The hype
Guests describe it as a 'spiritual recharge' with impeccable staff (Personal Assistants) and food that tastes indulgent but is actually healthy.
Como Shambhala Estate - Chse Certified
$650-900+/ night
Book this if You want a serious, life-altering wellness reset in a jungle cathedral where the 'gym' is a rock climbing wall and the 'minibar' is stocked with raw nuts.
Why People Love It
- The 'Ojas' wellness center (freshly renovated in late 2025) is arguably the best in Southeast Asia
- Stunning residence-style layout means you share huge infinity pools with only 3-4 other suites
- The sacred spring water pools down by the river are magical—if you can handle the hike
Quick Take: This is a serious health retreat, not a party hotel; expect wheatgrass shots, steep stairs, and silence after 9pm.
Reviewed by @ginagoesto: I stayed here for a wellness reset and it blew my mind. The way the infinity pool hangs over the jungle is surreal. It's not just a hotel; it feels like a spiritual sanctuary. If you need to unplug, this is the place.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The rafting noise from the river kills the zen for some, and the sheer number of stairs wears people out.
- You are serious about yoga, Pilates, or Ayurveda
- You prefer the privacy of a villa/residence over a traditional hotel block
- You want healthy food that doesn't taste like cardboard
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Meticulous. Turndown service includes mosquito netting setup. Staff are ninjas—unseen but effective.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless, though open-air designs mean you might find a stray leaf or gecko.
- Maintenance: Excellent, especially post-2025 renovation. Wood and stone are well-kept despite the humidity.
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp, and frequently changed due to humidity.
- Odors & scents: Smells like lemongrass, ginger, and damp jungle earth (in a good way).
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Roosters crowing early in the morning
- Rafters screaming on the river during the day
- Jungle insects (cicadas/crickets) at night
Before you book
Good to know
- Renovations to the Ojas Wellness Centre and Wanakasa/Bayugita residences were completed in late 2025.
- Breakfast is a la carte at Kudus House, not a buffet—expect high-quality, made-to-order dishes.
- You will be assigned a Personal Assistant (PA) who manages your schedule; use them to book classes early.
What to pack
- High-strength mosquito repellent (DEET free if you prefer, but bring it)
- Proper hiking shoes or grip-sole sandals for the wet stone steps
- Yoga clothes—you will live in them
Room Genie
Best picks
- Bayugita Residence ('Windsong') for quieter rice field views and a stunning infinity pool
- Wanakasa Residence ('Forest in the Mist') for a treehouse vibe built around a banyan tree (renovated late 2025)
Rooms to avoid
- Tejasuara Residence if you are sensitive to noise; it's dramatic but carries sound from the river canyon
- Terrace Suites if you want total privacy (you share the pool/living area)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking for a quiet suite, preferably in the Bayugita Residence to avoid the river rafting noise. If possible, I'd love a room with easy access to the main pool to minimize the stair climbing.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is it adults only?
Not strictly, but children under 16 cannot stay in shared residence suites; they must be in a private villa or a booked-out residence.
How bad are the stairs?
Intense. There are hundreds of steps just to get around, and over 2,000 steps for the full river trek. Buggies are available but can't go everywhere.
Is the food only vegan?
No. 'Glow' serves healthy/raw food, but 'Kudus House' serves rich Indonesian curries and meat dishes. Alcohol is available.
Can I walk to Ubud?
No, it's a 15-20 minute drive. The hotel offers a shuttle, but you are isolated in the jungle.
Is there a gym?
Yes, a state-of-the-art indoor gym plus a 'jungle gym' with a rock climbing wall.
What is the 'Spring Pool'?
Natural, sacred water pools down by the river. It's a steep hike down but the highlight of the property.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the 'Water Spring Blessing' early; it's a genuine ritual with a local priest at the source, not just a show.
- ✨
The 'Ginger Tea' served at the spa is legendary—ask for the recipe.
- ✨
If you stay in a Residence, you can order dinner to the shared living pavilion for a private dining feel without the villa price tag.
5 things to know before you go
💡The rafting boats below can be loud—you might hear 'YEE-HAW' while meditating.
💡The monkeys are real and they will steal your fruit bowl if you leave doors open.
💡The 'single' rooms in residences are actually great for solo travelers wanting a social but private vibe.
💡You can get a workout just walking to breakfast.
💡The humidity in the valley is higher than in Ubud town; clothes take forever to dry.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Como Shambhala Estate - Chse Certified is located and what's nearby.