Ubud

In the hills north of Denpasar is Ubud, the cultural centre of Bali which has recently developed as fast as the beach resorts.

It is where the image of Bali, as a land of artists, was created. As a former principality, it has several palaces and brahmin mansions, as well as beautiful houses built in the Gianyar architectural style. The modern Balinese art movement started here when artists moved from the religious and court scenes to scenes of everyday life. Ubud is the home of many respected local and western artists.

A visit to Ubud gives you the opportunity to see the real Bali, to stroll leisurely through rice paddies, lush forests, deep gorges and deserted swimming holes, all within walking distance from the centre of Ubud. Its the ideal place to see Balinese dance, Legong, Ramayana, Baris, Kecek and the Fire Dance, all performed nightly in or around the Ubud area.

Bali has such a mild and agreeable climate the whole year round. The sunny days within dry season between May and September are warm and pleasent, while the rainy season is between October and April, tropical showers will alternate with clear sky and sunshine. The average temperature of the day in coastal areas varies from about 28ºC (82ºF) during May, June, July to about 30ºC (86ºF) in March and October.

It is approximately one and half hours drive to the highland where temperature varies from 16ºC to 26ºC and it is known to drop about 8ºC during the night. The humidity is high (from a minimum of 70% to a maximum of 96%). The weather is most pleasent between May to September.