Cycling In Ubud: Everything You Need To Know

If traveling has taught me anything, it’s that the more we get lost, the more we find ways and routes to get back home. And I firmly believe that some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.

Central Ubud is now more and more commercialized, but you can still manage to find ‘secret’ pathways that go over villages, connecting you to hidden serenity. One of the best ways to explore Ubud’s hidden gems is cycling through its mysterious lanes.

Initially, I rented a bike as I was not yet able to drive a motorcycle, and there was no adequate public transportation in Ubud. Also, I wanted to wander around to get to know more about the village. Third, I wanted to follow my own schedule of seeing the sights and ride on my own route, as I was not looking for any guided tour. Fourth, it’s affordable: bicycle rental rates are between Rp 20,000 ($1.38) – Rp 30,000 ($2.07) per day!

On my first day of cycling, I started from Sayan village, where I was living, to central Ubud, through Penestanan, a distance of about 3 kilometres. But after riding for 800 metres, the route felt like a mistake. I was torn between conflicting emotions when I cycled on a steep uphill in Penestanan: should I go back and take another route?

Ultimately I ended up walking uphill, making my bike look like an accessory. I secretly promised myself that I wouldn’t go cycling down that route anymore, but then decided to come back with a much better bike. I had forgotten to test ride the bike before renting it, and its quality turned out to be in the bottom of the range. To be honest, I had just picked the cheapest bike from the closest bike rental place. Unfortunately, sometimes prices determine quality.

I know cycling is not a competition. However, it was quite dangerous when I had to paddle up and down, racing with cars passing by, and with an extra effort to pass through pedestrians.

At last, I finally arrived at Campuhan Street—cycling through the wider lanes and crossing the Campuhan River, flowing down below the forest. The enjoyment of feeling the Ubud vibes had begun. I took a brief stop at Campuhan bridge, looking at Gunung Lebah Temple, one of Ubud’s central landmarks.

One thing that instantly attracted my eyes to the streets of Ubud were the big trees that wrapped around in a woven black-and-white checkered textile—known as poleng, it embodies the symbol of Rwa Bhineda, or the balance of nature. Poleng means two tones, such as black and white or day and night, and constructs two opposite things that make a harmonious combination.

Thus, the reason why the big trees are wrapped in poleng is that they are believed to have a respected magical power that should be preserved. A pecalang, the traditional Balinese village police whom I asked when I caught my breath between cycling, explained more about poleng on the trees. “We need to thank the trees that have given us the supply of oxygen, the shelter and food sources for herbivorous creatures,” he said.

Several of the poleng textiles decorated the Monkey Forest area, which led me to explore several shortcuts. The term shortcut here is actually a bit misleading, as it was not ‘a shorter alternative’ route, but definitely a more ‘non-traffic’ route.

1. Monkey Forest Street ↔ Raya Ubud Street

What could be more annoying than being stuck in traffic while cycling on Monkey Forest street? What you need to do is to find Kopi Bali House, as beside it is a small street which I once thought is only accessible for villa guests. It turns out, however, that it was a non-traffic path that brought me to Raya Ubud through Bisma Street! This secret route is also applicable if you need to go up to Campuhan Street. This is a rocky stone-cobbled lane, so please cycle safely. And if you’re hungry, Bisma Street features local eateries and Western restaurants. My favourite? Umah Pizza and Cafe Des Artistes.

2. Monkey Forest Street ↔ Nyuh Bojog

If you ride the car from Monkey Forest street to Nyuh Bojog street, you will need to drive along a one-way road, up to 5.6 kilometres. But while cycling through the shortcut next to Monkey Forest, you can cut down the distance to 500 metres!

Cycling down the lane, crossing the forest which is full of monkeys hanging out and swinging from one branch to another, was a mesmerising sight.

3. Raya Ubud Street ↔ Andong Street

This shortcut is my favourite green getaway, as the road flanked with rice fields and palm trees, growing alongside the compounds and some temples.

If you dare to wander around a little further away from the centre, how about cycling north to Tegalalang rice terraces—one of the most insta-worthy tourist attractions? I would recommend going early in the morning before the buses start roaming around lunchtime. This is also a nice place to watch the sunrise.

1. Green Bike Cycling Tour

Cycle into a Balinese village compound and experience local culture. It goes from Kintamani to Ubud.

2. eBikes Bali

This is a good choice if you can’t decide between riding a motorcycle and a bicycle. It starts from 9am to 12 noon, and then from 3pm to 6pm. Custom times can be requested for private groups.

3. Bali Eco Cycling

They offer two alternatives: the full day and half day, including a massage at the end of it. Available for sunrise cycling, after breakfast, and after lunch.

Biking in Bali via GreatBaliTrekking

Before You Jump Onto A Bike, Ensure That:

• The wheels are properly aligned, and the brakes are properly working
• There is a properly fitting helmet
• The bike’s light is working, especially if you are heading out the dark.
• There’s a bike lock, especially if you plan to make multiple stops.
• You have a poncho – you don’t want the rain to ruin your plan.