Known to be the Balinese fulcrum of all things hippie and adventurous, Ubud is home to a thriving handicraft industry, viridescent forests, enchanting waterfalls, and sacred temples. It was brought under the global spotlight by Elizabeth Gilbert’s tour de force “Eat, Pray, Love,” starring Julia Roberts, and overnight, this little settlement transformed into a tourist-magnet – attracting travellers from all over the world to partake in Ubud’s natural bounties.
While the heavily-forested town hosts some of Indonesia’s most spectacular boutique hotels and resorts, it is only in Ubud’s homestays that you can relish an experience ensconced in authentic Balinese culture and traditions. Homestays serve as an excellent alternative to the not-so-budget-friendly resorts, and provide comfortable as well as affordable accommodation. It doesn’t hurt that most of them also provide delicious complimentary breakfast as well as illuminating insights into the locals’ way of life.
Here’s our guide to some of Ubud’s best homestays that cater to travellers with varying preferences – all while assuring top-notch service and hospitality.
1. Ayu Homestays
Located centrally, and in close proximity to local attractions, Ayu Homestays is a family-run establishment that welcomes travellers from all over the world. It promises to shower patrons with many a good breakfast along with generous helpings of their raved-about hospitality. Popular among backpackers, couples, and families alike, this homestay provides comfortable rooms (with attached private terraces) and fast wifi – thereby catering to our rudimentary as well as millennial needs.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers, families and friends
Quick facts: Located 28 kms from the Ngurah Rai International Airport
Services available :
- Airport shuttles
- Car and bicycle rentals
- Laundry and dry cleaning
2. Nirwa Homestay
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Close enough to the nearby attractions for the convenience of its guests, yet far enough from the centre’s cacophony, Nirwa Homestay strikes a masterly balance between the offbeat and the conventional. A short walk from The Blanco Renaissance Museum and Saraswati Temple, this property is surrounded by sprawling rice fields and serves as an excellent getaway for couples who wish to spend peaceful quality time in the midst of nature. The property’s interior weaves together traditional and contemporary decor – sporting an interesting blend of both. The tastefully decorated rooms come equipped with a terrace and 24-hour room service – with complimentary and delectable, breakfasts brought to your doorstep each morning.
We’re certain you’ll think back to the memories made here with fondness and nostalgia. Thank us later! 🙂
Ideal for: couples
Quick facts: walking distance from the Ubud Market, Ubud Palace and Neka Art Museum, Saraswati Temple and The Blanco Renaissance Museum
Services provided:
- Free wifi
- Bicycle service available
- 38 kms away from the airport
- Airport shuttles available
- Laundry services provided
3. Undis Homestays
A stone’s throw from the Ubud Monkey Forest, Undis Homestays provides spacious, well-ventilated rooms with attached balconies, and serves delicious continental breakfasts that are on the house. The service here is deemed particularly exceptional by its guests – so be sure to spend a night or two at this lovely homestay if you’re in Ubud.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers, families and friendsl
Quick facts:
- 2.3 kms away from the Ubud market
- 36 kms away from the Ngurah Rai Internationa
Services available:
- Paid shuttles to and from the airport
- Bike rentals
- Free wifi
4. Rumah Roda
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Located in the very heart of Ubud, Rumah Roda sits in the thick of action. Rumah Roda’s USP is its proximity to many cultural attractions that are nearby – such as the Saraswati Temple, Ubud Palace, Ary’s Warung, and even the local Ubud Market. A stay at this beautiful Balinese home comes with a pool and a garden. The elegantly decorated rooms lead into cozy little terraces where you can curl up and spend the evenings. It’s easy to see why Rumah Roda is one of the most coveted homestays in Ubud, given its warm, hospitable hosts, impeccable service, convenient location, and unbetabale breakfast spreads.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers, families and friends
Quick facts: 38 kms from the Ngurah Rai International Airport
Services:
- à la carte breakfast
- Bike rentals
- Free wifi
- Airport shuttles
5. In Da Garden
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Immerse yourself in the calming sounds of nature and channel your inner zen mode at this peaceful little homestay that lives up to its name. Located just off the main road, this idyllic property’s charming rooms open out into an inviting garden with a riot of colors – a variety plants and trees, vibrant butterflies fluttering about, and songbirds chirping cheerily. Yoga junkies looking for a quiet place to meditate needn’t look any further as this homestay has got you covered. The homestay’s strategic location, excellent service, beautiful interiors, and stunning garden make it a fantastic option for your holiday in Ubud.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers
Quick facts:
- 28 kms away from the Ngurah Rai International Airport
- Close to Ubud’s shops, bars and restaurants
Services available:
- bike and scooter rental
- Can arrange for tickets to Balinese dance performances and fast boats to Lembongan, Lombok or Gili Islands
6. Pemulan Farm
Part farm and part culinary school, this unique homestay is a gastronome’s paradise. A stay at the Pemulan Farm is an enriching experience – its patrons are gifted a taste of Balinese culture through its varied and fun culinary excursions. Guests are encouraged to channel their inner masterchefs during cooking classes and whip up a storm in their bowls under the supervision of their onsite expert chefs. The stay includes complimentary breakfast and dinner, and promises to fill not just your stomachs, but also your recipe books with delicious dishes that you’ll be compelled to try in your kitchens back home. The homestay also conducts tours to its organic farm along with a visit to the local market for those interested.
Ideal for: couples, families and friends
Quick facts: A stay at the Pemulan Farm is inclusive of:
- Free round-trip transfers from central Ubud
- Complimentary recipe booklets
- Local market visit
- Organic farm tour
- 6 dishes, 1 dessert, and one bottle of mineral water
7. Tri Upasedana Homestays
This homestay opens its doors to the traditional side of Balinese culture, what with its intricately carved wooden interiors featuring local gods and goddesses. Bedecked in tradition, the architecture of this home grants its guests insights into Balinese culture and art – not to mention. the warmth and geniality of this homestay’s hosts, who tend to their guests as they would their own family. A short drive from the Tegallalang rice terraces, this homestay is ideal for travellers who wish to experience Bali through the eyes of its locals.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers, families and friends
Quick facts:
- 15 minutes from Tegallalang rice terraces by car
- 90 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport
Services provided:
- Airport transfers
- Laundry services
- Free parking for guests with vehicles
- Complimentary breakfast
8. Jangkrik Homestay
Another homestay steeped in Bali’s culture, Jangkrik homestay has a delightful little temple garden complete with waterfalls, a sculpture of Lord Ganesha and a collection of vibrant and colorful plants, lending the garden a very tropical look. The family running the homestay is extremely warm and welcoming, always ensuring that their guests enjoy a pleasant stay. Give this place a visit to relish the traditional side of Ubud in all its glory.
Ideal for: couples, solo backpackers, families and friends
Quick Facts:
- 600 m away from the Ubud market
- 28 kms away from the airport
Services available:
- free wifi
- Airport shuttles
- Free parking
- Relaxing massage and spa
- Bicycle and car rentals
