Last Updated on September 20, 2025
The rainy season in Bali is just around the corner, and if you’re planning to visit the Island of the Gods between October and April—like I did on my very first trip—you’ll inevitably have to take the rain into account.
The truth is, whether you come during the rainy season or the dry one, the weather here is always unpredictable. No exceptions.
That’s why it’s always smart to have a plan B. In this article, I’ll share 13 cozy, inspiring, and fun things to do in Ubud when it rains—so you can stay entertained even if it’s pouring rain outside.
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Dry Vs. Rainy Season: Is There Really a Difference?
Bali has a tropical climate, which means rain is a part of daily life—just like the heat and humidity. After being in Bali during both seasons, here’s my honest take on what to expect:
Rainy season
In theory, it runs from October/November to March/April. It usually rains every day, though not the whole day (sometimes, yes).
Downpours are often followed by clearer skies, but you never know when the next storm will hit. It’s super humid and still hot despite the rain. Fun fact: this is actually considered summer in Bali.
Ubud tends to be one of the rainiest spots, while in the south (like Uluwatu) or on nearby islands such as Lombok, the Gilis, or the Nusas, you’ll often find clearer skies.
Dry season
From May to September—at least that’s how it should be. This year (2025), it poured the whole month of June, so honestly, there are no rules.
It’s less humid, and in the mornings or late at night, it can even feel a little chilly (by Bali standards). Sometimes the sky stays perfectly blue for days, and then suddenly you’ll get a couple of days with rain on and off.
4. Tips To Visit Bali During The Rainy Season
Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind if you’re planning to travel to Bali during the rainy season—or if you happen to be here and it turns out to be one of those weeks when the sun refuses to show up.
1. Morning Weather Usually Says It All
If it has been pouring since early morning, there’s a 90% chance the weather won’t really clear up. In those cases, sticking stubbornly to your original plans usually won’t pay off—it’s much better to come up with a plan B and try one of the fun activities I’m sharing in this post.
On the other hand, if the sky is clear and the sun is shining, you can almost always count on a beautiful day ahead.
2. Central Bali is Usually Very Rainy & Cloudy
If you’re planning a trip in central Bali—north of Ubud, around Bedugul, Jatiluwih, and Lake Bratan—it is usually rainier and cloudier, especially in the afternoons. Don’t be fooled by the sunshine in Ubud; the weather can change rapidly depending on the area.
Make sure you’re prepared for rain, and consider planning your visit for the morning when the chances of nice weather are higher.
3. Be Prepared & Pack The Essentials
Whether it’s the rainy or the dry season, there are a few things you absolutely can’t forget to pack in case it pours: a long rainproof coat (the longer the better), sturdy sneakers—ideally in dark colors so they don’t get ruined by the mud—and a strong mosquito repellent, since mosquitoes love to hang around during the rainy season.
If you’re unsure what else to bring, check out my complete packing list for your rainy season trip (or really, any trip to Bali).
4. Enjoy The Rainy Atmosphere
I honestly believe you have to get a little spiritual to travel to Bali, because there are things you can’t control and just need to let go of: time lost in traffic, the slower pace of everything, and, of course, the weather.
You can’t change any of it, so the best thing you can do is embrace it and experience that side of Bali’s magic.
After living here for a while, I’ve actually come to enjoy rainy days. It feels like Bali’s way of telling you to slow down, to feel, to observe—without rushing. And maybe that’s precisely what you need on your holiday. So take those rainy days as a reminder to pause.
And if you need a little extra encouragement to see why rainy days here can be so special, here’s what I loved most about spending time in Bali during the rainy season.
13 Things to Do in Ubud When it Rains
Below are some of my favorite indoor activities to try in Ubud when it rains (and you’ll also find most of them in other parts of Bali).
I know you’re probably excited to see the lush Bali landscapes you’ve been scrolling through on social media. However, taking the time to enjoy a few indoor activities can be just as special—it’s a chance to connect with the local culture, indulge in pampering, spark your creativity, and try something for the very first time.
Cultural Activities: Local Traditions & Museum
Cultural activities in Ubud are among the best ways to immerse yourself in Balinese life.
They can turn your trip into more than just a holiday, giving you a real understanding of the island’s unique customs, religion, and way of life. Plus, they’re a beautiful way to meet locals and connect with them.
1. Canang Sari Crafting Class
The Canang Sari offerings are the very first things you’ll notice when you arrive in Bali. These small offerings made of flowers, leaves, food, and incense are placed quite literally everywhere: in front of shops, houses, even on motorbikes—and your host will likely place one outside your hotel room as a blessing of good fortune.
They are daily offerings of gratitude to the gods, an essential ritual that shapes the rhythm of life for the Balinese people.
In a typical Canang Sari class, you’ll not only learn how to arrange the leaves and flowers to create the offering, but you’ll also be guided through a short meditation to focus on gratitude. You’ll discover the meaning behind each color and placement—because no, they’re not arranged randomly.
