Place to see · Ubud
Campuhan Ridge Walk: between two valleys, at first light
The Campuhan ridge starts a few steps from central Ubud: a paved path laid along a grassy spine between two wooded valleys. About 2 km there and back, almost no shade, free. Do it at sunrise, before the sun and the groups arrive.
- Updated on
- 3 min read
- By Kylian Dev
In short
Facts as of · sourced figures
You walk a paved path that follows the ridge north on a gentle slope, with jungle and rivers below. At the end of the ridge, the trail enters the village of Bangkiang Sidem, among rice fields and houses. You return the same way, or extend the loop through the fields.
Contents
Key points
- The walk starts near the Campuhan bridge, west of central Ubud, within walking distance.
- About 2 km there and back on the ridge alone, on a gently sloping paved path.
- Hardly any shade: set off at sunrise with water and a hat.
- Free access, no entrance fee; allow 1 to 1.5 hours at an easy pace.
Campuhan means “confluence”: two rivers meet below the Gunung Lebah temple, at the foot of the trail. The path then climbs onto a ridge covered in tall grass, with a valley on either side. It is the easiest walk in Ubud, and the busiest.
Other walks around Ubud and the volcanoes are compared in hiking in Bali.
What you do on the ridge
You walk a paved path that follows the ridge north on a gentle slope, with jungle and rivers below. At the end of the ridge, the trail enters the village of Bangkiang Sidem, among rice fields and houses. You return the same way, or extend the loop through the fields.
- Gunung Lebah temple at the confluence, at the start: a look from outside is enough.
- The climb onto the ridge: a few minutes uphill, then an almost flat path.
- The ridge itself: tall grass, palm trees, views over both valleys.
- Bangkiang Sidem: rice fields and small cafés, for a break before heading back.
Getting there from central Ubud
You reach the start on foot from central Ubud: walk down the main road westwards to the Campuhan bridge, then take the trail entrance on the side, near the temple. No vehicle needed. If you come by scooter, park before the bridge: the road there is narrow and busy.
- On foot from the centre: the walk down to the bridge follows the main road, on a sometimes narrow pavement.
- The trail entrance is easy to miss, below road level: follow the ridge walk sign.
- A taxi back from Bangkiang Sidem is possible, but most people turn round and walk.
When to go
At sunrise, without hesitation: the light is soft, the temperature bearable and the path still quiet. In late afternoon the heat drops, but there are more groups, and in the rainy season showers often come at that time. Avoid the middle of the day.
| Slot | Heat | Crowd | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrise | Low | A few walkers | The best time |
| Midday | Strong, no shade | Moderate | Avoid |
| Late afternoon | Easing | Busier | Possible, watch for showers |
What to pair it with
After the ridge, head back for breakfast in town or carry on into the rice fields of Bangkiang Sidem. Keep Tegallalang for another sunrise: both are best done early. Gunung Kawi, further north, pairs better with Tegallalang than with Campuhan.
- Tegallalang rice terraces: the famous view, best before 9 a.m.
- Gunung Kawi: rock-cut shrines to the north, a morning including the drive.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Campuhan Ridge Walk free?
Yes, access is free. The only spending is at the cafés of Bangkiang Sidem, at the end of the path.
Is it difficult?
No: a short uphill stretch at the start, then an almost flat path. The challenge is the heat, not the climb.
Can you do it with children?
Yes, early in the morning, with water and a hat. The path is wide and paved, but a pushchair struggles on the steps at the start.
Sources
Figures and rules checked on October 27, 2026 against the sources below. Entry rules and fees change: always check them on the official websites before you leave.
