Whether you’re visiting Bali for 1 week or 1 month, you definitely need to add Jatiluwih to your places to visit while in Bali. The village itself is a preserved wonder of Bali that offers you a unique perspective.
Being a bit further towards the north of Bali, it’s often overlooked by the tourist masses. But the village itself and surrounding areas seem to be stuck in time, giving you an opportunity to look back into Bali’s rich cultural history.
Here are 12 (and more) memorable things to do in Jatiluwih while spending a day exploring.
1. Visit Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The main reason you would likely want to visit Jatiluwih is for the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – 600 hectares of iconic rice terraces. Whether you’re going to Jatiluwih from Ubud, Seminyak, or Canggu, the drive itself is quite scenic.
Jatiluwih as a whole is an important region for Bali’s culture, being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rice terraces stretch far beyond the eye can see, fading into the horizon.
Entrance Fee: 50k IDR (included in Jatiluwih tours)
Address: Jl Jatiluwih Kawan, Desa Jatiluwih, Penebel
2. Cycling Tour through the rice terraces
There’s a couple of ways to experience Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, and this is one of them. The Jatiluwih Cycling Tour takes you on a 2.5 – 3 hour journey through a beautiful stretch of the rice terraces.
The cycling tour is lead by your personal friendly, english-speaking tour guide. He or she will take you through the rice fields and explain some of Jatiluwih’s cultural history. You’ll also stop at a local warung and Pura Luhur Besi Kalung (Besi Kalung Temple) – one of Bali’s oldest temples that’s been around since the 9th century.
Included in the Jatiluwih Cycling Tour is a complimentary lunch. You’ll also have your own personal car and driver for the rest of the day to explore Jatiluwih or wherever else you feel like visiting.
Yes, an actual hidden gem in Bali. Just under 2 km from the main area of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, Yeh Hoo Waterfall looks like something out of a fantasy adventure film.
At the entrance, there is a local warung (small stall), here you’ll be asked to pay a small donation of 10,000 IDR ($1.00 AUD). This goes towards maintaining the premises and keeping it clean. You’ll be directed to a small footpath that leads toward Yeh Hoo Waterfall.
The hike to Yeh Hoo Waterfall is quite easy and takes about 3 to 4 minutes. After a couple of flights of stairs down, you’ll hear the roar of the cascading water. Bring an extra set of clothes if you want to go for a dip in the water! You can also visit Yeh Hoo Waterfall during my Jatiluwih Cultural Day Tour.
Entrance Fee: 10k IDR
Address: Senganan, Penebel, Tabanan Regency
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 9:00am to 6:00 pm
4. Trekking the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Your entrance fee to Jatiluwih will include access to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. There are a few trails to take through the rice terraces, may of which are lined with coconut trees, providing sporadic shade along the path.
The trails are relatively easy and you don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to go trekking. There’s the red trail, blue trail, and white trail – you’ll see the signs posted at the start of each. The white trail is the longest in Jatiluwih and partially runs through the forest.
Entrance Fee: Free (included in Jatiluwih Entrance Fee)
Address: Jl Jatiluwih Kawan, Desa Jatiluwih, Penebel
5. Lunch overlooking Jatiluwih rice terraces
You’ll have a few choices for deciding where to eat in Jatiluwih. Grab a bite for lunch while admiring the vastness of the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. Bhuana Agung Restaurant has a spot just on the ledge of the hill where you can sit and watch the rice terraces disappear into the horizon.
Their menu features both Indonesian and Western cuisines, with options ranging from pizza, to Indonesian fried rice, to burgers. I tried their omelette for breakfast which was quite satisfying. There’s several seating areas, but the best spot is the terrace looking out to Jatiluwih. If it’s too hot for you, they also have indoor seating.
Alternatively, if it’s midday and the sun is way too hot to enjoy sitting outside, try heading to Gong Jatiluwih – probably the most popular restaurant here. They have a massive balcony and sometimes feature live entertainment.
Price range: 35k to 100k
Address: Jl. Jatiluwih Kawan, Jatiluwih, Penebel
Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
6. Pura Taman Ayun – a 16th century temple
Bali’s temples are some of the most interesting in the world with their unique architecture and Pura Taman Ayun (Taman Ayun Temple) makes the list of one of the best temples in Bali.
This Bali temple dates all the way back to the 16th century, built by the Mengwi Empire. It has a rich history and is still active to this day. The temple property itself is quite massive and surrounded by a large moat. Once inside, you’ll find several courtyards, structures, and cultural art.
The entrance fee for Taman Ayun Temple is currently 30,000 IDR for tourists. If you’re wearing shorts or short skirts, your entrance fee also includes a sarong, a fabric tied around your waist that covers your lower half. This is required to enter the temple’s premises. If you’re wear long pants, you’re good to go.
Entrance Fee: 30k IDR
Address: Jl. Ayodya No 10, Mengwi
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 8:00 am – 6:15 pm
7. Batu Karu Kopi – Coffee with a view
On your way to the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, you’ll pass this small gem of a cafe. Located on the hillside on the main road, Batu Karu Kopi faces the beautiful Mount Batukaru (Gunung Batukaru) with vast rice terraces in the foreground.
