The Literary Traveller: Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025

Imagine your favourite writer speaking to your left. To your right is a lush tropical ravine. A beautiful bird cruises overhead. Sound enticing? Come to Bali in October for the annual Ubud Writers & Readers Festival where words take centre stage in gorgeous natural surroundings.

In 2025, the festival will continue its legacy as one of the prettiest and most thought-provoking literary events in the world. Since its beginnings in 2002, the festival has become a powerful meeting point for authors, poets, thinkers, and readers who believe in the transformative power of storytelling.

With its unique fusion of global voices, Balinese culture, and artistic performances, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting mark on everyone who attends. Let’s dig into the festival’s origins and theme, what to expect, and how you can maximise your literary travel experience!

History and Legacy of Creative Resilience

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival was born out of creative resilience. Following the devasting Bali bombings of 2002, co-founder Janet DeNeefe envisioned a platform where people could heal, connect, and rebuild through literature. What started as a local gathering quickly grew into Southeast Asia’s most celebrated literary event, attracting Nobel laureates, Booker Prize winners, and countless readers from around the world.

Through the lens of literature and creativity, the festival has explored themes rooted in cultural dialogue and global relevance, such as identity, freedom, and the environment. Over the years, the festival has cultivated a reputation for being more than a literary celebration. It is a movement that champions free expression and cross-cultural exchange.

The event’s influence stretches beyond Bali. Writers who have graced the festival’s stage often describe it as transformative, with many returning year after year. As do the loyal readers! For Ubud itself, the festival has brought international recognition, positioning the town as not only a wellness and cultural destination but also a global centre for ideas. Let’s turn now to the festival’s themes.

Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 Theme and Highlights

Every year, the festival unveils a theme inspired by a phrase from a Balinese Hindu philosophy. The 2025 inspirational phrase is Aham Brahmasmi, which translates to I am the Universe. The phrase recognises the unity of the human self with the universe or highest cosmic power, meaning every person has creative potential. But is that potential always good?

In the words of said Janet DeNeefe, Festival Founder and Director: “It poses the question, can wisdom and innovation coexist for the greater good or, can it, in fact, lead us toward an age of imbalance, where technological capabilities outpace our moral and spiritual growth.”

Don’t miss this year’s keynote speech by award-winning Belgian writer and archaeologist David Van Reybrouck. Also in the exciting line-up this year are Pico Iyer, William Dalrymple and Shiori Itō. Expect panel discussions tackling topics such as the impact of AI on governance, the history of colonisation and decolonisation, as well as intimate conversations between authors and readers.

Beyond writers talking, you can attend art exhibitions, poetry slams, film screenings, and live performances that reflect both global creativity and Balinese heritage. For many, these moments of artistic interplay — when literature meets music, dance, or visual art —capture the essence of the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival.

Emerging Authors and Literary Icons

The 2025 programme features both emerging authors and established literary icons. This balance creates a dynamic space where debut novelists share the stage with literary heavyweights, sparking unique dialogues that transcend borders. The festival has historically been a launching pad for new voices, giving writers from underrepresented communities a spotlight on the global stage.

For readers, this means the opportunity to meet favourite authors in person, ask questions during panels, and gain insights into the creative process. The conversations that unfold in Ubud often linger long after the festival ends, encouraging new ways of thinking about literature and its role in the wider world.

Balinese Culture and Artistic Performances

While the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival is international in scope, it is deeply rooted in its Balinese setting. From the moment you step into the festival grounds, you are greeted by traditional gamelan music, offerings of flowers, and a sense of spiritual hospitality unique to Bali. This cultural immersion gives the festival its distinct character, setting it apart from literary events in other parts of the world.

Balinese dance performances often take place during evening events, offering audiences a mesmerising glimpse into centuries-old traditions. Storytelling, a cornerstone of Balinese culture, is woven seamlessly into the festival, with local artists sharing myths and legends alongside international authors presenting modern narratives. The combination creates a dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation.

You can also participate in temple ceremonies, explore artisan markets, or join guided walks through rice terraces, making the festival not only a literary experience but a cultural journey.

Workshops, Masterclasses, and Reader Engagement

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 offers countless opportunities for hands-on engagement. Workshops and masterclasses allow participants to sharpen their skills in fiction, non-fiction, memoir, or poetry. These sessions, led by acclaimed authors, are often intimate and interactive, making them a rare chance to learn directly from the masters of the craft.

For those seeking deeper insights, masterclasses explore not only writing techniques but also the business of publishing, from editing to marketing. Emerging authors, in particular, find these sessions invaluable as they prepare their work for wider audiences.

Book launches, signings, and “meet the author” events bring fans face to face with the voices they admire. The sense of community is palpable, with conversations spilling out into cafés, courtyards, and even late-night gatherings across Ubud. It is in these moments of connection that the festival’s spirit truly shines.

Travel Tips for Attending Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025

Planning a trip to Ubud for the festival requires a little foresight but is well worth the effort. This year the festival takes place from October 29 to November 2. During this time Bali enjoys warm weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season. All events take place outdoors so dress for tropical heat! Loose fitting clothes in light colours and natural fibres like cotton or linen are most comfortable. Bring a fan and a bottle of water.

Booking flights and accommodation early is recommended, as the town fills quickly with international visitors eager to attend the festival. Ubud offers limitless accommodation options, from boutique hotels surrounded by rice paddies to luxury resorts with world-class amenities. Many travellers prefer to stay in central Ubud to be within walking distance of festival venues, cafés, and galleries. Others opt for the tranquillity of villas just outside town, combining festival days with serene evenings in nature.

Getting to Ubud is straightforward, with Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar being the main entry point. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive to Ubud, with taxis, private transfers, and ride-hailing apps available.

Unique Literary Experience

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival 2025 is a unique opportunity to connect with the world through the power of words. It offers a chance to engage with brilliant minds, immerse yourself in Balinese life, and be part of a global community united by creativity. Few festivals manage to so effortlessly combine literature, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you are a devoted reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious about the intersection of culture and storytelling, Ubud in October is the place to be. Begin your preparations now and let this extraordinary festival open new chapters in your journey. Trust us: Ubud doesn’t just host a festival, it creates a story you’ll never forget.

For the official Festival website click here.

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