Imagine walking through a valley of lush green rice fields, surrounded by the sound of flowing water and the sight of coconut trees and tropical plants. This is what awaits you at Tegallalang Rice Terrace, one of the most popular and scenic attractions in Ubud, Bali. Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a stunning example of the traditional irrigation system called subak, which has been used by Balinese farmers for centuries. The rice fields form a series of terraces that cascade down the hillside, creating a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world.
In this guide, we will show you everything you need to know about visiting Tegallalang Rice Terrace, from how to get there, what to do, when to go, and what to expect.
How to Get to Tegallalang Rice Terrace from Ubud
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is located about 10 km north of Ubud, the cultural and artistic hub of Bali. There are several ways to get there from Ubud, depending on your budget, preference, and time. Here are some of the options:
Renting a scooter:
This is the cheapest and most flexible way to get to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, as you can explore the area at your own pace and stop at any point along the way. You can rent a scooter from Ubud for around 50,000 IDR ($3.5) per day, and the ride to Tegallalang Rice Terrace takes about 30 minutes. However, you need to be confident and careful on the road, as the traffic can be chaotic and the roads can be narrow and winding.
Hiring a driver:
This is the most comfortable and convenient way to get to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, as you can sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about the traffic or the directions. You can hire a driver from Ubud for around 500,000 IDR ($35) per day, and the ride to Tegallalang Rice Terrace takes about 20 minutes. You can also ask the driver to take you to other nearby attractions, such as temples, waterfalls, or markets.
Taking a taxi:
This is a quick and easy way to get to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, as you can find a taxi from Ubud at any time of the day. You can use a metered taxi or a fixed-price taxi, and the fare to Tegallalang Rice Terrace is around 150,000 IDR ($10.5) one way. The ride takes about 20 minutes, but it can vary depending on the traffic and the route.
Joining a tour:
This is a hassle-free and informative way to get to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, as you can join a group of other travelers and learn more about the history and culture of the rice fields from a guide. You can book a tour from Ubud for around 300,000 IDR ($21) per person, and the tour usually includes transportation, entrance fee, and other activities, such as swinging, zip-lining, or rafting. The tour takes about half a day, and you can choose from different departure times and itineraries.
What to Do at Tegallalang Rice Terrace
The main attraction of Tegallalang Rice Terrace is, of course, the rice fields themselves. You can walk along the paths that crisscross the terraces, admire the views from different angles, and take photos of the stunning scenery. You can also learn more about the subak irrigation system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and how it works to distribute water evenly and efficiently to the rice fields. You can also interact with the local farmers, who are friendly and welcoming, and who may offer you some fresh coconut water or fruits.
Besides exploring the rice fields, there are also other activities and attractions that you can enjoy at Tegallalang Rice Terrace, such as:
Swinging:
If you are feeling adventurous, you can try one of the swings that are set up over the rice fields, and experience the thrill of flying over the valley. There are several swings to choose from, ranging from 10 to 78 meters high, and the price is around 150,000 IDR ($10.5) per person. You can also get a photo package that includes a professional photographer and a printed photo.
Zip-lining:
If you want to add some more excitement to your visit, you can try the zip-line that runs across the rice fields, and glide over the greenery at high speed. The zip-line is 150 meters long, and the price is around 100,000 IDR ($7) per person. You can also get a combo package that includes the swing and the zip-line for a discounted price.
Rafting:
If you are looking for some water fun, you can join a rafting tour that takes you along the Ayung River, which flows near the rice fields. You can enjoy the rapids, the scenery, and the wildlife along the way, and have a refreshing and exhilarating experience. The rafting tour lasts for about two hours, and the price is around 350,000 IDR ($24.5) per person, which includes transportation, equipment, lunch, and insurance.
Painting:
If you are feeling creative, you can join a painting class that teaches you how to capture the beauty of the rice fields on canvas. You can learn from a local artist, who will guide you through the basics of painting, and create your own masterpiece. The painting class lasts for about three hours, and the price is around 400,000 IDR ($28) per person, which includes transportation, materials, and snacks.
Visiting temples:
If you are interested in the spiritual and cultural aspects of Bali, you can visit some of the temples that are located near the rice fields, such as Gunung Kawi Sebatu, Pura Tirta Empul, or Pura Gunung Kawi. These temples are sacred and ancient, and they offer a glimpse into the Balinese Hinduism and its rituals. You can also join a purification ceremony, where you can cleanse yourself with holy water and receive blessings from a priest. The entrance fee to the temples is around 15,000 IDR ($1) per person, and you need to wear a sarong and a sash, which you can rent or buy at the temple.
