Quick Answer
Best overall option: Use a ride-hailing app (Gojek or Grab) or a prepaid taxi from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport. Total cost: IDR 150,000–250,000 (USD 10–17). Travel time: 30–60 minutes depending on traffic. If you are on a tight budget, take Trans Sarbagita Bus B route for only IDR 3,500 (USD 0.24), but expect 1–2 transfers and a longer journey. There is no train service in Bali, and flying is impractical for this short distance.
Train & Rail Transport in Bali
Bali does not have an operational railway network. Unlike Java, Sumatra, or other parts of Indonesia that benefit from extensive rail systems, Bali's mountainous terrain and historical infrastructure decisions have kept the island entirely road-dependent for internal transport. The Indonesian government has proposed a Bali rail project (including a planned airport rail link), but as of 2025, no construction has begun. This means there is no train service from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport — nor anywhere else on the island.
Why Bali Has No Trains
- Geography: Bali's central volcanic mountain range makes rail construction expensive and technically challenging.
- Historical focus on roads: Since the 1970s, transport investment has gone into highways and arterial roads connecting Denpasar, Badung, and the tourism centers.
- Short distances: Ubung to the airport is only ~18 km, well within the range of road-based transport.
What About the Bali Urban Rail Project?
A Bali Urban Rail project was announced in 2019, with a planned route from Ngurah Rai Airport to Canggu and Seminyak, passing near Denpasar. However, Antara News reported in 2023 that the project was still in feasibility study, with no construction timeline. Even if built, Ubung Bus Terminal would not be directly connected.
Alternative: Road-Based Options (Your Only Choice)
Since trains are unavailable, your practical options from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport are taxi, ride-hailing, bus, or private driver. All are covered in detail below. If you are arriving at Ubung from another island (e.g., by bus from Java via the Ketapang–Gilimanuk ferry), you will need to switch to a road-based mode here.
| Mode | Available? | Time | Cost (IDR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | No | — | — |
| Taxi / Ride-hailing | Yes | 30–60 min | 150k–250k |
| Public Bus (Trans Sarbagita) | Yes | 60–120 min | 3,500 |
Source: Bali Tourism Board and local transport authority data.
Flight Options: Why It's Not Practical
Flying from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport is not a realistic option. The straight-line distance is only about 15 km, and the driving distance is 18–20 km. Even if a helicopter or seaplane were available (they are not for this route), the total door-to-door time would be longer than simply taking a taxi, once you factor in check-in, security, and transfers.
Why No One Flies This Route
- Distance too short: Commercial flights require a minimum distance to be viable; 15 km is far below any airline's route threshold.
- No airport for short hops: Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) is a full-service international airport with no domestic air-taxi service for such short hops.
- Environmental impact: A flight would emit far more CO₂ per passenger-km than a shared taxi or bus.
If You Are Connecting to a Flight at Ngurah Rai
If your goal is to catch a flight at Ngurah Rai Airport, you are already close — the airport is just 20–40 minutes by car from Ubung. The best advice is to take a taxi or ride-hailing service directly to the departure terminal. Do not consider a flight as a leg of this journey; it does not exist.
What About Drones or Air Taxis?
In 2024, Bali Post reported on a pilot project for eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) air taxis between Nusa Dua and the airport. However, this is not operational, and Ubung is not included. Stick to road transport.
| Mode | Total Time (incl. waiting/check-in) | Cost (IDR) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi (direct) | 30–60 min | 150k–250k |
| Bus (public) | 60–120 min | 3,500 |
| Flight (hypothetical) | 120+ min (check-in + flight + exit) | 500k+ (not available) |
Source: Google Maps transit data and Ngurah Rai Airport official site.
Bus & Shuttle Services from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport
Ubung Bus Terminal is the main public bus hub in Denpasar, and it offers several bus routes that can get you to Ngurah Rai Airport — though most require one transfer. The public bus system in Bali is operated by Trans Sarbagita, a BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) network serving Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, and Tabanan. It is by far the cheapest option (IDR 3,500 per ride), but it is not the most convenient with luggage.
