Ubud Weather in January

January: warm and very wet

January feels hot, sticky and often cloudy in Ubud. Rain falls on most days, and there's little sunshine, so don't expect long, dry stretches. December is slightly hotter, while February is a little less rainy.

You can still enjoy Ubud's museums, galleries and cafés when showers set in. Rice terraces are lush, but paths can turn slick; skip long walks if heavy rain has made the ground muddy. The Campuhan Ridge Walk is best kept for a clear spell, when the views are easier to enjoy.

What to do on rainy days

Travelling with kids? The indoor exhibits at the Neka Art Museum make a useful break from wet afternoons.

January has New Year's Day, but there isn't a major annual Ubud festival that falls in the month. Around the holiday, Ubud can feel busier, especially at the start of January. After that, it's generally quieter than the July-to-September high season, and prices are often lower. Exact deals vary, so don't assume every stay or activity is cheap.

A useful local tip

If rain catches you near central Ubud, duck into the Ubud Palace area and nearby shops rather than setting off for a distant waterfall. You'll have places to pause between showers, and you can reach the Saraswati Temple from the same central area. Its lotus pond is especially pleasant when the rain eases.

For a meal, try nasi campur, rice served with a mix of small dishes, at a local warung, a simple eatery. It's an easy way to settle in without making a long trip in wet weather. Keep outdoor plans flexible; January's frequent rain can change the feel of a day quickly.