Renting a car with a driver in Bali is the most relaxed way to enjoy Ubud and Kintamani in a single day. You do not have to think about routes, parking, or traffic, so you can focus on the rice terraces, temples, waterfalls, and views of Mount Batur. This article covers the route, travel times, a sample one-day itinerary, car choices, and tips for visiting sacred sites in Bali.
Why Choose a Car with a Driver for Ubud and Kintamani?
Ubud and Kintamani are in the higher ground of central Bali. The roads wind through villages and are often busy at popular attractions. With a driver, you can rest in the car between stops and do not need to look for parking at each place.
The driver can also help arrange the order of your visits so that less time is spent on the road. If one location is too crowded, the plan can be changed on the spot. This option is ideal for families, couples, and first-time visitors to Bali.
Route and Travel Time to Ubud
According to Trip.com, the trip from Ngurah Rai Airport to Ubud covers about 40 kilometres and takes 1.5 to 2 hours. The usual route runs along Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, through Sanur, Batubulan, and Singapadu, then on to Ubud.
| Starting point | Estimated distance to Ubud | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|
| Ngurah Rai Airport | About 40 km | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Denpasar city | About 30 km | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| Kuta | About 35 km | 1 to 2 hours |
| Sanur | About 25 km | 45 minutes to 1.5 hours |
Trip.com recommends leaving before 09:00 and avoiding 16:00 to 19:00, when the main roads are often congested. During the holiday season, the journey can take longer.
Sample One-Day Ubud and Kintamani Itinerary
A car-with-driver package for this route usually lasts about 8 to 10 hours. Here is a sample order you can adjust:
- Morning: Tegenungan Waterfall. Arrive early, before it gets too crowded. Allow about 1 hour.
- Late morning: Tirta Empul Temple. This temple is in Tampaksiring, about 20 kilometres north-east of Ubud, and is known for its holy spring used in purification rituals.
- Midday: Kintamani. Enjoy lunch with a view of Mount Batur and its lake. The air here is usually cooler.
- Afternoon: Tegallalang Rice Terraces. On the way back to Ubud, stop for photos at these famous terraced rice fields.
- Late afternoon: central Ubud. Visit the Monkey Forest, Puri Saren, or the Ubud Art Market before returning to your hotel.
Each stop usually takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour. If your time is limited, choose just three or four places so the day does not feel rushed.
Alternatives If You Are Short on Time
Not every guest has a full day. If you only have half a day, focus on central Ubud and Tegallalang. These two areas are fairly close to each other, so less time is spent on the road. You can start at the rice terraces in the morning, then continue to the Monkey Forest, Puri Saren, and the Ubud Art Market.
If you are staying in Ubud, the trip to Kintamani also feels easier because you do not have to start from the south, such as Kuta or Nusa Dua. On the other hand, if you are staying in the south, allow more time for the drive back in the late afternoon. Tell us where your hotel is when you book so our team can help plan a realistic schedule.
Temple Etiquette
Tirta Empul is a place of worship that Hindus still actively use. Please respect the local rules:
- Dress modestly. If you do not bring a cloth, a sarong and sash can usually be borrowed on site.
- Follow the customary rules that apply at the temple, including restrictions on entry for people in certain conditions under local custom.
- Keep your voice down and behave respectfully around the holy pools, as religious activities take place there.
- At the Monkey Forest, keep food and small items such as sunglasses or hats out of sight, because the monkeys may grab them.
Car Choices for an Ubud and Kintamani Tour
Choose a vehicle based on the number of passengers and the level of comfort you want. Some options from the Jaguar Transindo fleet:
- Toyota Avanza or Mitsubishi Xpander for small families.
- Toyota Innova Zenix for a more comfortable long drive.
- Toyota Alphard for guests who want a premium cabin.
- Toyota Hiace for groups.
If you prefer to drive yourself, first read our tips for driving in Bali. For holidays with children, see our guide to family car rental in Bali. You can also browse our tour packages.
Tips for a More Comfortable Day Tour
- Leave early so you can visit more places before the crowds arrive.
- Bring a light jacket, because Kintamani is usually cooler than the beach areas.
- Carry cash for entrance tickets, parking, and donations at some sites.
- Wear comfortable footwear for the steps at the waterfall and rice terraces.
- Ask our team what is included in the rental price, such as fuel and parking fees.
- Check the weather forecast, because fog or rain can hide the view of Mount Batur.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take from Ngurah Rai Airport to Ubud?
About 1.5 to 2 hours for a distance of roughly 40 kilometres. It can take longer in the late afternoon and during the holiday season.
Can Ubud and Kintamani be visited in one day?
Yes, if you leave early and choose a few key places. A tour like this usually lasts about 8 to 10 hours.
Do I need to bring a sarong to Tirta Empul?
It is best to bring your own if you have one. If not, a sarong and sash can usually be borrowed on site.
Conclusion
Renting a car with a driver in Bali makes an Ubud and Kintamani tour more relaxed, because the route, parking, and timing are all taken care of. Leave early, choose destinations that fit your time, and respect the rules at sacred sites. Contact Jaguar Transindo to book a car with a driver in Bali and ask for the latest prices for your dates.