Indonesia

How to get from Ubud to Gili Trawangan

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

FASTEST
1h 20min
💶
From
4€
📍
Distance
87 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 1 way(s) to get from Ubud to Gili Trawangan

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Ubud
📍Most fast boat services departing to Gili Trawangan from Ubud will either use Padang Bai Port or Serangan/Sanur ports. Padang Bai is a major eastern Bali port, bustling with activity, and generally offers the shortest sea crossing time to the Gilis. Ensure you know your specific port.
🚇Access to Padang Bai or Sanur from Ubud is typically via a pre-booked shuttle service included with your fast boat ticket. Alternatively, you can arrange a private taxi, which takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours and costs around €20-€35, depending on traffic and your negotiation skills.
Fast boat departures from Padang Bai and Sanur to Gili Trawangan are frequent, typically starting around 09:00 AM with multiple departures throughout the morning and early afternoon, often until 14:00 PM. Check your specific operator's timetable.
💸 Transport from 4€ per person
Fastest: 1h 20min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia

Practical tips

💡
Book Your Fast Boat in Advance

Especially during peak season or holidays, fast boats to the Gilis fill up quickly. Booking online with instant confirmation a few days ahead prevents missing your desired departure and ensures a smoother start to your island escape.

💡
Check Sea Conditions

Before heading to the pier, a quick check on local weather forecasts can give you an idea of sea conditions. While operators usually cancel for severe weather, knowing what to expect can ease concerns about rough crossings.

💡
Choose Reputable Operators

Opt for well-known fast boat companies with good safety records and positive reviews. This reduces the risk of overcrowded boats or last-minute cancellations, making your journey safer and more reliable.

💡
Allow Extra Time for Bali Traffic

Bali traffic, especially around Ubud and en route to the ports, can be unpredictable. Always factor in an extra hour or two for your shuttle transfer to the pier to avoid missing your boat.

💡
Keep Essentials Accessible

During the fast boat trip, your main luggage might be stored away. Keep a small bag with water, snacks, sunscreen, and any medication readily available for comfort during the journey.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating from Ubud to Gili Trawangan can seem daunting with Bali's notorious traffic and the sheer number of boat options. The key is knowing whether a fast boat is worth it or if a bus and ferry combination makes more sense for your budget and time. We'll break down the real durations, including those infamous Bali traffic jams and the sea crossing itself, so you can compare every option side by side and pick the best for your island-hopping adventure.

For the Ubud to Gili Trawangan route, your most common options involve a transfer from Ubud to a port like Padang Bai or Sanur, followed by a fast boat. While there isn't a direct "bus + ferry" from Ubud that takes you straight to the Gili Islands without a fast boat leg, many fast boat tickets include a shuttle pick-up service from Ubud. Prices typically range from €20 to €40 for a combined shuttle and fast boat ticket, with the total journey usually taking 4 to 6 hours depending on traffic and the specific boat schedule.

Don't let the complexity of Indonesian logistics get you down. The biggest pitfall is often underestimating Bali traffic or choosing an unreliable operator. Our advice is to always book your fast boat ticket in advance, especially during peak season, and opt for a reputable company. This way, you avoid losing a precious day to gridlock or cancelled services and ensure a smooth, worry-free journey to the stunning shores of Gili Trawangan.

Frequently asked questions — Ubud → Gili Trawangan

✨ Why visit Gili Trawangan?

  • Snorkel or dive with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters.
  • Enjoy car-free island life, exploring by bicycle or cidomo (horse cart).
  • Witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean from a beach bar.
  • Experience vibrant nightlife with beach parties and live music.
  • Learn to free dive or take a yoga class overlooking the sea.
🌙
Recommended stay
3 to 5 nights — ideal for enjoying marine life, sunsets, and laid-back island vibes.

☀️ When to visit Gili Trawangan?

TROPICAL MARITIME

May to September — dry season with sunny days, calm seas, and optimal conditions for water activities.

Jan 😞
Feb 😞
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😊
Jul 😊
Aug 😊
Sep 😊
Oct 😐
Nov 😞
Dec 😞
📍
In Gili Trawangan — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Gili Trawangan
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Gili Trawangan?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🐢
Snorkel with Sea Turtles
Explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Gili Trawangan, famous for its resident green sea turtles. Numerous spots like Turtle Point offer excellent visibility. Rent snorkel gear for about 3-5€ a day or join a boat trip for a guided experience. Best time is early morning to avoid crowds.
🌅
Sunset at the West Beach
Head to the west side of the island for spectacular sunset views, often featuring vibrant colors over the ocean with Bali's Mount Agung in the distance. Many beachfront bars offer beanbags and cocktails. Arrive about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the ambiance.
🚲
Cycle Around the Island
Gili Trawangan is car-free, making cycling the primary mode of transport and a fantastic way to explore. Rent a bicycle for around 3-7€ per day and circumnavigate the island in about 1-2 hours. Be mindful of sandy patches on the west side which can be challenging.
🧘‍♀️
Join a Yoga Class
Several dedicated yoga studios and resorts offer daily classes, ranging from Vinyasa to restorative flows, often with ocean views. It's a perfect way to relax and rejuvenate amidst your adventures. A single class typically costs around 8-15€. Check schedules for morning or sunset sessions.
🐠
Discover Underwater Statues
Dive or snorkel to explore the unique 'Nest' underwater sculpture park, located just off the shore. This art installation by Jason deCaires Taylor also serves as an artificial reef. It's accessible via short boat trips or even a strong swim from the beach. Best visited during high tide for clarity.
🍽️
Savor Local Street Food
Explore the vibrant night market near the main pier for an authentic culinary experience. Sample Indonesian staples like Nasi Goreng, Satay skewers, and fresh seafood BBQ. Prices are very reasonable, often starting from 2-3€ per dish. Go early evening to experience the full buzz and selection.
🐴
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience the island's serene beauty with a horseback ride along the pristine beaches, especially enchanting during sunrise or sunset. Several stables offer rides for all skill levels. Expect to pay around 15-30€ for an hour-long session. It's a unique way to see the quieter parts of Gili Trawangan.
🍻
Enjoy Reggae Beach Bars
Gili Trawangan is famous for its relaxed nightlife, particularly the laid-back reggae beach bars scattered along the east coast. Enjoy live music, a cold Bintang, and mingle with fellow travelers. Drinks typically start from 3-5€. Many bars have bonfires on the beach, creating a perfect evening atmosphere.

⏱️ How long to visit Gili Trawangan?

2 to 5 days

For the independent traveler, Gili Trawangan is best enjoyed over 3 to 5 days. This allows ample time for diving, snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, and exploring the island's laid-back atmosphere without feeling rushed. A shorter 2-day trip is feasible for a quick stopover, but you'll miss out on fully experiencing the island's charm and potential day trips.

Related searches

bus Ubud Gili Trawangan how to get from Ubud to Gili Trawangan ticket price Ubud to Gili Trawangan travel time Ubud to Gili Trawangan travel to Indonesia

Other trips from Ubud

Book now