It might not be known for it's beach life, but that doesn't mean visitors to the central region of Bali will miss out on some incredible adventures. In fact, Ubud hotels put holidaymakers in the thick of it all, providing them with some of the best experiences this unusual destination has to offer.
Although Ubud is considered tiny by the standards set by many other hot tourist spots, this town of some 8,000 people has put itself on the holidaymaking map. Ubud, in fact, is considered one of Bali's biggest attractions for those interested in arts and culture.
The draws that make Ubud hotels so popular with visitors include:
* The presidential palace - This massive, five-building structure sits on a hill that is some 700 meters above sea level. Whilst it is just one of several presidential palaces in Indonesia, it is considered among the most beautiful. Although this palace was built in the 1950s, it is considered a sight worth seeing.
* The rice paddies - The agricultural lands surrounding Ubud make an impressive sight all on their own. The terracing practices used here create a landscape that is visually appealing and functional at the same time.
* The Rudana Museum - Created in 1995, this three-story structure is dedicated to the fine arts. Its collections include a number of historic and contemporary paintings, most from Balinese artists.
* The Monkey Forest - This nature preserve is a favourite stop for holidaymakers staying in Ubud hotels. It is home to several hundred long-tailed macaque and also boasts several temples within its grounds.
* The Bali Bird Park - This destination is home to a massive collection of birds from Indonesia and beyond. Its botanical gardens are, in fact, home to nearly 1,000 different birds, representing about 250 species. Visitors here can see such birds as the scarlet macaw, the toucan, the Congo grey parrot, the Javan hawk, serpent eagles and more. Plus, there are even a few reptiles to make jaws drop, including a legendary Komodo dragon.
* The Botanic Garden - This is a relatively new destination in Ubud that invites visitors to soak up the incredible landscapes found in the central region. The garden's landscaping includes hillsides, meadows, ravines, waterfalls and forest. In the gardens, visitors can really get a feel for the rain forest and also see a bamboo grove, a bromeliad garden and even explore a maze.
* Yeh Pulu - This is a 14th century site that offers visitors a chance to take in some very well-preserved rock carvings. This ancient side is located quite close to the Elephant Cave, which constructed in the 11th century and boasts some of Bali's most impressive ruins.
* Ubud Palace - This towering structure once served as the home of Ubud's last king. Built in the 1800s, it now serves as home to the king's descendents. It also boasts the distinction of being one of the first hotels in Ubud.
Holidaymakers who select Ubud as the base of their Bali vacations will not be disappointed with the nearby things to see and do. Although none of the famous beaches of Bali are found within Ubud proper, the other sights are well worth taking in. Plus, Bali's size makes it an easy commute to beaches found along the southern shores.
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