We managed to do some pretty cool things in Ubud. I’ve put together five hidden gems or more obscure things to do in Ubud that aren’t necessarily on the tourist trail.
- Campuhan Ridge Walk & Village Walk
We got up one morning at 6.30am to get to the Campuhan Ridge before it got too hot and busy and it was certainly worth it. The walk we did took around 3 hours and went along the ridge, through jungle, rice paddies and a local village that was more like the Ubud we imagined – quiet, traditional and beautiful. If you download Google maps, you can see the loop we did (along the ridge, then bear left and follow the road round in a big circle until you come out on the main road into Ubud).
2. Silver Jewellery Workshop at Chez Monique
We spent 3-4 hours one afternoon doing a silver workshop in a place called Chez Monique. You can make anything you like out of silver and there are 2 or 3 silversmiths on hand to assist you with your design. I decided to make a silver ring, encompassing a cowrie shell that I found on Gili Air beach. It took me around 3 hours to make and I’m so happy with it! The workshop was 450,000 IDR (£25 ish) which I think is pretty good considering you learn some new skills and get to take home a beautiful piece of bling. 
Ste & I accidentally stumbled upon this place when we were wondering down Jl Monkey Forest. We followed a sign off the street saying “treasure this way” and it was certainly true. The bar & restaurant has a big pool in the back, loads of seating and even a bar in the pool! The best part is that you can avoid the 50,000 IDR fee by swimming for free between 10am – 12pm and 6 – 9pm. It’s a perfect place to cool down when Ubud gets too hot.
4. Threads of Life
Threads of Life is a small, but informative gallery showcasing traditional Indonesian methods of weaving and dying as well as selling textiles. The gallery displays several examples of textiles from various Indonesian islands, with a detailed description in English about the island’s culture and weaving/dying techniques. There are also a few videos showing weaving communities and the rituals/ceremonies they perform when weaving which is really interesting. The people that make textiles for sale earn a fair wage and help keep Indonesia’s traditions alive. The gallery is free to enter so it’s well worth a look. You can find it on Jl. Kajeng No.24.
5. A peaceful walk through some rice paddies
This is a beautiful walk that is flat, not too long and just off Ubud’s main street by Abangan Bungalows. Literally one block off the main road, you’ll find a paved path that winds through rice fields, past small cafes (including Sari Organik), little shops and a yoga venue. It’s not touristy and is a peaceful oasis to escape to in Ubud’s centre. It’s also an easy path to cycle along.
Adventures of Ailsa 