Campuhan Ridge Walk Bali: Entrance Fee, Route & Best Time to Visit
The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the easiest ways to experience a greener side of Ubud without travelling far from the town centre. This scenic walking route follows an open grassy ridge between two river valleys, with views of tropical vegetation, rolling hills, and the countryside around Ubud.
Unlike a waterfall excursion or a full-day trekking trip, Campuhan Ridge Walk does not require a complicated itinerary. You can visit in the early morning, enjoy a relaxed walk, stop for photographs, and continue exploring Ubud afterwards.
Before you go, it helps to know where the trail starts, how far you need to walk, whether there is an entrance fee, and when the exposed path is most comfortable to explore.
Table of contents
Campuhan Ridge Walk at a Glance
Location: Jalan Raya Campuhan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali
Main trail length: Approximately 2 km one way
Return distance: Approximately 4 km if you walk back along the same route
Entrance fee: Free for the main ridge walking path
Time needed: Around 1–2 hours for a relaxed return walk, including stops
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Trail difficulty: Generally easy, with steps and an uphill section near the start
Main highlights: Grassy hills, river valleys, tropical greenery, and countryside views
Nearby area: Pura Gunung Lebah and Bangkiang Sidem
What Is Campuhan Ridge Walk?
Campuhan Ridge Walk is a public walking route on the western side of central Ubud. It follows a narrow ridge between two river valleys, creating an open landscape that feels different from Ubud’s busier streets.
The path is known for its tall grass, green slopes, and views across the surrounding valleys. As you leave the main road and climb towards the ridge, the setting gradually changes from a built-up area near the temple to a more open stretch of countryside.
One of the area’s defining features is its relationship with the rivers below. The name campuhan refers to a meeting or confluence of waters, reflecting the geography around the starting area near Pura Gunung Lebah.
Rather than a strenuous mountain hike, this is a relatively accessible outdoor walk. You can set your own pace, pause for photographs, and turn back whenever you feel you have explored enough.
The experience is particularly appealing if you want to enjoy Ubud’s natural scenery without committing to a long drive or a full-day outdoor activity.
Where Is Campuhan Ridge Walk and How Do You Find the Entrance?
Campuhan Ridge Walk is located on Jalan Raya Campuhan, just west of central Ubud in Gianyar, Bali. The southern entrance is near Pura Gunung Lebah and the Campuhan bridge, making it accessible from several accommodation areas around town.
Start Near Pura Gunung Lebah
If you are visiting for the first time, use Pura Gunung Lebah or the Campuhan bridge as your main navigation landmarks rather than relying only on a generic map pin for the ridge.
From the road near the bridge, look for the access lane leading towards the temple area. The route continues beside the temple before a short flight of steps takes you up towards the ridge.
The entrance can be easy to miss if you expect a large ticket booth or a clearly defined tourist attraction gate. Take a moment to check your surroundings before continuing along the road.
Remember that Pura Gunung Lebah is an active place of worship. You can follow the walking route without entering the temple courtyards, and you should respect ceremonies or restricted areas if they are present.
Getting There from Central Ubud
If you are staying around Ubud Palace or the central shopping streets, walking to the southern entrance may be a practical option. The journey generally takes around 15–20 minutes on foot from the palace area, depending on your exact starting point and walking pace.
You can also travel by scooter or car if you are staying farther away. However, parking near the trail entrance is limited, so allow extra time if you plan to arrive by vehicle.
For visitors coming from outside Ubud, consider the time needed to reach the town before choosing a sunrise visit. Driving from southern Bali can take considerably longer than travelling from accommodation within Ubud, especially when traffic is heavy.
Campuhan Ridge Walk Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
One of the main advantages of Campuhan Ridge Walk is that the main walking path is generally free to access. There is no standard entrance ticket required for a walk along the public ridge route.
You should still budget for optional expenses, including parking if you arrive by vehicle, drinks or meals at nearby cafés, and transport if you are not staying within walking distance.
Visit detail
What to know
Entrance fee
Free for the main walking route
Opening access
Generally accessible throughout the day
Parking
Availability and charges can vary by location
Café purchases
Optional and charged separately
Temple visit
Separate from simply walking along the ridge
Campuhan Ridge Walk Route, Distance, and Difficulty
The main route runs for approximately 2 km one way from the southern access near Pura Gunung Lebah towards the Bangkiang Sidem area. Walking back along the same path brings the total to roughly 4 km.
At a relaxed pace, the return journey usually takes around 1–2 hours, including time for photographs and short breaks. If you prefer a quick walk without many stops, you may finish sooner. Exploring nearby village lanes or stopping for a meal will add to your visit.
What Is the Walking Trail Like?
The route is mostly paved, with an uphill section and steps near the beginning. Once you reach the ridge, the walk becomes more gradual, although the surface can be uneven in places.
