One of our favourite spots in Bali is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, just outside of Ubud. If you have seen Bali on social media through Instagram or TikTok, you’ve probably seen photos and videos of this incredible place.
These terraced fields wind along the valley, surrounded by towering coconut palm trees and verdant foliage, making them an impressive sight.
Whether hiking or simply strolling, the rice paddies offer something for every traveller looking to explore Balinese heritage and experience its natural wonders.
There are breathtaking views and the Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers easy accessibility for everyone. (Yes, you can spell it Tegallalang Rice Terrace or Tegalalang Rice Terrace as the transliteration into English characters isn’t particularly precise).
Overview Of The Tegallalang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a magnificent destination that has stunning vistas and a glimpse into traditional Balinese culture.
The terrace has three main levels connected by stepped pathways, which creates an impressive visual effect as you look down across the different tiers of rice paddies and lush green foliage below.
The indigenous Subak irrigation system is still used today by local farmers who harvest their crops.
Visitors can trek through the rice fields, make offerings at local temples, and enjoy locally grown produce at nearby restaurants.
History And Origin
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over 2,000 years ago as part of an intricate irrigation system, the tiered levels maximise water usage and nutrient distribution, spanning hundreds of acres along two major river valleys.
Visitors can explore the fields, appreciating the manual labour that went into creating such a large network.
One of the most impressive things about the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is that the Subak system shows how easy it is for mankind to work rice fields in absolute harmony with the natural environment.
Where Is The Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is located near Ubud, with a picturesque location overlooking the Ayung River valley.
This stunning landscape features intricate irrigation systems, rice paddies, and lush greenery. We recommend trying to arrive around sunrise, making early morning the best time to visit to avoid crowds.
Best Time To Visit
Visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali is a must-see for every traveller.
This majestic, terraced landscape in Ubud and lush green paddies is set against a backdrop of soaring mountains, and this stunning area is a great place to visit while you’re in Bali.
But when’s the best time to do it? We’d recommend arriving just before harvest in the wet season. That’s when the green landscape of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is at its best.
You might also want to visit the rice fields in the early morning or evening when the light rays turn golden and make the rice terraces and the stone footpaths among them, ever more attractive.
What’s The Entrance Fee To The Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
The entrance fee to Tegalalang Rice Terrace is reasonable (15,000 IDR), which is about 1 USD or $1.50 AUD which is very reasonable.
We’d also recommend making a small donation to any farmer whose land you walk on.
For picturesque shots with fewer crowds, visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Sunset offers vibrant colours that pop and fill up every corner of the area, making them look even more beautiful.
It takes around 30 minutes by car to get there from North Ubud, so plan accordingly.
Explore all five levels of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace and try some local food vendors, like banana fritters and martabak manis.
These tips will help make your trip to Tegalalang Rice Terraces even better, whether avoiding crowds or savouring traditional Balinese snacks!
Things To Do At The Rice Terraces
Tegallalang Rice Terrace visitors can explore the terraces’ grandeur by walking through the rice terrace and hiking trails to take in breathtaking views of lush green rice paddies.
Higher points on the terrace offer even more spectacular vistas and local farmers sell souvenirs made from their harvested crops.
Shopping here supports local artisans and businesses and is an exciting experience.
For the adventurous, hiking trails in the rice terraces range from easy walks to challenging treks and offer glimpses of exotic wildlife like monkeys and birds.
There are also some jungle swings in the area, these are the famous (and somewhat ridiculous) swings that Instagrammers love because they provide an exciting shot of them above the jungle.
To find the swings, just look for the Love Bali Sign. You can’t go wrong.
There are many swings available, not just one swing, so if you think it might be worth visiting the swings, you won’t have to wait long for your turn.
Accommodation Near The Terraces
Since Tegallalang Rice Terrace is so close to Ubud, there are plenty of options for accommodations, ranging from luxurious to basic.
You don’t need to stay in the rice terraces to get the most out of a visit to the area.
