Half & Full Day Ubud Private Tour with Local Driver Putu

Looking for a private Bali driver for Ubud tour?

Discover Tirta Empul Temple, join the traditional purification ritual, visit the beautiful Tegalalang Rice Terrace, explore gorgeous Ubud waterfalls, meet playful monkeys at Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and enjoy exciting ATV rides and rafting adventures with a trusted local Bali driver. Customize your half-day or full-day Bali tour based on your interests and travel style.

Hello, I am Putu! 🙏 I am a Balinese driver-guide with many years of experience showing visitors the beauty of Ubud and beyond. I would love to be your trusted driver for your Ubud tour — whether you prefer a half-day Ubud tour or a relaxed full-day Ubud tour, I will take you to the best places, share local stories, and help you discover the real magic of Ubud.

This page shares my personal itinerary and tips from years of driving guests around Ubud — I hope it helps you plan a wonderful Bali holiday! 😊

I provide Bali tours for you because I’m sure you’ll want to explore this island during your stay. If you’re looking for a Bali driver for a private tour like half-day or full-day tour, you’ve come to the right place.

Let me introduce myself more: my name is Putu, a local Balinese driver with many years of experience. I live in a strategically located farming village, about 25–30 minutes from Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Sanur. So, if you’re staying in those areas, I can easily pick you up for your tour.

I offer a variety of Bali tours, from cultural tours to exciting activities. I love recommending destinations like Ubud, Bedugul, North Bali, Lovina, South Bali, Uluwatu Temple, and East Bali all the way to Lempuyang Temple.

Below, I’ll list some of the most popular Ubud tourist attractions you can choose for your half-day or full-day tour.

Purification Ritual at Tirta Empul Temple

What You’ll Get
One of the most famous temples around Ubud is Tirta Empul, which has a sacred pool for ritual bathing. Many tourists come to see and experience Balinese spiritual practices. Before praying, people will perform melukat ceremony, a physical and spiritual cleansing ritual aimed at purifying oneself, releasing burdens, and expressing gratitude for life’s blessings.

Now, the temple management allows tourists to participate in the melukat experience, with the assistance of a guide to ensure the process follows the rules. The temple’s structure, pool, and rare ornaments make for valuable photo spots.

A Little Historical Context and Legend
According to local records and legends, Tirta Empul has a long story about a sacred spring that emerged after a battle between an evil king and a god. Sources explain this legend, adding to the spiritual significance of the place. Furthermore, its history is thought to date back to the 10th century, with the meaning of its name referring to a sacred spring.

Tips:

• Bring a sarong or change of clothes, and be respectful.
• Try to arrive late in the day so it’s not too hot and there aren’t too many other tourists.
• Make sure you (the woman) are not menstruating.

Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Bali Swing

What you’ll get
Tegalalang offers stunning views of the lush green rice terraces. Here, you can take a light trek across the rice paddies, observe farmers in action, and learn how rice, the staple food, is produced. The trek generally lasts about an hour, but can be extended or shortened depending on your conditions and preferences.

Besides trekking, there are activities like the Bali Swing or zip line. You’ll experience the sensation of floating on a high swing—up to about 20 meters—while viewing the rice paddies from the air. This experience is truly special and makes for stunning photos.

Afterward, have lunch in front of the rice paddies—you can choose from a luxurious or simple restaurant. Enjoy your meal while gazing at the verdant terraces, accompanied by a gentle breeze. A selection of local and international dishes are available.

Tips
Wear comfortable trekking shoes and bring a hat or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun.
If you want trekking or good photos, come early in the morning or early afternoon; avoid the heat of the day.
For the Bali Swing/zip line, pay attention to the operator’s rules and ensure your belongings are secure.

Fascinating waterfalls around Ubud

What you’ll get
Ubud has many water sources, so there are plenty of waterfalls to choose from. Two waterfalls near Tegalalang and Tirta Empul are Ulu Petanu and Tibumana. The surroundings are very green, with lush tropical trees. You’ll usually have to descend a set of stairs provided by the management. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of water, stunning views, and fresh air.

