Aside from the beaches, waterfalls, and temples, rice terraces in Bali should be among the top items of your list of things to do in Bali. Her mesmerizing landscapes are the soul of Bali. Whether it’s the vast rice terraces of Jatiluwih, or the famous Tegallalang Rice Terraces, these are Bali’s open invitation to step back and enjoy her beauty.
Here is a complete list of some of the best rice terraces in Bali, from the most popular rice terraces to lesser known rice fields, and where to find them. Save this page for your next adventure.
Map of Best Rice Terraces in Bali
Best Rice Terraces near Ubud
You’ll find decent chunk of the best rice terraces in Bali are concentrated in and around Ubud. The fertile soil and climate provide an ideal environment for rice fields to flourish. Here is where you’ll find famous rice terraces such as Tegallalang and Ceking rice terraces.
1. Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Possibly the most iconic landscapes in Bali, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are located in the Tegallalang Village just north of Ubud, and is a popular destination on any Ubud Day Tour itinerary.
While smaller in scale compared to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Tegallalang Rice Terraces feature a bit of dramatic beauty to its landscape, with tall trees and other vegetation surrounding the rice paddies themselves.
Location: Tegallalang Rice Terraces
2. Ceking Rice Terrace
A short trip up the road from Tegallalang Rice Terraces is Ceking Rice Terrace, sometimes considered as part of Tegallalang, and almost equally as popular on the list of best rice terraces in Bali.
Located in the neighbouring village of Ceking, this landscape is absolutely breathtaking with its steep terraces. You can also come across a few Bali Swings here to grab some awesome pics for Instagram.
Location: Ceking Rice Terrace
3. Manuaba Rice Terrace
Manuaba is a relatively small rice terrace but quite close to Ubud. It’s located within the village of Tegallalang so it’s just a short trip from Tegallalang Rice Terraces and Ceking Rice Terace. There’s a few spots nearby where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view. Manuaba Waterfall is also in the vicinity.
Location: Manuaba Rice Terrace
4. Mupu Rice Terrace
Definitely a contender on the list of best rice terraces in Bali. A bit ‘touristy’ bit less so than Tegallalang Rice Terraces which is just down the road. You can access this beautiful rice terrace through Tis Cafe on the main road.
Location: Mupu Rice Terrace
5. Mancingan Rice Terrace
This rice terrace is located near the village of Mancingan. It’s another quiet escape from the crowds, perfect for nature lovers or those seeking to clear their head. Walking along the trails, you’ll have a chance to witness local farmers hard at work.
Location: Mancingan Rice Terrace
6. Bongkasa Rice Terrace
Flat set of rice fields a bit south in Ubud. Much less crowded than the more popular rice terraces in Bali and worth a shot if you need a quick walk to clear your mind
Location: Bongkasa Rice Terrace
7. Abian Desa Rice Terraces
Lush rice terraces located near Tegallalang. Abian Desa Rice Terraces are less known among the best rice terraces in Bali but still make for a good stop. You’ll also find a few Bali swings here.
Location: Abian Desa Rice Terrace
Best Rice Terraces in North Bali
Like Ubud, North Bali is another agricultural hot spot for rice fields and rice terraces. Due to the distance, these are less crowded than the rice terraces in Ubud – perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path tour.
8. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The famous Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are definitely top of the list of best rice terraces in Bali. The UNESCO World Heritage Site spans across 600 hectares (about 1500 acres) of beautiful landscape, stretching as far as the eyes can see.
Visiting Jatiluwih Rice Terraces is top of my list of things to do in Jatiluwih. Aside from simply looking at them, you can also go for a trek, try a Jatiluwih Cycling Tour, or eat with a view of the rice terraces from one of the best restaurants in Jatiluwih.
Location: Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
9. Munduk Rice Terraces
Up in North Bali in the Buleleng Regency, lies the Munduk Rice Terraces. It’s quite a hidden gem due to its proximity from South Bali but their unspoiled beauty is worth the visit.
