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In this article we are going to tell you everything you need to know to plan an independent trip to the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali in 2026. We love this area so much we have actually visited a couple of times over the years. We’re super excited to share our tips and experience with you.
We highly recommend that you do your research before you visit to make the most of your trip. We will share some very important things to know before you go. Please read this guide carefully. There is so much to do in and around Ubud.
Despite the increasing popularity of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace it is still a beautiful, scenic and peaceful place to visit. Whether you’re looking to get some epic insta shots, relax with some yoga or do some intrepid trekking, these scenic rice terraces have something for everyone.
In this in depth guide we will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Looking for an awesome place to stay? Don’t miss these AMAZING 5 star hotels in Ubud. You may also be interested in our epic guide to THE BEST things to do in Bali
What are the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali?
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali is the most popular rice terrace. This iconic, UNESCO-listed area has lush green rice paddies in a deep valley. The rice paddies are surrounded by tropical jungle and palm trees and a small river runs through the valley with a few small waterfalls. There are also several small public trails running through the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. This is a great place to learn about traditional Balinese farming techniques and take a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Bali. Read on to learn more about the beauty, history, and culture of this unique attraction.
Join our road trip around Bali
You can see what it is like to explore the Tegalalang Rice Terraces with the Backpacking family in our EPIC and somewhat emotional Bali Road trip.
Is it worth visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali?
Yes, we really think the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is worth a visit. But it is important to recognise that this is a popular tourist attraction. If you’re looking for a peaceful, tranquil experience entirely to yourself then we recommend renting a bike and exploring rural Bali. There are plenty of stunning valleys and rice terraces that aren’t on the tourist map.
In our opinion the popularity of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace doesn’t detract from the peaceful vibes and natural beauty of the area. This is especially true if your able to jump out of bed before the sunrise (that’s pretty early in Bali!) and arrive at dawn.
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a captivating destination that offers breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and an opportunity to experience the authentic Balinese way of life. It is a place where you can slow down, reconnect with nature or just get some epic travel shots to make your friends jealous.
What is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace like?
In short, very beautiful! Tegalalang Rice Terrace offers a picturesque and immersive experience in the Balinese countryside. You will witness farmers working on the terraced fields, water flowing through the ancient irrigation system (Subak), and friendly locals going about their daily lives. The terrace is also home to several swings and nests, which are popular spots for capturing the perfect insta shots.
Where are the Tegalalang Rice Terraces located?
Tegalalang Rice Terrace is situated in the village of Tegalalang, approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) north of Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali. The terraces offer a stunning view of cascading rice fields, lush vegetation, and a tranquil atmosphere.
How much does it cost to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
There is no entrance fee to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. However, some local farmers may ask for a small donation, around IDR 10,000-20,000 (approximately $0.70-$1.40), as you walk through their fields. This is optional but appreciated, as it helps support the local community. Some cafes along the road may also ask for a small fee to use their paths into the valley.
What is the best way to get to the Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
Don’t miss our in-depth guide on getting around in Bali
The rice terraces are located around 30 minutes drive from Ubud. If you’re staying in Ubud it is pretty cheap, easy and convenient to get to the rice terraces. However, it is worth being aware that there are no local buses or public transport running to the rice terraces. Here are the best ways to get there.
1 Rent a motorbike
Find out everything you need to know about renting a bike in Bali
You can find loads of small bike rental shops in Ubud (and other places around Bali). Motorbike rental is a fun, independent and intrepid way to explore Bali. It is also very affordable. You can easily find motorbike rental in Bali for 100,000IDR – 200,000IDR per day (around £5 – £10 or $6 – $12). Negotiate a cheaper deal for a longer rental. Always wear a helmet and make sure you are sufficiently qualified, insured and experienced to ride a bike in Bali.
Don’t miss our full guide on Bali by bike – independent adventures around bali on motorbike
2 Grab a taxi
One of the most convenient ways to get to the rice terraces is Grab a taxi. The Grab taxi app is an affordable and convenient way to book taxis in Bali. Just get a sim with some data, download the app and register an account using your local number. You can then use the app to order taxis and the price will be pre-set by the app. Expect to pay around 100,000IDR – 200,000IDR for a taxi each way from Ubud (around £5 – £10 or $6 – $12).