If you’re looking for a meaningful and authentic experience, this Canang Sari making class will take you inside a traditional Balinese compound in Ubud, where a local family will walk you through this sacred daily ritual. You can book by clicking the link above.
2. Balinese Cooking Class
Cooking is another important daily ritual for the Balinese, and it’s fascinating not only to learn how to prepare their specialties but also to see how cooking is connected to their gratitude offerings.
Most cooking classes take place in traditional family compounds or farms. They usually include a visit to a local market—a cultural experience in itself—before guiding you through the preparation of different dishes.
You’ll often get to make favorites like Nasi Goreng, Tempeh, Chicken Satay, and a variety of spicy vegetables.
One of the funniest discoveries for me was how much onion, garlic, and chili they use—yet somehow the flavors always come together so balanced in the end.
If you’re wondering whether the cooking class is something you would enjoy, I’ve shared more about my own cooking class experience in this post. Honestly, it was one of the most wholesome moments of my first trip to Bali. I’d do it again and again.
And if you want to book your own cooking experience, there’s a cooking school in Ubud that offers classes with its own organic farm, which is a rarity. You’ll start by picking your own ingredients and finish by enjoying the dishes you’ve just prepared.
3. Visit Local Museums & Art Galleries
Ubud is often referred to as the artistic heart of Bali, and it’s recognized for its vibrant arts scene. Beyond the famous Ubud Art Market—where you can shop for crafts—and artistic villages like Mas, you’ll also find museums and galleries that are perfect to explore on a rainy day.
The most well-known museums in town are:
- Neka Art Museum – You’ll find Indonesian-inspired works from Indonesian, Asian, and Western artists.
- ARMA (Agung Rai Museum of Art) – dedicated to preserving all forms of Balinese and Indonesian art.
- Blanco Museum – perhaps the most fascinating, as it’s the preserved studio of artist Antonio Blanco, sitting on a hill overlooking the Campuhan River Valley.
Whether you’re an art lover or not, a rainy day in Ubud is the perfect excuse to visit one of these museums (if I had to pick one, I’d go with Blanco’s studio).
Creative Activities: Pottery & Art Workshops
Ubud is the perfect place to explore your creative side. There are so many activities that can spark your imagination and even help you discover hidden talents by trying something you’ve never done before.
So instead of seeing a rainy day as a drawback, take it as a chance to explore a new side of yourself here in Ubud.
4. Pottery Workshop
Pottery is honestly one of the most relaxing activities you can do on a rainy day in Ubud — and if you’ve never tried it before, this is the perfect chance.
One of my favorite studios is Serayu Pot. It’s an open-air space, so you can still enjoy that cozy, rainy-day atmosphere while being sheltered and immersed in the creative process.
The studio itself is stunning, with earthy tones and colorful ceramic pieces everywhere, creating a truly peaceful vibe.
During your session, you’ll be guided step by step by a teacher as you work on the pottery wheel. I personally booked the pottery class, throwing with earthenware clay, and it was such a grounding and creative experience.
You can book your session directly on their website and choose the class that feels right for you.
5. Visit Paint & Sip Studio
If you’re looking for a fun and different creative experience in Ubud, the Paint and Sip Studio is such a great choice — and it happens to be right near where I live.
It’s not just about painting here. They also offer incense making, candle making, pottery, tote bag painting, and mandala art.
However, what truly makes this place unique is the atmosphere: the lighting in the room changes depending on the event. You might find yourself painting under a starry night sky, or with lights that shift and move in rhythm with the music. It makes the whole creative process feel magical.
You can check out the details and book your session directly on their website.
6. Silver Jewellery Making Class
Another beautiful way to spend a rainy day in Ubud is by joining a silver jewellery-making class.
Bali has a long tradition of silversmithing, and Ubud is one of the best places to experience it. In just a few hours, you’ll get to design and create your own piece of jewellery — a ring, pendant, or earrings — and bring home something truly personal and meaningful from your trip.
If you’re looking for a top experience, check out Bali Silver Class. Each session is run by local artisans who guide you step by step, from sketching your design to working with the silver, so you don’t need any previous experience.
It’s such a fun activity, and the best part is walking away with your own handmade piece that will always remind you of your time in Ubud.
Wellness Activities
Ubud is truly heaven for wellness enthusiasts. Between the healthy cafés, the yoga shalas, the fitness and healing classes, you won’t have a hard time finding ways to take care of yourself here — body, mind, and a little spirit too.
So if the rain comes, don’t fight it. Take it as a sign to slow down, breathe, and give yourself that extra bit of care, rather than rushing from one place to the next.
7. One-Day Retreat
Picture this: a dark, cloudy day, the sound of rain filtering through the jungle, and that cozy feeling of being tucked inside.
Where would you want to be? Personally, I’d choose a wellness retreat—yoga classes, meditation, a healthy brunch, maybe even a swim to cool down after the sauna.
