A Secluded Escape: My Stay at Nandini Jungle in Ubud
No trip to Bali feels complete without a visit to Ubud. Famous for its vibrant green landscapes and incredible selection of resorts and private villas, it’s a place I can’t recommend enough for anyone who loves a luxurious staycation or wants to be enveloped by nature. For this trip, I spent two nights at Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens, a resort with ties to the legendary Hanging Gardens of Bali. In this post, I’ll walk you through my experience, focusing on a detailed tour of our room.
An Introduction to Nandini Jungle by Hanging Gardens
Located a 30 to 40-minute drive from the hustle of Ubud town, Nandini Jungle offers a secluded and peaceful retreat. The first thing that greeted us was a dramatic bamboo tunnel at the entrance. It instantly set a magical tone, making us feel as though we were entering a hidden sanctuary. It’s also a photographer’s dream and a beautiful spot for a photo op.
The Check-In Process
Once through the bamboo grove, we found the check-in desk. The setup was unconventional, just a simple desk and chairs set along a pathway. At first, it seemed a bit strange, but it didn’t take long to appreciate its rustic, open-air charm, which felt right at home in Ubud. The staff offered a warm welcome and a cool drink, a much-appreciated gesture as we completed the formalities.
The Resort Grounds and Villa Exterior
With only 18 villas and 16 suites, Nandini Jungle feels exclusive and peaceful. We had booked the Villa Suite Jacuzzi Corner, located conveniently close to the lobby. Just steps from our door, we were met with dense jungle foliage and views over rice paddies, instantly connecting us to the soul of Ubud.
The villa’s exterior was unlike any other place I’ve stayed. Traditional Balinese sculptures dotted the property, while the red brick walls were covered in a fine layer of moss, giving it the feel of ancient ruins from a fantasy world. And while most hotels have moved to key cards, I love that many high-end Balinese resorts stick with classic analog keys, a small detail that adds to the charm.
Inside the Villa Suite Jacuzzi Corner
At 120 square meters, the Villa Suite Jacuzzi Corner is generously sized, giving us an abundance of space. The open-plan room centers around the bed, which faces out toward a wraparound balcony with sweeping panoramic views. The air conditioning was powerful, keeping the space cool and refreshingly free of any jungle humidity.
Bathroom and Wardrobe
True to the suite’s scale, the bathroom was massive. The highlights were a large soaking tub and a remarkable shower. In a humid climate like Bali’s, you’ll find yourself showering often, and this one was special. Part of the ceiling was open, letting in natural light and air, which gave the feeling of showering outdoors. It was a thoughtful design touch that truly elevated the experience.
We had everything we needed, with a full range of toiletries and plenty of complimentary water. The staff had also lit an oil burner before our arrival, filling the large space with a gentle, calming fragrance.
The bathroom also integrated a large wardrobe and storage area for luggage. This was practical, making it easy to get ready and organize our things in one convenient space.
The Private Panoramic Balcony
The defining feature of our suite was the expansive balcony that wrapped around the living space. Outfitted with a comfortable sofa and tables, it became our favorite spot to relax and watch the light change over the jungle throughout the day. The space was well-maintained, clean, and we were never bothered by insects.
The balcony was also set up for private spa treatments. Having a massage with the natural sounds of the jungle as our soundtrack was a deeply restorative experience. You can enjoy the jacuzzi on its own or treat yourself to a flower bath after a massage for an extra touch of indulgence.
[Visit the Nandini Jungle Official Website]
The Complete Nandini Jungle Experience
During our stay, the general operating hours were as follows: breakfast from 7:00 to 10:30 AM, the pool from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, afternoon tea from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, yoga from 5:30 to 6:15 PM, and the restaurant from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Just keep in mind that these times can sometimes change.
This was the view on our walk from the suite to the restaurant. The paths weave through lush landscaping and past traditional stone carvings, reinforcing the authentic atmosphere. It’s details like these that show how meticulously the resort is maintained.
Breakfast
Breakfast here is an à la carte affair rather than a buffet. To this day, I think it was the most memorable breakfast I had in Bali. The meal starts with a wide assortment of items brought to the table, followed by the main dishes you order. The amount of food was generous and every single item was delicious. I’ll dedicate a future post to the restaurant, but suffice to say, you can set your expectations high for breakfast.
The Pool
Though not overly large, the pool at Nandini Jungle is perfectly designed for its setting, making you feel one with the surrounding jungle. Alongside the standard sun loungers, there are plush cabanas available at no extra cost, offering a more private and comfortable way to enjoy the water and the view.
Final Thoughts
This post has focused mainly on our room at Nandini Jungle in Ubud. I’ve also published three other articles about my stay that cover other aspects of the resort, so if you’re planning a visit, I recommend checking those out for a more complete picture. I hope you find them helpful!