The menu is quite minimalist but features enough to enjoy a stop at Batu Karu Kopi. You’ll find a few selections of coffee, smoothies, juices, and some breakfast options. Their coffee is home-grown and home-roasted, being 100% organic. Their family farm is located on Mount Batukaru.
I highly recommend trying one of their signature blends ‘Coffee Ginger Cooler.’ Quite a kicker if you’re visiting during the midday heat. Ask for the caramel syrup on the side if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth.
Price Range: 45k – 90k IDR
Address: Jl Batu Luwih Kawan, Jatiluwih, Penebel
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri (9:00am to 5:00pm) Sat – Sun (8:00am to 6:00pm)
8. Go River Tubing
The kids will definitely love this one, but as an adult, I’m sure you would too! You can kick back and float around in a natural lazy river at a spot called Babahan Crystal Water, another Jatiluwih hidden gem on this list known mostly by locals only.
The road leading to the main river tubing spot is a bit tough to access with a car, so you’ll need to go on a short hike. Alternatively, if you’re renting a scooter in Bali, the ride is much easier. There’s a couple of stalls that rent out the tubes to go river rubing. Be on the lookout for one called Wr Tepi Sawah or Warung Rindu.
Here you can rent a tube or pool donut for 20,000 IDR. Once you’re in the river, you can enjoy a slow ride through the rice fields with the mountains in the background.
Entrance Fee: 10k IDR – 25k IDR
Address: Babahan, Penebel, Tabanan
9. Visit a Coffee Plantation
Coffee is engrained as part of the culture in both Bali and the rest of Indonesia, and some can get quite creative. Part of the Jatiluwih Day Tour also takes you to Hidden Garden Coffee Plantation, where you can try different types of coffee and tea.
When you arrive at Hidden Garden Coffee (also known as Hidden Garden Agriculture), you’ll be greeted by their wonderful staff who will guide you to your seat. You’ll be given a massive sample collection of freshly made coffee and tea to try, including avocado coffee, rosella tea, Red rice tea, and many more. You can also try a cup of Luwak coffee for 50,000 IDR.
They also have a shop downstairs if you’d like to buy a bag of their coffee or tea. Prices range from 150,000 to 300,000 IDR, however, there is no pressure to buy anything.
Entrance Fee: Free (plus free coffee tasters)
Address: Jl Baturiti, Mekarsari, Tabanan
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
10. Angseri Hot Springs
Known locally as Air Panas Angseri, these hot springs offer a great chance to spend some time in nature’s tranquility. Many years ago, Angseri Hot Springs was used as a local bathing area.
You’ll have a few sections to choose from, including 4 enclosed private areas. Personally, I’d choose the private rooms if I were with family or a group of friends. Otherwise, the open-air pool areas are just fine, and it’s also more enjoyable being outdoors.
This is a bring-your-own-stuff facility. There aren’t any towel rentals available so remember to pack your own. There’s also nowhere to secure your bags but you can leave your valuables in the car with your driver to guard them.
Entrance Fee: 35k – 45k IDR
Address: Angseri, Bangli, Baturiti, Tabanan
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
11. Hike Mount Batukaru
Standing at over 2200 metres above sea level, Mount Batukaru (Gunung Batukaru) is the 2nd highest mountain in all of Bali, right after Mount Agung.
It’s a 10 hour climb to conquer Batukaru, so it’s not for the casual hikers. The journey is known to be challenging as it takes you on narrow, steep trails through the rainforest. But the trek is also a scenic, adventurous one, with the opportunity to come across wild monkeys, anteaters, and even small deer.
12. Go Glamping in Jatiluwih
Glamping can be a great way to enjoy Jatiluwih’s nature without giving up too much modern day luxuries. Imagine waking up to the cool north Bali air and seeing the mountains slowly being revealed by the morning sun.
There are a handful of campsites that offer a glamping experience with a view of the mountains.
- Puku Pods
- Sang Giri Mountain Glamping Bali
- Bara Mountain Cabin
- Rindu Glamping
Other attractions near Jatiluwih
Since you’ll be in Tabanan (the regency Jatiluwih is located in), you might have some time to squeeze in a few other destinations in your itinerary. The attractions below are all located within the Tabanan Regency
Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
The iconic Bali floating temple – Ulun Danu Beratan Temple (or Pura Ulun Danu Beratan) is much further north of Bali and considered one of the best temples in Bali. Often times, Jatiluwih itself is a popular stop on the way to Ulun Danu Beratan.
I do have an itinerary for the Ulun Danu Beratan Tour where you can experience the floating temple itself along with the Handarah Gates and Bedugul Market. Your driver can also take you further north to see Gitgit waterfalls.