It’s one of the best ways to spend a rainy day in Ubud. You only have to make your way there once, and then you can spend the entire day in the same space—no rushing around, just pure relaxation.
Ubud has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from, but if you’re looking for a great one-day option without breaking the bank, check out Solana Bali. For only $30, you get a yoga class, brunch, full-day access to the sauna, cold plunge, and pool, plus a towel to lounge on and fresh coconut water.
8. Spa Package or Treatments
If there’s one thing you can’t miss in Ubud, it’s a spa visit. And if you’re lucky enough to have a rainy day during your trip, don’t just book a single massage—make the most of it by spending half a day at one of the many spas around town and pampering yourself a bit.
One of my favorite places is Ubud Sari Health Resort. It’s not just a spa but a wellness-focused retreat, and I actually visited on a rainy day.
The spa isn’t enclosed in a single building but spread across open-air pavilions surrounded by rice fields and lush gardens. The sound of rain falling all around makes the atmosphere even cozier as you enjoy deeply relaxing treatments.
You can choose from their basic spa menu or book one of their packages, which often include multiple beauty treatments and even a meal.
And if you’re wondering whether it’s the right place for you and delivers the kind of experience you’re looking for, you can read my full review of Ubud Sari Health Resort.
9. Yoga & Healing Day Retreat
Do you know how many people come to Ubud not just to travel, but to slow down, relax, and focus on their healing journey?
Even if that’s not your main plan, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to step into one of the many yoga studios in town. There’s something truly magical about flowing with the sound of tropical rain in the background.
After trying multiple yoga studios in Ubud, I can confidently say that The Yoga Barn is one of the best places for this experience.
Not only do they offer incredible classes, but their open-air shalas are surrounded by lush gardens, making you feel deeply connected with nature. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stay the whole day.
Here’s what I recommend: get their One-Day Retreat Package. It includes three classes, a massage, a healthy meal, and a fresh juice from their juice bar. You can mix and match — for example:
- start with a body class (yoga or pilates),
- move into a mindfulness class (meditation, yoga nidra, or breathwork),
- end with a spirit class (sound healing, ecstatic dance, or even nervous system rewire).
And just like that, you have your own full-day wellness retreat — the perfect way to turn a rainy day in Ubud into a treat for yourself.
10. Sound Healing Session
Sound healing is one of the most renowned practices in Ubud. It’s an ancient tradition that uses instruments and vibrations to relax both body and mind, rooted in the idea that sound is pure energy and can help balance and harmonize the chakras — the body’s energy centers.
Whether you fully believe in the spiritual aspect or not, sound healing is simply one of the most relaxing experiences you can have here.
It gives you the chance to rest, to connect with yourself, and to just be — without needing to move, produce, or achieve anything.
For an unforgettable experience, check out the Pyramids of Chi in Ubud. Their sessions are held inside pyramid-shaped structures, which are designed to amplify healing and well-being through sound. It’s a unique experience, especially on a stormy day.
11. Dance Class
While living in Ubud, I’ve realized there’s no better way to beat the rainy-day laziness (a day or two of cozy rest is nice, but after a week of constant rain, it can get a little heavy) than shaking things up with a dance class.
It feels like inviting the sunshine back into your life through movement, laughter, smiles, and pure feminine energy.
Whether you consider yourself a dancer or not, I can’t recommend enough checking out a class at Bara Dance Studio. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, get some movement in, and have fun while the rain pours outside.
The best part? You might end up trying something totally new — from Afro dance to feminine choreographies, from hand performance to dancehall or Brazilian-inspired styles. There are so many options to choose from, and after each class, you’ll feel so much more energized.
Entertainment Activities
12. Movie Night at Paradiso Ubud
If the rain won’t stop and you’re looking for something cozy yet a little different, spend an evening at Paradiso Ubud.
A cultural center where you’ll find delicious vegan cuisine and plenty of cinema events. It’s such a unique place: a big screen, comfy seating, and the film of choice.
The program changes daily, so you might find yourself watching a Hollywood classic, a new release, or even an inspiring documentary.
The vibe is super relaxed, and it’s the perfect mix of entertainment and comfort on a rainy night.
13. Secret Comedy Night Bali
If you feel like laughing during a rainy evening, head to the Secret Bali Comedy Night in Ubud.
It’s a great way to connect with other travelers, share a drink, and unwind for a couple of hours. The shows are usually in English, so you don’t need to worry about missing the punchlines.
It seems so much fun! You’ll find signs all around Ubud, and the location is not communicated until you purchase the ticket. Of course, you can head to their Instagram and book your tickets there.
There you go — 13 things to do in Ubud when it rains. I really hope you’ll get plenty of sunshine during your time in Bali, but if not, at least now you know how to make the most of those rainy days.
And if you’re looking for even more ideas for when the sun is out, check out my guide to 32 places to visit and things to do in Ubud.
At the end of the day, you can’t stop the rain — so why not embrace it? Hopefully these indoor activities will inspire you to get creative, slow down, relax, and still have fun, no matter the weather.
