Bottom Line: Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is located at No. 8 Jalan Raya Ubud in the city center, showcasing Balinese architectural styles from the 19th century. It’s about a 1-hour drive from downtown Denpasar, or you can take the Trans Dewata bus K4B route. It’s perfect to include as a stop on a sightseeing tour of Ubud city center.
When people think of Bali, beautiful beaches and stunning natural landscapes often come to mind, but the island’s cultural richness is equally impressive! Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Agung) is the perfect place to experience traditional Balinese culture. As the historic residence of Bali’s royal family, this palace showcases Balinese architectural styles dating back to the 19th century and bears witness to the history and traditional arts of the Balinese royalty.
Location and How to Get to Ubud Royal Palace
Ubud Royal Palace is located in the heart of Ubud, at No. 8 Jalan Raya Ubud in the Gianyar regency, making it very convenient to reach. It’s about a one-hour drive from downtown Denpasar. For public transport, you can take the Trans Dewata bus on the K4B route, which passes through several key Ubud attractions, making it easy for travelers to get to the palace.
Accessible Areas and Highlights of the Palace
It is said that the interior of Ubud Royal Palace is not open to the public.
It’s important to note that while the palace grounds are extensive, only a small portion is open to visitors. As a result, guests can mainly explore the outer courtyards and some of the palace buildings. However, even this limited area is enough to offer a glimpse into the beauty of traditional Balinese architecture. The buildings feature intricate carvings infused with Balinese religious and cultural symbols, making it a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the essence of Bali.
Highlight of Ubud Royal Palace: Art Performances
As a paradise for culture lovers, the Ubud Palace hosts traditional Balinese dance performances every Thursday evening, including the mystical ‘Kecak Fire Dance.’ These performances are among the most iconic artistic events in Bali, drawing visitors from around the world. Tickets cost 100K Indonesian Rupiah, and the event typically runs from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM every Thursday, offering a visual feast best enjoyed under the sunset glow. For travelers eager to delve into Balinese culture, this is an unforgettable experience.
Book tickets for the grand fire dance at Ubud Palace every Thursday: Klook
Daily Legong dance performances at Ubud Palace during peak season: Trip
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure front-row seats or a spot with a good view.
Ubud Palace Visitor Information
Ubud Palace does not charge an entrance fee, and visitors can explore the open areas for free. However, tickets are required to enjoy the art performances, and it’s advisable to arrive early to choose a good seat for the entire show. The palace is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving visitors ample time to leisurely explore this historically rich venue.
Exploring Ubud Palace and Nearby Attractions: A Perfect Blend of Culture, Shopping, and Nature
Ubud is not only home to the historically rich palace but also offers many nearby attractions to explore, including the lively Ubud Art Market, the beautiful Water Palace, trendy shops along Monkey Forest Road, and the nature-rich Sacred Monkey Forest. Whether you’re immersing yourself in local culture, enjoying shopping, or getting close to Bali’s natural ecosystem, these spots will make your Ubud trip truly unforgettable!
1. Ubud Art Market 🗺️Map Location
Located opposite the Ubud Palace, the Ubud Art Market is a vibrant bazaar brimming with traditional Balinese character. It offers a wide variety of goods, including handmade jewelry, wood carvings, paintings, and traditional clothing—each piece reflecting the area’s rich artistic spirit. Don’t forget to bargain a bit while shopping to snag your favorite souvenirs at a better price!
For more details, check out: Complete Guide to the Top 5 Ubud Art Markets: Souvenir Shopping & Discovering Bali’s Cultural Treasures
2. Ubud Water Palace (Pura Taman Saraswati) 🗺️Map Location
Also commonly known as the ‘Ubud Water Palace,’ this site is just a few minutes’ walk from the Ubud Palace and is famous for its stunning lotus pond and elegant architecture. Dedicated to the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati, the temple features pink lotus blossoms that beautifully contrast with its golden walls, creating a captivating scene that draws many visitors for photos. It’s a serene spot perfect for slowing down and soaking in Bali’s unique spiritual atmosphere.
Check out Xiao Jie’s introduction:
Here’s a summary of ticket prices and photo packages for international visitors in 2026👇
Admission Tickets
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- Adult ticket: IDR 60,000 per person
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- Child ticket: IDR 45,000 per person
Admission + Photo Package
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- Entry + 1 photo session: IDR 100,000 per person
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- Photo package (3 photos): IDR 100,000
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- Extra prints: IDR 40,000 each
📌 Quick Tip (Personal Observation)
Ubud Water Palace itself isn’t large, so a simple visit won’t take long, but photos really depend on lighting and crowds. If you’re coming for photos, opting for a package with a photo session is more convenient; if you’re just passing by, a basic entry ticket is enough.
3. Jalan Monkey Forest Shopping 🗺️Map Location
Jalan Monkey Forest is one of Ubud’s main shopping streets, lined with unique shops, trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This street features both local handicraft stores and shops selling Bali’s natural skincare products, with coconut oil and handmade soaps being especially popular. When you need a break, you can rest at one of the street-side cafes and enjoy a cup of rich Balinese coffee.
4. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary 🗺️Map Location
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Sacred Monkey Forest! This forest, located in southern Ubud, is home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques, allowing visitors to observe their daily activities up close and add fun to the trip. The forest also features ancient stone carvings and temple ruins, adding a mysterious touch to this nature reserve. However, visitors need to be careful with their belongings, as the monkeys might snatch food! 🐒
- Monkey Forest Discounted Tickets
- Monkey Forest Park & Art Village & Traditional Market & Kecak Fire Dance Private Day Tour
Get to Know Ubud City Center, Xiao Jie Takes You on a Tour:
Recommended One-Day Cultural Tour in Ubud
The attractions in Ubud are close to each other, so it’s easy to plan a single day trip that combines culture and nature. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
- Morning: Start early by visiting the Ubud Palace to soak in the royal history and architectural beauty, then walk five minutes to the Ubud Water Palace to admire the stunning lotus pond. At 10 AM, head to the Ubud Market to experience the lively atmosphere and pick up unique handicrafts.
- Noon: Find a local restaurant near Monkey Forest Road for lunch and a relaxing break (check out some recommended eateries here).
- Afternoon: Next, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest (pre-book tickets) to interact with the monkeys and explore ancient temple ruins. Finally, browse the chic boutiques along Monkey Forest Road to cap off your journey perfectly.
🛕🐒🌿 A one-day Ubud tour exploring Instagram-worthy spots, breathtaking natural beauty, local cuisine, and civet coffee ☕📸—a perfect blend of culture and nature ▶ Klook 50+ tours to choose from
Summary
Ubud Palace is not only a landmark of Ubud but also a precious treasure of Bali’s history and art. Here, you can feel the former glory of the Balinese royalty, appreciate authentic traditional art, and gain a deep understanding of Bali’s unique cultural background. The surrounding attractions offer a rich variety of experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy Bali’s historical culture, indulge in shopping, and get up close with nature. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopping enthusiast, or a nature lover, this place has something for everyone, making your Bali trip full of surprises and rewards.
Ubud Palace FAQ
1. What are the opening hours of Ubud Palace?
- Ubud Palace is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Traditional dance performances are also held at specific times in the evening, starting around 7:30 PM.
2. How much is the entrance fee to Ubud Palace?
- Daytime visits to Ubud Palace are free. For the traditional dance performances held in the evening, you need to purchase a ticket, which costs around IDR 100K (approximately USD$6). Prices may vary by performance. It’s recommended to book in advance: the grand fire dance show every Thursday can be booked via Klook; the daily Legong dance performances during peak season at Ubud Palace can be booked via Trip.
It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure front-row seats or a spot with a good view.
- What does the ‘K’ in the 100K ticket price mean? Check here
3. Can you enter all areas of Ubud Palace?
- Not all areas are open to the public. Only a small portion of the palace’s main buildings and courtyards are accessible to visitors; the rest are private residences for the royal family and their guests only.
4. What attractions are worth visiting near Ubud Palace?
- There are several popular attractions near Ubud Palace, including Ubud Market, Pura Taman Saraswati (Ubud Water Palace), Monkey Forest Road, and the famous Sacred Monkey Forest. These spots are close to each other and perfect for a day trip.
5. Can you wear shorts and a tank top inside Ubud Palace?
- Ubud Palace does not have strict dress code rules, but it’s recommended to dress neatly and respectfully to honor local culture. When visiting religious sites or temples, you’re usually expected to wear more covering clothing, and some places provide sarongs for visitors.
6. What types of traditional dance performances are held at the palace?
- Every Thursday evening, Ubud Palace hosts traditional Balinese dances such as the Barong Dance and Legong Dance. These performances showcase Bali’s rich cultural heritage, blending unique music and dance artistry, and are well worth watching.
7. Can I take photos inside Ubud Palace?
- You can take photos in the palace’s open courtyard areas, but it’s advisable to respect local culture by not using flash during performances or near religious structures. If a local ceremony or event is taking place, keep a low profile when taking photos to show respect.
8. What transportation options are available to get to Ubud Palace?
- You can rent a scooter or hire a private car. Ride-hailing services like Grab or Gojek are also available in Bali. If you’re staying in central Ubud, the palace is within walking distance, making it very convenient.
9. Are there any recommended restaurants or cafes near the palace?
- There are many well-known restaurants and cafes near Ubud Palace, offering traditional Balinese cuisine and creative dishes. They are great spots for visitors to rest and enjoy a meal.
10. Do I need to book in advance to visit Ubud Palace?
- No reservation is needed for daytime visits. However, if you want to watch the evening traditional dance performances, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance to secure a seat, especially during peak tourist season when tickets can sell out quickly.
11. Are there still Balinese royals living inside the Ubud Palace?
- Yes, the Ubud Palace remains the residence of the Balinese royal family. Although they no longer hold actual political power, the royal family still lives within the palace and plays an important role in preserving traditional culture, participating in many religious and cultural ceremonies.
More to Eat, Play, and Explore in Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and artistic heart of Bali, drawing countless travelers with its lush rice terraces, serene jungles, and deep-rooted traditions. It's the perfect place to unwind. Whether you're exploring local customs, soaking in natural beauty, or diving into exciting outdoor activities paired with stunning food and scenery, Ubud offers a unique experience that will move you. Want to learn more about Ubud? Click here
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