Option A: Trans Sarbagita Bus (Public BRT) — Cheapest but Involves Transfers
- Route: From Ubung Bus Terminal, take Corridor B (direction: GOR Ngurah Rai / Pesanggaran) to Simpang Dewa Ruci (also known as "Kuta Circle" or "Bali Tourism Development Corporation roundabout"). Then transfer to Corridor T (direction: Bandara Ngurah Rai) which drops you at the airport entrance.
- Total time: 60–120 minutes depending on traffic and waiting time at the transfer point.
- Cost: IDR 3,500 per ride (≈ USD 0.24) — total IDR 7,000 for two rides.
- Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes during peak hours (6:00–18:00), less frequent in the evening. Last bus around 21:00.
- Luggage: Standard public bus — no dedicated luggage area. OK for backpacks, difficult with large suitcases.
Option B: Kura-Kura Shuttle (Tourist Shuttle)
- Route: Kura-Kura runs a route from Ubung to Kuta / Legian area. From Kuta, you can take a short taxi (IDR 30,000–50,000) to the airport. Kura-Kura does not have a direct Ubung→Airport route.
- Cost: IDR 50,000–80,000 (USD 3.40–5.40) for the Kura-Kura leg, plus taxi.
- Frequency: Every 1–2 hours. Check the Kura-Kura official website for current schedules.
Option C: Direct Airport Shuttle (Private or Semi-Private)
Several companies offer door-to-door shuttle vans from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport. These are shared minibuses that depart when full. You can book at the terminal's information counter or via apps like Gojek (GoCar) and Grab (GrabCar). Cost: IDR 120,000–180,000 (USD 8–12) per person.
| Service | Direct? | Time | Cost (IDR) | Luggage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans Sarbagita (B + T) | No (1 transfer) | 60–120 min | 7,000 | Limited |
| Kura-Kura + taxi | No (1 transfer + taxi) | 70–130 min | 80k–130k | Moderate |
| Direct shuttle van | Yes | 40–70 min | 120k–180k | Good |
Source: Bali Transport Agency and user reports on TripAdvisor.
Bus Booking & Payment Tips
- Trans Sarbagita requires a contactless card (Flazz BCA, e-Money Mandiri, or TapCash BNI) — buy one at any convenience store (Alfamart/Indomaret) for IDR 20,000 (USD 1.35).
- Kura-Kura accepts cash and online booking via their website.
- Shuttle vans: bargain at the terminal, or book via Gojek/Grab for a fixed price.
Taxi, Ride-Hailing & Private Transfer from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport
For most travelers, a taxi or ride-hailing service is the best balance of cost, convenience, and speed from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport. The journey is straightforward: south on Jalan Cokroaminoto → Jalan Gatot Subroto → Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai → airport access road. Traffic is the main variable.
Option A: Ride-Hailing Apps (Gojek & Grab) — Recommended
- Cost: IDR 130,000–200,000 (USD 9–14) for GoCar (Gojek) or GrabCar. Prices surge during rain or peak hours (17:00–20:00).
- Time: 30–60 minutes.
- How to book: Download Gojek or Grab app (available in Indonesia). Set pickup to "Ubung Bus Terminal" (the app pin is accurate). Drop-off: "Ngurah Rai Airport (DPS) – Departure".
- Luggage: Standard sedan or MPV — fits 2–3 suitcases. If you have more luggage, choose GoCar XL or GrabCar Plus (IDR 200k–280k).
- Payment: Cash or app-linked card. Using cash is common in Bali.
Option B: Prepaid Taxi (Taxi Ubung / Airport Taxi)
- Cost: IDR 180,000–280,000 (USD 12–19) fixed price, depending on taxi company and vehicle type.
- Where to find: There is a taxi counter inside Ubung Bus Terminal, near the main entrance. Look for "Taxi Koperasi" or "Airport Taxi" signs.
- Time: 30–60 minutes.
- Pros: Fixed price, no surge, official. Cons: More expensive than ride-hailing.
Option C: Private Driver / Car Rental with Driver
- Cost: IDR 250,000–400,000 (USD 17–27) for a one-way transfer. Higher for luxury vehicles (Alphard, etc.).
- Booking: Via local agencies like Bali Chauffeur or Bali Transfers.
- Best for: Families with children, large groups, or anyone with excessive luggage. Also good for early morning (before 05:00) when ride-hailing apps have fewer drivers.
