We are committed to the health and safety of our guests and staff. Nothing is more important to us.
Due to Coronavirus (Covid-19), and with guidance from the World Health Organization, and the Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants Association, Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses has implemented the following 20 health measures.
We conduct non-contact infrared temperature checks of staff every day when they arrive and when they leave, and log these in a book. If they have a fever, or anyone in their family is in the same condition, they must go home immediately. If an employee feels sick or unwell or has a fever, they must stay at home.
We do the same with guests and visitors for the safety of everyone. If anyone has a fever, we will invite them to have a rapid test from the nearby clinic in Ubud, which is open 24 hours a day.
Staff have a hot shower when they arrive for work and change into their uniforms and new mask. Their outside clothes and shoes are kept in their own individual lockers.
Staff lockers are disinfected every day. Guest lockers are disinfected every time before and after use.
Work uniforms are washed every day.
Our therapists wear clean masks and face shields at all times.
Masks and face shields are washed every day.
We do not shake hands.
We frequently clean and sanitise door handles, handrails, tables, menus, phones, credit card machines, and other frequently touched areas with anti-viral and anti-bacterial detergent.
We offer guests a shower immediately on arrival.
We have a medical form, which you can complete on line, if you wish.
We will ask you if you or any member of your household has had any of the following symptoms in the last 14 days, including minor; Fever, Cough, Breathlessness, Headaches, or Sore Throat.
We disinfect the room before and after treatments.
We launder all linen after treatments.
Our therapists wash their hands in soap and water for at least 20 seconds before starting and after treatments.
We will continue to be responsible for cleaning and sterilising all our equipment, before and after treating guests, for example, for hot stone massages, aromatherapy, manicures and pedicures. We sterilise product containers.
You have the option of air-conditioning or not.
You have the option of treatments in the open air.
We can take payment in advance on line, so there is no contact with money or credit card machines.
We offer guests a shower immediately after treatments.
The roads of Ubud are known for being uneven, and some parts are difficult to explore on foot. After a day spent outside, head to Tamarind Spa to get some much-needed relief for your sore muscles. If you’re staying at Murni’s Houses, you can easily access it from the hotel. Spa treatments include a full-body Balinese massage, hot stone massage, reflexology, facials, nail treatments, scrubs, and more. See for yourself why this spa has a handful of awards to its name. An afternoon of treatments from experienced staff and you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and ready for another round of tours.
By Stephanie Brookes, Indonesia Expat, 20 November 2019
I stood near the rim of Kintamani volcano, taking in the sweeping views of Mount Batur and its expansive crater lake shimmering in the early morning light. Ahead of me lay the 35-kilometre, downhill bicycle ride to Ubud.
I headed off with my cycling guide and, soon enough, we started to weave through small villages, sharing the quiet, scenic roads with the people going about their day. We passed by duck farmers with long bamboo poles, a white flag on top, each with their gaggle of ducks trailing behind them. Vibrant green fields panned out on either side as we rode through the back lanes; many with groups of women threshing rice and sifting the grains with giant bamboo baskets.
We passed lines of beautiful women dressed in bright, ceremonial finery with lacy white tops and brightly coloured sashes, as they made their way to the local village temple. They walked in procession, single file, carrying tall towers of fruit on their heads.
This made for extraordinary photo opportunities. Believe me, you do not see this in downtown Kuta, Nusa Dua, Canggu, or Seminyak.
By travelling at just 10km per hour, I felt like I was able to make intimate contact with the world around me and could see, hear, and feel so much more than I would have in a car or on a motorbike. I could hear temple bells in the distance. The quaint lanes we passed made me feel like I was discovering the authentic Bali, opening up to impromptu moments that might come along.
We stopped in a small village for a break and I got talking to a young Balinese man named Kadek, who was sitting under a makeshift shelter next to a small, ancient, stone temple. He had been clanging away on ancient-looking cymbals, surrounded by an array of other instruments.
“These are all part of our gamelan orchestra,” Kadek explained, pointing to the gongs and drums. He said, “these have been played at our temple ceremonies for many centuries.” I learned that they are still played at weddings and funerals as well as for other rites of passage and ceremonies. Gamelan is mastered by memory, by heart.
Kadek invited me to come back the next day to join his family temple birthday celebration. Not only would I hear the gamelan being played, but I would also meet the shadow puppet master and watch the wayang kulit, the ancient Indonesian art of shadow play. What an offer!
“No need to bring anything,” Kadek stressed. “We have prepared plenty of food, and we welcome guests. It is our great honour to share our customs with foreign guests.” He quickly gave me his Facebook name, we exchanged phone numbers, and I made a promise to return.
It seems that all the conversations you have with Balinese, from the hotel concierge to the local fruit seller, always seem to include some discussion of their culture and tradition. Balinese traditional life is still very much alive outside the main tourist areas of Bali. By basing yourself in the town of Ubud, for example, you get to observe a ritualistic Bali which is steeped in Hindu religious practices. For me, every day seemed to offer another lesson, unravelling slowly and naturally. Bali is, in all essence, a living culture.
The island has over 20,000 temples and shrines. For such a small island (153km x 112km), one is bound to run into a ceremony of some description. All you need to attend a ceremony is a sarong, a long sash, and a top that covers your shoulders. Men wear an additional item, an udeng, the Balinese male headdress.
If you choose to travel around Bali with a driver, these are pretty much a given item, tucked away neatly in the back of the car, at the ready for an impromptu moment. When you catch sight of a line of women walking down a road with offerings on their heads, all you need to do is join the procession at the back, and you will likely end up at a temple where you can participate in the celebrations and experience the culture.
As a foreigner, you’re always welcomed to join a temple prayer session and, if you are lucky, you can also catch temple dancing, and sometimes drama plays being acted out. These ceremonies often go late into the night, many ways past midnight.
