Bali Rice Fields: 11 Best Rice Terraces You Should Visit
If you’re looking for the best rice terraces in Bali, there are some absolutely stunning ones to choose from. But not all of them are worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you’re hoping to escape the crowds.
I’ve spent more than three months travelling around Bali across several trips, and I’ve visited quite a few of the island’s famous rice terraces along the way. So while I’ll always tell you which ones I think are worth visiting, I’ll also tell you which ones I’d personally skip.
Tegallalang is a good example. Once upon a time, I would have happily recommended it, but these days? Not so much.
It’s become a bit of an Instagram hotspot, with Bali swings and photo spots everywhere, and there’s now a big push around luwak coffee too, which, if you know me, is a big fucking no.
Thankfully, there are plenty of other rice terraces around Bali that I think are much more worth your time, from quieter spots where you can actually enjoy the landscape to some of the island’s most impressive traditional terraces like Jatiluwih.
So, if you’re wondering which Bali rice terraces are actually worth visiting, which ones I’d skip and when to go for the best experience, you’re in the right place.
Rice Terrace Map
The Best Rice Paddies In Bali
Wherever you’re staying in Bali, you’re probably not going to be too far from a rice field. I’ve actually stayed in a few places surrounded by them over my trips, and honestly, waking up with rice fields on your doorstep never gets old.
They’re dotted all over the island, and you’ll find everything from tiny local paddies to huge, famous terraces.
You can visit them year-round, but if you want those ridiculously lush green views, March to May is a great time to go, just after the rainy season. Rice is also planted and harvested throughout the year, so even if one field has just been harvested, there’s a good chance you’ll find another looking much greener nearby.
The more famous terraces, particularly Jatiluwih, can still get busy, so I’d recommend going early if you want a quieter experience. Or, even better, visit during one of Bali’s quieter months.
And one very important lesson I learned the hard way: check the weather before you go. If it’s been raining, expect mud. I would strongly advise against wearing your pristine white trainers or open-toed sandals.
Jatiluwih
If you want to see some of Bali’s most impressive rice terraces without all the swings and hanging baskets, Jatiluwih is where I recommend first.
The terraces stretch across more than 600 hectares along the Batukaru mountain range, creating huge, rolling green landscapes that seem to go on forever. They’re also a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, which tells you just how important this landscape is beyond being beautiful.
Jatiluwih is in the Tabanan Regency, so it’s a little more out of the way than some of Bali’s other rice terraces. You can easily visit on a day trip, but there are also guesthouses nearby if you fancy stopping and spending a few days in the area.
There are plenty of hiking and cycling trails to explore too, so if you actually want to get out into the landscape rather than just stop for a photo, you could happily spend a few hours wandering around here.
Mupu Rice Terrace
If you’re looking for an alternative to Tegallalang, I’d honestly recommend Mupu Rice Terrace.
It’s a family-run rice terrace not far from Tegallalang, but it’s much more relaxed and low-key. There’s no fixed entrance fee either, you just leave a donation, which goes towards the family and farmers who run it.
It’s a lovely little spot to wander around, take in the rice fields and enjoy the scenery without the crowds and endless photo spots you’ll find at some of Bali’s more famous terraces.
Sidemen
I’m sure I’ve made it no secret by now that Sidemen is my favourite place in Bali, and honestly, I could happily spend weeks here if I had the time.
Away from the busier tourist hotspots, Sidemen’s rural location feels like such a breath of fresh air, and the rice terraces are a huge part of why I love it.
Set against the backdrop of Mount Agung, Bali’s tallest volcano, the rice fields here cascade down the valley.
You can hire a local guide to take you through the paddies and tell you more about the area and its history, which I’d definitely recommend if you want to understand more about the landscape rather than just wander through it.
And if you’re around for the evening, Sidemen is also one of the best places in Bali to watch the sunset. Watching the rice fields turn golden as the sun goes down is pretty bloody hard to beat.
Munduk
Tucked away in the mountains of northern Bali, Munduk is known for its waterfalls, cooler climate and absolutely bloody beautiful scenery.
That cooler climate also makes it perfect for growing things, so alongside the rice terraces, you’ll find coffee and clove plantations dotted around the hills.
Like Sidemen, Munduk feels much quieter than Bali’s main tourist hotspots, so you can actually explore the rice fields without battling your way through crowds.
I’d definitely recommend combining a walk through the rice paddies with a visit to Munduk Moding Coffee Plantation. I’ve stayed here myself, and it’s actually one of my favourite places to stay in Bali, so if you have the time, I’d recommend staying in Munduk for a few days rather than just popping through.
And when you’re hungry, there are plenty of little warungs dotted around serving tasty local food, so you won’t have to go far after exploring, and you won’t struggle to find plenty of vegan options either.
Pererenan
Pererenan, the next town along from Canggu, is still home to some beautiful rice fields, and you’ll find plenty of accommodation and restaurants with views across the paddies.
Sadly, there used to be a lot more of them. As development continues to spread, more and more of the rice fields are disappearing, and it’s really sad to see such a big change to the landscape.
If you want to see some of the larger remaining paddies, head along Jalan Raya Seseh and Jalan Babadan.
To explore Pererenan and the surrounding rice fields, you can rent your own scooter or use one of Bali’s ride-sharing apps.
Rendang
If you’re already staying in Sidemen, I’d definitely make the short trip over to Rendang. It’s just a stone’s throw away, and you’ll get some awesome views of Mount Agung along the way.