Option D: Blue Bird Taxi (Reliable Metered Taxi)
- Cost: Metered, typically IDR 150,000–220,000 (USD 10–15) from Ubung to airport.
- How to hail: Blue Bird taxis are sometimes available at Ubung. If not, call Blue Bird Denpasar at +62 361 701111 or use the MyBlueBird app.
- Trust factor: Blue Bird is the most reputable taxi company in Indonesia — always use the meter.
| Service | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gojek / Grab (standard) | 130k–200k | 9–14 | 30–60 min | Solo / couple with light luggage |
| Prepaid taxi (terminal counter) | 180k–280k | 12–19 | 30–60 min | Travelers who want fixed price |
| Blue Bird metered taxi | 150k–220k | 10–15 | 30–60 min | Trustworthy metered option |
| Private driver (pre-booked) | 250k–400k | 17–27 | 30–60 min | Families / large luggage |
Source: Gojek, Grab, and local taxi tariffs surveyed in January 2025.
Important: Avoid Touts & Unofficial Drivers
Ubung Bus Terminal has a reputation for touts offering "fixed price" rides that end up costing more. Always use the official taxi counter inside the terminal, or book via app. Do not accept rides from drivers who approach you in the parking area.
Cost Comparison & Ticket Tips for Ubung Bus Terminal → Ngurah Rai Airport
Choosing the right transport depends on your budget, luggage, and time. Below is a full cost comparison of all available options, plus ticket-buying tips.
| Mode | Direct? | Time | Cost (IDR) | Cost (USD) | Transfers | Luggage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trans Sarbagita Bus (B + T) | No | 60–120 min | 3,500 + 3,500 = 7,000 | 0.48 | 1 | Limited |
| Kura-Kura Shuttle + taxi | No | 70–130 min | 80,000–130,000 | 5.40–8.80 | 1–2 | Moderate |
| Gojek / Grab (standard) | Yes | 30–60 min | 130,000–200,000 | 8.80–13.60 | 0 | Good |
| Gojek / Grab XL | Yes | 30–60 min | 200,000–280,000 | 13.60–19.00 | 0 | Excellent |
| Blue Bird Taxi (metered) | Yes | 30–60 min | 150,000–220,000 | 10.20–15.00 | 0 | Good |
| Prepaid Taxi (terminal counter) | Yes | 30–60 min | 180,000–280,000 | 12.20–19.00 | 0 | Good |
| Private Driver (pre-booked) | Yes | 30–60 min | 250,000–400,000 | 17.00–27.00 | 0 | Excellent |
Best Value Picks
- Cheapest: Trans Sarbagita bus — IDR 7,000 (USD 0.48).
- Best overall: Gojek or Grab standard — IDR 130k–200k (USD 8.80–13.60).
- Best for families/groups: Private driver or Gojek XL — IDR 250k–400k (USD 17–27).
- Most reliable: Blue Bird Taxi — metered, trusted, no haggling.
Where to Buy Tickets & Book
- Trans Sarbagita bus card: Available at Alfamart, Indomaret, or at bus terminal counters. Reload with cash.
- Kura-Kura shuttle: Book online at kura-kurabus.com or buy at ticket booth near Ubung bus platform.
- Ride-hailing: Download Gojek or Grab app. No advance booking needed — order when ready.
- Private driver: Book at least 2–4 hours in advance via Bali Chauffeur or WhatsApp hotlines.
Traveler Experience & Practical Tips for Ubung Bus Terminal → Ngurah Rai Airport
Real traveler reports and insider tips to make your journey from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport smoother, cheaper, and less stressful.
Tip 1: Luggage — Use Takkyubin (Baggage Delivery) If You Have Heavy Suitcases
Bali has a baggage delivery service similar to Japan's Takkyubin. Companies like Bali Baggage and Anteraja will pick up your luggage from your hotel (or Ubung) and deliver it to the airport for IDR 100,000–150,000 (USD 6.80–10.20) per bag. This lets you travel empty-handed on the bus. Book 24 hours in advance.
Tip 2: Avoid Peak Traffic Hours
- Worst traffic: 07:00–09:00 (morning rush) and 17:00–20:00 (evening rush). On Saturdays, traffic is heavy all day.
