Top 10 Tips for Campuhan Ridge Walk

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a must do when visiting Ubud. There is much more to see than just the views from the stunning ridge – Pura Gunung Lebah Temple, Huge Banyan Tree, the Rivers and all the beautiful nature in the area.   

1. Why is this area called Campuhan ?

Campuhan in Balinese means the meeting of two rivers, spiritually significant to Balinese Hindus as energy centres, and the river junction here marks Ubud’s beginnings when in the eighth century, wandering sage Rsi Markendya was drawn to this point, establishing Pura Gunung Lebah, and indeed the town of Ubud.

2. Why visit here ?

Easily accessible walking trails are few and far between in Bali, but an absolute favourite is the Campuhan Ridge Walk. The most famous walk (or run) in Ubud is popularly known as “Lovers Hill “by locals. The ridge walk sits right in the heart of Ubud, with a paved trail that takes you through breath-taking views. Enjoy the breeze and fresh air. 

3. Where is the start point ? 

The easiest way will be to search Ibah Hotel in maps. Enter the lane to the hotel but keep going straight (don’t enter the hotel driveway 😘) If you are coming by car or motorbike there is plenty of free parking to the left.  The lane will start going down to the river, you will see a bridge and Gunung Lebah Temple. Walk down a few steps, cross the bridge and walk toward the temple. Then just keep walking straight ahead. If you are walking from Bisma Cottages, you will arrive at the start point in 20 minutes. 

4. How much is the cost ?

The Campuhan Ridge walk is free for everyone 💚

5. What will I see ?

The trail is along an open ridgeline between the Campuhan gorge with unobstructed views both left and right. To the left popular restaurants, villas and houses perch themselves on the steep embankments.  To the right a line of palm trees clinging to the valley’s edge.

6. How far is the Campuhan Ridge Walk? 

We used an app on our last walk to time the distance, and we got 1.22 km from the Warwick Ibah to the end of the ridge itself, one direction. So with the return trip, you are looking at about 2.5km, more if you walk further. At the end of the ridge there is a wider road where you will find art galleries, little workshops and eventually open rice fields. If you fancy a longer walk you can continue following the road that eventually leads to the outskirts of Ubud, or you can double back for round 2 of the ridge from the opposite direction. 

7. When is the best time to visit?  

For walkers this easily accessible path is perfect for morning or late afternoon walks. For runners definitely before 8am when there is less people on the path who usually are walking at a slow pace and stopping to take photos. 

8. How much time will the walk take?

From Ibah Hotel to the end of the Ridge is about 30 minutes one direction if you are walking without stopping. Obviously, you will need to double these times as you need to turn back to get back to the beginning. And if you stop to take it all in or take photos, it may take a fair bit longer. So to add the walk into your day, you should expect to need 1 to 2 hours.

9. What to wear? 

Any clothing or footwear will be okay. Wearing sport shoes will make the walk easier. If visiting during after 9am, light clothes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Bring your water bottle if you usually drink water during exercise. 

10. Is it suitable for kids? 

Yes is suitable for kids who enjoy walking. After passing the temple the track is the steepest, but once you have passed this section the remainder is easy walking. The track is not suitable for strollers. 

11. Any other recommendations?

If you a morning walker than we recommend trying Lazy Kats for breakfast after finished Campuhan Ridge Walk. This vintage café has a vegetarian menu and all choices are Delicious. Their Sweet Potato Sourdough is so good ! 

Now put your trainers on and enjoy the walk 🚶🚶🚶