My cycle tour finished with lunch, including a traditional Balinese salad with green beans and sprouts (urab), tempe with delicate spices, tantalising spicy, shredded, steamed chicken, satay on bamboo skewers with peanut sauce, and steamed vegetables cooked in coconut cream. This was served on a pile of steaming red rice. Our beverage was my favourite, fresh and young coconut water served in the shell, a natural energy drink and electrolyte replacement. We all hailed our coconut water with a “cheers” to celebrate our accomplishment of completing the ride.
The next day, my body told me it was time to take a rest. I booked in for a three-hour relaxation and rejuvenation treatment at Murni’s Tamarind Spa in Ubud. Locally, Murni is affectionately known as “the Mother of Ubud.” She pioneered tourism in Ubud in the 1970s by setting up her legendary restaurant, Murni’s Warung, where artists, adventurers, and academics hung out, drank mango lassies, ate smashed avocado on toast, and devoured Murni’s famous apple pie.
Murni lovingly presides over her dream creation on the jungle-clad Campuan gorge above the Wos River, and 50 years later, it’s still the same. The award-winning Tamarind Spa is the latest addition to Murni’s businesses and it was under the tamarind tree I discovered my massage therapist, Kartini, was the former personal therapist of the President of Seychelles.
After a welcome drink, cold towel and foot ritual, Kartini started to weave her healing magic on me. This began with an hour-long traditional massage, deeply relaxing, mind soothing, and muscle quenching. This was followed by a fragrant green tea scrub and a yoghurt rubdown. My treatment finished by soaking in a warm bath with orange and red flower petals floating on top. To finish it off, I was served a pot of organic herbal tea and fresh tropical fruit.
The next day, I was on a mission to discover Bali’s secret photography spots. I decided on a David Metcalf Photography tour after reading some rave reviews online. I was collected bright and early, in time for the dramatic 6.00am sunrise over Mount Agung. Next, we ventured to a local traditional market which was teeming with piles of colourful, hot-red chillies, purple dragonfruit, snake fruit, bright green guavas, and pyramids of multi-coloured local spices. Next, we spent time at the river capturing some dramatic morning sun rays through the trees, and had a lovely chat with the local rice farmer.
After that, we headed to a beautiful 10th century water temple which we had entirely to ourselves. Lunch was up next and sumptuous traditional fare of steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves, coconut yellow curried vegetables, traditional Balinese salad with bean sprouts, and rice steamed in bamboo over an open fire. We ate in the home of a beautiful Balinese family. It was a delightful surprise to see a glimmer of gold shining through the thick foliage in the back of the garden, and soon enough, two delightful young dancers appeared.
They performed the Legong dance for us. It turned out these two little girls were temple dancers and loved to take the opportunity to dance for visitors. They were all of five and six years old and danced so elegantly, with beautiful flowing movements infused with pure grace and spirit. It was spellbinding.
What I really loved about my photography day, which also included plenty of one-on-one photo tips, was how immersed I was in Balinese culture all day. We did not see another foreigner all day. My kind of Balinese day.
Next on the agenda was yoga. Wandering the small streets of Ubud, I found myself walking towards “The Sari Organic Pathway,” which was well signposted from the centre of town, wending my way to the Yoga House; a yurt shaped building situated in the rice fields.
Sheila, the owner, offers classes five days a week and refers to them as yoga for everyone. Indeed, it was. As I eased into my gentle flow yoga class, my view was framed by three stunning, volcanic peaks fanning out from the yoga platform. The yoga studio was also surrounded by terraced rice fields that encircled the studio like a living green carpet. By being amongst nature, in the outdoors in this idyllic setting, I felt deeply connected to the yoga philosophy which connects the mind, body and spirit, through breath and movement.
In the late afternoon, I headed off to a remote, rural Bali village, Lokaserena, on the outskirts of Ubud. I was welcomed into the home of Kadek, who is an Ubud Village Plate host. Ubud Village Plate is a local initiative that supports the community and connects travellers over a shared lunch or dinner in the home of a Balinese family.
Cooking classes are offered as well, but I decided on the dinner-only option. On arrival, I was taken on a tour of Kadek’s house, which is part of his larger family compound. He explained the layout of his traditional compound and told me the history behind the ornate carvings and entranceways and the cultural aspects of the directions of the buildings.
Dinner was a succulent affair with sizzling chicken sate on bamboo sticks and steamed tuna baked in banana leaves, accompanied by a pile of fresh vegetables from Kadek’s garden. All was finished off with traditional black rice pudding with fresh coconut cream. We talked late into the night about tradition and customs and I didn’t want to leave.
My next journey of discovery was into the spiritual heart of a timeless temple called Gunung Kawi; my temple of choice, located only 20 minutes out of Ubud. I decided to visit this ancient 10th-century temple complex at 7.00am, which allowed me some solitude and a few quiet, reflective hours before the tourist buses arrived for 9.30am.
By chance, I meet Wayan, the temple sweeper, near the entrance and he offered to take me to some lesser-known parts of the complex. “Come with me. I will show you the way to a waterfall and a hidden temple, and we will pass by some ancient rice fields.” I eagerly took up Wayan’s kind offer, and he explained how the terraced rice fields, which grow right in the temple itself, date back to the 9th century and are now World Heritage-listed.
As we walked along the small path, the misty jungle clung to the edges of the steeply terraced rice fields. Wayan took me on a little trail where we passed by a waterfall on the way to some old meditation caves. Chiselled from the rock, I came to a series of open doorways, which stood in a straight line symbolically representing an open door. “A door to the other world,” Wayan said with a smile. Near the caves was a shrine, which Wayan explained, stood as a representation of King Anak Wungsu, 1050 AD.
I spent the rest of the morning walking in the shadows of a series of seven-metre high temple tombs known as the Queens Tombs. Wayan was excellent company and highly informative.
