The hype
Guests are blown away by the jungle views and staff kindness, often calling it a 'honeymoon paradise' for the price.
The Sankara Suites and Vilas by Pramana
$90-160/ night
Book this if You want a private pool villa experience in the jungle without paying Four Seasons prices.
Why People Love It
- Stunning infinity pool overlooking the lush river valley
- Spacious rooms with handcrafted Balinese wood interiors
- Genuine peace and quiet away from Ubud's traffic-choked center
Quick Take: A beautiful jungle hideaway that struggles with humidity and is just far enough from town to make the shuttle schedule your new religion.
Reviewed by @juliathetraveler: I felt completely hidden away in this villa. Waking up to the sounds of the jungle and having my own private pool was the ultimate reset. The stone bathtub was a highlight, even if it took a while to fill. If you need a romantic escape in Ubud, this is it.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The open-plan bathrooms look great on Instagram but result in damp sheets and privacy issues for non-couples.
- You are on a honeymoon or romantic getaway
- You prioritize a private pool over being in the city center
- You love the sound of a river and jungle insects at night
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.2
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable, but they struggle to battle the jungle humidity.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean surfaces, but grout can be discolored and the open design traps moisture/smells.
- Maintenance: Generally good, though some guests report peeling paint or flickering lights.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, but can feel slightly damp to the touch due to the environment.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of lemongrass; rooms can smell musty if not aired out.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Geckos and jungle insects (loud at night)
- Motorbikes on Jalan Sri Wedari (front rooms only)
- Roosters in the early morning
Before you book
Good to know
- The free shuttle to Ubud center runs every 2 hours; plan your day around it.
- Grab and Gojek ride-hailing apps work here but can be slow to arrive during peak traffic.
- Breakfast is a la carte, not a massive buffet, which some guests find limiting.
What to pack
- Moisture absorbers or silica gel packets for your electronics (it is humid)
- Strong bug spray (you are in the jungle)
- Earplugs if you are sensitive to roosters or geckos
Room Genie
Best picks
- River Pool Villa (maximum privacy, soothing water sounds)
- Valley Suite (upper floors for better views and breeze)
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the lobby/road (traffic noise)
- Ground floor suites (prone to dampness and less privacy)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room on an upper floor facing the valley to minimize humidity and road noise. Please ensure the dehumidifier is functional upon arrival.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it walkable to Ubud center?
No. It is a 10-15 minute drive. Walking is possible but the road is narrow, dark at night, and lacks sidewalks.
Do the rooms have private pools?
Only the 'Pool Villa' categories. The Valley Suites have balconies with bathtubs but no swimming pool.
Is breakfast included?
Usually yes, but it is an a la carte menu (American, Indonesian, Healthy options) rather than a buffet.
Is it suitable for families?
It allows children, but the vibe is heavily skewed towards couples. The open bathrooms and steep drops make it less ideal for toddlers.
How is the internet?
Free Wi-Fi is available and generally decent for streaming, but can be spotty during storms.
Are there bugs?
Yes. You are in a tropical valley. Expect geckos on the walls, ants if you leave food out, and mosquitoes.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the 'Floating Breakfast' in advance; it's cheaper for in-house guests (~$47) than booking it separately.
- ✨
The 'Afternoon Tea' is often included for free—don't miss the Balinese cakes served at the restaurant.
- ✨
Ask for a room with a functioning dehumidifier immediately if you smell dampness.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom sinks often splash water onto the floor due to poor faucet positioning.
💡The 'gym' is tiny—just a treadmill, bike, and some weights in a small room.
💡You might wake up to a monkey on your balcony (keep doors locked).
💡The lighting in the rooms is very dim/moody, making it hard to apply makeup or read at night.
💡Ride-share drivers sometimes confuse this hotel with the 'Sankara Resort & Spa' nearby—double-check the map pin.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Sankara Suites and Vilas by Pramana is located and what's nearby.