Secret Garden Village
This is a massive complex dedicated to educative tourism. Secret Garden Village is a 35,000 metre squared property showcasing brilliant architecture and several restaurants. You’ll have to pay to enter but your ticket is essentially a voucher which you can use to spend. Tickets range from 50k to 100k IDR
Belulang Hot Springs
Belulang is another Hot Springs near Jatiluwih but I wouldn’t recommend it over Angseri as it’s known to be under-maintained. Although it’s cheaper than Angseri Hot Springs, you’ll probably only save a dollar or 2. Then again keep in mind, this one isn’t much of a designated ‘tourist’ destination.
Desa Coklat Bali
Desa Coklat Bali, or Bali Chocolate Village in English, is another organic cacao farm and chocolate factory located relatively close to Jatiluwih. They’re known for making CAU Chocolates, a local chocolate brand. The property is surrounded by rice fields and is quite a nice place to enjoy some hot chocolate or coffee.
They also sell chocolate education tickets if you’d like to learn more about the process. If you’re just casually visiting, there’s a cafe & restaurant on the premises.
Leke Leke Waterfall
Considered one of the best waterfalls in Bali. Leke Leke Waterfall is just a short, easy 15-20 minute hike on a clear path through the jungle and over some bamboo bridges. Leke Leke Waterfall is situated in a narrow gorge surrounded by high walls so it won’t be too hot here.
Tabanan Anom Palace
Also known as Tabanan Royal Palace or Puri Anom Tabanan. Dedicated to one of the kings who reigned during a time when Tabanan was a kingdom. Not a very popular destination among tourists but a wonderful place to learn about Bali’s cultural and spiritual history.
How to get to Jatiluwih?
Jatiluwih is situated in the centre of Bali so it will definitely make for a fun mini road trip. To get to Jatiluwih from Seminyak, it’s almost a straight 1 hour 30 minute ride towards the North where you’ll pass through Kerobokan, Dalung, Sempidi and Mengwi villages. As you get closer to Jatiluwih, the route becomes more scenic.
If you’re heading to Jatiluwih from Ubud, it’ll take you about 1 hour 20 minutes, and perhaps a bit more of a complicated route with more turns to take.
There’s a few options for transport. You can either book a private car and driver for the day and create your own itinerary with your driver, or you can simply book the Jatiluwih Day Tour which already includes entrance fees to Jatiluwih.
If you’re renting a scooter in Bali, it can also be a fun ride. Keep in mind as you get further north, some of the roads get much smaller and there’s tons of sharp turns. If you’re not used to driving a scooter, I would recommend getting a car to be safe.
At the entrance of Jatiluwih you’ll come across a checkpoint where you can pay your entrance fees. If there’s a line-up, don’t stress too much – the line moves quite fast. After paying the entrance fee, you’ll be provided with a receipt. Keep this in your pocket because some of the attractions, especially the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, will ask you to show this receipt.
If you booked the Jatiluwih Day Tour or the Jatiluwih Cycling Tour, your entrance fees are already included and your driver will have the cash on hand to handle the payment at the checkpoint.
When is the best time to visit Jatiluwih?
In my opinion, Jatiluwih is a great area to visit during any time of the year. But perhaps much more picturesque when the rice terraces are flooded.
From late January until the end of April, you’ll experience the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces in full bloom. From July until August, you’ll likely witness the local Balinese farmers at work – the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces aren’t just for show, they’re still play an active role in the local rice industry.
Since Jatiluwih is at a higher elevation, it’s generally much cooler than South Bali, but it can still get quite hot during the noon hours when the midday heat kicks in.
On Saturdays and Sundays it might get a bit crowded near the Jatiluwih Lookout area. During the weekdays it’s relatively quiet.
Is Jatiluwih suitable for Kids?
Jatiluwih is full of adventure of both grown-ups and kids. Within a day, you can experience some of the best waterfalls, temples, and rice terraces.
I reckon the kids would enjoy the cycling tour, and especially the chocolate factories / farms. Yeh Hoo Waterfall will also blown their little minds away.
Where to eat in Jatiluwih?
Food options are quite limited in Jatiluwih but you’ll have a handful of restaurants to choose from. On the main road, you’ll find all of them lined up facing the rice terraces, so you will likely have a great view of the rice terraces wherever you choose to eat.
- Gong Jatiluwih
- Bhuana Agung Restaurant
- The Gafel Okokan
- Jatiluwih Resto
- CataVaca Jatiluwih
- Dhea Jatiluwih
- The Rustic Bali
- Batu Karu Kopi
- Girisha Wahana & Restaurant
Explore Jatiluwih with a Private Car and Driver
You can experience the best of Jatiluwih in the comfort of a private, well-maintained, air-conditioned SUV, driven by a personally-vetted, English-speaking driver. My Jatiluwih Day Tour is a balanced itinerary that includes some of the attractions I mentioned above. You can also freely modify your itinerary and choose your own stops as you please, and move at your own pace.
Entrance fees to Jatiluwih are also included in the booking, so you won’t have to worry too much about bringing extra IDR cash. The tour also offers optional child seats and personal photographer.