As Wayan continued with his morning temple sweeping routine, happy to have been interrupted by a lone traveller, I reflected on the beautiful Balinese people I had encountered over the week, whether that be by bicycle, in a Balinese home, or leaning on a broomstick. The famed Island of the Gods breathes with an even rhythm and welcomes the curiosity of a stranger to explore a very pure and authentic Bali.
Le studio à partir de 475 000 Rp jusqu’à 2 500 000 Rp l’appartement pour 5 personnes. Petit déjeuner en option.
A seulement trois minutes de la rue principale d’Ubud, vous pouvez profiter du calme de ce lieu devenu une institution. Cet établissement possède 12 maisons confortables à la décoration traditionnelle balinaise. Certaines maisons comportent deux chambres, un salon, une véranda et deux baignoires. Le salon possède également un lit. Murni’s Houses and Spa appartenait au célèbre pionnier local Murni qui a fondé Murni’s Warung, le premier restaurant international d’Ubud en 1974, ainsi que le magasin Murni’s shop, le premier magasin d’arts tribaux et d’antiquités à Ubud. Les objets d’art ornent les murs et font du Murni’s Houses un véritable musée. Aux maisons, au restaurant et à la boutique s’ajoute un spa où le personnel qualifié vous accueille dans une ambiance propice à la détente.
Just three minutes from the main street of Ubud, you can enjoy the calm of this place becoming an institution. The hotel has twelve comfortable houses with traditional Balinese decoration. Some have two bedrooms, a living room, a veranda and two bathrooms. The lounge also has a bed. Murni’s Houses and Spa belongs to the famous local pioneer Murni who founded Murni’s Warung, Ubud’s first international restaurant in 1974, as well as the Murni’s shop, the first tribal arts and antiques store in Ubud. Art objects adorn walls and make Murni’s Houses a real museum. As well as the houses, the restaurant and the shop, there is Tamarind Spa where qualified staff welcomes you in an atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
Murni has created a special Romantic Honeymoon Package at Murni’s Houses & Spa.
Stay at Murni’s Houses & Spa with its lovely garden full of sculptures and tribal art objects, which the New York Times said is one of the best small hotels in the world and that was even before Murni improved it!
Relax in one of our new luxurious couple’s rooms at the popular Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses, which many say is the best spa in Bali, and a spa enthusiast even said was the best spa in the world (and she should know). En suite baths and showers, subdued lighting, individually controlled music, air conditioned.
Dine at the historic Murni’s Warung which was first real international restaurant in Ubud, now celebrating over 50 years, in a stunning, riverside gorge, a real photogenic location, and try Bali’s most famous local dishes.
Jalan Raya Ubud
✆ +62361975165
www.murnis.com
Le studio àpartir de 500 ,000 Rp jusqu’à2 ,300 ,000 Rp l’appartement pour 5 personnes. Petit dejeuner en option.
A seulement trois minutes de la rue principale d’Ubud, vous pouvez profiter du calme de ce lieu devenu une institution. Cet etablissement possede sept maisons confortables àla decoration traditionnelle balinaise. Chaque maison comporte deux chambres, un salon, une veranda et deux baignoires exterieures. Le salon possede egalement un lit. Murni’s Houses and Spa appartenait au celebre pionnier local Murni qui a fondé Murni’s Warung, le premier restaurant international d’Ubud en 1974 ainsi que le magasin Murni’s Warung Shop, le premier magasin d’arts tribaux et d’antiquites àUbud. Les objets d’art ornent les murs et font du Murni’s Houses un veritable musee. Aux maisons, au restaurant et à la boutique s’ajoute un Spa (Tamarind) ou le personnel qualifie vous accueille dans une ambiance propice àla detente.
Stephanie Brookes is a travel writer and blogger with tales from Indonesia and beyond.
It can take a lot of searching to find a perfect spa in Ubud as there are so many choices. You can seek out the five-star, high-end establishments, set in hanging gardens and on cliff tops, but they often come at a price that is over the top. On the other hand, you may be tempted by the numerous signs that greet you at every street corner in Ubud catering for the budget-minded with US$8 massages, which are of variable quality. The place will most likely be noisy. You will often just be separated from the next person by a hanging sheet. And forget about the hygiene!
Choosing a spa around the mid-range means finding somewhere with a soothing ambience where treatments are affordable. The minute I went through the tall Balinese gate of Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses, I knew I had found a winner.
Walking into Tamarind Spa is like finding the old, authentic Bali. The Spa is set in a beautiful Balinese compound. The tropical gardens and elegant fountains and water features create a serene setting, as the sound of water is your constant companion. Nature abounds. The exquisitely carved Ganeshas and Buddhas are a reminder that you have come to a place of peace – a beautiful haven of relaxation and divine connection. Make sure you look for the tamarind tree in the garden. The spa was named after this tree.
Tamarind Spa and the adjacent Murni’s Houses are historic landmarks in Bali and the owner, Murni, is a bit of a legend in Ubud and beyond. In fact, a book has been written about her – Forty Delicious Years 1974-2014.
She is well known for her famous restaurant Murni’s Warung, which is located a short walk down the hill from the Spa. It was established over 40 years ago in Campuan, located at the old Dutch bridge, 5 minutes from central Ubud, with stunning views over the jungle gorge.
Tamarind Spa is a small, intimate facility. The professional therapists that take care of you have been trained, under Murni’s guidance, by a team of expert spa trainers from around the world. Most of them have worked at 5-star hotels in Bali and abroad. The wide range of treatments incorporate Balinese tradition and skills.
Word has spread about Tamarind Spa so, for example, in 2017 and 2018 awards included: Winner of UK Luxury Travel Guide Awards: Winner of Contemporary Spa of the Year, Indonesia, 2017 and Winner of Luxury Spa of the Year, Indonesia, 2018.
So how do you earn such prestigious awards? Murni explained, “The most important part of establishing a spa is the extensive research that must go into trying and testing the best of Bali’s masseurs and masseuses. This challenge took me one year.”
