Shivangi G.
Google
If you’re already in Ubud, the palace is worth a quick stop, but honestly, there isn’t much to see inside. From a religious and cultural aspect it holds value for the Balinese people, but for tourists it can feel underwhelming—just a few closed doors and crowded pathways in the middle of Ubud’s busy center. You can walk through the grounds in about 3–5 minutes, and the admission during the day is free, which is a plus. The gardens are well maintained, the carvings are beautiful, and the atmosphere carries historic charm. It’s also right in the city center, so convenient if you’re already out shopping or exploring nearby attractions.
That said, the real highlight here is in the evening. The palace transforms into a venue for nightly traditional Balinese dance performances such as Legong and Barong. The show costs 100,000 IDR per person (cash only) and is absolutely worth it. The music of the gamelan orchestra, the elaborate costumes, and the graceful movements of the dancers create an enchanting cultural experience. Arrive early—people gather as early as 6:30 pm for good seats, with the performance starting at 7:30. Sitting closer to the front gives the best view, but if you prefer comfort, choose a chair instead of the carpet.
Be careful of monkeys in the area—they can be aggressive and snatch belongings if you’re not cautious. Also note, the daytime visit alone isn’t particularly memorable, but the evening performance is where Ubud Palace truly shines. Overall, it’s a well-maintained landmark with historical and cultural importance, but the dance show is the part that makes it worth recommending.