A Guide to the Best Traditional Markets in Ubud Bali
Exploring the traditional markets in Ubud Bali is like stepping into the island’s heart. Each market has its own personality, offering a mix of colors, scents, and sounds that make for an unforgettable experience. From the early-morning hum of daily trade to the vibrant stalls filled with handcrafted goods, here are some of the best markets to visit during your stay.
Ubud Art Market (Pasar Seni Ubud)
Arguably the most famous market in Ubud, the Art Market is a treasure trove for handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Here you’ll find handwoven baskets, silk scarves, carved wooden masks, and paintings from local artists. The best time to visit is in the morning, before the crowds arrive, when you can take your time browsing and chatting with friendly vendors. Bargaining is part of the fun! A smile and a bit of patience can lead to a great deal.
Ubud Morning Market (Pasar Ubud Pagi)
Before the Art Market transforms into a tourist hotspot later in the day, it serves as a traditional morning market for locals. From sunrise until about 8 a.m., you’ll see stalls piled high with tropical fruits, fragrant flowers for offerings, spices, and freshly made snacks like banana fritters and rice cakes. It’s a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of Balinese life, where conversations flow easily and transactions are quick but warm.
Sayan Night Market (Pasar Malam Sayan)
If you’re looking for an authentic food experience, Sayan Night Market is a must. This lively evening market focuses on street food, offering everything from satay and grilled corn to bowls of steaming bakso (meatball soup). The air is thick with delicious aromas, and the atmosphere is buzzing with families, friends, and food lovers gathering to enjoy a simple, tasty meal.
Sukawati Art Market (Pasar Seni Sukawati)
Just a short drive from Ubud, Sukawati is known for its wide variety of arts and crafts at competitive prices. The market spans several floors, and you’ll find batik clothing, traditional paintings, and ceremonial decorations. It’s a great place to shop if you’re looking to bring home something uniquely Balinese, and it tends to be less crowded than Ubud’s central Art Market.
Tegallalang Handicraft Center
While not a single market in the traditional sense, the shops lining the Tegallalang area form a continuous stretch of artisan stalls. Here, you can watch craftsmen carve wooden statues, weave baskets, or paint intricate designs right in front of you. It’s a wonderful place to pick up larger pieces for your home, knowing exactly where and how they were made.
When you stay at Radha Phala Resort & Spa, you’re perfectly positioned to explore all of these traditional markets in Ubud Bali. After a morning of shopping, return to the resort’s peaceful surroundings for a swim or a relaxing spa treatment.
From sunrise shopping trips to vibrant night markets, Ubud’s traditional markets aren’t just places to buy things. They’re also cultural experiences, alive with the energy and creativity of the people who make them.