Munduk Rice Terraces are close to Munduk Waterfall – just a 13 minute drive away. A bit further north (about a 30 minute drive), you can visit Banjar Hot Springs, and the Brahmavihara-Arama Buddhist Temple.
Location: Rice Terraces Munduk
10. Wanagiri Rice Terraces
The Wanagiri Rice Fields can be experienced near Wanagiri Hidden Hill, a popular attraction in the village of Wanagiri. It offers a wonderful panoramic view of the lakes and mountains. Great spot for some Instagram-worthy photos!
Location: Wanagiri Hidden Hill
11. Babahan Rice Terraces
A bit further north in Tabanan and quite close to Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. You can drive a scooter through some parts of these rice terraces while enjoying the cool mountain air.
Location: Babahan Rice Terraces
12. Uma Jake Rice Terrace
You can also visit these rice terraces in Bali during a Jatiluwih Day Tour. A very scenic area that’s surprisingly less explored. You might find that you’re the only one here.
Location: Uma Jake Rice Terrace
13. Pacung Rice Terrace
You can visit these during an Ulun Danu Beratan Temple Tour as these rice terraces are just south of the famous temple. If you’re headed here via scooter, keep in mind it’s quite hilly.
Location: Pacung Rice Terrace
Best Rice Terraces in East Bali
Some of the best rice terraces in Bali are in the east. Here is where you’ll find many hidden gems, often with smaller or no crowds. Rice terraces in East Bali are a stunning example of this regions natural (and mostly untouched) beauty, with wallpaper-level backdrops.
14. Berina Rice Terrace
Another hidden gem on this list of best rice terraces in Bali is the Berina Rice Terrace. Located in Abang Village, relatively close to Amed, these rice terraces give you a true sense of the landscape of East Bali.
Hint: Check out Berina Rice Terrace Cafe and grab a small bite or a coffee to truly enjoy a panoramic view of East Bali.
Location: Abang Rice Terraces
15. Bukit Cinta
Bukit Cinta translates to “Hill of Love.” It offers breathtaking views overlooking some of the best rice terraces in Bali, with Mount Agung in the background. This is a fantastic location quite close to Tirta Gangga and great to catch a sunrise!
Location: Bukit Cinta
16. Bukit Jambul Rice Terraces
Towards East Bali you’ll find the Bukit Jambul Rice Terraces in the village of Rendang. These rice terraces offer a panoramic view of several rice paddies, coconut trees, forestry, and farmland.
This can be a stop on your itinerary during a Besakih Day Tour or an East Bali Day Tour. It’s also quite close in proximity to Candidasa, a popular tourist village out east.
Location: Bukit Jambul
17. Bebandem Rice Terraces
A short drive north of Candidasa, you’ll find the Bebandem Rice Terraces at Bendungan Kastala, quite a hidden gem on this Best Rice Terraces in Bali list. Practically zero crowds and completely serene. There are local guides here you can hire to take you on a few hours trek through the rice terraces.
Location: Bebandem, Karangasem
18. Sidemen Rice Terrace
Just east of Bukit Jambul is Sidemen Rice Terrace, an amazing stretch of land that looks like something out of a movie based in the countryside. Even though it’s less popular on this list, I’d still consider it one of the best rice terraces in Bali due to its serenity.
The area of Sidemen as a whole is quite tranquil. It’s one of the few areas where you can simply sit and enjoy true peacefulness. No sounds of cars or motorbikes, just the gentle breeze, the trees swaying, birds chirping, and depending on the time of year, a pig squealing a few kms away.
Location: Sidemen Rice Terrace
19. Sibetan Rice Terrace
A hidden gem among the best rice terraces in Bali that’s relatively off the beaten path. You can witness the authentic Balinese countryside with a view of the mountains the background.
Location: Sibetan Rice Terrace
20. Titing Rice Terrace
Though it’s in Gianyar near Ubud, it’s a bit further East. Less explored compared to the best rice terraces in Bali list. Find the lookout spot that overlooks the rice terraces with a view of Batukaru mountain, or get the an amazing view from a room at Bambootel Sawah View.