From personal experience, I recommend the indulgent Tamarind Spa Romantic Package. Mine started with a ritual flower petal footbath, followed by a heavenly one-hour massage delivered by the most intuitive hands, and by people who understand the complexities of the human body. They were able to balance the pressure points and create a gentle flow, resulting in an ultimate therapeutic experience. After the massage I had a foot reflexology treatment which helped with balancing my energy centres, creating a harmony of mind, body and soul. At this point, I was floating.
Next, came a luxurious Honey Seed Scrub. This left my skin feeling soft and smooth. Following the scrub, the paste was washed away under a warm shower, and I got to step into a gorgeous bath, filled with petals. As I floated among hundreds of petals, I was served a refreshing pot of organic tea and a platter of fresh tropical fruits.
Apart from the package, the Spa offers many other treatments. I added on another treatment – a facial. This turned out to be one of the best facials I have ever had. The natural ingredients used included honey, yogurt, white clay, cucumber and rose water. They were mixed by the therapists themselves. After my facial, my skin felt rejuvenated, and I was feeling radiantly alive.
Ear candling is also on the Spa menu. I was way overdue for one and so added this to my pampering regime. Okay, so this was now a one-day spa experience and I was up for that. Ear candling safely removes excess wax and other debris from inside the ears and leaves you feeling very balanced and for some people results in better hearing. My ear candling treatment at the Spa was combined a deep relaxation neck massage. What a bonus!
Meals are available in the beautiful, quiet garden setting of Murni’s Houses. I took advantage of that, as after my 4 hours of treatments, I was ready for a nutritious lunch.
With the combination of very high standards and the beautiful Balinese ambience, it is no wonder Tamarind Spa is an award-winning spa, and I would put it on the top of your list of things to do in Ubud.
Tips – What to Know
– Do not eat a heavy meal before a massage.
– Arrive 10 minutes early and rest on one of the lovely spa lounges overlooking the gardens. Relax into your spa treatment.
– To maximise detoxifying effects, drink plenty of water afterwards and try to avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol for the next 24 hours. After, make a plan to rest and allow your body to feel the healing effects of your treatment.
– A specialised Children’s Package (age 5-12) includes a chocolate scrub and 4 other treatments and finishes with ice-cream.
Famed for its pristine beaches, striking sunsets and rich culture, the sought-after Indonesian destination also boasts a burgeoning number of highly lauded hotels, restaurants and bars. Meredith Woo goes on a gastronomic eight-day journey to the Island of the Gods.
An Ubud Invitation
An hour from the closest beach town, inland Ubud offers other attractions: art and culture, serenity and some of Mother Nature’s best views.
A day trip to the central foothills of Gianyar regency will not suffice. Ubud has so much more to offer – from meditative sunrise mountain peak views to villages known for intricate silver-smithing and the delicate craft of egg painting.
SHOP AND SAVOUR
If you seek museum quality relics, visit Murni’s Warung Shop. A plethora of rare pieces such as a Balinese comb bearing green and red carnellians (Rp 5,750,000) and intricate batik stamps (from Rp 385,000) feature in this 41-year-old establishment, which is part gallery.
The adjoining four-storey restaurant offers daily specials such as stir-fried duck (Rp 79,000) and beef rendang. Beyond Murni’s expertise in Asian antiques, textiles and food, she has expanded her portfolio to include a spa and guest houses in downtown Ubud.
26 February, 2015 Contented Traveller Paula McInerney
It was by great fortune that we found Murni’s Houses, Ubud, Bali through FlipKey by tripadvisor who had given us carte blanche to pick wherever we wanted to stay in Bali and we chose 6 nights at Murni’s Houses. This is all part of our Travel Series, Bali for Baby Boomers. We found Murni’s Houses but also found out that Murni is a living legend in not just Ubud, her hometown, but in all of Bali.
Straight away our interest was piqued about both the lady and the many businesses that she owns throughout Ubud and the reverence that she is held in. We quickly booked with Flipkey knowing that we were on to something unique and we were right. We also had read that Richard Gere, Richard Branson and David Copperfield the magician have visited Murni’s, so we thought that Gordon and I might just join this illustrious cast.
About Ubud
Ubud is Eat. Pray. Love territory and a book that I have yet to read, though I did see the movie and discussed whether Ubud had changed since that book and that movie. We have been here before and we have noticed the increase in visitors. That actually takes nothing away from this amazing place. Ubud is an artistic and culturally rich regency with its own king and royal family. Many tourists come here as do many expats seeking the alternative lifestyle. Food abounds and you would be hard pressed to find better foods than dining at streetside warungs. It is the home of art and you cannot avoid the skill of the Balinese artisans. It is also home to yoga, massages and all things alternative. You should head to the Sacred Monkey Forest at the end of Monkey Forest Rd. This is a magnificent jungle sanctuary, that is full of mysticism and lots of monkeys. The best way to see Ubud is to walk. Walk a lot, have a meal at a local warung and then treat yourself to a massage. It works.
Our first impressions on arriving at Murni’s Houses
This is a traditional Balinese compound where the houses are set in amazing gardens. Often referred to as the Villas of the 33 statues, there are waterfalls, and lush gardens and you hear the sounds in the distance of village life. There is Balinese art everywhere and there is serenity about this compound. There is also seclusion despite being a couple of minutes from the main road of Ubud.
Our traditional Balinese rooms, and we did have a number of rooms, and our outdoor areas overlooked the gardens yet protected us from the occasional Ubud rain storms. We loved it. We had Wi-Fi and were well taken care of, being given ginger tea to help a cough I had developed in the snow in Japan. This is a Balinese cure all and these herbal medicines known are known as ‘jamu’. (Turmeric and lemon grass also work).
This gave us a very real local experience meeting with the people who work here and getting to know a little more about the real way of life for the Balinese.
More About Murni’s Houses
In the early 1980s Murni started to build these open-air pavilions amongst the lush gardens and next to open fields. It is here that you can attest to her eye for tradition and art with the fountains and the statues everywhere you look.
