Hidden away in the lush rice terraces of Sayan, just minutes from the heart of Ubud, is Uma Kalai, the best new luxury resort in Bali. A stay here allows for true tranquillity as guests immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region, coupled with the five-star service provided by the dedicated staff of the estate.

Uma Kalai is more than just a luxury resort in Bali, but rather, a home away from home where no wish goes unanswered. Tailored to the needs of families, couples or groups, this brand-new property is guaranteed to make your next stay in Ubud unforgettable.

This complete review of Uma Kalai in Ubud highlights all of our favourite experiences at the resort and will make you want to visit the resort as soon as possible.

If you’re trying to figure out the best time for a trip to Uma Kalai in Bali, this complete guide is a must-read.

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Where is Uma Kalai located?

The Uma Kalai estate is located in the small village of Sayan, just outside the centre of Ubud, Bali. Where Ubud has succumbed to mass tourism, causing it to lose some of its charm and authenticity, Sayan picks up.

Considered, an epi-centre for culture and architecture, this rural village encompasses what many visitors search for when coming to Ubud. Yet, Sayan lies only a few kilometres from the busy streets of Ubud, allowing guests to decide on their own time whether they prefer serenity and privacy or if they are looking to dive into all that the centre of town has to offer.

Uma Kalai can easily be reached by car or the resort can arrange a pickup service, depending on the guests’ wishes and where they are in Bali. The drive to the estate from the heart of Ubud takes less than 15 minutes on days with little traffic.

The one-of-a-kind location of Uma Kalai is without a doubt one of its most enticing features and what many guests fall in love with when stepping foot onto the property.

The resort sits on top of lush cliffs, overlooking a picturesque backdrop of rice terraces, a sea of green jungle as well as a murmuring river that provides a calming soundscape. In the background, volcanos tower over the quaint countryside completing the ultimate Bali view.

Find more recommendations on where to stay in Ubud here.

How to get to Ubud and Uma Kalai

No need to worry about transport options, Uma Kalai provides a comfortable pickup service for its guests, taking them to Ubud from wherever they may be located. Just contact the friendly staff before your arrival, and a transfer in an air-conditioned van will be organised.

Those arriving with their own vehicle can be assured to know that there is plenty of parking space available on site.

Of course, you can also arrive via grab or gojek, although online taxis may not work in all parts of Ubud.

Looking for an airport pickup? This complete guide will answer all your questions.

Room and villa types at Uma Kalai

At Uma Kalai, there is no best room to choose, but rather a selection of villas and suites that all come with their own distinctive highlights and benefits. This means visitors are able to decide on an option that suits their individual needs with unique features that far surpass the mass travel experience.

This is especially beneficial for group travellers, allowing each member to enjoy a tailored stay, with no person being left with less desirable accommodation for the night.

This sets Uma Kalai apart from villas in the Ubud area, where oftentimes there is a master bedroom and several smaller rooms that may not fulfil the expectations of guests.

The Uma Kalai resort in Ubud, Bali has three private villas as well as three suites to choose from, all with their own unique layout and atmosphere. Each type is named after a different element, which represents the property’s closeness to nature.

No matter which room you choose at Uma Kalai, your stay will be one to remember. Wondering if a villa or a hotel room is better for you? Our complete guide will help.

Layout of the property

The three luxury villas Bhumi, Tejas and Vata are independent properties located on the grounds of the Uma Kalai resort estate in Ubud. As separate buildings, a stay here guarantees privacy and comfort with everything you need right at your doorstep.

Vyoman, Aether and Jala are lavish suites, all located in the main building of Uma Kalai. Each comes with its own unique features such as direct pool access, a comfortable gazebo with some of the best views on the property or a spacious outdoor bathroom with a freestanding bathtub.

Private villa with heated pool and steam room

The Tejas (Fire) and Vata (Wind) villas at Uma Kalai have similar layouts, featuring a private heated pool, canopy bed and lush garden. Both villas have a size of 143 m² including the surrounding garden and deck complete with a daybed and private pool.

Inside, guests are able to enjoy a king-size canopy bed, spacious ensuite bathroom and steam room, as well as a dedicated office area.

This villa-type is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway with the perfect combination of privacy and comfort. Imagine yourself in the heated pool, enjoying a floating breakfast before heading to your private steam room and cooling off with a refreshing shower surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

A stay at Villa Tejas or Vata will turn a good experience into an unforgettable one.