The main challenge is not technical hiking. It is the combination of direct sun, humidity, and the distance you choose to cover. Because much of the ridge is exposed, the same walk can feel comfortable early in the morning and tiring during the heat of the day.
Wear footwear that feels secure on paved surfaces and steps. After rain, take extra care around damp sections and avoid rushing on the downhill or uphill parts.
Should You Walk One Way or Return Along the Same Route?
For most first-time visitors, walking out and back along the same route is the simplest plan. You can decide when to turn around without arranging another vehicle or navigating unfamiliar roads.
If you continue towards Bangkiang Sidem, you will reach village lanes and cafés around the northern end of the main walk. This can be a pleasant place to rest before returning.
Do not assume the route forms a short, convenient loop back to central Ubud. The road route can be considerably longer, and transport arrangements at the far end may require planning. If you want to finish at a different point, confirm your pickup location and transport options before setting off.
Best Time to Visit Campuhan Ridge Walk
The best time to visit Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud, Bali, is early in the morning, around 6:00–7:30 AM, when temperatures are generally cooler and the walking path is more comfortable before the midday heat. Late afternoon, around 5:00–6:30 PM, is another option for softer light across the ridge, although humidity and visitor numbers may be higher.
Because much of the route is exposed to direct sunlight, the time you start can make a noticeable difference to your experience. Choose a window that gives you enough daylight to enjoy the views and complete your walk without rushing.
Best Time of Day to Visit
Early morning (6:00–7:30 AM): The most practical choice for cooler walking conditions and softer morning light. Arriving early may also help you enjoy the ridge before visitor numbers increase. If you want to catch sunrise colours, remember that visibility depends on cloud cover and weather conditions.
Late afternoon (5:00–6:30 PM): A good alternative if you prefer warm, softer light for photography. However, the path may still feel humid, and popular periods can bring more walkers. Allow enough time to return before it gets dark, as the route does not have continuous lighting.
Midday (10:00 AM–4:00 PM): Generally less comfortable for a leisurely walk because the open ridge has limited natural shade. Direct sunlight and Bali’s humidity can make the exposed path feel much hotter, particularly on clear days. If you visit during these hours, bring water, use sun protection, and consider a shorter walk.
These time windows are practical recommendations rather than guaranteed conditions. Cloud cover, rainfall, temperature, and visitor numbers can vary from day to day.
Best Season to Visit Campuhan Ridge Walk
Dry Season (April–October)
The dry season is generally a practical period for walking around Ubud, as rainfall is typically less frequent than during the wetter months. When conditions are dry, the paved path and steps may be easier to navigate, while clearer weather can provide better visibility across the surrounding valleys.
However, dry weather does not mean the ridge is always cool. The exposed path can become hot under direct sunlight, so an early start remains a sensible choice.
Rainy Season (November–March)
The rainy season can bring greener vegetation and a fresh appearance to the surrounding countryside. The trade-off is that rainfall may leave sections of the path and steps damp or slippery, while cloud cover can limit the views.
If you visit during this period, check the weather forecast before setting out and wear footwear with reliable grip. Postpone your walk during heavy rain or thunderstorms, and take extra care on wet surfaces.
The appeal of Campuhan Ridge Walk comes from its simple outdoor setting. You do not need a long list of activities to enjoy the route; the landscape itself is the main reason to visit.
1. Enjoy the Open Grassy Ridge
The main ridge is lined with tall grass and opens towards green valleys on both sides. The changing perspective as you walk gives the route more variety than a simple stroll along a town street.
Take your time rather than walking directly to the far end. Some of the most enjoyable moments come from pausing to look across the slopes or watching how the light changes over the landscape.
2. Take Photos of the Ubud Countryside
Campuhan Ridge Walk is a popular place for landscape and travel photography. The curved ridge, tall grass, and valley views create natural compositions without the need for elaborate setups.
For the best results, visit when the light is softer and avoid blocking the narrow path while taking photographs. Be considerate of other walkers, particularly when the route is busy.
Keep in mind that the scenery changes with the weather and season. Green vegetation, clear views, and dramatic skies are not guaranteed on every visit.
3. Continue Towards Bangkiang Sidem
At the northern end, the path continues into the Bangkiang Sidem area, where village lanes, countryside views, and cafés offer a natural stopping point.
This is a good option if you want to turn the walk into a relaxed morning outing rather than a quick photo stop. You can take a break before retracing your steps towards Ubud.
Stay on established paths and avoid entering private property or walking through cultivated land simply to find a photograph.
4. Enjoy a Relaxed Outdoor Break
The walk is also suitable for visitors who want to stretch their legs between temple visits, shopping, or meals in Ubud.
You can walk for as long as you feel comfortable, then return to town for another activity. There is no need to treat the full route as a fitness challenge or rush to complete the entire distance.
Practical Tips Before Visiting Campuhan Ridge Walk
A little preparation can make this straightforward walk more enjoyable, especially if you are visiting during a warm or humid day.
Bring drinking water. There are exposed sections where shade is limited, and you may not find refreshments immediately beside the path.