About Murni the Lady
Ni Wayan Murni was born in Penestanan, Bali about 9 kms from Ubud to a farming family so it is no wonder that hard work comes naturally to her. During the early 1970s she owned 4 shops on Sanur beach. It was here, selling sarongs, that she actually sold some to president Sukarno and Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones. This was not to be her first brush with fame, and Mick has some serious street cred.
She returned to Ubud and opened a shop and here she used to make her husband soup and a sandwich for lunch. Tourists stopped and wanted to have some too and that is how Ubud’s first real restaurant, Murni’s Warung, came into being. This institution has seen its fair share of celebs and tourists coming to savor her signature dishes. Try the famous Balinese smoked duck. Murni’s Warung is like her style in all of her ventures – traditional Balinese. There are four levels that cascade down a steep hillside overlooking the Wos River. The thatched roofs, traditional open wooden architecture, and a vast collection of stone carvings gives you a very Balinese experience. Talk to Ketut and he will share with you what it is like living in Bali.
She was also the first person in Ubud to open two antiques shops in the 80s and 90s. These galleries showcased many antiques, textiles and costumes and other pieces that she knew were special. Nowadays, many of the prized pieces are in Murni’s Warung,
Murni is active in the arts and culture scene of Ubud, and has lectured in the US on Balinese textiles.
She also plays in a women’s gamelan group at important religious ceremonies.
Tamarind Spa
Murni has also created Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses and this spa was listed as the top spa in Ubud on Trip Advisor within 3 months of its opening. It is here that she continues with her ethos of everything Balinese, with traditional Balinese massages located within the stunning and serene gardens and waterfall. It is not the cheapest massage that you can get, but the staff are trained and located as it is in the art garden, it is a total experience.
Thank You to FlipKey by trip advisor for making this property available to us for 6 great nights. Great find, highly recommended and a perfect inclusion for our Travel Series.
The ultimate palms and paradise destination? There are many, and Bali is definitely on the shortlist. But there’s more to the Indonesian island besides white-sand beaches and clear blue water…
For me, the town of Ubud is the best place to base myself. I find myself among the tranquil, terraced rice fields and beautiful mountain scenery … my adventurous week … aimed at exploring and experiencing Bali’s local way of life.
Rejuvenation treatment
The next day, my body tells me it is time to take a rest. I book a three-hour relaxation and rejuvenation treatment at Murni’s Tamarind Spa in Ubud. Locally, Murni is affectionately known as ‘the Mother of Ubud’. She pioneered tourism in Ubud in the 1970s by setting up her legendary restaurant, Murni’s Warung, where artists, adventurers and academics hung out, drinking mango lassies. 42 years later, Murni still lovingly presides over her dream creation on the jungle-clad Campuan Gorge above the Wos River. The stellar-rated Tamarind Spa is the latest addition to Murni’s business. Under a beautiful tamarind tree, I find out that my massage therapist, Kartini, was the former personal therapist of the President of the Seychelles.
After a welcome drink, cold towel and foot ritual, Kartini starts to weave her therapeutic magic on me. She begins with an hour-long traditional massage, deeply relaxing, mind- soothing and muscle-relieving. A full-body exfoliation follows, with a fragrant green-tea scrub and a yoghurt rub down. After that heavenly treatment, my skin feels softer than that of a baby. I end up soaking in a warm bath with multi-coloured flower petals floating on the water’s surface. Finally, after a pot of organic herbal tea and fresh tropical fruit, I leave feeling relaxed as can be.
Places to eat
Murni’s Warung
This four-level open-air restaurant overlooks a jungle- clad ravine and raging river. Not only does the restaurant serve excellent Indonesian and western dishes, it also houses a shop with textiles, jewellery, tribal artefacts and collectables. Try their famous apple pie.
Things to do
Murni’s Tamarind Spa
Located in the heart of Ubud, this beautiful spa in quiet tropical gardens offers aromatherapy massages, traditional Balinese boreh herbal scrubs and more.
For many travelers, a trip to the spa for some pampering is one of the highlights of any trip. A few hours spent in a tranquil environment, getting massaged, cleansed and relaxed can do wonders for any stressed out globetrotter.
In the tropical paradise of Bali, the spa experience goes to a new level. Nestled in lush gardens or along sandy shores, the spas in Bali are legendary and thousands of travelers book flights to this tiny nation every year for rest and rejuvenation. From full service spa resorts to simple day spas, these are some of the best bets for your money in this paradise. All prices are in Australian dollars.
Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses
Located under the shade of a Tamarind tree in the tourist hotspot of Ubud, Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses is one of Bali’s most consistently top rated spas. With trademark Balinese hospitality, the spa is surrounded by tranquil gardens and fountains, and offers a full range of spa services from massages and rubs to manicures and pedicures. Tamarind Spa is also unique in that it is an artistic as well as relaxing experience. Murni, the owner of the spa and adjacent guest houses and villas, has a background in fine art and has filled the spa with Balinese and Indonesian art, offering a glimpse into the local heritage. Prices for such luxury are surprisingly reasonable, with full day packages average about $100.
Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses: Winner of UK Luxury Travel Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2024
Winner of Contemporary Spa of the Year, Indonesia 2017 and Winner of Luxury Spa of the Year, Indonesia 2018 and 2019
Travel & Hospitality Awards UK: Pamper Spa of the Year for Indonesia Bali 2021
Indonesia Prestige Awards: Contemporary Spa of the Year, 2021/22
Travel & Hospitality Awards UK: Winner of Spa of the Year in Bali, 2023
Travel & Hospitality Awards UK: Murni’s Houses & Spa is Winner of Boutique Hotel of the Year in Bali, 2021
Winner of UK Luxury Travel Award 2023/24: Murni’s Houses & Spa is Winner of Wellness Hotel of the Year, Indonesia, 2023/24
Majalah Penghargaan Indonesia: Favourite Spa & Wellness Award 2024
Winner of UK Spa and Wellness Awards 2024: Excellence in Treatment of the Year in Indonesia
Corporate LiveWire Global Awards 2025-2026: Winner – Day Spa of the Year
Travel & Hospitality Awards UK: Spa of the Year in Indonesia Bali 2026
Like most people Murni gets stressed, so she built a spa, Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses.
