Klessis LeeKuta may be the main tourist destination in Bali, but in my view, Ubud offers the most captivating experiences. Although our journey to Ubud took just over an hour, it proved to be well worth the drive. We arranged for a knowledgeable local driver through our hotel, whose friendly demeanour and warm hospitality truly enhanced our day, especially for the little ones.
One of the highlights of our expedition was a visit to a renowned Bali batik factory. Initially, I was unsure about what to expect from a factory tour, but our guide’s recommendation turned out to be a delightful surprise. The personalised tour allowed us to explore at our own pace and gain a deep insight into the traditional batik production process, from hand-painting and dyeing to weaving and finishing touches. Informative demonstrations and detailed handouts enriched our understanding of this exquisite Balinese art form. It was an engaging and educational experience that truly broadened our cultural horizons in 2025.
Also read: Eat Pray Drink in Bali: A 5-Day Getaway with My Best Friend
His name is Bagus and the kids called him fondly as “uncle Bagus” during the trip. He was very warm, nice and easy-going, and because the kids loved him so much, he even helped us with the kids along the way! Granted, he charged us IDR 600,000 (S$48.41) for 10 hours of driving and we could have gotten a cheaper deal elsewhere (but difference not greater than S$15 anyway), but we were glad we got such a nice driver and a companion on the trip. The vehicle we travelled in was a clean and spacious MPV.
Our expedition to Ubud started early in the morning at 8.30am. On the way to Ubud, we made several stops to explore the different facets of Bali. Our first stop was at the Batik Factory. I thought visiting the various factories would be boring, but uncle Bagus recommended that we make a brief stop to know more about the traditional cores of Bali. Since having a personal tour meant that we had the flexibility of time and locations that we’d like to visit, I thought if we didn’t like it, we could leave immediately. In the end, we spent more than an hour there.
It was an interesting tour. There was a demonstration of the entire batik production process from the hand-painting to the dyeing, then weaving before finishing off with sewing. We were impressed by the talents of the Balinese. Joey especially learnt a lot about Batik. Upon arrival, we were given a handout explaining the process of batik production. Such a smart move of the Factory to have a demonstration so that tourists would come by to see and then make purchases.
Above all, our journey through Ubud was a vivid reminder of Bali’s timeless charm and cultural richness. The immersive tour of the Bali batik factory not only showcased the intricate art of batik but also offered an authentic glimpse into the island’s enduring traditions, all enhanced by the warmth of local hospitality. As we step into 2025, Ubud continues to blend heritage with modern allure, making it an essential destination for travellers eager to experience Bali’s unique artistic legacy.
Also read: 10 Best Bali Souvenirs You Can’t Leave the Island Without
Contributed by The J Babies
