunches. The food scene is heavily influenced by health-conscious trends, think vegan bowls, raw desserts, and artistic plating. It’s the perfect place to start or end your Canggu to Ubud journey if you’re craving modern energy and vibrant nightlife.
Ubud
Tucked in the cool, misty highlands of Gianyar Regency, Ubud offers a completely different pace, quiet, lush, and deeply rooted in Balinese culture. It’s surrounded by rainforests, valleys, and iconic rice terraces, creating a serene escape ideal for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
Life in Ubud revolves around yoga, art, and mindful exploration. You’ll find peaceful temples, the sacred Monkey Forest, and scenic dining spots tucked into the jungle.
From traditional dishes like Babi Guling to organic farm-to-table meals, dining in Ubud is an experience in itself. For those heading from Ubud to Canggu, don’t miss stopping by one of the cozy bars in Ubud or romantic cocktail bars for a quiet nightcap before the coastal buzz.
Best Time to Travel from Canggu to Ubud
Timing your Canggu to Ubud trip right makes a big difference, especially with Bali’s unpredictable traffic. The smoothest travel window is early morning between 6:00 and 7:30 a.m., when the roads through Canggu and Kapal/Mengwi are still calm before commuters and delivery drivers hit the streets. This timing often keeps the trip under 1 hour and 15 minutes.
If you’re not an early riser, a second good option is midday, between 11:00 and 2:00 p.m., when most locals and tourists are already settled into their routines. Avoid traveling during rush hours (8:00–10:00 a.m. and 4:00–7:00 p.m.), when the same route can stretch to nearly two hours. Plan smart, and it’s easy to get from Canggu to Ubud without the stress.
Visit The Jungle Club to Rest and Relax After Traveling to Ubud
Traveling from Canggu to Ubud is more than just a scenic transfer, it’s a shift between Bali’s energetic beach life and its tranquil highland charm. The route is ideal for those who want to experience both sides of the island, from surfing and pool party scenes to spiritual retreats and lush jungle landscapes.
After arriving in Ubud, take your downtime to the next level at The Jungle Club, a perfect spot nestled in greenery, offering laid-back vibes with elevated jungle views. With refreshing drinks, cozy seating, and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to unwind and reset after your journey.