She called it Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses as it sits elegantly under a tamarind tree in a private, peaceful Balinese building in the charming, tranquil gardens of Murni’s Houses. It’s been so successful, it’s been enlarged, renovated and made even more luxurious, while maintaining the same high standards for quality.
Murni has impeccable fine arts credentials and is passionate about the beauty of Balinese art. You will delight in every room and enjoy Murni’s famous collection of Balinese and Asian works of art.
She’s designed the spa around a unique concept, creating not just a relaxing healthy, healing experience but also an artistic experience.
Tamarind Spa welcomes everyone with exquisite flowers, fountains, tranquil surroundings, soothing aromas and calming music, all served with a generous portion of Balinese hospitality.
De-stress, tone up, heal aches and pains or simply, just pamper yourself.
Most of our organic spa products, and batiks, made especially for Tamarind Spa, and CDs of the music, are for sale.
Murni has created a very special Romantic Honeymoon Package at Murni’s Houses & Spa.
Stay at Murni’s Houses & Spa with its lovely garden full of sculptures and tribal art objects, which the New York Times said is one of the best small hotels in the world and that was even before Murni improved it!
Facial Spa
Relax in one of our new luxurious couple’s rooms at the popular Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses, which many say is the best spa in Bali, and a spa enthusiast even said was the best spa in the world (and she should know). En suite baths and showers, subdued lighting, individually controlled music, air conditioned.
Dine at the historic Murni’s Warung which was first real international restaurant in Ubud, now celebrating over 52 years, in a stunning, riverside gorge, a real photogenic location, and try Bali’s most famous local dishes.
Pick Up at the Airport.
Tropical Welcome Drink.
3 Nights in The Suite at Murni’s Houses.
Murni’s Big Breakfast.
Honeymoon Package at the Award Winning Tamarind Spa (3.5 hours).
All Day Tour (up to 8 hours).
Our Ebook: Murni’s Bali Tours, Where to Go, What to do and How to do it.
Romantic Candlelit Dinner at Murni’s Warung.
Honeymoon Cake.
Drop at the Airport.
IDR 9,999,999 per couple.
NOTE: We can add nights at Murni’s Houses (subject to availability) or if you would like different accommodation, please let us know.
Travel & Hospitality Awards UK: Murni’s Houses & Spa is Winner of Boutique Hotel of the Year in Bali, 2021
Murni’s Houses & Spa is Winner of Wellness Hotel of the Year, Indonesia, 2023/24
Murni’s Houses are in a very quiet part of Ubud.
These 11 guest accommodations and spa are each designed with individual character, built in a traditional Balinese compound, where you will enjoy peaceful seclusion that’s just a three-minute walk to Ubud’s main street.
Free Welcome Drink on Arrival
Free Fiber Optik Wi-fi (Biznet) throughout.
Free parking.
Free coffee and tea facilities in the rooms.
Electronic safe in every room.
Verandas.
Books in every room.
Fans in every room.
Optional air conditioning in all rooms
Fly screens.
Mini-bar in every room.
Shower, basin and WC in every room.
Breakfast and other meals.
Daily housekeeping.
Laundry.
Transport.
Wheelchair.
Tours, Activities and Classes.
Spa.
Garden.
Swimming Pool.
Dining area.
Elevator in the main building.
24 hour security.
A New York Times travel writer called Murni’s Houses one of the world’s ten best small hotels. Since then, they’ve just gotten better.
Murni’s Houses is more than just a beautiful boutique hotel; it is an elegant and romantic home, full of Balinese art in every corner.
From the moment you book Murni will share her local knowledge and provide personal assistance to help you plan the perfect stay.
Murni lives here and welcomes all her guests personally.
Murni’s Houses: No 2 on Trip Advisor in 2023, 2024 and 2025
✨ Now featuring breathtaking drone footage from a whole new perspective! ✨
Glide over the tropical gardens and soothing pool of Murni’s Houses & Spa in the heart of Ubud.
Peak Season Concerns in Ubud — and Why Murni’s Houses is the Perfect Solution
1. Heavy Traffic & Congestion
During peak seasons Ubud’s narrow roads become clogged with cars, scooters, and tour buses. Travel times can double, especially around Monkey Forest Road, Jalan Raya Ubud, and Campuhan Ridge.
Perfect Solution: Murni’s Houses is tucked away in a quiet, green enclave — yet just a short walk from the centre. You’re close to everything, but shielded from the chaos.
Murni’s Warung 200 m
Murni’s Warung Shop 200 m
Rice Fields 200 m
Campuhan Ridge Walk 250 m
Museum Puri Lukisan 350 m
Blanco Renaissance Museum 400 m
Ubud Palace 650 m
Ubud Market 650 m
Neka Art Museum 1.8 km
Monkey Forest Ubud 2 km
2. Accommodation Shortages & High Prices
Many top villas and hotels get booked up months in advance and prices surge, especially during holidays and international school breaks.
Perfect Solution: Murni’s Houses offers excellent value year-round. With a variety of room types, you’ll find something special — and authentic — at a fair price.
3. Crowded Attractions
Popular spots like the Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and Tirta Empul can be overwhelmed by tourists, affecting the atmosphere and photo opportunities.
Tip: Visit major attractions early in the morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon. For a more peaceful experience, explore lesser-known temples and rice fields.
