Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Private Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi Day Tour from Ubud

Spend a full day exploring central Bali’s living temples, terraced rice fields and artisan villages on a private tour from Ubud. This itinerary pairs cultural insight with easy walking and short drives, ideal for travelers who want depth without a strenuous hike.

Ubud, Bali•

10 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

Morning light cuts across layered rice banks as a private car eases out of Ubud toward Tampaksiring; the driver knows each switchback and the best viewpoint for the terraces. The day unfolds like a compact survey of central Bali—market bustle, artisan hamlets, a holy spring that still draws pilgrims, and centuries-old rock shrines carved into the valley.

Before You Go

Dress for temples

Bring or wear a sarong and sash or clothing that covers shoulders and knees—temples enforce modesty and often provide rentals for a fee.

Start early

Begin before mid‑morning to avoid crowds at Tirta Empul and the midday heat on exposed terraces.

Carry cash

Small entrance fees, offerings, and village purchases are cash‑based—have small denominations of rupiah on hand.

Respect rituals

If worshippers are cleansing in pools, observe quietly and follow temple staff directions; ask before photographing people.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Yeh Pulu ancient rock reliefs—smaller and less visited than main temples
•Small tea stalls on the Tegalalang rim with quiet valley views away from the main viewpoint

Wildlife

•Long‑tailed macaque (in forested temple approaches)
•Egrets and kingfishers in paddies and streams

Conservation Note

The subak irrigation system is a UNESCO‑recognized cultural landscape—visit with low impact by staying on paths, avoiding litter, and minimizing disruption to farmers and worshippers.

Gunung Kawi contains 11th‑century rock‑cut funerary shrines; Tirta Empul has been a sacred purification site for over a thousand years, tied to Bali’s Hindu traditions.

What to Bring

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Modest clothing or sarong and sashEssential

Required at temples to show respect and often enforced by staff.

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Sturdy sandals or lightweight hiking shoesEssential

Good grip for wet stone steps, uneven paths, and slippery areas near water.

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Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential

Keeps you hydrated during a full day in tropical heat; refill where available.

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Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Shaded spots are limited on terraces and roads between sites, so sun protection helps midday comfort.

Common Questions

How long is the tour?

This private tour typically runs about 10 hours door‑to‑door from Ubud, with driving between multiple sites and time allocated for visits and photo stops.

Are temple entrance fees included?

Entrance fees are often not included in private tour rates—bring cash for admissions, donations, and any optional services like sarong rental.

Can I participate in the purification ritual at Tirta Empul?

Visitors may join purification if they follow local rules and guidance; wear modest clothing and be prepared to follow temple staff instructions.

Is this tour suitable for children and infants?

Yes; the itinerary is physically easy, but infants should be supervised near water and stairs, and parents should note that long drives may require breaks.