Top 10 Things to See at Ubud Palace in Bali
Located in the heart of Ubud, the Ubud Palace—also known as Puri Saren Agung—is one of Bali’s most iconic cultural landmarks. Once the official residence of the Ubud royal family, the palace showcases intricate Balinese architecture, traditional arts, and a deep connection to Bali's cultural roots. For travelers looking to explore the soul of Ubud, this historic site is a must-visit. Here are the top 10 things to see at Ubud Palace that will enrich your cultural journey in Bali.
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1. Traditional Balinese Architecture
From elaborately carved wooden
doors to towering stone gateways, the architecture at Ubud Palace is a stunning
example of classic Balinese design. Don’t forget to admire the ornately
decorated walls and pavilions that reflect centuries of craftsmanship.
2. The Main Courtyard (Bale Agung)
The central courtyard, or Bale
Agung, is a majestic open space where you can stroll and absorb the ambiance of
royal Bali. It's a peaceful place to relax while surrounded by traditional
statues and flower-lined paths.
3. Evening Dance Performances
Each evening, Ubud Palace comes
alive with mesmerizing Balinese dance performances such as Legong, Barong, and
Ramayana. These shows feature colorful costumes, hypnotic gamelan music, and
expressive storytelling that captivate audiences of all ages.
4. Historical Artifacts
Within the palace grounds, you’ll
find relics and decorations that speak to the royal family’s history and
legacy. These include ancestral portraits, antique furniture, and ceremonial
objects still used during rituals.
5. Royal Family Residence
While not all areas are open to
the public, you can still catch a glimpse of the royal family’s private
quarters. The palace is partially inhabited by descendants of the Ubud royal
lineage, adding an authentic and living element to your visit.
6. Pavilions and Open-Air Halls
The palace features several
open-air pavilions, called bale, where royal meetings and traditional
ceremonies were held. These structures provide insight into how Balinese
royalty once lived and ruled.
7. Ornate Temple Shrines
Inside the palace compound, there
are several shrines and small temples used for worship. These sacred spaces are
often decorated with offerings and show the deep spiritual traditions tied to
Balinese Hinduism.
8. Intricate Stone Carvings
One of the highlights of Ubud
Palace is its intricate stone carvings that adorn walls, doorways, and statues.
These carvings often depict mythological creatures, gods, and scenes from
ancient epics like the Ramayana.
9. Tropical Garden Surroundings
The lush greenery and beautifully
maintained gardens at Ubud Palace create a tranquil setting ideal for
photography and relaxation. You’ll find frangipani trees, lotus ponds, and
manicured paths that enhance the beauty of the palace.
10. Cultural Events and Ceremonies
If you're lucky, you might
witness a cultural event or religious ceremony during your visit. These moments
offer a rare opportunity to experience the palace’s spiritual and ceremonial
importance in real time.
Bonus Experience Near Ubud Palace: Make Your Own Silver Jewelry
After exploring the majestic Ubud Palace, take a short walk—just about 10 minutes—from the nearby Ubud Art Market to Ubud Monkey Forest Silver Class, where you can enjoy a unique hands-on activity. In this authentic silver jewelry-making workshop, you'll be guided by experienced silversmiths to create your very own piece of silver jewelry from scratch.
Whether you're crafting a ring,
pendant, or bracelet, the process is fun, educational, and deeply rooted in
local Balinese tradition. The workshop is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM,
making it an ideal addition to your cultural adventure in Ubud.