Perfect Solution: To provide the best personal service for guests staying at Murni’s Houses & Spa, we have created 7 specially curated tours, accompanied by an ebook Murni’s Bali Tours, Where to go, What to do and How to do it, also a paperback and audio book and YouTube videos, so that you can experience the best of Bali. Our drivers will set off as early (or as late) as you wish. We recommend early to avoid the traffic and heat and can arrange early breakfasts.
4. Overbooked Restaurants & Long Waits
Iconic restaurants and even casual cafés often have long waiting lists or queues.
Perfect Solution: Murni’s Houses is only 4 or 5 minutes walk from Murni’s Warung (which will also deliver to Murni’s Houses).
We guarantee, exclusively for guests staying at Murni’s Houses & Spa, a reserved table at Ubud’s oldest and most romantic restaurant, which speciaises in authentic, local cuisine. Just let us know your preferred date and time.
5. Spa Bookings are Filled Fast
Good spas are often booked up during peak periods.
Perfect Solution: Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses is on-site and award-winning. Guests can walk there in a second.
6. Noise & Disruption
Some parts of Ubud become noisy.
Perfect Solution: Murni’s Houses, nestled among gardens and running water, is a haven of calm — even in the busiest season. Tranquil countryside in the middle of town.
7. Peak Season Extended Stay Packages
If you plan on staying more than 31 nights, please ask for details.
Escape to Paradise – One Price, All-Inclusive!
Indulge in the magic of Ubud with our exclusive All-Inclusive Travel Package at Murni’s Houses & Spa.
For one set price, enjoy:
✨ Beautiful Balinese-style accommodation
✨ Daily Breakfast
✨ Luxurious spa treatments
✨ Airport transfers
✨ Optional tours. activities and classes
✨ Free Wi-Fi
Everything is taken care of – all you have to do is relax, explore, and enjoy.
Located in the heart of Ubud – tranquil, authentic, unforgettable.
In all my years of traveling, this has to be one of the top accommodations I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing.
My time at Murni’s Houses turned out to be one of the highlights of my visit to Bali.
From the moment you arrive, the property creates a sense of peace and serenity. The lush jungle surroundings, traditional Balinese architecture, carved teak details, peaceful pathways, and flowing water features all blend together beautifully. Extraordinary statuary, antiques, and art pieces collected by Murni over decades are thoughtfully placed throughout the property, giving every corner its own sense of discovery and character. The entire atmosphere immediately slows you down and makes it easy to disconnect.
Located just a short walk from central Ubud, Murni’s somehow manages to feel completely removed from the chaos of town. After stepping through the entrance, the noise disappears and you’re surrounded by the sounds of birds, flowing water, and the jungle.
The staff were warm, gracious, and genuinely welcoming throughout my stay. My room was uniquely Balinese in character, comfortable, and full of charm rather than feeling like a generic resort. The private terrace overlooking the grounds was an added bonus and became one of my favorite places to simply sit, relax, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Having the spa on the property was also a wonderful convenience. Both massages I had during my stay only added to the overall sense of relaxation and tranquility that defines the entire experience at Murni’s.
Another wonderful touch was being able to order food directly from Murni’s Warung, located just down the road, and have it delivered either to the beautiful open-air veranda and lobby area or directly to my room. The meals I had there captured the flavors of authentic Balinese cuisine beautifully. It also adds another layer of history to the experience knowing that Murni’s Warung, opened in 1974, was the very first restaurant established in Ubud.
One of the absolute highlights was having the opportunity to meet Ni Wayan Murni herself — a true Balinese legend whose contributions to preserving and sharing Balinese culture are remarkable. Sitting down over tea and her famous fried bananas while listening to stories about Bali was an experience I’ll never forget.
This is not the place to stay if you want giant pools, loud beach clubs, or sterile luxury. This is the place to stay if you want to actually feel Bali.
Murni’s Houses feels less like a hotel and more like a peaceful cultural retreat hidden inside the jungle.
Highly recommended for travelers seeking authenticity, tranquility, and genuine Balinese hospitality.
The Mother of Ubud: Finding Bali’s Soul at Murni’s Houses
For me, that moment came on my third day in Ubud, sitting across from a remarkable woman named Ni Wayan Murni, a plate of fried bananas between us, listening to her tell me the story of her life. By the time I left Bali, I understood that finding Murni’s Houses had been one of the great strokes of luck of my traveling life.
“I am pleased to say that Murni’s Houses has been awarded the HotelsCombined Recognition of Excellence for 2018 in Indonesia.
This award is in recognition for consistently achieving the highest standards of Customer Satisfaction worldwide. HotelsCombined analysed customer opinions on websites, forums and social media, resulting in an incredible score for Murni’s Houses of 10 out of a possible 10.
Murni’s Houses now represents the top 3% of accommodation worldwide for Customer Satisfaction.”
2018
RECOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE
Murni’s Houses
10.0Rated by Guests
Murni’s Houses & Spa on Instagram
We have over 1,000 photos already on Instagram and add more every day.
Follow along with us @murnishousesandspa for a daily look inside our peaceful Ubud sanctuary— featuring authentic Balinese rooms, award-winning spa, a serene pool, warm local staff, fresh food, and our relaxing tropical gardens.
Grand Nikko Hotel, Nusa Dua, Bali certainly has a ring to it. We had to go down to Nusa Dua for a wine-tasting and it was just too far, after all that wine, to drive back to Ubud, so we picked a hotel that had a grand sounding name. Grand Nikko Hotel fitted the bill perfectly and is part of the worldwide Nikko Group of hotels. It’s the only one in the group called Grand. It’s also a grand place for families and kids.
We drove up to the entrance and were met by smiling staff. A nice Balinese man with glasses took our cases. First impressions are so important. We both felt good immediately and went through a smooth and efficient check in and were escorted to our room. There is a wide choice of rooms, suites and villas.
We had an Ocean View room. As you can see, it was spacious, clean and comfortable. I was pleased to see a traditional Kamasan painting hanging on the wall. There was a television with all the international channels, an electronic safe, which could fit a laptop, and complimentary water in the mini-bar.
