Meditate with a Shaman

Our review of the “Meditate with a Shaman” tour in Ubud captures a truly special Balinese experience that combines ancient rituals, personal insight, and genuine cultural connection. This 8-hour journey is designed for travelers seeking more than just sightseeing — it’s about connecting with Bali’s spiritual energies and local traditions in an intimate setting.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group size of no more than eight people, which ensures a personal, relaxed atmosphere. From the moment we hear about the off-the-beaten-path water temple and the rare opportunity to meet a local healer, it’s clear this experience offers something authentic and deeply meaningful.

One potential consideration is the physical aspect of the water purification ritual—participants should bring their own towel and swimwear—and women during their period are advised not to participate in the water temple ritual. This tour is ideal for those curious about spirituality, cultural rituals, or simply wanting a quiet, reflective day with knowledgeable guides.

This experience suits well-traveled individuals who appreciate authenticity, are open to new traditions, and value small-group, personalized excursions. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting a deeper understanding of Bali’s spiritual side beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a less crowded water temple with deep spiritual significance.
• Unique Access: Meet a local Balinese healer who typically only serves the community.
• Intimate Group: Limited to 8 travelers for a personalized and reflective experience.
• Comprehensive Day: Combines water purification, breakfast, and a palm reading or energy consultation.
• Hassle-Free Transfers: Includes direct pick-up from your Ubud accommodation.
• Meaningful Insights: Gain personal guidance and cultural understanding from expert guides and a traditional healer.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Water Purification Ritual at Mengening Temple

Your day begins with a peaceful early-morning pickup around 6-7 am, setting the tone for a calm, reflective journey. The drive to Mengening Temple, a spot with the meaning “stillness,” is relatively quiet, giving you time to anticipate the spiritual journey ahead.

Once at the temple, you’ll participate in a powerful cleansing ritual designed to clear your body and mind of negativity. This off-the-path water temple isn’t crowded, as some reviews point out — “we were the first and only ones at the temple,” one traveler shared. The temple’s tranquil environment enhances the ritual’s effect, allowing for genuine contemplation and release.

Participants are advised to bring their own towel and swimwear, as water cleansing involves immersion. Women during their period are generally advised not to join the water ritual, a detail that comes from local tradition and ensures respect for the ceremony’s spiritual significance.

Breakfast in Ubud

After the purification, the group returns to Ubud for a delicious breakfast at a beautiful restaurant. Here, you get the chance to relax, reflect, and share your initial impressions with fellow travelers. Many reviews praise the meal as “great” and the surroundings as “beautiful,” making this a perfect pause before the next part of the day.

Meeting the Traditional Healer

Around mid-morning, you’ll head to meet a local Balinese shaman at her home, about a 30-minute drive from Ubud. This healer, who normally works only with locals and doesn’t speak English, is a rare find. Luckily, your guide acts as translator, enabling a meaningful exchange.

Guests have described the experience as “bluffing” in its accuracy — even without providing personal information, the healer often uncovers insights about their lives, giving advice on how to move forward. One traveler remarked, “she looked at my palm, and what she told me totally made sense with my life,” highlighting just how personal and insightful these readings can be. This part of the tour is genuinely unique, as few travelers get the chance to experience a traditional healing session like this.

The Personal Guidance and Reflection

The palm reading, birth date analysis, and energetic tapping create a deep connection with Bali’s spiritual culture. The healer’s insights tend to be very tailored, and many reviews mention how moving and accurate these sessions are. Travelers often record the readings or voice-record the guidance, making this a treasured memory.

Group Size and Timing

Thanks to a maximum of 8 travelers, the atmosphere remains intimate and unhurried. The entire experience typically finishes around 2 pm, depending on the size of the group and traffic conditions. This allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to absorb what you’ve experienced.

The Value of the Experience

At $92.06 per person, this tour offers an impressive combination of cultural authenticity, spiritual insight, and personal reflection. The inclusions — water purification, breakfast, healer consultation, and transportation — make for a seamless, hassle-free day.

Reviewers have noted that guides are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about Balinese culture, which enhances the authenticity of the day. The driver and guide team, such as Putu and Wahyu, create a friendly, caring environment, making sure everyone feels comfortable and cared for.

What’s notable is the way this tour balances spiritual depth with cultural education. You’re not just observing from afar but actively participating and learning about traditions that many travelers don’t get to see firsthand.

The Transportation and Timing

The pickup at your hotel means no fuss about logistics, and the early start ensures a quiet experience at the temple — “we had it all to ourselves,” one reviewer emphasized. The drive back to Ubud is comfortable and scenic, giving you a glimpse into Balinese countryside.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value meaningful, authentic experiences and are open to spiritual practices. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a quiet, reflective day that goes beyond typical tourist attractions. If you’re a solo traveler craving a moment of insight or a small group wanting a shared, memorable journey, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The “Meditate with a Shaman” tour in Ubud offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with Bali’s spiritual traditions in an intimate setting. From the peaceful water temple cleansing to the insightful palm readings, every part of this experience feels genuine and carefully curated.

Travelers will enjoy the knowledgeable guides, the stunning, tranquil locations, and the chance to participate in rituals most travelers never encounter. The small-group format fosters a respectful, contemplative atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the experience.

While it requires a bit of physical preparedness for water immersion and an openness to spiritual guidance, most visitors agree that this tour delivers value for money and unforgettable memories. It’s ideal for those who seek a meaningful, authentic slice of Balinese culture — a quiet moment of reflection and insight amid a busy vacation.

If you’re after a day of genuine connection, spiritual growth, and cultural discovery, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s a heartfelt invitation to explore the sacred energies of Ubud in a way that’s both enriching and deeply personal.

FAQ

Is pick-up included in the tour? Yes, free pickup is offered from your Ubud hotel, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.

What should I bring for the water temple ritual? You should bring your own towel and swimwear. Women during their period are advised not to participate in the water purification ritual.

How long does the entire experience last? The tour runs approximately 8 hours, typically starting around 7 am and finishing by 2 pm, depending on the group size and traffic.

Is this suitable for solo travelers? Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling welcomed and having a deeply personal experience.

What is the maximum group size? The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a calm, intimate environment.

How authentic is the healer’s reading? Many guests found the healer’s insights surprisingly accurate and meaningful, often recording the session to remember her guidance.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, offering flexibility if plans shift.

This detailed look at the “Meditate with a Shaman” tour shows it’s more than just a sightseeing day; it’s a soulful journey. For those eager to connect with Bali’s spiritual roots and enjoy a truly authentic cultural experience, this tour promises to be unforgettable.