The Bukit Jambul Rice Terraces here tumble down the hillsides, and it’s a really beautiful part of Bali to drive around. It’s also pretty rural, and you’ll spot people working on carvings along the roadside.
While you’re in the area, you can also visit Besakih Temple, Bali’s largest and holiest temple, or, if sitting quietly looking at rice fields isn’t quite enough excitement for you, go white water rafting on the Telaga Waja River.
Blahbatuh
If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter, Blahbatuh is a good option.
Located around 15 kilometres southeast of Ubud in the Gianyar Regency, it’s home to beautiful rice fields where traditional farming is still a big part of the landscape.
It’s much less well known than some of Bali’s bigger rice terrace attractions, so you won’t find the same crowds or endless photo spots here. If you’d rather wander through the paddies and take in the scenery at a slower pace, this is a great location.
Belimbing
Belimbing Rice Terraces, also known as Papuan Rice Terraces, are located in the western part of Bali. Situated 600 meters above sea level in Tabanan, Belimbing is conveniently en route to Jatiluwih if you’re heading that way.
This is where you’ll have scenic views of Mount Batukaru on the horizon, and you can often spot farmers tending to their crops as you wander through the fields.
Rice isn’t the only thing that is grown here though. The land is extremely fertile, and local farmers also grow durian, coffee, clove, rambutan and mangosteen.
Soka
About an hour north of Canggu, Soka rice fields can be found on Bali’s west coast. These rice fields are planted at a much lower level than the other rice terraces and are very close to the ocean.
The nearby black sand beach is pretty untouched, and you won’t come across many, if any, other tourists here, but you will be able to spot the local fishermen in the water.
The surf here is quite rough, so swimming isn’t advised, but it’s a nice spot to go for a walk with the rice paddies in the distance.
You can easily tie a trip to Soka in with your sunset visit to Tanah Lot as they are about 50 minutes apart.
Tirta Gangga
Tirta Gangga rice terraces are located in eastern Bali near the village of Tirta Gangga in Karangasem Regency. They are known for their lush greenery and beautiful scenery. If you’re staying in Amed, Tirta Gangga is one of the closest rice fields and is only about half an hour away.
While they may not be as big as some of the others, they still offer a cool glimpse into traditional Balinese farming. Here, you can wander around the terraces, take in the views, and even visit the nearby Tirta Gangga Water Palace.
Tirta Gangga translates to ‘Water from the Ganges’ in Indonesian, and its pools are filled with holy water, which is believed to have healing powers. This former royal palace is filled with stunning architecture, and there are even some pools for you to cool off in.
Pejeng
Pejeng rice terraces are nestled in the heart of Bali near the village of Pejeng in Gianyar Regency and are a lesser-known spot that’s popular with hikers.
It’s quieter here compared to the neighbouring Tegallalang terraces, and it’s a peaceful retreat from the usual tourist hustle around Ubud.
About a 15-minute drive from the centre of Ubud, it’s also close to attractions like Goa Gaja and the iconic Tibumana Waterfall.
Why I No Longer Recommend Tegallalang Rice Terraces
When I first visited Bali in 2014, Tegallalang was already popular, but the main attraction was simply the rice terraces themselves. If you got there early enough, you could wander around, take in the views and actually enjoy the landscape.
Since then, Instagram has obviously played a huge part in making it even more popular, and I completely understand why. The terraces are beautiful. But with that popularity has come a lot of development, Bali swings and photo spots, and for me, it’s taken away a lot of what made Tegallalang special in the first place.
There’s also something else that has changed which, for me, is an even bigger issue. I’ve seen recent reviews mentioning luwak coffee being offered at the terraces, with some experiences even combining entry with a luwak coffee tour.
If you know me, you’ll know that’s a big fucking no. I’m not comfortable supporting an industry that keeps luwaks in cages for coffee production, and while there may be ways to visit Tegallalang without getting involved in the luwak side of things, for me, that was the final nail in the coffin.
The rice terraces themselves are still beautiful, and nothing is going to change that. I just personally think you’ll get a much nicer experience at some of the other rice terraces on this list, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that feels a little less commercialised.
Bali Rice Terraces FAQ’s
Can you walk through rice fields in Bali?
Yes, in many places you can, but remember these are working farms and someone’s livelihood, so stick to marked paths, respect signs and keep the area clean. Some farmers may also ask for a small donation, so carrying some cash is a good idea.
What is the famous rice terrace near Ubud?
Tegallalang is probably the most famous rice terrace near Ubud, but I no longer recommend it due to how touristy it has become and the use of luwak coffee. If you’re looking for an alternative, Mupu Rice Terrace is a much more low-key, family-run option nearby.
Why are there so many rice fields in Bali?
Bali has so many rice fields because its fertile volcanic soil, tropical climate and clever subak irrigation system create ideal conditions for growing rice, with farmers able to harvest multiple times a year. Rice is also deeply important to Balinese culture, so it has been a central part of life on the island for generations.
Are Bali’s Rice Terraces Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Bali’s rice terraces are one of my favourite parts of the island, and they’re a lovely way to spend an early morning or late afternoon.
Although I no longer personally recommend Tegallalang, there are still rice terraces and paddies all over Bali, from the huge landscapes of Jatiluwih to the quieter fields around Sidemen and Munduk.
You can easily add one or two of these into your Bali trip, and depending on where you’re staying, there should be at least one beautiful rice field nearby.