Location: Titing Rice Terrace
Best Rice Terraces in West Bali
The last batch of rice terraces in Bali on this list is located in West Bali – an area often overlooked due to it’s low concentration of attractions and destinations. These rice terraces and rice fields are often nestled within smaller villages or on the side of main roads.
21. Antagana Rice Terrace
You’ll pass by this rice terrace on the way to Belimbing Rice Terraces. It’s quite hidden by the back of Antagana Retreat. Perhaps not one of the best rice terraces in Bali but could be something to visit if you’re staying in this side of Tabanan.
Location: Antagana Rice Terrace
22. Belimbing Rice Terraces
Sometimes referred to as Pupuan Rice Terraces, the Belimbing Rice Terraces are located in the Belimbing Village (in the subdistrict of Pupuan), in Tabanan. These are definitely off the beaten path as it’s a bit further away from most of the popular destinations, but I still consider it one of the best rice terraces in Bali.
I frequently visit Belimbing Rice Terraces on the way back from Balian Beach, making it a stop on my itinerary for my friends and family to experience. A few minutes drive further north, you’ll also come across a small monkey forest with a temple within.
Location: Belimbing Rice Terraces
23. Badjera Rice Fields
These don’t even have a name or location tag on Google Maps. The rice fields are just south of the town of Badjera (Bajera or Bajra depending on who you ask) in Tabanan. My first time visiting here was during a trip to Balian Beach, and I was absolutely captivated by its uniqueness to the region.
It’s located in the back roads between Soka Beach and Badjera and although it isn’t exactly a destination, I would always go out of my way to pass through them.
Location: Antap, Selemadang, Tabanan
24. Soka Rice Fields
If you keep driving west past the town of Badjera, you’ll hit Soka Beach, where the road turns. These rice terraces are absolutely stunning and you don’t need to do any trekking or hunting to find them – you can see their vastness from the main road!
Location: Soka Rice Fields, Tabanan
25. Lalanglinggah Rice Terraces
You’ll pass the rice fields on the way to Medewi. There’s no official location on Google Maps as it’s not known to be a tourist destination. The beach is on one side of the road, with the rice fields and mountains on the other.
Pro tip: If you drive though up street where the “Banjar Dinas Daren” sign is located, you can go up into the mountains and enjoy the view from above. Be very careful with your scooter as some of the path can be muddy due to rain.
Location: Desa Lalanglinggah
26. Subak Sangkaragung
In the tranquil village of Sankaragung, these rice fields are quite flat but absolutely gorgeous. Perhaps not one of the best rice terraces in Bali but if you just so happen to stay in the area, it can be a stunning spot.
Location: Subak Sankaragung
27. Timpag Rice Terrace
These are in Tabanan, relatively close to Tanah Lot Temple. A vast, scenic set of rice fields and you can take your scooter for a ride through them.
Location: Timpag
28. Tiying Gading Rice Terraces
En route to Belimbing Rice Terraces are the Tiying Gading Rice Terraces. Aside from the scenic ride, there are a handful of Warungs where you can grab a coffee or some local food and enjoy the view.
Location: Tiying Gading Rice Terraces
Best Rice Terraces in South Bali
There aren’t any rice terraces in South Bali, primarily due to the region being less suitable for growing rice with the Subak system. In addition, most of South Bali is dedicated to commercial and residential properties.
However, you will come across sporadic privately owned rice fields. These are much smaller and you can find many of them in Seseh, Pererenan, and villages further west of Canggu.
Honourable Mentions
Here are a few honourable mentions that didn’t quite make the top of the best rice terraces in Bali. These rice fields are smaller and less stunning but still offer a well-needed escape to enjoy nature.
29. Kajeng Rice Field
One of the best rice terraces in Bali to go for a peaceful walk to get away from central Ubud. Go for a 30-minute stroll through the rice fields or grab a coffee at one of the cafes sprinkled along the path that starts on Jalan Kajeng.
