The Campuhan Ridge Walk is one of the best known trails in Bali. Heading north from Ubud town centre, the 6km round trip along a cobblestone path leads through rice fields up onto the Campuhan ridge between Ubud’s sacred rivers Tukad Yeh Wos Kiwa and Tukad Yeh Wos Tengen. It’s a delightful, scenic, relatively easy trek that should be on the itinerary of every nature loving tourist.
The trek starts at the Ibah Resort in downtown Ubud. About 10m up the resort driveway, take the narrow laneway that veers off the left towards the temple. At the bottom of the hill, take the path to the right down the stairs into what looks a little like an irrigation ditch. This is the start of the Campuhan Ridge Walk and it’s signposted so you’ll know you’re in the right place. From here just follow your nose around the hill and up onto the ridge.
After about 30- 45min depending on how frequently you’re stopping to take photos and admire the view, the artists village of Bangkiang Sidem is reached. Keep going on through the village and after about 500m you’ll reach the Karsa Kafe, a favourite spot for hikers to grab a cold drink or a snack in one of the thatched huts perched out over the lilly ponds.
The Karsa Kafe marks the official end of the Campuhan Ridge Walk but you can keep on going if you like. In fact, the terraced rice fields to the north of the café are some of Ubud’s best. Just retrace your steps back to Ubud when you’ve had enough.