When to Visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace
The best time to visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace depends on the weather and the seasons, as they affect the appearance and the atmosphere of the rice fields. Here are some factors to consider:
Climate and rainfall:
Ubud and Bali have a tropical climate, which means that they have two seasons: dry and wet. The dry season lasts from April to September, and the wet season lasts from October to March. The dry season is generally more favorable for visiting Tegallalang Rice Terrace, as the weather is sunny and pleasant, and the rice fields are green and lush. The wet season, on the other hand, can be rainy and humid, and the rice fields can be muddy and brown. However, the wet season also has its advantages, such as fewer crowds, lower prices, and more water in the river for rafting.
Planting and harvesting cycles:
The rice fields at Tegallalang Rice Terrace follow a planting and harvesting cycle, which changes the color and the texture of the terraces. The planting cycle usually starts in January or February, when the fields are flooded with water and the seedlings are planted. The harvesting cycle usually starts in June or July, when the fields are dry and the rice is ready to be harvested. The planting cycle offers a more scenic and photogenic view of the rice fields, as they are bright green and reflective. The harvesting cycle, however, offers a more authentic and interactive view of the rice fields, as you can see the farmers working and harvesting the rice.
Specific months or dates:
If you want to catch the best views and experiences of Tegallalang Rice Terrace, you can aim for some specific months or dates that offer optimal conditions. For example, you can visit in April or May, when the rice fields are at their greenest and most beautiful, and the weather is dry and sunny. You can also visit in September or October, when the rice fields are at their golden and most dramatic, and the weather is still pleasant and not too rainy. You can also visit during the harvest festival, which usually takes place in July or August, when the farmers celebrate the end of the harvest season with ceremonies, offerings, and dances.
What to Expect at Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a place that offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors, as it combines nature, culture, and adventure. However, there are also some practical aspects and challenges that you need to be aware of and prepared for, such as:
Opening hours:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is open every day from 8 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not too harsh and the crowds are not too large. You can also catch the sunrise or the sunset over the rice fields, which is a magical sight.
Entrance fee:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace has a small entrance fee of 15,000 IDR ($1) per person, which goes to the maintenance and preservation of the rice fields. You may also encounter some donation boxes or checkpoints along the way, where the local farmers may ask you for a small contribution of 10,000 IDR ($0.7) or more. This is optional, but it is a nice gesture to support the farmers and their livelihood.
Dress code:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace does not have a strict dress code, but you should dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather and the activity. You may want to wear light and breathable clothes, as it can get hot and humid during the day. You may also want to wear shoes or sandals that are suitable for walking on uneven and muddy terrain. You may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to visit any temples nearby, you will need to wear a sarong and a sash, which you can rent or buy at the temple.
Facilities:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace has some basic facilities, such as toilets, parking, and souvenir shops. You can also find some cafes and restaurants near the rice fields, where you can enjoy some snacks, drinks, or meals with a view. However, you should not expect any luxury or modern amenities, as this is a rural and natural area. You may also want to bring some water, snacks, and cash with you, as there may not be any ATM or credit card facilities available.
Crowds:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a very popular and touristy attraction, which means that it can get very crowded and busy, especially during the peak season and the weekends. You may have to wait in line for the swing, the zip-line, or the rafting, or deal with some traffic jams on the road. You may also have to share the space and the views with many other visitors, which can affect your experience and your photos. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or during the weekdays or the low season.
Vendors:
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is also a place where you can find many local vendors, who sell various souvenirs, handicrafts, or services. You can find some unique and beautiful items, such as paintings, wood carvings, or jewelry, or some fun and memorable services, such as massages, henna tattoos, or photo props. However, you should also be prepared to bargain with the vendors, as they may charge you higher prices than the market value. You should also be polite and respectful to the vendors, as they are trying to make a living and provide for their families.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace is a place that you should not miss when you visit Ubud and Bali, as it offers a scenic and cultural experience that is unique and unforgettable. You can witness one of the most beautiful and ancient sights in Bali, and learn more about the subak irrigation system and the Balinese farming culture. You can also enjoy some of the other activities and attractions that are available at Tegallalang Rice Terrace, such as swinging, zip-lining, rafting, painting, or visiting temples.
You can also interact with the local farmers and vendors, who are friendly and welcoming, and who can enrich your visit with their stories and products.
Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of the most beautiful and cultural sights in Bali. Book your Tegallalang Rice Terrace Tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