Here, you can bathe, refresh your body, and relax your muscles after your walk. The refreshing water is perfect for easing the tropical heat and humidity. Photo spots at the waterfalls are also always beautiful holiday memories.

Tips
Wear non-slip footwear; the steps and paths can get wet.
Bring a towel and a change of clothes; and a plastic bag or waterproof case for your gadgets.
Check the weather—avoid heavy rain, as the trail is more slippery and the water currents fluctuate.
Visiting in the morning or afternoon provides a more peaceful experience, as there tend to be fewer visitors.

The Sacred Ubud Monkey Forest

What you’ll find
If you enjoy seeing endemic animals, a visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest, also known as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary or Ubud Monkey Temple, is a must. This place is both a conservation area and a sacred site. It includes a local cemetery, Pura Dalem, and Pura Beji; it is used for religious and spiritual activities.

The forest feels cool and comfortable because of the large, lush trees—home to long-tailed monkeys. Many Balinese ornaments and typical Balinese temple architecture in this area create a classic and mystical feel. The guards are always there to ensure the comfort of visitors, providing food supplies, and helping with photo opportunities with the monkeys. You can take photos in front of the temple with the friendly monkeys.

Tips
Don’t bring open food; follow the guards’ instructions to prevent aggression from the monkeys.
Keep valuables in a closed bag; monkeys like to reach for or grab open objects.
Keep your distance if the monkeys appear aggressive; avoid sudden movements.

Ubud Center: Puri Saren Palace and Ubud Art Market

What you’ll find
Ubud’s center has a long history as an arts center. Puri Saren Ubud is the royal palace of the Ubud royal family and has long been a hub for artistic activity. Since the 19th century, Ubud has been home to many painters, both local and international, who received support from the royal family. The stories of famous artists who came to Ubud have made Ubud a world-renowned arts center.

Also within this complex, nightly dance performances include Barong and Legong. The Legong dance tells classical stories with smooth, precise movements; it’s perfect for those who enjoy performing arts.
In front of the palace is the Ubud Art Market. In the morning, the market sells basic necessities for the locals, then transforms into an art market during the day. Here, local artists sell paintings, sculptures, batik clothing, prayer items, meditation items, and other works of art. It’s perfect for those looking to buy unique souvenirs.

Tips
At the market, prepare your bargaining skills; shop patiently to get a fair price.
If you want to watch a dance, check the schedule and ticket prices in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Exciting ATV and Rafting Activities in Ubud

What you’ll Get
You can combine culture and exciting activities in one day—the Ubud Mixed Tour. After visiting these iconic sites, add in an ATV ride or rafting experience on the Ayung River.
Why does it feel different in Bali? ATV and rafting can be enjoyed in many places around the world, but Bali offers a unique experience:

Typical tropical vegetation, coconut trees, and lush greenery. Small caves accessible by ATV, rice paddy paths, and peaceful rural scenery. Tranquil villages with sacred temples, unique Balinese ornaments and statues. Small waterfalls, waterholes, challenging creeks, and more.

On the Ayung River, the forest atmosphere is very serene. Several spots offer views of rice paddies; there are places to stop at small waterfalls for photos. The river, with its valley decorated with Balinese ornamental carvings, provides a unique experience. The currents are challenging but not extreme—generally grade 2–3—suitable for families and teams.

Tips

• Follow the guide’s instructions carefully; ensure all safety equipment is properly fastened.
• Wear quick-drying clothing and safe footwear; bring a change of clothes.
• Check your physical and health conditions; if you have back problems or open wounds, consult with us first.

How To Customize The Tour?

That’s an overview of the tours we typically offer clients who book a half-day or full-day Ubud Tour. I’m very happy to provide excellent service and share stories about the places we visit.

Before the tour, you can discuss with me what you’d like to see and do—for example, a focus on culture, nature, or adventure activities. I’ll tailor the highlights and itinerary to your preferences.

If you’d like to learn more about other tours or customize more details, contact me directly via WhatsApp on this site. See you in Bali—let’s make your day in Ubud unforgettable!

For complete packages and prices, please see our Full Day Ubud Tour page.

Booking tour, click here