Don’t miss our full guide: how to use Grab in Bali
3 Rent a car
If you’re exploring Bali with kids a great way to get around is car rental. There are plenty of small car rental dealers in Bali who can offer awesome deals. You can generally find car rental deals for around 200,000IDR – 400,00IDR per day (around £10 – £20 or $12 – $24). Make sure that you are qualified and insured to drive in Bali. We recommend bringing an international drivers license if you plan to rent a car and drive in Bali. Car rental offers convenience and lots of freedom for exploring Bali – you can also throw all of your bags in too.
4 Take a tour
If you’re looking for a fun and low stress way to see the rice terraces why not take a tour? You can book rice terrace tours on Klook for around £20 – £30 (roughly $25 – $40). The generally include hotel pick up and drop off and visits to other awesome attractions in the area (temples, waterfalls and monkey forest)
What is the best place to park at Tegalalang?
The main road running through Tegalalang is called Jalan Raya Tegalalang. This road is pretty narrow and there is no roadside parking near the rice terraces. Therefore you will need to use one of the small car parks or laybys. There are several shops, cafes and photo spots that have small laybys. It is generally FREE to park – but you may be expected (or encouraged) to use their shop, cafe or visit their photo spot. Alternatively you may need to pay a small fee for parking.
What are the best Tegalalang Rice Terrace tours?
We highly recommend booking a tour to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces on Klook. This epic tour includes hotel pick up and drop off, a visit to the rice terrace, Ubud Monkey Forest and the Goa Gajah elephant cave. This is a pretty epic itinerary for £20 – £25 (roughly $25 – $30). Taking a tour is a great way to just go with the flow – no stress or planning needed and also meet new people.
When is the best time to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
You can visit the Tegalalang Rice Terrace any time of the day. There are no opening hours here.
The best time to visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun casts a magical glow over the rice fields. Visiting early in the morning also helps avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Tegalalang RiceTerraces are very quiet and beautiful between 5am – 7am.
Bali’s dry season, which runs from April to October, is generally the best time to visit the island for outdoor activities.
What You Can Do at Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace has something for everyone:
If you love a good adrenaline rush, the famous Bali swings and nests provide an adrenaline-pumping thrill, as you soar above the terraced fields with a panoramic view of the valley below.
For the food lovers, a visit to the local cafes and restaurants perched on the hillside, offering delicious traditional Balinese cuisine, is an absolute delight. The cafes and restaurants are a little on the pricey side (as you would expect) – but they do offer very tasty local food with fantastic views.
If you’re interested in culture and history, don’t miss the ingenious Subak irrigation system, which highlights the harmonious relationship between man and nature. This is a great opportunity to learn about the sustainable farming techniques that have nurtured this enchanting landscape for generations.
If you love adventure, then we highly recommend trekking along some of the stunning trails in this area. Remember to wear good shoes with sufficient grip. The trails can be steep, muddy and slippery in places.
Here is a quick summary of the BEST things to do at the rice terraces:
- Trek through the rice terraces and explore the traditional Balinese farming techniques.
- Capture stunning photographs of the terraced landscape and traditional architecture. There are plenty of great photo spots (you often need to pay a fee for the best spots)
- Try out the famous Bali swings and nests for a thrilling and memorable experience.
- Check out the Subak irrigation system
- Have a chat with local farmers and learn about their daily lives and the importance of rice cultivation in Balinese culture.
- Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants overlooking the rice fields.
How do you use the swings at Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
There is something truly exhilarating about swinging over the lush green landscape of the rice terraces. And it’s also a perfect insta spot for superlative photos.
One of the most iconic and famous images of the rice terraces are the massive swings. They are also a lot of fun and there are several swings located around the rice terraces. For example, there are some nests and a giant swing located at Uma Ceking Resto & Swings. Behind the scenes expect some queues for the swing.
Be aware that there may be age restrictions so check before you get your kids excited about this one. You often need to get harnessed in for safety, and the swings are operated by locals who can help set you up and may assist with photography too. You will normally need to pay to use the swings. Expect to pay around 150,000IDR – 300,000IDR to use a giant swing in Bali (this is roughly £8 – £16 or $10 – $20). They may offer packages that include photography or access to over photo points (such as nests, love heart frames and more).
