Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step into a fairy tale? To explore a majestic palace surrounded by lush gardens, lotus ponds, and ornate carvings? To witness the graceful and mesmerizing dance performances that tell the stories of the gods and heroes? To immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant culture of Bali, the island of the gods?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should definitely visit Ubud Palace, also known as Puri Saren Agung, one of the most popular and impressive attractions in Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali. Ubud Palace is not only a historical landmark, but also a living museum, where you can experience the daily life of the royal family, the traditional ceremonies and rituals, and the authentic Balinese hospitality.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Ubud Palace, including its history, architecture, attractions, activities, and tips for visiting. We will also show you how to plan your trip to Ubud Palace, and suggest some nearby attractions and things to do in Ubud. Whether you are a culture lover, an art enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Ubud Palace.
Why Visit Ubud Palace: The Top Reasons to Explore this Historical Landmark
Ubud Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Balinese culture, art, and spirituality. Here are some of the top reasons why you should visit this stunning attraction:
Cultural immersion: Ubud Palace is not just a tourist attraction, but also a home of the royal family, who still live in the palace and welcome visitors with open arms. You can witness the daily life of the royals, such as their morning prayers, their offerings to the gods and ancestors, and their interactions with the locals and guests. You can also join them in their traditional ceremonies and rituals, such as the full moon festival, the temple anniversary, and the cremation ceremony. You will feel like you are part of the family, and learn more about the Balinese culture and values.
Artistic expression: Ubud Palace is a masterpiece of Gusti Nyoman Lempad, a legendary Balinese architect, sculptor, and painter, who designed and built the palace in the early 20th century. You can admire the exquisite architecture, the intricate carvings and statues, and the spectacular dance performances that showcase the Balinese artistry and spirituality. You can also visit the nearby Ubud Art Market, where you can find a variety of handicrafts, paintings, textiles, and souvenirs made by local artists and craftsmen.
Spiritual connection: Ubud Palace is a sacred place, where you can feel the reverence for the gods and ancestors, the harmony with nature, and the meditation and yoga practices that are part of the Balinese way of life. You can visit the Padmasana shrine, the main temple of the palace, where you can pray and make offerings to the supreme god, Sang Hyang Widi. You can also relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lotus pond, the water garden, and the banyan tree, where you can connect with the elements of water, earth, and air. You can also join the nightly dance performances, where you can witness the expressions of devotion, emotion, and wisdom through the movements, music, and costumes of the dancers.
What to See and Do at Ubud Palace: The Best Attractions and Activities
Ubud Palace offers a variety of attractions and activities that will keep you entertained and amazed. Here are some of the best things to see and do at Ubud Palace:
The ornate gate: The first thing you will notice when you enter Ubud Palace is the ornate gate, also known as the Kori Agung, which means the great gate. The gate is made of carved stone walls, decorated with reliefs of mythical creatures, such as the naga (dragon), the garuda (eagle), and the barong (lion). The gate symbolizes the entrance to the sacred realm, where the gods and the royals reside. The gate is also the place where the royal family greets the guests and the dignitaries, such as the presidents, the kings, and the celebrities, who have visited Ubud Palace over the years.
The banyan tree: The next thing you will see after passing the gate is the banyan tree, also known as the waringin, which is a sacred tree in Balinese culture. The banyan tree is believed to be the home of the spirits and the ancestors, who protect and bless the palace and the people. The banyan tree is also a symbol of longevity, prosperity, and wisdom, as it can live for hundreds of years, spread its roots and branches, and provide shade and shelter for many living beings. The banyan tree is also a place where the locals and the visitors can rest and relax, and enjoy the cool breeze and the soothing sound of the leaves.
The Padmasana shrine: The most important attraction of Ubud Palace is the Padmasana shrine, also known as the Pura Taman Saraswati, which means the temple of the goddess of knowledge and arts. The Padmasana shrine is dedicated to the supreme god, Sang Hyang Widi, who is represented by an empty throne on top of a lotus flower. The lotus flower is a symbol of purity, enlightenment, and beauty, and is also associated with the goddess Saraswati, who is the patron of learning, music, and literature. The Padmasana shrine is the main temple of the palace, where the royal family and the priests perform the rituals and ceremonies to honor and worship the god and the goddess.
The lotus pond: The most beautiful attraction of Ubud Palace is the lotus pond, also known as the Taman Sari, which means the water garden. The lotus pond is a large pool filled with water lilies and lotus flowers, which create a stunning contrast with the green and red colors of the palace. The lotus pond is also a place where the dance performances are held, as the pond serves as a natural stage and backdrop for the dancers. The lotus pond is also a place where you can enjoy the scenic beauty and the peaceful ambiance of Ubud Palace, and take some amazing photos and selfies.
The three mandala zones: The most interesting attraction of Ubud Palace is the three mandala zones, also known as the Tri Mandala, which means the three realms. The three mandala zones are the three areas of the palace, which correspond to the three levels of the Balinese cosmology, namely the nista (the lower world), the madya (the middle world), and the utama (the upper world). The nista is the outermost area of the palace, where the public and the guests can enter and explore. The madya is the middle area of the palace, where the royal family and the priests can access and perform the rituals and ceremonies. The utama is the innermost area of the palace, where the gods and the ancestors can reside and bless the palace and the people. The three mandala zones are separated by walls and gates, which mark the boundaries and the transitions between the realms.
How to Plan Your Visit to Ubud Palace: The Essential Information and Tips
Ubud Palace is a popular and accessible destination, which you can easily visit and enjoy. Here are some of the essential information and tips for planning your visit to Ubud Palace:
Location and opening hours: Ubud Palace is located in the center of Ubud, on Jalan Raya Ubud, the main street of the town. Ubud Palace is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., except during special occasions, such as the royal ceremonies or the festivals, when the palace may be closed or partially open to the public. You can check the official website of Ubud Palace or the tourism board of Bali for the latest updates and information.
Ticket prices: Ubud Palace is free to enter and explore, as it is a public and a cultural site. However, you may need to pay a small fee for the dance performances, which range from 50,000 to 100,000 rupiah (around 3 to 6 USD) per person, depending on the type and the duration of the performance. You can buy the tickets at the entrance of the palace or at the nearby ticket booths.
Dress code and etiquette: Ubud Palace is a sacred and a respectful place, where you need to follow some dress code and etiquette rules. You need to wear modest and appropriate clothing, which covers your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing any revealing or offensive outfits. You may also need to wear a sarong and a sash, which are traditional Balinese garments, which you can borrow or rent at the entrance of the palace or at the nearby shops. You also need to behave politely and courteously, and avoid any loud or rude actions, such as shouting, running, or touching the carvings and statues. You also need to respect the privacy and the dignity of the royal family and the priests, and ask for their permission before taking any photos or videos of them.
Best time to visit: Ubud Palace is a year-round destination, which you can visit anytime you want. However, some of the best times to visit are during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, and during the festivals and events, such as the Bali Arts Festival, the Ubud Writers and Readers Festival, and the Ubud Village Jazz Festival, when you can enjoy the cultural and artistic performances and activities. You can also visit in the early morning or the late afternoon, when the palace is less crowded and more peaceful.
Conclusion
Ubud Palace is a cultural treasure in the heart of Bali, where you can discover the beauty and history of the palace, immerse yourself in the Balinese culture, art, and spirituality, and enjoy the stunning attractions and activities. Ubud Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the authentic and unique charm of Bali, the island of the gods.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Ubud Palace today, and get ready to explore this cultural treasure in the heart of Bali. You will not regret it!
