If you are looking forward to a holiday in Bali, you are on the right page. Different tourists have different types of goals and requirements. If you want to give the city attractions a skip, and head to the greener pastures, then the Tegallalang Rice Terraces is the right one for you. You can head to the green pastures in Ubud that boast of the beautiful rice fields. It is one of the biggest attractions where the farmers follow the Balinese way of irrigation. Tourists keep raving about the terraced pastures there that promise to embalm your soul.
One of the most famous spots, you will be amazed to know that it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. More and more international travellers are heading to the region to enjoy their holidays. The terraced rice fields are located 600 m above sea level in Tegalalang Village. The unique fields are in the north of Ubud. You can also visit the villages, Pejeng and Campuhan, which tourists often ignore. Head there during the off-season to enjoy the calmness and serenity.
Apart from the tiny villages, you can also head to Monkey Forest, Ayung River, Gunung Kawi Sebatu, Livadi Beach, and the Toya Bungkah Hot Spring. If you are looking for activities to engage in, there are quite a few of them. You can engage in conversations with locals and also help them in their tasks. It is also a lucrative and memorable opportunity to explore the entire agricultural process.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces – A Complete Tour Guide For Bali’s Magnificent Rice Terraces!
You can also sit on one of the swings and have a good time, enjoying the motion and green hues around. You can also manage to go up and down the terraces in an hour or two. Furthermore, you should never come back without some Balinese coffee in your backpack.
Which are the best places to visit in and around the place?
- Monkey Forest – You may also hear the name Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary associated with the place. The forest in Padangtegal village houses more than 700 monkeys.
- Ayung River – You can hop on a kayak and spend some time exploring the white waters. As you go up and down with the water currents, you will feel a rush of adrenaline through your veins. While kayaking, you might catch sight of a wild animal on the river banks on the other side, too.
- Livadi Beach – It is one of the second spots where you can try your hands at kayaking. You can also enjoy all the rocks and cliffs that line one part of the coast. The breathtaking views of the sea will mesmerise you till eternity. You can also come face-to-face with some of the marine creatures on this trip.
- Toya Bungkah Hot Spring – It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region. The water has a high concentration of sulphur which leads to its geothermal qualities. You will find the ailing heading there for some remedial treatment.
- Gunung Kawi Sebatu – You can also head to this renowned Hindu Temple, which is just 30 minutes away from Ubud. There are many pools that surround this beautiful architectural masterpiece. Lord Vishnu is one of the reigning deities at this temple and is revered by the natives.
What are the best things to do there?
- Mingle with Locals – While touring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, you should break into an impromptu conversation with the farmers or villagers. It is a great chance for you to learn about the local traditions and culture from the inhabitants directly. You should also get some knowledge of the history of rice cultivation. Do appreciate the hard work of the farmers along the way.
- Watch the Process – You can also sit on a ledge on the terrace and watch the entire agricultural process. The locals practice every step manually, so it is sheer hard work. The process of digging the soil, until the seeds are sown will surely stir up your mind.
- Bali Swings – The moment you step into the terraced field, you will find the ‘Bali Swings’ or planks of wood tied with ropes. Sit on one and take a click, as that is what others do. It is one of the memorable souvenirs that you can keep with you for a long time.
- Hiking on the Elevation– Once you reach the paddy fields, ensure to soak in the views from the top. You can also climb down the terraced fields and find more cool spots for some pictures.
- Taste the Coffee – Around 1.3 km from the paddy fields, there is Bali Pulina plantation. You should have Luwak coffee there. You can simply sip on that hot cup, until you are satisfied.
Are Tegalalang Rice Fields worth visiting?
Your trip to Bali will remain incomplete if you do not visit Tegallalang Rice Terraces. This is one spot that you will find in every tourist’s social media post. The landscape is amazingly beautiful and will calm your mind. If you are willing to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, this is where you need to be.
What is the best time to visit the place?
If you want to see the rice fields in Ubud at their greenest best, you can visit it between March to August, or September. When the month of October approaches, the harvest season also starts. So, you will notice everything turning yellow. Stay away in December and February, as it is the rainy season there. You will not be able to walk on the terraces, as they remain muddy around that time. You must ensure to visit the place at sunrise or after 4 pm. You will encounter fewer tourists there, in the evening.
Is it expensive?
The cost for entering the terraced paddy fields is IDR 15,000 per person. It is quite low compared to the glimpses that you can avail yourself of. Additionally, you also need to shell out IDR 5,000 for car parking.
