Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025: A Literary Journey in Bali’s Cultural Heart

Every year, Bali transforms into a hub of creativity and intellectual exchange during the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF). This world-renowned festival gathers authors, thinkers, artists, and readers from around the globe to celebrate the power of storytelling. Set in Ubud, the cultural capital of Bali, the event blends literature, art, and heritage in an atmosphere unlike any other.

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 promises to be another unforgettable edition, offering not only inspiring discussions but also an immersive cultural experience. Whether you are a literature enthusiast, a traveler seeking authentic cultural encounters, or someone simply curious about Bali’s creative scene, this festival should be on your 2025 travel list.

About Ubud Writers & Readers Festival

Audience attending a panel discussion at the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival in Bali, held in a traditional bamboo pavilion

• Founded in 2004, the Ubud Writers & Readers     Festival has grown into Southeast Asia’s most prestigious literary event. It was created as a healing response after the Bali bombings, aiming to use words and dialogue as a bridge between cultures.

• Today, it attracts thousands of participants and features award-winning authors, poets, journalists, and artists from different corners of the world. The event has hosted names like Richard Flanagan, Lionel Shriver, and Eka Kurniawan.

• Beyond literature, the festival embodies Ubud’s creative spirit, combining performances, culinary experiences, and Balinese traditions into its program.

UWRF 2025 Theme and Highlights

• Each year, UWRF carries a special theme inspired by Balinese philosophy. The 2025 theme (to be announced soon) will once again connect literature with pressing global and cultural issues.

• Attendees can expect thought-provoking panel discussions, exclusive book launches, hands-on writing workshops, and film screenings.

• Cultural highlights such as Balinese dance, art exhibitions, and culinary sessions will add a unique local touch to the global conversations happening at the festival.

Why You Should Attend in 2025

• UWRF is more than a literary gathering—it is a space where readers meet their favorite writers, discover new voices, and join a truly international community.

• The festival provides a rare opportunity to connect with authors, publishers, and creatives through intimate workshops and networking events.

• Attending UWRF 2025 also means immersing yourself in Bali’s vibrant cultural scene, making it a holistic travel and intellectual experience.

Practical Information for Visitors

• Dates & Location: UWRF usually takes place in late October, hosted at multiple venues across Ubud, including art galleries, cultural centers, and open-air spaces.

• Tickets: Passes typically range from day tickets to full festival access, with options for both local and international visitors. Booking early is recommended.

• Getting There: Ubud is around 1.5–2 hours from Ngurah Rai International Airport. Visitors can take airport transfers, taxis, or hotel-arranged shuttles to reach the festival venues.

Things to Do Around Ubud During the Festival

Goa Gajah Temple in Ubud, Bali, famous for its ancient stone carvings and historic cave entrance

• Cultural Attractions: Visit iconic sites such as Ubud Palace, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, and Goa Gajah temple to experience Bali’s heritage.

• Nature & Wellness: Enjoy a walk through the Tegallalang rice terraces, join a yoga class in one of Ubud’s many studios, or relax with a Balinese spa treatment.

• Culinary Exploration: Savor local delicacies at Ubud Market, dine in farm-to-table restaurants, or experience traditional Balinese cooking classes.

Where to Stay in Bali During UWRF 2025

Here are five budget-friendly accommodation options, including The Tunjung Boutique Resort, with estimated prices and unique highlights:

The Tunjung Boutique Resort at Canggu, Bali

1. The Tunjung Boutique Resort (Canggu)

   • Budget: from USD 50/night

   • A boutique resort offering Balinese charm and modern comfort. Ideal if you want to enjoy Canggu’s beaches while still having access to UWRF in Ubud.

2. Pertiwi Resort & Spa (Central Ubud)

   • Budget: from USD 60/night

   • Located in the heart of Ubud, this resort is perfect for festival-goers who want to stay close to the venues.

3. Champlung Sari Hotel (Ubud, Monkey Forest Road)

   • Budget: from USD 45/night

   • Surrounded by tropical gardens and just steps from Ubud’s main attractions, this hotel combines convenience with affordability.

4. 

   Champlung Sari Hotel at Ubud, Bali

   
   

   
   

5. Artotel Sanur Bali (Sanur)

   • Budget: from USD 65/night

   • A stylish boutique stay in Sanur, close to the beach. Great for travelers who want a mix of seaside relaxation and cultural immersion at the festival.

6. Grandmas Plus Hotel Airport (Kuta)

   • Budget: from USD 35/night

   • Budget-friendly and located near Ngurah Rai International Airport, this option is convenient for travelers who want easy airport access while planning day trips to Ubud.

Conclusion

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 is more than just an event; it is a celebration of creativity, dialogue, and cultural exchange in the heart of Bali. From world-class literary discussions to immersive cultural experiences, it represents everything that makes Ubud unique.

If you’re planning a trip to Bali in 2025, make sure to align your dates with the festival. Book your stay early, choose from a range of accommodations including The Tunjung Boutique Resort, and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most inspiring literary and cultural gatherings.