Campuhan Ridge Walk

Careful planning turns the Campuhan Ridge Walk from a rushed detour to a highlight of any Bali journey. Because entry is free and the scenery is world-famous, the path can draw lines of travelers during peak hours. Mornings before 9am or late afternoons after 4pm offer quieter moments and softer sun. The entrance—marked by the stunning Gunung Lebah Temple—sits just north of Ubud’s bustling center, reachable within 15 minutes on foot or by short taxi ride. No tickets are required, and the paved pathway climbs gently, suitable for most abilities, though high heat can challenge even seasoned walkers. Crowded weekends are best avoided; on weekdays, shared stretches with locals make for richer travel memories.

• Best time to visit: Early morning (before 9am) or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Dry season (April–October) offers clearest views.
• How to get there: Short walk or scooter/taxi ride from Ubud center; entrance behind Warwick Ibah Villas near Gunung Lebah Temple.
• Accessibility: Paved path with some inclines; manageable for most, but not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
• Average visit duration: 1–2 hours depending on pace and stops.

The heart of the Campuhan Ridge Walk is its iconic, sun-soaked spine—an undulating, grassy ridge above the twin valleys of Sungai Wos and Sungai Cerik. Yet, the experience goes far beyond sweeping Instagram views. Local artists dot the trail with small galleries and hand-painted signs, while simple warungs (cafes) at Karsa Kafe tempt visitors to linger over fresh coconut or ginger tea in the shade. Houses with thatched roofs peek through the palm groves, and women in sarongs sometimes pass, baskets balanced on their heads. Farther along, rice paddies shimmer and dragonflies flit over hidden streams. For every panoramic lookout, a quiet detail waits just out of sight.

• Key sights/features: Rolling ridge lined with tall grasses, dramatic valley views, Karsa Kafe garden terrace, scattered local temples (especially at the start).
• Unique experiences: Sunrise and sunset walks, watching local artists at work, sampling freshly made Balinese cakes in Warung Bukit Cinta.
• Photo-worthy locations: The first lookout point over the ridge, bamboo groves midway, rice terraces past Karsa Kafe.
• Cultural or historical facts: Path entrance flanked by the centuries-old Gunung Lebah Temple, believed to be Ubud’s energetic heart, where two rivers meet.