Ubud Royal Palace (Puri Saren Ubud)

The Cultural Heart of Bali

The Ubud Royal Palace, officially known as Puri Saren Ubud, is a beautiful historical building complex situated at the main intersection of Ubud. It served as the official residence of the royal family of Ubud and also remains a center for Balinese arts. This site is widely recognized as one of the most essential Bali tourist attractions for those who wish to see authentic royal architecture in a central location.

The palace was mostly built during the reign of Ida Tjokorda Putu Kandel and also features exceptionally well-preserved stone carvings. Furthermore, it serves as the primary stage for traditional Balinese dance performances every evening. Therefore, it is a “must-visit” landmark for anyone staying in the cultural capital of the island. You will be captivated by the elegance of Puri Saren Ubud.

History and Royal Heritage

The history of Puri Saren Ubud is deeply connected to the growth of Ubud as a world-class cultural destination.

The Seat of the Monarchy

The palace was established as the center of government for the Ubud Kingdom many centuries ago. Even though the era of the monarchy has passed, the royal family still resides in certain private sections of the palace. Consequently, the family continues to play a major role in preserving the religious and also social traditions of the village. The palace stands as a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Balinese people.

Role in Local Social Life

The Ubud Royal Palace holds a profound influence over the social life of the local community in Ubud. The royal family acts as protectors of custom and also spiritual leaders who unite citizens in various communal activities. Furthermore, the palace serves as a public space where art, cultural discussions, and also religious ceremonies blend harmoniously. Therefore, the presence of the palace ensures that the values of mutual cooperation and also Balinese traditions remain alive.

Iconic gate at Ubud Royal Palace Puri Saren featuring red brick and gold carvings.

Visitors Need To Know

Highlight:

  • 19th-Century Royal Architecture 
  • The Living Residence of the Royal Family
  • Nightly Balinese Legong Dance Performances 
  • Strategically Located in Ubud Art District
  • Grandest Royal Ngaben Ceremonies 
  • A Symbol of Social Harmony and Preservation in Modern Bali
One of the most extraordinary cultural attractions of Puri Saren Ubud is the implementation of the Ngaben or royal cremation ceremony. This ceremony is known as one of the grandest and also most spectacular across the entire island of Bali. Thousands of people gather to carry a very high Wadah (cremation tower) and also a giant wooden bull toward the cremation site. This ceremony is not just a ritual of death, but also a grand celebration of the soul’s journey. Travelers often come from all over the world just to witness the magnificence and also the solemnity of this ritual.

The Grandest Ngaben Ceremony in Bali

The Exquisite Legong Dance Performance

Every evening, the main courtyard of the palace transforms into a grand stage for the Legong Dance performance. Legong is one of the most beautiful classical Balinese dances known for its extremely intricate and also complex body movements. Dancers usually wear gold-layered costumes and also perform expressive eye movements following the dynamic rhythm of the gamelan. The dance tells ancient stories of love and also warfare that mesmerize the entire audience. For many tourists, watching Legong under the shadows of the palace gates is a most memorable cultural experience.

Architectural Highlights of Puri Saren Ubud

  • The Candi Bentar Gate: A magnificent split gateway that marks the entrance to the outer courtyard of the royal palace.
  • Intricate Stone Carvings: The walls are decorated with detailed motifs of gods, demons, and also tropical flowers carved from volcanic stone.
  • Traditional Pavilions (Bale): Beautiful wooden structures with thatched roofs where royal meetings and also ceremonies are still held today.
  • Golden Accents: Many of the doorways and also wooden pillars are adorned with real gold leaf to signify royal status.

What to Do at Ubud Royal Palace

  • Explore the Front Courtyards: Walk through the public areas to admire the grand gates and also the peaceful gardens.
  • Watch Traditional Dance: Buy a ticket for the nightly Legong or also Barong dance shows held in the main courtyard.
  • Learn About History: Observe the various statues and also historical structures to understand the evolution of Balinese royalty.
  • Take Royal Photographs: The dramatic red brick walls and also ornate doors provide a perfect backdrop for cultural photography.

Best Time to Visit Ubud Royal Palace

The best time to visit Puri Saren Ubud for exploring the architecture is in the morning between 8:00 AM and also 10:00 AM. If you want to see the dance performances, you should arrive by 6:30 PM to secure a good seat.

Nearby Bali Tourist Attractions to Visit

  • Ubud Art Market: Located right across the street, offering the best selection of local crafts and also clothing.
  • Saraswati Temple: A stunning temple famous for its large lotus pond and also beautiful water garden walkways.
  • Ubud Monkey Forest: A 15-minute walk south to see the famous macaques and also the lush jungle sanctuary.
  • Campuhan Ridge Walk: A scenic nature trail that starts just a few minutes west of the royal palace.
  • Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): An ancient archaeological site located only a short 10-minute drive from the palace.
  • Tegalalang Rice Terrace: A 20-minute drive north to see the iconic green steps and also the Bali swings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ubud Royal Palace

How much is the admission for Ubud Royal Palace?

There is currently no entrance fee to explore the public courtyards during the daylight hours of the week. However you must purchase a separate ticket if you wish to watch the traditional dance performances in the evening.
Most dance shows begin at 7:30 PM and also last for about one hour in the main palace courtyard. You should check the board at the entrance for the specific schedule because the types of dances change daily.
You should wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and also your knees out of respect for the family. You are not strictly required to wear a sarong for the public areas but it is always highly encouraged.
The private areas are strictly closed to the public to ensure the privacy of the royal family members living there. Please respect all “no entry” signs and also stay within the beautiful courtyards designated for the visiting tourists.
The main courtyards are relatively flat and also easy to navigate for people who have minor walking difficulties. However there are some small stone steps at the entrances that might be a challenge for some wheelchair users.
You are welcome to take as many photos as you like in the public areas for your personal memories. Please be respectful and also avoid using large tripods that might block the paths for other visitors and guests.
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