Is there a direct bus?

There are no direct public buses, but private shuttle services exist.

How long is the ferry?

The crossing takes about 4 to 5 hours.

No, you must fly to Denpasar (DPS) and drive to Ubud.

Is it better to take a fast boat?

Fast boats go to Gili Islands; for Bali, the public ferry is the standard.

What is the best way to reach Ubud?

A private car transfer is the most comfortable and reliable option.

Ubud

Driving Ship

Mataram to Ubud

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from Mataram to Ubud combines a sea crossing and a scenic drive through Bali's cultural heart. You will take a ferry from Lembar Port to Padang Bai, which takes about 5 hours including boarding. From Padang Bai, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Ubud, covering approximately 40 kilometers through the lush landscapes of Gianyar. The total journey time is usually around 7 hours. This route is popular for travelers seeking to transition from the beaches of Lombok to the artistic center of Bali.

Total Distance: 180 km driving distance, 150 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Private car transfer from Padang Bai to Ubud, taking 90 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Public ferry to Padang Bai followed by a shared shuttle bus to Ubud.

Compare Mataram to Ubud Routes

	Driving Direct	Ship Direct
Duration	2 hours	5 hours
Avg Price	300,000 IDR	150,000 IDR
Operator	Grab/Gojek or Private Taxi	ASDP Ferry
Route	Padang Bai to Ubud via Jl. Raya Goa Gajah	Lembar Port to Padang Bai
Tip	Pre-book your taxi from Padang Bai to avoid overcharging by local drivers.	Choose the upper deck for better views and fresh air.

Travel Tips

Booking
Book your ferry and onward transport together if possible for a seamless experience.
Arrival
Padang Bai can be chaotic; have your destination address ready in Indonesian.
Dress Code
Wear modest clothing when visiting temples in and around Ubud.
Connectivity
Get a local SIM card at the airport or in Mataram for reliable data.
Traffic
Ubud traffic can be heavy; allow extra time for local travel.

Safety Tips

Monkey Interaction
Do not feed the monkeys or carry food in open bags in the forest.
Scams
Ignore unofficial 'guides' at the port offering overpriced transport.
Health
Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid 'Bali Belly'.
Insurance
Ensure your travel insurance covers scooter accidents if you plan to rent one.