Offers various accommodation options catering to all travellers.
Luxury seekers can choose from nearby 5-star resorts with all the amenities they could ever want, including an infinity pool overlooking jungle views and fine dining restaurants.
For budget-conscious travellers, there are hotels ranging from 3-star establishments to simple guesthouses and backpacker dormitory-style bunk beds.
Nature lovers can enjoy camping sites with breathtaking views of Mount Batur and Lake Bratan.
Our reservations team at Bali Res Centre can help you find and book the perfect spot for your preferences and budget.
Safety Tips
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is easy to access and explore for visitors of all ages and abilities.
However, there are a few risks that everyone should be mindful of when visiting.
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on uneven surfaces, and sunscreen and insect repellent are advised for protection.
Bringing plenty of water to stay hydrated is also important, especially during hot days.
Stay along the paths, and do not attempt to walk into or step on where the rice is planted. Not only is the footing extremely wet and malleable, but you will also be destroying the rice plants that have been so expertly placed by the farmers.
Weather Considerations
When planning a visit to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, travellers should consider the weather.
The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from May to September when temperatures are comfortable, and rainfall is minimal, however, the rice fields are not as impressive at this time of year.
The wet season runs from October through April and brings more rain, requiring visitors to bring waterproof gear and shoes with good treads.
The rice fields are more attractive though, in this season, as they are greener and more filled out.
Humidity levels remain high throughout this period, so dressing comfortably in light layers is important.
Transportation Options
To get to the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, travellers have several transportation options available.
One of the most popular options is taking a taxi from Ubud, which typically costs around IDR 75,000 (USD 5) and takes approximately 30 minutes.
Another option is renting a motorbike, which is widely available in Ubud and starts at around IDR 50,000 per day (USD 3).
For those who prefer not to drive, tour buses and minibus services are available for around IDR 90,000 (USD 6) and offer comfortable seating and air conditioning.Â
For group tours or to organise a private car and driver, our team at Bali Res Centre can help. Your tour can be part of a day trip to Ubud or a longer multi-day tour of Bali’s best cultural attractions.
Photo Opportunities
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces is one of Bali’s most photographed and social media-shared sites.
Photographers of all skill levels come here to capture the perfect shot of Bali’s natural beauty.
Whether you prefer a bird’s eye view from Jalan Raya Tegallalang or intricate pathways leading down into the valley, the lush greenery provides a stunning backdrop.
For unique shots, consider visiting sunrise or sunset when sunlight casts beautiful golden hues across the landscape or during misty mornings when muted tones offer a peaceful atmosphere.
Popular Sights Nearby
Visiting the Tegallalang Rice Terrace in Bali is a must, but many other popular attractions are nearby.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is home to over 600 macaques and ancient temples, while the Elephant Cave Temple is known for its iconic entrance doorway featuring elephant carvings.
Tirta Empul Temple dates back to 960 AD and offers a unique experience with its sacred pools where devotees come to purify themselves through ritual cleansing baths.
These attractions provide culture and adventure for travellers exploring more than just the rice terrace alone.
Book Your Tour Of Tegallang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a unique and unmissable experience when visiting Bali.
It offers an opportunity to explore local culture and appreciate Bali’s natural beauty and the traditional work and skills of the rice farmers.
Book a tour, or explore on your own, and our team at Bali Res Centre can help with transportation and accommodations.
Whether planning a day trip or a longer stay, make sure the majestic Tegallalang Rice Terrace is part of your itinerary – it’ll be an adventure you won’t forget!
Final Thoughts On The Tegalalang Rice Terrace
There’s no doubt in our minds that if you want to see rice terraces here in Bali, then Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a great choice.
It can get quite crowded as it’s right outside of Ubud, but that’s also part of the appeal as you don’t have to travel very far (as you do for Jatiluwih Rice Terraces).
Of course, once you’ve explored the green heart of Bali, we hope that you’ll head down to Canggu Beach to enjoy a party on the coast at FINNS Beach Club before you head home.
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