Ubud Art Market is a traditional market that sells a variety of Balinese arts and crafts and souvenirs that are produced directly by the local community. Many tourists visit this market to buy souvenirs before returning to their hometown. It sells masks, paintings, statues, shirts, kites, and various other items.
The market has two sections that stretch from east to west, where the first area offers a variety of traditional art and the other area offers a variety of daily necessities. This is a great destination to include in your Gianyar Interesting Places to Visit, where you’ll get to visit this traditional market and see the goods being traded in all their uniqueness. Ubud Art Market is also an important part of many Bali tour package designed to showcase the cultural side of Bali.
The History of Ubud Market You Need to Know
The Ubud Art Market has actually been around since the 1800s, which coincided with the establishment of the Ubud palace during the reign of the King of Ubud, Ida Tjokorda Kandel. This market was built for the welfare of the Ubud community, where in the past this market used a barter system. However, since currency was introduced, this market also uses currency payment as its transaction.
Since tourism developed and was brought by Tjokorda Agung Sukwati who visited Ubud Village, making this market which initially sold only household needs to sell various souvenirs that can be remembered. However, the function of this market is still as it should be. Until now, this market still sells daily necessities and is slowly becoming an art market that sells a variety of goods made by the Ubud community for tourist souvenirs.
Location and Route to Ubud Art Market
If you want to visit this market, you can access Ubud Village in Gianyar Regency, precisely the location of this art market is on Ubud Highway, No.35, Ubud Village. This market is located opposite Puri Saren Agung. You can access this market using any vehicle because of the easy access.
This location is very close to Ubud Monkey Forest, as you only need to drive for about 2 minutes, where you can take the north direction to Ubud Monkey Forest Road then head to Dewi Sita Road. From there you can take a right onto Ubud Highway and about 48 meters later you will find Ubud Market on the left. If you take the route from Ngurah Rai International Airport, then it will only take you about 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach the market.
The Uniqueness of Ubud Art Market That Makes It Popular
Ubud Art Market offers a unique experience that blends art, culture and local economic activity. Here are its specialties:
- Two Distinct Areas: The market is divided into two blocks. The western block is the center of the art market, selling a variety of crafts and specialty souvenirs, while the eastern block sells daily necessities, providing a complete shopping experience.
- Diverse Art Products: Ubud Art Market is known for products such as traditional woven fabrics, Balinese batik, carved sculptures, rattan bags, silver jewelry, and paintings. Each product reflects the beauty of Balinese culture and is often part of Bali tour package to enrich the travel experience.
- Bargainable Prices: Bargaining is a major attraction, allowing tourists to enjoy social interaction with sellers while getting items at the best price.
- Traditional Atmosphere: The market presents a typical Balinese atmosphere, with friendly vendors who often share stories about their products. No wonder this market is always included in tourist itineraries, especially in Bali tour package.
- Interesting Photo Spots: Besides shopping, you can enjoy precious moments by taking pictures at various corners of the market, capturing a unique experience in Ubud.
What Items Can You Find at Ubud Art Market?
Here are some of the main items you can find when shopping at Ubud Art Market:
- Clothing: You’ll find plenty of clothing here from skirts, shorts, tops, classic elephant pants, to t-shirts, as this market offers it all.
- Sarongs: The market also sells textile products such as batik sarongs and ikat sarongs of various types, ranging from simple to intricate patterns.
- Bags: You will find various types of rattan bags with different motifs.
- Household Utensils: You will find some utensils such as wooden plates, woven baskets, bamboo straws, cushion covers, and many more.
- Balinese Handicrafts: Here you can find wood and stone carvings made directly by the people of Ubud Village, including sculptures, masks, and paintings.
- Typical Souvenirs: Typical souvenirs that you can take home are various forms of statues, beer openers, key chains, and some unique toys.
Fun Facts About Ubud Art Market
- Filming Location of the movie “Eat, Pray, Love”: This market became the filming location of the famous movie starring Julia Roberts, attracting many international tourists. Some local artists also made it the backdrop for their movies.
- The Center of Art Markets in Bali: The popularity of Ubud Art Market makes it the center of art in Bali, with a wide array of traditional to contemporary crafts sold at affordable prices.
- Locally Made Products: Most of the items in this market are made by artisans from surrounding villages, such as Mas Village which is famous for its woodcarving. You can buy sandals, wooden statues, bags, clothes, wickerwork and paintings as signature souvenirs.
- Part of Bali Tour Package: Ubud Art Market is often included in Bali tour package to introduce the local Balinese culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop or simply enjoy the uniqueness of the market during your visit to Ubud.
Facilities, Opening Hours, and Ticket Prices
- Facilities: The facilities available at this market are quite complete and adequate. You will enjoy craft stalls, a large parking area, clean public toilets, and several cafes around the market.
- Opening Hours: You can visit this market anytime as it is open every day from 10:00-17:00 WITA. However, some stalls may open late into the night. Avoid coming in the afternoon as the market is usually crowded with tourists for shopping. So, it is recommended that you come in the morning as you can get a cheaper price quote.
- Ticket Price: The entrance fee to Ubud Art Market is free. However, visitors need to prepare a fee for vehicle parking of around IDR 2,000 for two-wheeled vehicles and IDR 10,000 for four-wheeled vehicles. The prices of the goods offered start from IDR 10,000 to IDR 100,000 for small trinkets. If you buy other items such as statues or paintings, prices start from IDR 50,000.
Shopping Tips at Ubud Art Market
Shopping at Ubud Art Market can be a pleasant experience if you prepare yourself well. Here are some tips that may help:
- Come in the Morning: The market is usually quieter in the morning, giving you the opportunity to shop more comfortably and get items at better prices.
- Have Cash Ready: Most merchants only accept cash, so make sure you have some small bills with you for easy transactions.
- Bargain Politely: Bargaining culture is an important part of the shopping experience here, but make sure you do it in a friendly and polite manner.
- Research Before You Buy: Check the quality of the goods carefully to ensure that the products you buy are what you expect.
- Learn About Local Products: Knowing a little about local products can help you appreciate the value and uniqueness of each item on offer.
Conclusion
Ubud Art Market is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the richness of Balinese art and culture. It is also recommended by Bali Touristic as one of the top destinations for travelers who want to experience Bali’s unforgettable art and culture. With a variety of quality art products, authentic traditional atmosphere, and strategic location, this market offers an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to enjoy the beauty of the places around the market and bring home souvenirs that will always remind you of the charm of the Island of the Gods, which are often included in various Bali tour package for a more immersive experience.
Make the most of your island escape by following a thoughtfully planned 3 Day Bali Itinerary that highlights Bali’s must see attractions, cultural experiences, and hidden gems, helping you enjoy a seamless and unforgettable journey from start to finish.