We didn’t need a buggy, but if your villa is far away, they will actually take you by buggy, driven by a wonderful, smiling girl called Yeni. It’s almost worth booking a villa just for the fun of riding in the buggy.
It’s a big hotel with two wings, built on a 40-meter cliff. The central core of the hotel has an incredibly dramatic view of the Indian Ocean. My jaw just dropped gazing out at the view.
We immediately went down to explore. There’s a really imposing staircase from the entrance down to beach level. They also have elevators.
We saw a very impressive buffet being set up in the garden. They were getting ready for Balinese Night and we felt beautiful, soft breezes on our cheeks wafting off the Indian Ocean.
They had a sucking pig, babi guling, still untouched, but I’m sure not for long, as that’s one of the island’s most famous dishes. There was a vast array of food and there were drinks too.
I’ve got a small hotel in Ubud, Murni’s Houses, grand in its own way, and I know a good hotel when I see one. A good hotel has good energy and the Grand Nikko has lots of energy.
The staff are incredibly helpful – if you look lost, they come up to you and offer to bring you to where you are going. When you pass them in the corridor or meet them in the lift, they say hello and give you a big smile. How nice is that?
The hotel is large. I’m sure I haven’t seen it all, in fact, I know I haven’t seen it all. It has interesting statues and structures all over the place.
Balinese stonecarvers and sculptors are talented and I’m delighted that their works are on display. I particularly liked the three fishermen, back to back, with their shared catch on their heads. It was very appropriate for the ocean setting.
There are many comfortable places to sit and chill out. Tastefully decorated. Of course the whole place has wifi, which is vital these days.
There are eight restaurants, yes, eight, including a Japanese one called Benkay and one called Olooloos. Don’t ask me what that means! They serve Mediterranean food, but outside a Balinese couple welcome you in.
Breakfast is served in The Brasserie. It was very good indeed, regally and lovingly supervised by the charming Balinese sous-chef, Luh Sibang. She has worked there for eighteen years and is still loving it.
There are freshly baked breads, croissants, bagels, muffins, and doughnuts. Orange, tomato, watermelon, papaya and carrot juices. Scrambled, sunny side up, omelettes, poached and boiled eggs. Really whatever you want.
Western, Chinese and Japanese food. Indonesian fried rice, Indonesian fried noodles, chicken or pork congee and Soto Ayam (the famous spicy chicken broth). Unlimited smoked salmon too. Service was impeccable: lots of helpful staff helping you within seconds.
After breakfast there are a whole range of activities – the wonderful beach, of course, but also a fun jungle camp for children, a camel safari ride, fitness centre, tennis courts and sauna. There are probably even more things that I haven’t yet discovered.
There are four, maybe more than four, amazing inter-connected swimming pools, that just have to be seen to be believed, and a 30 metre water slide into one of them. One of them actually has sand coming up to it, which is a genius and safe way of keeping an eye on young childen at the beach.
Just wandering around I came across a wedding in the grounds. Not surprising as it’s a perfect place to get married with the well-kept beautiful lawns, pools and beach. I am sure that the wedding photographs were stunning. Grand Nikko has it all.
The Shore restaurant is ideally situated, yes, on the shore. We had lunch there and Komang, our kindly waitress, suggested that we join One Harmony for free and have 10% off all meals and future stays in the hotel group. We joined straightaway.
I love spas, and in fact, I have one in Ubud, Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses, so I am always keen to try them out. It was a real pleasure going to Mandara Spa. I had an excellent therapist, Oka Astini, and enjoyed the experience in a private villa immensely. I can certainty recommend it and have become a member of Mandara Spa.
The only bad thing was leaving, but, for sure I will return soon.
1st June was not just a day, it was an auspicious day, and it was not just an auspicious day, it was a triply auspicious day. Perfect for a New Spa Ceremony in Ubud, Bali.
The Balinese believe in auspicious days. They are coincidence days, rather like Friday 13th.
So 1st June was a very good day to have the blessing for the opening of Tamarind Spa at Murni’s Houses, Ubud, Bali.
The weather was glorious, which made it a quadruply auspicious day.
Early in the morning Murni and her family and friends prepared the numerous offerings of fruit and flowers, rice and spices, and I even noticed a cooked chicken.
On such days the priests are very busy carrying out ceremonies. We were lucky that he showed up around noon, which made it more challenging for photographs.
He brought his bell, which resonated throughout, and his mantras, and his mudras, which are sacred hand gestures.
The women sprinkled holy water over every corner of the spa, both inside and out. Balinese Hinduism is not called the holy water religion for nothing.
A piece of cloth with magical symbols for protection was attached to the eaves, never to be removed.
A bamboo pole was burnt over a small fire until it exploded frightening away any malevolent spirits that might have been lurking about.
After a couple of hours of mantras, ringing bells, and prayers, the ceremony was over and the spa had received the blessing of the gods and was ready to welcome guests.
There are more photographs of New Spa Ceremony in Ubud, Bali a on www.jonathaninbali.com
There are chapters on Balinese Hinduism, Balinese Calendars, Balinese Ceremonies and Offerings in Secrets of Bali.
The Pool.
During peak seasons Ubud’s narrow roads become clogged with cars, scooters, and tour buses. Travel times can double, especially around Monkey Forest Road, Jalan Raya Ubud, and Campuhan Ridge.
Many top villas and hotels get booked up months in advance and prices surge, especially during holidays and international school breaks.
Popular spots like the Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and Tirta Empul can be overwhelmed by tourists, affecting the atmosphere and photo opportunities.
Perfect Solution: To provide the best personal service for guests staying at Murni’s Houses & Spa, we have created 7 specially curated tours, accompanied by an ebook 
Iconic restaurants and even casual cafés often have long waiting lists or queues.
Good spas are often booked up during peak periods.
Some parts of Ubud become noisy.
