Discover Ubud: Exotism Ubud and Optional Meet the Bali Shaman

If you’re planning a trip to Bali and want an experience that combines culture, spirituality, and scenic beauty, this private full-day tour from Ubud might just be what you’re looking for. For around $65 per person, you’ll explore iconic sights, connect with local traditions, and enjoy the comfort of private transportation with Wi-Fi. It promises an authentic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual and artistic heart, with a few added surprises.

One thing we especially love about this tour is the chance to meet a traditional Balinese healer—an experience that’s both curious and insightful. Plus, visits to the famous Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Tirta Empul Temple offer a beautiful blend of nature and spiritual cleansing. But, a consideration to keep in mind is that the healer’s session might be brief due to high demand, and some of the conversations are open so others can hear. That might affect your privacy if you’re seeking a deeply personal experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, culturally immersive day without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves. It’s especially suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as there’s quite a bit of walking and some uneven terrain. If you’re curious about Bali’s spiritual practices or eager to see its lush landscapes and vibrant artisan scene, this tour offers a compelling value combined with memorable experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic cultural experiences including a meeting with a traditional Balinese healer.
• Comfortable private transportation with Wi-Fi, ensuring a smooth, relaxing day.
• Visit to major sights like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Tirta Empul Temple, and Ubud Art Village.
• Flexible options to pay for a personal healing session or simply observe.
• Cost-effective at $65, including all entrance tickets and transportation.
• Additional expenses include lunch (around $10-15) and a Bali Shaman donation ($25).

An In-Depth Look at the Ubud Tour

Convenience and Comfort with Private Transport

From the moment your day begins, the experience feels personalized thanks to the end-to-end private transportation with Wi-Fi. It’s a big plus: you won’t be crammed into a large bus with strangers, and the Wi-Fi keeps everyone connected, whether to share photos or check maps. Pickup is available from several central areas like Ubud, Seminyak, Kuta, and even Benoa Harbour, making it accessible regardless of where you’re staying.

The Cultural and Spiritual Highlights

Stop 1: Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Our first stop at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace provides a stunning introduction to Bali’s agricultural soul. The terraces are a postcard-perfect scene of lush greenery and intricate irrigation systems. Beyond the visual beauty, this spot offers insight into how rice farming shapes Balinese culture and economy. You can observe local farmers working their fields, which adds a genuine, almost cinematic dimension to the visit.

Reviewers highlight that exploring here isn’t just about taking photos; it’s about understanding the vital role rice plays. One reviewer appreciated how the guide explained the traditional rice farming methods, giving context to the sweeping landscape. Expect about an hour here, with admission included, making it a relaxed start to your day.

Stop 2: Tirta Empul Temple

Next is Tirta Empul, a revered Hindu temple famous for its holy spring water pools believed to purify body and soul. The complex, dedicated to Vishnu, features multiple shrines and bathing pools where locals and visitors alike perform cleansing rituals. Here, you’ll get to see Balinese spiritual practices firsthand.

The temple’s atmosphere is peaceful but lively, especially during prayer times. Visitors should wear the provided sarongs (included in the tour), respecting local customs. The experience lasts about an hour and is a deeply spiritual moment—though some may find it busy during peak hours. The site is included in the tour price, making it a worthwhile cultural stop.

Stop 3: Meeting the Balinese Healer

One of the most unique features of this tour is the chance to meet Cok Rai, a traditional Balinese healer. The experience can involve a personal healing session or observation, with the option to ask questions about life, relationships, or finances. Reviewers mention that the healer speaks English, though the high demand sometimes means sessions are brief, and conversations are in an open forum.

One reviewer noted, “Healer speaks English, however due to the high demand of visitors, the time allotted is not as long as you’d like. Also, the style is an open forum, so people can hear the conversation.” If you’re after privacy, that might be a small caveat, but for many, the insights gained are still worthwhile. The cost is USD 25 per person for the donation, which supports the healer’s work.

Stop 4: Ubud Art Village & Local Market

Finally, the tour takes you to Ubud’s vibrant Art Village, a lively hub for local crafts, paintings, textiles, and food stalls. It’s the perfect place to soak up the creative energy and perhaps pick up some authentic souvenirs. You’ll have about two hours here, giving ample time to stroll through artisan shops, sample local dishes, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere.

This part of the tour is free to explore, and many reviews praise the variety of delicious food and tapas-like snacks available, making it a tasty end to your day.

Additional Inclusions and Optional Extras

The tour package includes all entrance tickets, mineral water, sarongs for temple visits, and hotel pickup and drop-off in select areas. While the tour is priced at $65 per person, remember that optional costs include lunch (roughly $10 to $15) and the Shaman donation.

Real-Life Insights from Reviewers

• “Healer speaks English, however due to the high demand of visitors, the time allotted is not as long as you’d like. Also, the style is an open forum, so people can hear the conversation between you and the healer,” says Ann C. This transparency helps set expectations about the potential lack of privacy during the healing sessions but highlights the communal, open atmosphere.

• Multiple reviewers find the private transportation with Wi-Fi a significant bonus, often mentioning how it makes the day more comfortable and stress-free.

• The Ubud Art Village was a highlight for many, with visitors enjoying the local crafts, lively street scenes, and tasty food options.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $65, including all entrance fees, transportation, and some additional amenities, this tour provides solid value. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a comprehensive, culturally rich day without the hassle of planning each stop separately. The optional personal healing session adds an intriguing layer, especially for curious travelers keen on spiritual practices.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious, culturally-minded travelers who want an authentic look at Bali’s spiritual side and scenic beauty. If you’re interested in local traditions, artistic Ubud, and the chance to connect with a healer, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a flexible, relaxed way to see some of Bali’s most iconic sites without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re after private, in-depth healing or spiritual sessions, you might find the open forum style less satisfying. Also, those with limited mobility should be prepared for walking around temple sites and rice terraces that may involve uneven paths.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, nature, spirituality, and local life, making it a rewarding addition to any Bali itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical activity, including walking and some uneven terrain, so it’s best for travelers with a moderate fitness level.

What is included in the tour price?
All entrance tickets, mineral water, sarongs for temple visits, and hotel pickup and drop-off in select areas are included.

Can I choose to skip the healing session?
Yes, you can opt to simply observe the healer instead of participating in a personal session.

How long do I have at each stop?
Expect about an hour at Tegalalang Rice Terrace, an hour at Tirta Empul, and two hours exploring Ubud Art Village. The healer session duration varies based on demand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased separately for around $10-$15.

What is the Bali Shaman donation fee?
The recommended donation is USD 25 per person, supporting the healer’s work.

What areas do the pick-up services cover?
Pickup is available from Benoa Harbour, Kuta, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Sanur, Denpasar, Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak areas.

In summary, this Ubud tour balances cultural exploration, spiritual discovery, and scenic beauty at a reasonable price point. It offers a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual traditions and artistic expressions, making it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of this enchanting island. Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of the rice terraces, the sacred waters of Tirta Empul, or the intriguing insight of a traditional healer, this tour covers the essentials with authenticity and care.