Use sun protection. A hat, sunscreen, and light clothing can make a noticeable difference on the open ridge.
Choose secure footwear. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip are useful on the steps and potentially damp surfaces.
Start early if possible. Cooler conditions generally make the walk more comfortable.
Check the weather. Delay your visit if heavy rain or thunderstorms make the path unsafe.
Respect the temple. Keep noise down near Pura Gunung Lebah, follow local instructions, and do not enter restricted areas.
Share the path. The route is used by other walkers and local residents. Move aside for others and avoid stopping in the narrowest sections.
Plan your return. Walking back the same way is straightforward. If you want to finish at the northern end, arrange transport in advance rather than assuming a ride will be readily available.
Carry your rubbish out. Help keep the ridge and surrounding countryside clean.
Places to Visit Near Campuhan Ridge Walk
If you have more time in Ubud, Campuhan Ridge Walk can fit into a wider itinerary. Choose nearby attractions based on your interests and allow enough travel time between stops.
1. Pura Gunung Lebah
Located near the southern access, Pura Gunung Lebah is an important cultural landmark associated with the confluence of the rivers. You can appreciate the temple surroundings from the public route, while entry into temple areas may require appropriate attire and respect for local customs.
2. Ubud Palace and Ubud Art Market
The palace and art market are useful additions if you want to combine an outdoor walk with Ubud’s cultural and shopping areas. They are located in the central part of town, making them practical options for a separate stop before or after the walk.
If you would like to add a forest and temple experience, Ubud Monkey Forest is another well-known attraction in the area. Plan the visit around the opening hours and allow enough time to move between locations.
You do not need to visit every attraction in one day. A more comfortable itinerary usually combines the ridge walk with one or two stops that match your interests, rather than squeezing too many activities into a short schedule.
Near the Campuhan area, this museum offers a different experience for visitors interested in art. It can complement a morning outdoors with time spent exploring Ubud’s creative heritage.
Is Campuhan Ridge Walk Worth Visiting?
Yes, Campuhan Ridge Walk is worth visiting if you want an easy outdoor stop in Ubud without paying an entrance fee. Its main appeal is the open ridge landscape and countryside views, making it a good fit for a relaxed morning walk, a short photography outing, or a break from Ubud’s busy streets.
However, it may not be a priority if you prefer shaded trails, extensive rice terraces, or more active outdoor adventures. If you are travelling from outside Ubud, combine the walk with nearby attractions to make the journey more worthwhile.
Explore Campuhan Ridge Walk And More of Bali with Marina Bali Tours
Campuhan Ridge Walk is a simple way to experience Ubud’s green landscapes, but it can also be the beginning of a wider day exploring the area. Depending on your schedule, you may want to combine the walk with cultural landmarks, art spaces, or other scenic stops around Ubud.
With Marina Bali Tours, you can explore Bali through an itinerary shaped around the places you want to see and the time you have available. Rather than rushing between too many destinations, plan a route that gives you time to enjoy each stop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Campuhan Ridge Walk
Is Campuhan Ridge Walk free?
Yes. The main public walking route is generally free to access. You may still spend money on parking, refreshments, or transport, depending on how you visit.
How long is Campuhan Ridge Walk?
The main route is approximately 2 km one way. Walking back along the same path makes it roughly 4 km in total.
How long does the walk take?
Allow around 1–2 hours for a relaxed return walk with photo stops. Your visit may take longer if you explore the surrounding village lanes or stop at a café.
What is the best time to visit Campuhan Ridge Walk?
Early morning is generally the most comfortable option because the ridge has limited shade. Late afternoon is another possibility, provided you have enough daylight to finish safely.
Is Campuhan Ridge Walk difficult?
It is generally considered an easy walk rather than a strenuous hike. There are steps and an uphill section near the start, and the exposed path can feel tiring in hot weather.
Where does Campuhan Ridge Walk start?
The main southern access is near Pura Gunung Lebah and the Campuhan bridge on Jalan Raya Campuhan, west of central Ubud.
Can you visit Campuhan Ridge Walk at sunset?
Yes, late afternoon can be a good time for softer light. Plan your return before dark, as the path does not have continuous lighting and the entrance steps require care.
Can you walk Campuhan Ridge Walk in the rain?
Light rain may leave the path damp and slippery. Avoid walking during heavy rain or thunderstorms, and postpone your visit if the conditions make the route unsafe.
What should you wear for Campuhan Ridge Walk?
Wear comfortable clothing suited to Bali’s warm weather and footwear that feels secure on steps and paved surfaces. Bring water and sun protection because much of the ridge is exposed.
Can you combine Campuhan Ridge Walk with other Ubud attractions?
Yes. You can combine the walk with places such as Ubud Palace, Ubud Art Market, the Blanco Renaissance Museum, or Ubud Monkey Forest. Choose a manageable number of stops and account for traffic and travel time.