Private villa with heated pool and kitchen

The third villa at Uma Kalai is similar to the twin properties in some ways and then again completely different in others. Bhumi (Earth) has its own living room with a kitchen and encompasses a total area of 155 m².

The villa has a small garden, a cosy deck with sun loungers and a swing next to a heated pool surrounded by luscious jungle plants. Inside the villa, guests will find a king-size canopy bed, an ensuite bathroom, a private steam room and an outdoor bathtub.

A handy kitchen and cosy living room invite guests to spend more than just a few nights at Uma Kalai but rather find a piece of home in the beautiful estate.

This villa is versatile and inviting, combining luxury with functionality and comfort. Families will appreciate the spacious layout with access to a kitchen. Couples or solo travellers hoping for an extended stay in Ubud are guaranteed to find what they are looking for at Bhumi.

Suites with a private gazebo overlooking the ricefields

The main building of Uma Kalai, which is home to three suites, is considered the heart of the property. The twin suites Jala (Water) and Vyoman (Sky), which are located here, have spacious private terraces, ensuite bathrooms and panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields.

The downstairs property, Vyoman has the largest terrace at Uma Kalai, perfect for a morning yoga session or a private breakfast. The covered lounge areas invite you to forget about rainy days in Ubud, allowing visitors to spend every possible second at the luxury resort outside, listening to the sounds of the rain and the jungle.

Inside, the 104 m² suite boasts a king-size bed, an office desk, an ensuite bathroom and a dressing area. Can’t escape your busy schedule even on a getaway to a boutique resort in Bali? Luckily, Uma Kalai provides a high-speed internet connection and dedicated workspaces around the property.

The upper suite, Jala (Water), has some of the best views in the area. Imagine yourself waking up to sweeping views of Ubud’s rice fields as flocks of birds circle the towering trees.

The spacious balcony has a breakfast table which can seat four people, lounge chairs, and a gazebo. Again, the suite is 104 m², featuring a king-size bed, an office area, an ensuite bathroom with an outdoor bathtub as well as a spacious walk-in closet.

Suite with pool access

Akasa (Aether) is Uma Kalai’s cosy suite with direct pool access. Its private terrace invites guests to have breakfast with a view in the morning before diving into the water.

At 45 m², this suite is homey and welcoming, guaranteeing ultimate comfort with its king-size bed and outdoor bathroom. Those looking to stay in a luxury resort in Ubud during their time in Bali will appreciate Uma Kalai’s boutique approach, which is reflected in the well-thought-out design of this beautiful suite.

Book your stay at Uma Kalai here.

Lounge and pool deck

The pool deck at Uma Kalai is everyone’s favourite when they first step foot on the property. Guests are greeted by sweeping views of Sayan’s rice terraces coupled with the sound of the rushing river below.

The main pool of the luxury resort invites you to take a refreshing dip as you take in the breathtaking scenery of Ubud.

Uma Kalai has several indoor and outdoor seating areas allowing for privacy and comfort. Lay back on a sunlounger after swimming in the pool, or relax on a daybed while enjoying a cold drink. Inside, the living room of Uma Kalai perfectly combines indoor and outdoor living.

The floor-to-ceiling glass doors open up the living space, allowing you to spend as much time as possible outside without having to worry about the weather. There is a modern kitchen, a large dining room table and a full bar available for them to use.

Ubud has a lot to offer but guests are able to choose for themselves whether they would like to enjoy a night out or rather spend it in the comfort of the luxury resort. The property’s collection of board games and its small, hand-selected library of books invite you to enjoy a cosy night in, listening to the patter of the tropical rain on the leaves of palm trees.

This luxury of choice is really what makes Uma Kalai special, setting it apart as a boutique resort in Bali. Everything you might need is available right there on the property of the estate.

Gym

Even a luxury getaway to a boutique resort in Ubud, Bali, is no excuse to let your fitness routine slide.

Those hoping to keep their active lifestyle alive during their stay at Uma Kalai will be pleased to find a fully equipped gym on the property grounds, complete with free weights, cardio equipment and the latest gym machines.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Uma Kalai if the gym didn’t have its own unique twist, integrating the magnificent landscapes of Ubud into the facilities of the luxury resort. The spacious workout room features floor-to-ceiling glass doors which can be opened, revealing a gurgling pond and a glimpse into the surrounding greenery.

