Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024: A Global Literary Gathering

Planning a trip to Bali this October? If so, be sure to add the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024 to your itinerary. Celebrated as one of Asia’s premier literary festivals, this event returns to Ubud from October 23-27, 2024.

Each year, the Ubud Writers Festival attracts hundreds, even thousands, of participants. Writers, literature enthusiasts, activists, and artists will join tourists and locals alike in a series of engaging programs curated by the festival committee.

Curious what the excitement of Ubud Writers and Readers Festival 2024 will be like? Here are some information and facts about the event that was held 20 years ago.

4 Facts about Ubud Writers and Readers Festival 2024

What is the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival?

Founded in 2004 by Janet DeNeefe through the Mudra Swari Saraswati Foundation, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF) has become a highly anticipated annual event for literary enthusiasts and activists.

Set against the serene backdrop of Ubud, the festival offers not only meaningful discussions but also a unique opportunity to turn your holiday into a more enriching experience.

Originally launched to help the Balinese community heal after the 2002 Bali bombing, the UWRF has grown in both scope and reputation.

Thanks to its consistent quality and engaging programs, The Daily Telegraph named it one of the world’s top five literary festivals in 2019.

UWRF 2024 Program

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2024 marks its 21st edition, with this year’s theme being “Satyam Vada Dharmam Chara,” meaning “Speak the Truth, Practice Kindness.” Inspired by the Mahabharata, the theme highlights the values of truth and goodness.

The festival kicks off on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, with an immersive journey into the rice fields, where participants will explore the connection between humans and nature through discussions and poetry.

That evening, a special performance will honor Cok Sawitri—an esteemed Balinese writer, poet, scriptwriter, and performing artist. Another highlight of the night will be the Women’s Poetry Slam, a popular and eagerly awaited event.

The next two days are packed with engaging classes and thought-provoking book discussions. Notable authors like Ayu Utami and Ratih Kumala, famed for “Kretek Girls” will be among the participants.

To make the most of the festival, be sure to check the complete schedule on the official Ubud Writers & Readers Festival website and plan your agenda accordingly.

As always, UWRF is more than just a literary event—it’s a celebration of literacy infused with culture and spirituality. From discussions, workshops, and writing classes to book launches, cultural tours, and intimate dinners with key figures, the festival offers a rich variety of experiences for attendees.

UWRF 2024 Location

As the name suggests, UWRF 2024 will take place across various stunning venues in the cool, serene highlands of Ubud. The main hub for the festival is Taman Baca (Reading Park) on Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Ubud.

Additional locations include the Puri Lukisan Museum, along with select hotels and restaurants throughout the Ubud area.

UWRF 2024 Tickets

Among the many events at UWRF 2024, some require tickets, while others are free to attend but still require registration.

A 4-day festival pass is priced between IDR 500,000 and IDR 5,990,000, while daily passes range from IDR 160,000 to IDR 1,800,000. These tickets allow unlimited access to the main events scheduled for the day.

In addition to the main event passes, there are special tickets for unique events, with prices varying depending on the activity. For instance, a Birdwatching Tour with Darryl Jones costs IDR 515,700, while several workshops range from hundreds of thousands to millions of rupiah. For full details, head to the official UWRF 2024 website!

Must-Visit Tourist Spots in and Around Ubud

A trip to Ubud wouldn’t be complete without exploring its stunning tourist attractions. Famous for its cool, scenic highlands, Ubud is an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Start your day with a walk through the iconic Tegallalang Rice Terraces or a peaceful morning stroll along the Campuhan Ridge. Don’t forget to stop by the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary to greet the playful monkeys, or venture to one of the area’s many breathtaking waterfalls.

Beyond its natural beauty, Ubud is also deeply rooted in Balinese culture and traditions. Dive into the island’s rich heritage with visits to cultural landmarks like Puri Saren Agung (Ubud Palace), Pura Taman Saraswati, and the various museums scattered throughout the area.

If you’re lucky, you might even catch a traditional Balinese dance performance at Balerung Peliatan.

Best of all, many of Ubud’s attractions are free or accept small donations, allowing you to enjoy a budget-friendly adventure without sacrificing the experience.

Need a Ride in Bali? TRAC Car Rental is Your Best Bet!

Exploring Ubud is a breeze with a TRAC car rental. You can move from one destination to another with ease, without worrying about the heat or rain.

There are 2 types of TRAC car rental services to choose from, namely car rental with a driver, as well as Bali self-drive car rental which is of course suitable for those of you who like adventure.

The car fleet is also available in many choices, friend. You can choose according to your needs ranging from brand, type, type, to the amount of capacity.

Booking your vehicle is quick and simple. You can easily reserve your car directly through the TRACtoGo app or the official TRAC website. Download the TRACtoGo app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

And throughout 2024, TRAC has a special promotion for travelers looking to explore Indonesia. Use the voucher code “DiIndonesiaAja” when booking a car rental through the TRACtoGo app and enjoy an exclusive discount of IDR 100,000! Click the banner below.

Stay updated on the latest deals and travel tips by following TRAC on Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook TRAC-Astra Rent a Car, and Twitter @TRACastra. Don’t miss out on great savings and exciting travel inspiration!

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!