Location: Kajeng Rice Field
30. Juwuk Manis Rice Fields
Subak Juwuk Manis (Juwuk Manis Rice Fields) is located relatively close to Kajeng Rice Field and Juwuk Manis Waterfall, so if Kajeng is not your cup of tea, you can make your way south to Juwuk Manis. There are a handful of small coffee shops if you feel like grabbing a cup.
Location: Subak Juwuk Manis
31. Banjar Gagah Rice Fields
Not exactly rice terraces but a quiet set of rice fields with almost no one in sight. Another great spot to enjoy a peaceful walk.
Location: Banjar Gagah, Tegallalang
32. Pejeng Rice Fields
Just a short drive from Ubud, the Pejeng Rice Fields offer a brief escape in Gianyar. Here you can get a glimpse of Bali’s rural life.
Location: Pejeng, Tampaksiring, Gianyar
33. Kedewatan Rice Fields
Quite a visual delight of a hidden gem in Ubud. There are a few hotels here that offer some panoramic views of the rice terraces from the balcony.
Location: Kedewatan Rice Fields
34. Sayan Rice Fields
If you’re staying in Sayan in Ubud, these rice fields are a small patch of land that you can easily access to enjoy some nature. Simple, but nothing special. Wouldn’t go out of my way to find them.
Location: Sayan Rice Fields
35. Penarungan Rice Fields
These are located in Desa Wisata Penarungan, a tourism village in Mengwi that offers an authentic Balinese rural experience. There’s a jogging track through the rice fields and you can also go for some lazy river tubing
Location: Desa Wisata Penarungan
36. Surapati Rice Field
Another small set of rice fields relatively close to Tirta Gangga, and a short drive from Sibetan Rice Terrace.
Location: Jl. Utung Surapati, Bebandem, Karangasem
37. Cangku Rice Terrace
These rice terraces are no longer functional so you’ll find them overgrown. If you’re in the area, it’s still a great spot to escape in nature.
Location: Cangku Rice Terrace
FAQs
Why should I visit rice terraces in Bali?
Regardless of which part of Bali you’re staying in, Bali’s rice terraces and rice fields are more than just a visual delight. Rice terraces in Bali offer a gateway to understanding the island’s deep integration to nature, culture, and tradition.
While many of the rice terraces in Bali are absolutely stunning, they also represent hundreds of years of agricultural innovation and cultural pride. They give you the opportunity and reminder to slow down and immerse yourself in the rural life.
How to visit Bali’s Rice Terraces by Car
You can book a private car and driver to see the most out of Bali in one day. You’ll be in the comfort of an air-conditioned SUV driven by a friendly, English-speaking driver, who will take you to any destinations of your choice.
How to visit Bali’s Rice Terraces by Scooter
If you’re renting a scooter in Bali, especially if you’re staying in Ubud, you can easily access many of Bali’s rice terraces. Having a scooter at your disposal can allow you to explore at your own pace.
What are the most popular rice terraces in Bali?
The most popular rice terraces in Bali are Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in Jatiluwih and Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud. These are the largest, most picturesque, and known globally for their beauty.
What is the Subak system?
If you’re doing some research on Bali’s rice terraces, you’ll come across the word “Subak” often. Subak refers to Bali’s traditional irrigation and water management system – the Subak System. It’s been utilized in Bali thousands of years among Bali’s rice farmers and is also deeply rooted in Balinese Hindu philosophy.
When to visit Rice Terraces in Bali?
Bali’s rice terraces are waiting for you all year round, with varying levels of beauty throughout the year.
What are rice terraces called in Bali?
In the Indonesian language (Bahasa Indonesia), rice terraces are called “Sawah” (pronounced “sah-wah”)
Why is Bali full of rice terraces?
Bali’s geography and climate offer the perfect conditions to grow rice. The volcanic soil, in combination to abundant rainfall and warm temperatures support rice farming in Bali. Rice is also a staple part of Bali and Indonesian diets.
