Discover Ancient Pejeng
When people dream of visiting Ubud, they often picture lush rice terraces, sacred temples, yoga retreats, and vibrant art markets. While these famous attractions are certainly worth exploring, there’s another side of Ubud that many travelers never experience.
Just 15 minutes east of Ubud’s bustling center lies Pejeng, one of Bali’s oldest villages and a place where history, spirituality, culture, and nature come together in perfect harmony.
Unlike the crowded tourist hotspots, Pejeng invites visitors to slow down, connect with local traditions, and discover the authentic spirit of Bali. Here, ancient temples stand quietly among tropical forests, peaceful rice fields stretch across the landscape, and centuries-old customs remain part of everyday life.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Ubud beyond the crowds, here are ten unforgettable experiences waiting for you in Ancient Pejeng.
1. Walk Through Peaceful Rice Fields
Forget the busy viewpoints and crowded walking trails.
Pejeng offers beautiful rice field walks where you can experience Bali’s agricultural heritage at a slower pace. Follow small village paths surrounded by emerald-green rice paddies, listen to birds singing, and watch local farmers tend their fields using traditional techniques.
Along the way, you’ll discover the ancient Subak irrigation system, recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of sustainable farming and community cooperation.
Whether you prefer an early morning stroll or a sunset walk, the peaceful scenery makes every step memorable.
Best for:
- Nature lovers
- Photography enthusiasts
- Wellness travelers
- Couples seeking a romantic walk
2. Visit the Ancient Pura Penataran Sasih
Pejeng is home to one of Bali’s most significant historical sites.
Pura Penataran Sasih houses the legendary Moon of Pejeng, an enormous bronze drum believed to be more than 2,000 years old and considered the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.
According to local legend, the drum is a fragment of the moon that fell to Earth. Historians, however, recognize it as an extraordinary artifact from Bali’s prehistoric civilization.
The temple remains an active place of worship, offering visitors a chance to admire its beautiful architecture while gaining insight into Bali’s ancient heritage.
3. Discover the Hidden Beauty of Goa Garba
Nestled within a lush valley, Goa Garba is one of Bali’s hidden archaeological treasures.
Dating back to the 12th century, this sacred cave was once used by royal priests and spiritual leaders for meditation.
Reaching Goa Garba requires a short walk through tropical greenery, stone staircases, and gentle streams. The peaceful surroundings make it easy to understand why this secluded place has attracted spiritual seekers for centuries.
For travelers searching for quiet places away from busy tourist attractions, Goa Garba offers an unforgettable experience.
4. Experience Traditional Palm Reading
One of the most unique cultural experiences available in Pejeng is a traditional palm reading session.
Palm reading is an ancient practice that interprets the lines and features of the hand to provide insight into personality, strengths, life paths, and potential opportunities.
Rather than predicting the future with certainty, the experience encourages self-reflection and personal awareness.
In the tranquil setting of Pejeng, surrounded by nature and centuries of spiritual tradition, palm reading becomes more than an activity—it becomes a meaningful journey of self-discovery.
5. Join a Balinese Cooking Class
Food is one of the best ways to understand Balinese culture.
A traditional cooking class introduces guests to authentic recipes prepared using fresh herbs, spices, vegetables, and local ingredients sourced from nearby farms and markets.
Learn how to create classic Balinese dishes while discovering the cultural significance behind each ingredient and cooking technique.
Afterward, enjoy your homemade meal surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the countryside.
6. Explore Hidden Waterfalls
While many visitors head to Bali’s famous waterfalls, Pejeng offers quieter alternatives surrounded by untouched nature.
Several hidden waterfalls can be reached through scenic jungle trails and village paths, rewarding visitors with refreshing natural pools and peaceful surroundings.
These lesser-known locations provide wonderful opportunities for photography, relaxation, and connecting with Bali’s natural beauty without the crowds.
7. Experience Authentic Village Life
One of Pejeng’s greatest attractions isn’t a landmark—it’s the people.
Walking through the village allows visitors to witness daily Balinese life unfold naturally.
You may see women preparing colorful temple offerings, farmers working in rice fields, children practicing traditional dance, or families gathering for community ceremonies.
These simple yet meaningful moments offer a genuine glimpse into Bali’s living culture.
8. Discover Bali’s Ancient History
Long before Ubud became an international destination, Pejeng was an important center of Balinese civilization.
Archaeological discoveries throughout the village reveal thousands of years of history, making Pejeng one of the island’s most fascinating destinations for history lovers.
Ancient temples, stone carvings, sacred springs, and historical monuments tell the story of Bali’s early kingdoms and enduring spiritual traditions.
Exploring Pejeng is like walking through an open-air museum where history remains alive.
9. Embrace Wellness in Nature
Many travelers visit Ubud in search of relaxation and personal well-being.
Pejeng offers the perfect environment for mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and quiet reflection.
Surrounded by tropical forests, rice fields, and fresh mountain air, visitors can disconnect from busy schedules and reconnect with themselves.
Whether enjoying a peaceful morning walk, practicing meditation, or simply listening to the sounds of nature, Pejeng embodies the slower rhythm that makes Bali so special.
10. Stay Close to Nature at Nawasakti Resort
The best way to experience Ancient Pejeng is to stay where its culture and natural beauty are right at your doorstep.
Nestled among lush greenery and peaceful rice fields, Nawasakti Resort provides guests with easy access to many of Pejeng’s hidden attractions while offering a relaxing retreat away from the busy center of Ubud.
Guests can enjoy a variety of authentic experiences, including:
- Palm Reading Experience
- Rice Field Walking Tour
- Balinese Cooking Class
- Ubud Cultural Tour
- Village Exploration
- Wellness Activities
- Traditional Balinese Hospitality
Whether you’re visiting Bali for relaxation, culture, or adventure, Nawasakti Resort offers the perfect base for discovering a more authentic side of Ubud.
Why Ancient Pejeng Should Be on Every Ubud Itinerary
While central Ubud continues to attract visitors from around the world, Ancient Pejeng remains one of Bali’s best-kept secrets.
Its peaceful atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic village life create an experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Here, you’ll find fewer crowds, deeper cultural connections, and unforgettable moments that reveal the true heart of Bali.
If you’re searching for things to do in Ubud beyond the ordinary, Ancient Pejeng offers experiences that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Plan Your Authentic Ubud Escape
Your Bali adventure doesn’t have to stop at the island’s most famous attractions.
Venture beyond the crowds, discover the ancient village of Pejeng, and immerse yourself in a place where history, culture, wellness, and nature exist in perfect harmony.
Stay at Nawasakti Resort and experience the authentic soul of Ubud.
