When I first arrived in Ubud, Bali, I was both thrilled and a little nervous. The lush greenery, the sound of the nearby rice terraces, and the smell of the local cuisine were all so enchanting, yet I was mindful of my budget. I had a little over three days to explore this cultural heart of Bali without breaking the bank. In this article, I’ll share my affordable travel itinerary that will not only help you enjoy Ubud on a budget but also immerse yourself in its rich culture.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Town
Morning: Get Settled
After a cozy overnight bus ride from Kuta, I arrived in Ubud early in the morning. The first thing on my agenda was finding accommodation. I opted for a budget-friendly homestay called Pondok Merta. For around $15 a night, I had a lovely room with a view of the gardens and friendly hosts who offered me fresh fruits for breakfast!
Breakfast: Local Warung
I headed to Nasi Ayam Kedewatan Ibu Mangku, a local warung, for a traditional Balinese breakfast. The nasi campur (mixed rice) was just $2 and packed with flavors. The locals were warm and welcoming, making me feel right at home.
Mid-Morning: Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
After breakfast, it was time for some fun at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. For about $5, I got to explore the jungle filled with playful monkeys, ancient temples, and impressive trees. Just a tip: keep your belongings close! A little monkey attempted to snatch my sunglasses, but I managed to save them just in time.
Afternoon: Lunch and Art Markets
Post monkey mischief, I grabbed lunch at Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka. You can’t visit Ubud without trying their famous roasted suckling pig! I found a delicious plate for about $4.
After lunch, I strolled through the Ubud Art Market. The vibrant stalls overflowed with handicrafts, scarves, and batiks. I picked up some cute souvenirs and tried my bargaining skills. Pro tip: don’t hesitate to haggle a bit—it’s part of the experience!
Evening: Dinner and Culture
As the sun set, I found myself at Bubugir for dinner. Here, a delicious meal of mie goreng and a coconut only cost me $5. After dinner, I joined a group of travelers for a traditional Balinese dance performance at the Ubud Palace. The ticket was about $7, and the stories told through dance were mesmerizing.
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Day 2: Culture and Nature
Morning: Traditional Cooking Class
I woke up ready for another day of adventure! I had booked a morning class at Bali Asli for $25, where I learned to prepare traditional Balinese dishes. It was a fantastic experience, from harvesting ingredients in the garden to cooking authentic recipes.
Afternoon: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
After my master chef debut, I took a short trip to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. The entrance fee was only $1, and the views were breathtaking. I spent hours wandering through the emerald-green paddies and snapping pictures. I even met a local farmer who shared stories about rice cultivation. It was fascinating!
Evening: Wellness and Relaxation
Feeling a little sore from all the walking, I treated myself to a budget-friendly massage at Bali Botanica Day Spa for just $15. Afterward, I enjoyed a good ol’ cheap dinner at Bubur Ayam, where a steaming bowl of chicken rice porridge cost me $3.
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Day 3: Nature and Reflection
Morning: Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
I couldn’t leave Ubud without experiencing the iconic Mount Batur sunrise trek. I joined a budget tour for $40, which included transportation, a guide, and breakfast. Rising at 2 AM was tough, but watching the sun rise above the clouds was awe-inspiring and worth the early wake-up call.
Afternoon: Back to Ubud
After returning to Ubud, I indulged in a hearty brunch at Cafe Wayan, where I treated myself to a smoothie bowl for around $5. I spent some time wandering around the shops and enjoyed a final stroll through the market, picking up some more souvenirs—this time, a beautiful hand-painted wooden figure.
Late Afternoon: Relaxation and Reflection
For my last afternoon, I took some time to relax. I found a quiet spot at Campuhan Ridge Walk, a beautiful walking path that offers stunning views of the valley. It’s a perfect place to reflect on my experiences. I brought along some fruit I’d purchased earlier for a little picnic before heading back to prepare for my departure.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
For my last night, I splurged a little at Locavore for a delectable meal. Even with drinks, my meal cost about $20, which felt like a steal for such high-quality food. I savored every bite and reflected on the amazing days I had in Ubud.
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Final Thoughts
Ubud is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and exquisite food, and you can experience it without draining your wallet! My total expenses for the three days, including accommodation, meals, activities, and a bit of shopping, came to around $200. By following this budget travel itinerary, you’ll not only enjoy the beauty of Ubud but also connect with the local culture and spirit of Bali. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Ubud! Safe travels!
