Travel time: Year-round
Ubud, the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali, is situated in the central highlands of Gianyar. Unlike the sun-drenched coastal resorts of the south, Ubud’s environment is defined by its elevation, dense tropical jungles, and proximity to the mountains, creating a distinct microclimate that is noticeably cooler and wetter than the island’s beaches.
Ubud sits roughly 200 to 300 meters above sea level, resulting in temperatures that average 2°C to 4°C (4°F to 7°F) lower than coastal areas like Seminyak. The region follows a tropical rainforest climate, categorized by two primary seasons:
In Ubud, the weather often follows a predictable rhythm, especially during the rainy season. Mornings are typically bright and clear, making them the busiest time for temple visits or walking through rice terraces.
As the sun reaches its peak around 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, temperatures hit their daily high of roughly 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F). In the late afternoon, particularly between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, clouds often roll in from the mountains. During the wet season, this is when torrential rain is most likely to occur. Evenings bring a significant temperature drop, often falling to 21°C to 23°C (70°F to 73°F), accompanied by a refreshing highland breeze.
These months are transitional. April marks the end of the monsoon, where the rain tapers off but the rice paddies remain at their most lush. October sees the first occasional storms returning, offering a mix of hot sun and dramatic afternoon clouds.
This is the most stable period. The humidity is at its annual low (around 60-70%), and the nights can feel surprisingly chilly relative to the daytime heat. This is also the period of the "Easterly Winds," which are ideal for the Balinese tradition of kite-flying.
Rainfall during these months is intense but rarely constant. While it can rain for several days straight during a low-pressure system, it more commonly arrives in