A workout soon becomes a jungle experience as indoor-outdoor living takes on a whole new meaning.

Furthermore, due to the limited number of rooms available at the property, the gym is rarely a busy place, allowing for privacy and a quiet atmosphere. The modern equipment is state-of-the-art and allows you to customise your workout routine perfectly.

Spa and wellness

Uma Kalai is a place of tranquillity and peace, making a spa treatment almost essential when staying at the estate. The list of treatments offered onsite is long, and guests face the challenge of selecting the best option for them.

Luckily, the friendly staff will be happy to help with the selection of massages and facials, giving insightful advice on what to choose first. Of course, guests can always try multiple options during their stay at Uma Kalai, allowing for maximum relaxation at this peaceful boutique resort in Bali.

The spa at the property is larger than you might expect, with a variety of private treatment rooms and facilities for not only massages but also manicures and pedicures. Honeymooners or couples on a romantic getaway are encouraged to try a couple’s experience in the custom double massage room at Uma Kalai.

The spa is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and available treatments include:

• Reflexology
• Full-body massage
• Balinese massage
• Deep tissue massage
• Couple’s massage
• Balinese Boreh
• Javanese Royal Lulur
• Facial
• Manicure
• Pedicure

Find an up-to-date list of spa treatments here.

Services and amenities

At Uma Kalai, no wish goes unanswered, as the staff will be ready to assist you with any requests or questions during your stay. Simply let them know what you’re looking for during your time in Ubud, and they’ll be happy to help you out.

Not sure how to get around? You’ll be provided with a private driver to take you wherever you need to go.

Did you forget an essential item at home? The staff will be happy to assist you in finding a replacement close by. Looking for a recommendation on where to go for dinner? You’ll be provided with the best insider tips for Ubud. This is all part of Uma Kalai’s concierge service, which is available 24/7.

Here are some of the small details we noticed during our stay at Uma Kalai that take this hotel from being a great luxury resort to a truly excellent and unique boutique stay in Ubud, Bali.

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Arriving at Uma Kalai

It begins with the cold towel and refreshing welcome drink served either in hot or cold form, which is handed to you on arrival at the property. After a quick tour of the estate, you’ll be able to relax and make plans for the evening.

If desired, guests can have their luggage unpacked by the helpful staff, allowing them to make the most of their time at Uma Kalai.

Amenities

Drinking water is provided throughout the property, including the rooms, bathrooms, living room, kitchen, spa and gym. Forget about unsightly water dispensers but enjoy a cool glass of water from aesthetically pleasing bottles.

You’ll rarely find yourself on the property without drinking water available in your direct vicinity.

It goes without saying that the suites at Uma Kalai are exceptionally well-equipped with everything you might need during your stay. Villas and suites at Uma Kalai come with a full Japanese toilet, complete with a heated seat, built-in bidet and a variety of customisable functions.

You can tell real thought was put into this property as the small details are what make this estate a rare find. Each room comes with a customised set of Nespresso coffee pods and the corresponding machine, a JBL Bluetooth speaker, a flatscreen TV, comfortable robes and slippers.

You’ll also find a pair of binoculars which help bring the surrounding ricefields and circling flocks of birds closer to you.

Service

Uma Kalai is not one of the large luxury resorts in Ubud, and it doesn’t want to be. The limited rooms available at the property give the estate an air of exclusivity and privacy that you won’t find anywhere else.

The staff is able to get to know your habits and preferences even if you’re only staying for a few days, providing true five-star service.

To some, it might be a necessary standard, to others, a welcome surprise, but it can be said without a doubt that once you get used to having a turn-down service at a hotel, it’s difficult to go back. At Uma Kalai, you’ll be greeted by a freshly made bed, refilled water, fresh towels, a heated toilet seat and slippers when you return from dinner in the evening.

Have you ever slept in a hotel room with a pile of decorative pillows and blankets on the floor next to your bed? A problem of the past.

Department of Romance

To help make your stay in Bali an unforgettable experience, the boutique resort offers a “Department of Romance” service, organising romantic experiences that you might not have come up with yourself.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner under the stars, a movie night in your private pool or an engagement photoshoot, Uma Kalai is guaranteed to have a suggestion that will make your trip extra special.

Dining at Uma Kalai

Guests at Uma Kalai can choose from a wide variety of handcrafted breakfast dishes, accompanied by freshly brewed tea, coffee or other refreshing drink options such as passion fruit, mint and lemongrass coolers.