What should you pack to visit the Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
The rice terraces may be touristy, but you will still need to pack for a fairly intrepid rural adventure:
- Comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. We recommend trainers with good grip – especially if you’re planning some trekking.
- A lightweight rain coat – the weather can turn quickly here.
- If you’re visiting for photography, remember some vibrant clothing. White, bright colours and flowy clothing work very well here. Also some traditional Balinese clothing can look pretty awesome in photos too!
- Insect repellant – the mozzies can get pretty intense at times (something containing DEET)
- A hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun (we recommend SPF50 suncream- especially if you’re visiting later in the day)
- A bottle of water to stay hydrated during your visit.
- A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery.
- A small amount of cash for donations, food, and souvenirs.
Are the Tegalalang Rice Terraces accessible?
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace, while beautiful and picturesque, can be challenging for visitors with mobility issues, strollers, or wheelchairs.
Accessibility challenges at the rice terraces
Terrain and Pathways
The rice terraces are built on steep hillsides, and the paths are narrow, uneven, and slippery, especially after rain. The area involves climbing and descending stairs, which can be difficult for anyone with issues or anyone using wheelchairs or strollers. We find a sling very useful for traveling with young kids.
Lack of Handrails and Ramps
There are limited handrails and no ramps at the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, which can make it challenging for those who require additional support or wheelchair access.
Limited Wheelchair Accessible Facilities
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace does not have wheelchair-accessible restrooms, and many of the nearby cafes and restaurants might not have accessible facilities either. Additionally, some of the popular swings and nests might not be accessible for visitors with limited mobility. There are no disabled parking spots near the rice terraces.
Despite these challenges you can still enjoy the stunning views of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace from several accessible viewpoints along the main road. Many cafes and restaurants located near the entrance offer accessible seating areas with beautiful views of the terraces.
Top tips for accessibility
To ensure a more enjoyable experience, consider the following tips for visitors with mobility issues, strollers, or wheelchairs:
- Plan your visit: Do some research beforehand to identify the most accessible spots and facilities in the Tegalalang Rice Terrace area. You may also contact your accommodation or tour operator for recommendations and advice.
- If possible bring a helper: If possible, bring a friend or family member to help you navigate the terrain and provide support if needed.
- Use appropriate mobility aids: Ensure that you have suitable mobility aids, such as a sturdy walking cane, crutches, or a durable, all-terrain wheelchair or stroller to navigate the uneven and sometimes slippery surfaces.
- Prioritize safety: If you are unsure about your ability to safely navigate the rice terraces, prioritize your safety and enjoy the views from accessible viewpoints, cafes, or restaurants.
While the Tegalalang Rice Terrace may not be fully accessible for all visitors, there are still opportunities to appreciate its beauty and charm from nearby viewpoints. Plan carefully and prioritize safety to make the most of your experience.
Top Tips – to make the most of your trip to the rice terraces
Here are some pro tips to make the most of your visit the the Tegalalang Rice Terrace:
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat. 5am – 7am is a very beautiful time of day to visit – you wont see many people at this time, the light is great for photography and the temperature is lower.
- If you plan to trek be prepared for some physical exertion, as the rice terraces involve climbing and descending steps.
- Wear good footwear – the paths can be slippery, muddy and have big puddles. If you’re planning photography, remember to plan your clothes.
- Respect the local farmers by sticking to the designated paths and not disturbing their crops. We found the rice farmers to be very friendly and happy to meet us (although there was a language barrier)
Tegalalang Rice Terraces and sustainable travel
Ethical tourism and sustainable travel are all about preserving and protecting the environment, culture, and local communities in popular tourist destinations such as the Tegalalang Rice Terrace. By following responsible travel practices you can contribute positively to the area and minimize any negative impacts of tourism. Here are some tips for practicing ethical tourism and sustainable travel while visiting the Tegalalang Rice Terrace:
Respect local customs and traditions
Learn about Balinese customs, religious practices, and etiquette to better understand and respect the local culture.
Support local businesses
Choose to purchase souvenirs, food, and services from locally owned businesses to support the local economy and ensure that your tourist dollars directly benefit the community.
Minimize waste and plastic consumption
Carry a reusable water bottle, avoid single-use plastics, and dispose of your waste responsibly. Bali faces significant challenges with plastic pollution, and by minimizing your waste, you can contribute to a cleaner environment.
