Why Ubud Is the New Gem of Bali
For many travelers, Bali still means ocean sunsets, beach clubs, and surf breaks. But over the last few years, the island’s center has been quietly reshaping how people experience Bali. Ubud is no longer just a cultural stop on a tourist route — it has become a destination in its own right, and for many, the most desirable place to live, invest, and return to.
The Spiritual Heart of the Island
Ubud has long been known as the spiritual center of Bali. Hundreds of temples, daily ceremonies, meditation spaces, yoga shalas, and healing practices are woven into everyday life here. Wellness isn’t a trend in Ubud — it’s part of the local rhythm.
It’s no coincidence that retreats, detox programs, breathwork sessions, and spiritual practices from all over the world gravitate to this area. Everything from sound healing to traditional Balinese rituals feels organic here, not staged.
Today, roughly every third tourist visiting Bali also comes to Ubud, and many arrive seeking exactly this depth — balance, meaning, and reconnection.
Nature You Live Inside, Not Next To
One of Ubud’s strongest advantages is its landscape. Endless rice fields, river valleys, and dense jungle create a feeling of space and openness that coastal areas can no longer offer.
Importantly, rice fields are protected by law, which means large-scale dense development is not allowed. This preserves open views, greenery, and air quality — and ensures that Ubud won’t turn into another concrete jungle.
Here, you don’t just visit nature. You wake up inside it.
A Climate That Feels Better
Ubud sits slightly higher than the coast, and the difference is noticeable. The trees are taller, the air feels fresher, and the temperature is usually a couple of degrees cooler than beach areas like Canggu or Kuta.
For long-term living, that matters. Especially when combined with greenery and shade, Ubud offers a far more comfortable microclimate year-round.
Infrastructure Is Catching Up — Fast
While Ubud has always been rich in culture, infrastructure is now catching up to demand.
- The largest shopping mall in Ubud is currently under construction, bringing international brands, services, and modern conveniences closer to home.
- A new airport on the north of Bali is also in development. Once completed, it is expected to handle 3–5 times more passengers than the current airport.
This will dramatically change logistics. Ubud will become closer and more accessible than southern areas like Canggu, Kuta, or Bukit, meaning even more tourist flow through the region.
Two Oceans, Endless Activities
From Ubud, you can easily reach two completely different coastlines:
- South Bali for surfing, beach clubs, and sunsets
- North Bali for diving, snorkeling, and calmer waters
Beyond the ocean, Ubud is the gateway to Bali’s most exciting natural attractions: volcanoes, waterfalls, white-water rafting, ATV rides, and jungle adventures. You’re simply closer to everything that makes Bali feel alive.
Culture, Art, and Craftsmanship
Ubud is Bali’s creative capital. Art galleries, museums, workshops, and craft markets fill the town and surrounding villages. Local artisans still work with wood, silver, stone, and textiles — and many expats and creatives come here precisely for this atmosphere.
Places like the Monkey Forest, the Campuhan (Artist’s) Trail, and countless hidden temples give Ubud a cultural depth that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
A Global Wellness & Food Scene
Ubud has become a magnet for healthy living. You’ll find some of the island’s most unique cafés and restaurants here — focused on plant-based cuisine, raw food, smoothies, and functional nutrition.
Spots like Alchemy and many others helped shape Ubud’s reputation as a wellness-forward destination long before it became fashionable. Add to that some of the largest yoga centers and retreat spaces in Southeast Asia, and it’s clear why wellness tourism continues to grow here year after year.
A Place People Choose to Stay
Unlike beach areas that thrive on short-term excitement, Ubud attracts people who stay.
Expats choose Ubud for comfort, community, and quality of life. The ocean is wonderful — but not something you need every day. What you do need is fresh air, good food, calm surroundings, reliable services, and a sense of balance.
That’s what Ubud offers.
Still More Accessible Than the Coast
Another important factor: prices. Land, real estate, and long-term rentals in Ubud remain more affordable than oceanfront areas, while demand continues to grow.
With new infrastructure, major attraction drivers, and limited overdevelopment due to land protection laws, Ubud stands out as one of Bali’s most promising long-term locations.
Projects focused on wellness, sustainability, and harmony with nature — such as AURA Wellness Resort near Ubud — reflect where the region is heading: thoughtful development designed for people who value quality over noise.
The New Center of Gravity in Bali
Ubud is no longer just a cultural detour. It’s becoming the emotional, spiritual, and lifestyle center of the island — where nature, wellness, culture, and modern comfort meet.
For travelers, residents, and investors alike, Ubud isn’t just a place to visit.
It’s a place to stay.
