At the busy central crossroads of Ubud, framed by intricately carved stone gateways and shaded courtyards, sits Puri Saren Agung — better known to visitors simply as Ubud Palace. It's one of the most photographed landmarks in Bali, and for good reason: it captures the island's royal history, traditional architecture, and living culture in a single, easily accessible stop right in the heart of town.
In this guide, we cover everything you need to know before visiting Ubud Palace — its history, the best times to go, what to expect from the evening dance performances, and what else to see nearby. We'll also walk through how to book your flights, hotel, rental car, eSIM, and other Ubud experiences, so your whole trip comes together in one place.
A Brief History of Ubud Palace
Ubud Palace was built in the late 19th century by the Ubud royal family, the Cokorda dynasty, and served as the administrative and ceremonial seat of local power during Bali's era of independent kingdoms. Much of the palace was damaged by a major earthquake in 1917 and subsequently rebuilt, preserving the classic Balinese architectural style seen today — elaborate stone carvings, split gateways (candi bentar), and multiple interconnected courtyards.
The palace played an important role in shaping Ubud into Bali's cultural capital during the 20th century, as the royal family invited foreign artists to live and work in the area, helping establish Ubud's reputation as a center for painting, dance, and traditional craftsmanship that continues today.
Why Visit Ubud Palace
Royal Balinese Architecture
Puri Saren Agung, as Ubud Palace is formally known, showcases classic Balinese royal architecture, with ornately carved stone gateways, ceremonial courtyards, and ancestral shrines built by the Ubud royal family in the late 19th century.
Living Royal Residence
Unlike many palaces turned into pure museums, parts of Ubud Palace remain home to descendants of the Ubud royal family, giving the site a lived-in, authentic atmosphere rather than feeling like a static tourist attraction.
Nightly Legong Dance Performances
Ubud Palace hosts traditional Balinese dance performances most evenings, including the graceful Legong dance, accompanied by a live gamelan orchestra — one of the most accessible ways to experience Balinese culture in person.
Central Ubud Location
Sitting right on Jalan Raya Ubud at the town's main intersection, the palace is within easy walking distance of the Ubud Art Market, popular cafes, and other key sights, making it a natural anchor point for exploring on foot.
Planning Your Visit
Ubud Palace sits at the busy intersection of Jalan Raya Ubud and Jalan Suweta, directly across from the Ubud Art Market, making it one of the easiest landmarks to reach on foot from almost anywhere in central Ubud. Mornings tend to be quieter and cooler, ideal for photographing the carved gateways and courtyards without crowds, while afternoons see more foot traffic from day-trippers exploring the market across the street.
If you want to catch a traditional dance performance, plan your visit for the evening. Legong, Barong, and other classical Balinese dances are performed most nights inside the palace's main courtyard, accompanied by a live gamelan orchestra — tickets are typically sold on-site and it's worth arriving around 30 minutes early to get a good seat.
- Ubud Palace is free to enter and explore during the day
- Evening dance performances usually run around 7:30–9:30 PM and require a paid ticket
- The palace sits directly across from the Ubud Art Market on Jalan Raya Ubud
- Modest dress is appreciated, though a sarong is not strictly required for daytime visits
- Photography is generally allowed in the courtyards, but be respectful during any ceremonies
- Early morning is the quietest time to visit and photograph the architecture without crowds
Getting to Ubud from the Airport
Travel Time
Ubud is roughly 1–1.5 hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, depending on traffic.
Getting There
Private transfers, ride-hailing apps, and rental cars are all common ways to reach Ubud from the airport or other parts of Bali.
Best Base
Staying in central Ubud puts you within walking distance of the palace, art market, and many popular cafes and restaurants.
Where to Stay Near Ubud Palace
Central Ubud offers everything from boutique guesthouses to jungle-view resorts within a short walk of the palace and art market, while properties just outside town offer more privacy amid rice terraces and river valleys.
Book Hotels in UbudGetting Around Ubud
A rental car or private driver makes it easy to combine Ubud Palace with nearby sights like the Tegalalang rice terraces, Monkey Forest, and Tirta Empul temple in a single day.
Stay Connected with a Bali eSIM
Skip the airport SIM card queues and get a Bali eSIM set up before you land, so you have data the moment you touch down at Denpasar Airport.
Get a Bali eSIMRent a Scooter or Bike
A scooter is a popular way to explore Ubud's surrounding rice paddies and villages at your own pace — book one online in advance and skip the roadside haggling.
Rent a ScooterThings to Do Near Ubud Palace
Beyond the palace itself, Ubud is packed with things to do — from the nearby Sacred Monkey Forest and Saraswati Temple to rice terrace treks, cooking classes, and yoga studios. Browse and book top-rated tours and activities below.
Ubud Palace on Instagram
Need a little inspiration before you go? Here's a glimpse of what awaits — carved stone gateways, rice terraces, and Ubud's lush surroundings. Follow #ubudpalace on Instagram for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ubud Palace free to visit?
Yes, walking through the courtyards and grounds of Ubud Palace during the day is free. Evening traditional dance performances, however, require a separate paid ticket, usually purchased on-site shortly before the show.
What is the best time to visit Ubud Palace?
Early morning is the quietest time to explore the architecture and take photos without crowds. If you want to see a traditional dance performance, plan to arrive in the evening, typically around 7:00 PM, to secure a good seat before the show starts.
How long does it take to visit Ubud Palace?
Walking through the main courtyards and grounds typically takes 20–30 minutes. If you're staying for an evening dance performance, plan for an additional hour to hour and a half.
Is Ubud Palace still a royal residence?
Yes, part of the complex remains home to descendants of the Ubud royal family, while other sections are open to the public and used for cultural performances and ceremonies.
What else is near Ubud Palace?
The Ubud Art Market sits directly across the street, and popular cafes, restaurants, and shops line Jalan Raya Ubud nearby. The Ubud Monkey Forest and Saraswati Temple are both within easy walking or short driving distance.
What airport do you fly into for Ubud, Bali?
All international flights land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Denpasar, roughly 1–1.5 hours from Ubud by car depending on traffic.
Plan Your Ubud Palace Visit Today
With free daytime access, nightly dance performances, and a location right in the heart of Ubud, the palace is an easy and rewarding stop on any Bali itinerary. Compare live flight prices, lock in a hotel nearby, arrange a rental car for exploring further afield, and book your favorite Ubud experiences — everything you need to plan the trip is right here.