Engage with local communities
Interact with local farmers and artisans to learn about their livelihoods and the importance of rice cultivation in Balinese culture. Consider participating in community-based tourism activities, such as a traditional cooking class or a rice planting experience, which directly support local families.
Protect the environment and wildlife
Stay on designated paths when exploring the rice terraces to avoid damaging crops and disrupting the natural habitat. Refrain from feeding or disturbing animals.
Choose responsible tour operators and accommodation
When booking tours or accommodation, research and select providers that prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Look for businesses that are eco-friendly, support local communities, and have a positive impact on the environment.
What other rice terraces are there to visit in Bali?
If you really want to escape the crowds and experience non-touristy rice terraces in Bali we recommend that you rent a bike and ride in to the countryside north of Ubud. There are plenty of beautiful valleys in this area with stunning rice terraces.
The picture above shows a random rice terrace in the Kedisan area east of Tegalalang. This rice terrace is not on the map and it isn’t one of the “things to do in Bali”. The only tourists you’re likely to see here are the occasional tourists passing on motorbike. If you want to experience the tranquil rice terraces all to yourself – then just go explore.
Bali is home to several beautiful rice terrace areas. Here are the main rice terrace areas in Bali and a brief description of each:
1 Jatiluwih Rice Terrace
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jatiluwih Rice Terrace is located in the Tabanan Regency and is renowned for its vast expanses of rice paddies and its traditional Subak irrigation system. The picturesque landscape offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience compared to Tegalalang.
2 Sidemen Rice Terrace
Situated in East Bali, the Sidemen Rice Terrace offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere, with fewer tourists than other rice terrace locations. This area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape amidst lush rice fields and traditional Balinese villages.
3 Munduk Rice Terrace
Located in North Bali, Munduk is surrounded by rice terraces, waterfalls, and picturesque countryside. The region is ideal for trekking and exploring Bali’s natural beauty, with cooler temperatures due to its higher altitude. Don’t miss the beautiful Munduk Moding Resort & Coffee plantation.
4 Belimbing Rice Terrace
Belimbing is another lesser-known rice terrace area in the Tabanan Regency, offering breathtaking views of rice fields, traditional villages, and plantations. The area is perfect for those who want to experience an authentic and untouched side of Bali.
5 Kintamani Rice Terrace
Situated near the volcanic Mount Batur, the Kintamani Rice Terrace combines stunning rice field views with a unique volcanic landscape. The area is also famous for its captivating sunrise views and cool mountain air.
6 Pupuan Rice Terrace
Located in West Bali, the Pupuan Rice Terrace is a hidden gem that offers stunning terraced landscapes and a more authentic, rural Balinese experience. The area is ideal for visitors looking to escape the tourist crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the Balinese countryside.
Each of these rice terrace areas in Bali showcases a different aspect of the island’s beauty, culture, and agricultural heritage. Depending on your preferences and travel plans, you can choose to visit one or more of these remarkable locations to experience the serene and picturesque charm of Bali’s rice terraces.
One day itinerary in the area
If you’re planning a day trip in central Bali and want to experience some of the BEST attractions here is a great one day itinerary:
5am – 8am Sunrise at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
8am – 10pm Visit the Segara Windhu coffee platation
10am – 12pm Visit the Tirta Empul water temple
12pm – 2pm Return to Ubud for lunch
2pm – 3pm Visit the Ubud monkey forest
3pm – 4pm Visit the Goa Gajah elephant cave temple
4pm – 6pm Check out the Tibumana waterfall
Looking for a fuller Bali itinerary? We’ve got you covered. Don’t miss our EPIC 10 day Bali itinerary
Other Things to Do Near Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is located just a short drive from Ubud, Bali’s cultural epicenter. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to combine their visit to the rice terraces with the exploration of Bali’s vibrant arts scene, intricate temples, and lively markets. In the nearby vicinity, you’ll find an abundance of activities and attractions that cater to every traveler’s interest, from nature enthusiasts to history buffs.
- Visit Gunung Kawi Temple, an ancient temple and funerary complex located in Tampaksiring, just a short drive from Tegalalang.
- Explore the Tirta Empul Temple, a Hindu Balinese water temple famous for its holy spring water, which is believed to have healing properties.
