Munduk to Ubud: Distance, Travel Time and the Best Stops

Munduk and Ubud are two of the most popular bases in Bali away from the beaches — one cool and green in the northern mountains, the other the island’s cultural heart. Most travellers visit both. The good news: the drive between them passes some of Bali’s best sights.

How long does it take?

Munduk to Ubud is roughly 70 km. Without stops the drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic in the south. The road climbs from Munduk along the lake ridge to Bedugul, then descends through market gardens and rice fields towards Ubud.

The best stops between Munduk and Ubud

1. Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

About 40 minutes from Munduk, the famous lake temple is the natural first stop. Arrive early for calm water and fewer people. Read our Ulun Danu Beratan guide.

2. Candikuning market

Just beyond the temple, this small market sells fresh strawberries, local fruit, spices and flowers grown in the cool highland air.

3. Jatiluwih rice terraces

A detour of about an hour takes you to Jatiluwih, part of Bali’s UNESCO-listed subak landscape. The terraces stretch up the slopes of Mount Batukaru, and short walking trails lead through the fields. It is quieter and more expansive than the terraces near Ubud.

4. Taman Ayun Temple, Mengwi

On the way into the south, the royal temple of Taman Ayun is surrounded by a moat and graceful tiered shrines — a calm stop before the traffic around Ubud.

Arriving in Ubud

Once you are in Ubud, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, the Campuhan Ridge walk and the Tegallalang rice terraces are all close by. If you are heading the other way — from Ubud up to Munduk — simply reverse the route and aim to reach the lake temple before the afternoon cloud.