Major Road Collapse in Central Ubud Disrupts Bali Travelers’ Day Trip Plans
December 19, 2025 – Ubud, Bali
A significant road collapse in the heart of Ubud, one of Bali’s most popular tourist destinations, is causing major disruptions for travelers planning day trips in the area. The incident, attributed to heavy rainfall and flooding, has led to severe traffic congestion and travel delays, impacting thousands of visitors during the busy holiday season.
The Incident and Location
The collapse occurred on Jalan Jaya Ubud, a main artery in Bali’s arts and culture capital, specifically in Banjar Ambengan near the Eiger Adventure store and the Arjuna Statue Intersection. This intersection serves as a key turning point for visitors heading to notable attractions such as the Tegalalang Rice Terraces.
Local eyewitnesses reported that prolonged heavy rains caused water to accumulate beneath the road’s surface, gradually undermining its foundation. While initial damage was minor, continuous vibrations from constant traffic caused cracks to widen until the road finally gave way. In response to the instability and the looming threat of further land subsidence as more rains are forecast, authorities have fully closed the affected section.
Traffic Management and Authorities’ Response
The Regional Secretary of Gianyar Regency, I Gusti Bagus Adi Widya Utama, emphasized that managing traffic flow is now a top priority. “We have coordinated with the Transportation Agency and local Police to carry out traffic simulations. Starting immediately, we will implement flexible traffic patterns, which may include converting one-way lanes to two-way and other measures intended to optimize movement,” he explained.
Due to the central importance of Jalan Raya Ubud and the proximity of the collapse to one of the area’s most congested intersections, travelers should expect significant delays. Local authorities advise tourists and drivers to prepare for detours and longer travel times when visiting key sites like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Goa Gajah, and Tirta Empul Temple.
Meanwhile, public works teams have performed technical assessments and plan to install temporary support stakes to stabilize the road. Officials hope to reopen at least one lane to maintain limited access for residents and visitors as repairs progress.
Broader Impact and Additional Road Closures
This incident is part of a wider pattern of infrastructure challenges caused by the ongoing rainy season, which is expected to last until March or early April. Earlier in December, another major road in Kintamani’s Penelokan area collapsed near popular dining spots. Local government agencies there assured that reconstruction will proceed promptly but warned travelers to anticipate traffic controls until work concludes around the New Year.
The intensity of this year’s rainy season has been particularly severe, with devastating floods reported across Bali and other parts of Indonesia. Visitors are strongly urged to carry comprehensive travel insurance and heed safety advisories provided by local authorities and tourism personnel.
Travel Advisory for Visitors
Tourists planning to explore Bali, especially areas around Ubud, should factor in significant traffic delays and avoid peak travel times if possible. Increased patience and flexibility in transportation plans will be essential during this period. Drivers are expected to follow rerouted traffic schemes, which might involve circuitous routes and extended journey durations.
Authorities vow to expedite repair efforts and improve traffic management to restore normal travel conditions as quickly as possible. For now, safety remains the foremost concern amid the challenging weather and road conditions.
Visitors to Bali are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and official channels for updates about road conditions and infrastructure repairs affecting their travel plans.
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