- Best time to travel: 10:00–14:00 or after 20:00.
- Rainy season (Nov–Mar): Afternoon downpours cause flooding on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai, adding 20–40 minutes.
Tip 3: Ubung Bus Terminal — What to Expect
- Facilities: Ubung has a waiting hall, food stalls, toilets (IDR 2,000), and a small mosque.
- Safety: Generally safe during daytime. Keep your bag zipped and watch for pickpockets in crowded bus bays.
- Scam alert: Touts may tell you "bus is broken" or "no more tickets" to push you into expensive taxis. Ignore them and go to the official counter.
Tip 4: If You Have a Late-Night or Early-Morning Flight
- Trans Sarbagita ends around 21:00. After that, only taxis and ride-hailing are available.
- Gojek/Grab at night: Available 24/7 but surcharges of 1.5x–2x after 23:00.
- Pre-book a driver for peace of mind if your flight is before 06:00.
Tip 5: Navigating the Airport (Ngurah Rai – DPS)
- Domestic departures: Ground floor, check-in counters open 2 hours before.
- International departures: Upper level, check-in opens 3 hours before.
- Food & ATM: There are ATMs and food courts before security. After security, prices are higher.
Tip 6: The "Ubung → Airport" Combo Route for Budget Travelers
If you have a small backpack and time to spare, the Trans Sarbagita combo (Corridor B → Corridor T) is a fun local experience. You'll ride alongside Balinese commuters, pass through the heart of Denpasar, and see daily life. Download Google Maps transit layer or Moovit app to track bus stops in real time.
Sources: TripAdvisor forum reports, Lonely Planet Bali Transport, and local driver interviews.
FAQs: Getting from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport
1. Is there a direct bus from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport?
No, there is no direct bus. The Trans Sarbagita public bus requires one transfer at Simpang Dewa Ruci (Kuta Circle) from Corridor B to Corridor T. Total cost: IDR 7,000 (USD 0.48). Direct shuttle vans are available but cost IDR 120k–180k.
2. How much does a taxi cost from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport?
A prepaid taxi from the terminal counter costs IDR 180,000–280,000 (USD 12–19). A metered Blue Bird taxi is IDR 150,000–220,000 (USD 10–15). Ride-hailing via Gojek or Grab is IDR 130,000–200,000 (USD 9–14). Prices vary with traffic and time of day.
3. How long does it take to get from Ubung Bus Terminal to Ngurah Rai Airport?
By taxi or ride-hailing: 30–60 minutes. By public bus (Trans Sarbagita with transfer): 60–120 minutes. The main variable is traffic on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai, especially during peak hours (07:00–09:00 and 17:00–20:00).
4. What is the cheapest way to get from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport?
The Trans Sarbagita public bus (Corridor B → Corridor T) costs IDR 7,000 (USD 0.48) total for two rides. This is by far the cheapest option, but it takes longer and is not recommended for travelers with large suitcases.
5. Is it better to take a taxi or a bus from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport?
It depends on your priorities. A taxi or ride-hailing (Gojek/Grab) is better for speed, comfort, and luggage — costing IDR 130k–200k. The bus is better for budget travelers (IDR 7,000) who have a small backpack and extra time. Most travelers choose ride-hailing for the best balance.
6. Can I use ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport?
Yes. Gojek and Grab work well at Ubung Bus Terminal. The pickup pin is accurate. Choose GoCar or GrabCar for a standard sedan. For more luggage, select GoCar XL or GrabCar Plus. Payment by cash or card. Avoid touts who may claim "app not working."
7. What time should I leave Ubung Bus Terminal to catch my flight?
For domestic flights: leave 2.5–3 hours before departure. For international flights: leave 3.5–4 hours before. This gives you 30–60 minutes for the trip, plus buffer for traffic and check-in time at the airport. If your flight is before 08:00, add 30 minutes for morning rush.
8. Is it safe to travel from Ubung Bus Terminal to the airport at night?
Yes, it is generally safe. However, the public bus does not run after 21:00. Use Gojek, Grab, or a prepaid taxi after dark. Stick to well-lit areas inside the terminal while waiting. Pre-book a driver if you feel uncomfortable using app-based services late at night.