Breakfast is served wherever guests prefer, for example, on the spacious patio, on one of the suite’s private terraces or in the property’s dining room which is perfect for a rainy day.

Ubud is a prime destination for food lovers, and Uma Kalai is no exception. On request, guests can enjoy lunch or dinner at the property or even just a light snack in between meals.

The staff will be happy to assist you with culinary requests, allowing you to enjoy anything from a late-night bite to a multi-course meal prepared by a private chef. The sky is the limit when it comes to dining at Uma Kalai, and you’ll find that no wish goes unanswered during your stay.

Tours and luxury experiences in Bali offered by the resort

You’ll want to make the most of your time in Ubud, so leave the travel planning to the experts. There is a multitude of experiences to enjoy in Bali, and Uma Kalai can help you organise excursions to points of interest all around the island.

While it’s most convenient to choose activities in and around Ubud, there is no reason why you cannot use Uma Kalai as a base and discover Bali’s most exciting things to do during your stay.

Tour reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance and availability may depend on weather conditions. Experiences include:

Cultural

• Pura Luhur Lempuyang
• Uluwatu Kecak Dance
• Pura Besakih
• Pura Tanah Lot
• Pura Gunung Kawi

Spiritual

• Tirta Empul
• Ida Resi
• Visiting a Balinese healer
• Pyramids of Chi
• Blessing ceremony
• Campuhan Sala

Nature

• Tukad Cepung Waterfall
• Tegenungan Waterfall
• Hot springs Kintamani
• Ricefield trek
• Junge trek
• Herb walk
• Jatiluwih

Family

• Tree top adventure
• Mason elephant park
• Monkey Forest
• Berawa Art House
• Chocolate making workshop
• Cooking class
• Waterbom

Adventure

• ATV tour
• Rafting
• Mount Batur cycling
• Mount Batur sunrise hike
• Canyoning
• Mount Ijen tour
• Stand up Paddleboarding
• Mount Agung
• Biathlon

Find more information on experiences at Uma Kalai here.

Transport options

Uma Kalai lies just a quick drive from the heart of Ubud, and guests can make use of the property’s concierge service to help them get around. Enjoy having a private driver take you around the island or zip around the rice terraces on a Vespa.

The staff at the property will be happy to help with any transport needs including airport pickup, jeep tours or taxi services.

Enjoy the secluded nature of Uma Kalai’s location in its jungle setting without having to worry about being too far away from all the action. With so many different options for getting around, you’ll be flexible and comfortable during your stay in Ubud.

Why Uma Kalai is the best luxury resort in Bali for families

Planning a trip with family can be an organisational challenge but often leads to the most treasured memories.

Uma Kalai takes away the pressure of planning and allows families to enjoy their time in Ubud and Bali to the fullest, perfectly combining luxury facilities with privacy while allowing for a unique experience that far surpasses a stay at a large resort.

The different suites and villas at Uma Kalai allow guests to spend quality time with their loved ones in an intimate setting but with a much higher quality of experiences than might be the norm at private villa rentals.

The Uma Kalai estate has everything families might be looking for on-site, specialising in customisable and unique experiences tailored to the needs of every visitor.

Why Uma Kalai is the best luxury boutique resort in Bali

In today’s time, luxury travellers are looking for unique experiences that go beyond large hotel chains. Uma Kalai is a boutique resort that can only be described as an insider tip given to you by a friend who recently visited Bali.

You’ll leave the property feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, with a new perspective on Ubud and all of Bali.

A lot of thought was put into this boutique Bali property, making this resort the perfect choice for those who like to pay attention to the small details of their luxury stays. Contact the Uma Kalai team here to plan your trip.

Book your stay at Uma Kalai here.

Uma Kalai Ubud FAQ

Before you go…

Your time at Uma Kalai in Ubud will be one to remember, and so will the rest of your Indonesia trip with the help of our travel guides. Read all about the best boat tour in Komodo National Park, the most beautiful villas in Gili Trawangan, and of course the best ocean-front hotels in Uluwatu.

Capture the beauty of Bali with these famous quotes about the Island of the Gods, and plenty of inspiration for your Instagram posts about Indonesia. You might also like our romantic travel couple quotes, and one-word captions about travel.

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Impressions of Uma Kalai

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