- Discover the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Temple, a historical archaeological site featuring intricate carvings and a serene garden setting.
- Take a stroll through the nearby Ubud Monkey Forest, home to hundreds of playful long-tailed macaques and lush vegetation.
- Visit the Bali Pulina Agro Tourism, a coffee plantation where you can sample various types of coffee and tea, including the unique Luwak coffee. Find out more about coffee plantations in Bali
- Wander through the beautiful and the Ubud Art Market, where you can find a wide variety of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Don’t miss the Sarawati temple.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant Balinese culture by attending a traditional dance performance, such as the Kecak Dance or Legong Dance, often held at Ubud Palace.
- Take a Bali cooking class – there are loads of amazing cooking schools in the area
Find out more: Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE on the best things to do in Ubud
What are the best places to stay near the Tegalalang Rice Terraces?
The BEST area to stay to visit the rice terraces is Ubud. This is a beautiful historical town located in the centre of Bali. There are plenty of hotels, guest house, cafes, restaurants, markets and temples in Ubud. It is a charming place to stay with plenty of character. Here are our TOP PICK hotels in Ubud for every budget range…
1 Poshtel Ubud
£5 – £10 dorms only
This is a super trendy hostel with an 8 bed mixed dorm available. We love the fun Asian style. Excellently located in the center of Ubud, around a 5 minute walk from Saraswati temple. This is a great option for solo travelers on a budget.
2 Yoga’s House
£10 – £15 double room
Great name – great guest house! This place offers amazing value for money and it is located right in the heart of Ubud – close to everything you could want or need. They have a spacious light double room with a balcony and small lush gardens and lots of character. This hotel is a great option for a solo backpacker or couple on a budget.
3 Putu’s Paradise Guest House
£15 – £20
Awesome option on the low budget end. Lovely home style accommodation with lush gardens. Right next to the monkey forest. This guest house is great value for money. Double and twin rooms available – private bathrooms, outdoor seating and a lovely tropical garden.
4 Liyer Spirit House Ubud
£20 – £50
Looking for a unique stay in Ubud at a low cost? Check out the Liyer Spirit House. Packed with character and Balinese artwork this hotel is most famous for its appearance in the movie Eat Love Pray. There are beautiful gardens, a small outdoor pool, outdoor seating areas and comfortable double and twin rooms available with ensuite bathrooms and bathtubs. They can also add an additional mattress to rooms to accommodate families.
5 Ubud Lestari Bungalows
£20 – £50
It’s amazing how much you can get for your money in Bali. The Ubud Lestari is a stunning rice terrace hotel with an outdoor pool and spacious suites including bathtubs. Double and twin rooms available. Excellent location on Jalan Monkey Forest in the heart of Ubud not too far from Saraswati temple.
6 Pondok Serayu
£30 – £40
This is a very beautiful small hotel with spacious rooms and balconies. This hotel offers convenience, comfort and great value for money. You can book breakfast too. Excellent location right next to the Ubud Palace and Saraswati temple.
7 Sapodilla Ubud
£50 – £120
This super stylish hotel combines lush green nature with luxurious and tranquil accommodation. Suites are beautifully furnished with plenty of natural light and ensuite bathrooms with elegant freestanding bathtubs. There is a large outdoor swimming pool (the also offer a great breakfast – check whether this is included when you book)
8 Kebun Indah Ubud
£50 – £160
Kebun Indah is a very impressive hotel for the prices. We love the beautiful wooden Balinese style of this lush property. As a 4 star hotel there are great facilities and service here. We are particularly impressed with the spacious two bedroom suite (that has a double and a single bed). The beautiful ensuite bathroom has a bali style bathtub.
9 Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites
£200 – £400
This remarkable hotel offers luxurious 5 star accommodation right in the heart of Bali. You get a lot for your money here. We are super impressed with the stylish spacious villa with a private pool. If you’re looking for a luxury stay in Ubud – this offers some of the BEST value for money for this level of luxury. This is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic splash out.
10 Goya Boutique Resort
£200 – £1,000
This magnificent 5 star resort has a wide range of rooms and suites to choose from. There is a decadent Asian interior design with comfortable furniture and plenty of space to relax. They offer villas with private pools and open air bathtubs. There is also a stunning rooftop infinity pool with mountain views. Also a great location in Ubud town.
