Ubud has become known worldwide as a center
for the arts and is located 25 Kilometers from Denpasar. Spectacularly
set among lush rice paddies and the stunning hillsides of central
Bali, Ubud harbors a number of palaces and temples, museums and
art galleries, and a host of cafes and restaurants.
It is where the image of Bali as a land of artists was created.
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 began here, when artists
first began to abandon purely religious and court scenes for scenes
of everyday life. Ubud is home to many respected local and western
artists.
Ubud is an ideal place to see Balinese dance. Legong, Ramayana,
Baris, Kecak, and the fire dance are performed nightly in or around
the Ubud area. Ubud also gives the opportunity to see the real
Bali. It's a place for leisurely strolls through rice paddies
and lush forest, all within walking distance from the center of
Ubud.
Walking along the monkey forest or visiting the Ubud market can
be very exciting. Ubud Market has kept much of its traditional
charm, with squatting Balinese sellers haggling loudly among spices
and vegetables. The market also sells handicrafts, many made in
neighboring villages of Pengosekan, Tegalalang, Payangan and Peliatan.
