Tegalalang Rice Terrace: The Ultimate Guide For Visiting
No trip to Bali is complete without a visit to its famous temples, panoramic viewpoints, and lush rice fields. Whether it’s your first or third time, exploring these stunning landscapes will make you appreciate the beauty of Bali.
I can personally attest to this, as even after visiting Bali three times, I still find it fascinating to visit at least one or two rice fields.
One of the most famous rice fields in Bali is the Tegalalang Rice Terrace (also spelled as Tegallalang Rice Terrace). If you’re looking to explore Tegalalang, here is a complete guide on its location, how to get there, what to do, and even some alternative rice fields if you prefer a more peaceful and relaxing experience.
If you’re in a rush and looking for the best tour of Tegalalang Rice Terrace, I recommend this highly-rated tour. It includes access to the rice fields, a swing/skybike/zipline, and even access to a terraced swimming pool! Use my Klook Discount Code GLADISTRAVELS and get 5% off!
Brief History of Tegalalang Rice Terrace
Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a beautiful sight and a reminder of Bali’s rich agricultural history.
The terraces were created using the Subak system, a Balinese irrigation method that dates back over a thousand years. These terraces showcase Balinese ingenuity and sustainable farming practices.
The Subak system ensures each farmer gets their fair share. Water is sourced from surrounding rivers and mountains, and farmers have built water canals to allow the water to flow from one field to the other.
Tegalalang has been a symbol of Bali’s agricultural prowess for generations. The intricate network of terraces is believed to have been cultivated since the 8th century.
The “subak” system aligns with the Balinese philosophy of “Tri Hita Karana,” emphasizing harmony among people, nature, and the spiritual realm.
This cultural philosophy significantly influences the meticulous care given to the rice fields, regarded as sacred symbols of prosperity.
As you walk through the lush green steps of the rice terrace, remember that each terrace tells a story of ancient agricultural wisdom and the locals’ profound connection to their land.
Where is Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali located?
Located in Tegallalang, a district within the Gianyar Regency, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is approximately 10 km north of Ubud.
Tegalalang Rice Field is not a specific spot but an area. If you follow the pin of Google Maps it will lead you to UMA Ceking Terrace.
Unfortunately, Tegallalang is no longer visible without entering private attraction spots or restaurants such as Aloha Ubud, UMA Ceking, and other local restaurants.
Decide which one you would like to view it from (I’ll help you with some options below) or go to one location and check the others nearby before paying the entrance fee.
Note that the internet connection is not good around this area, so you might encounter problems if you choose to transfer and book a Grab/Gojek.
Which is the Best Spot to see Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
There are several places to enjoy Tegalalang Rice Terrace, many of which offer swings, photo spots, restaurants with views, and even Luwak coffee tasting. Here’s a list of both popular and hidden spots to see the rice terrace.
Aloha Ubud Swing
Full Swing Package: 400,000 IDR (5 Swings, 2 Nests, Butterfly Garden)
Best for: Photography and Instagrammable Photos
If you’re looking for the full Instagrammable experience with Bali swings, cute nests overlooking rice fields, and even coffee tasting, this is the place to go.
According to my friend Montana, who visited here recently in November 2023, it’s a nice place to visit once for the full experience.
The place has five different swings, offers long dress rentals, and even provides a professional photographer who will take your photos.
I also find their swings among the most thrilling. At first, I found it funny to pay for 10 rounds of swing but when I tried it, I would gladly do it again.
I remember flying into the air, feeling alive, screaming like a kid, and requesting “higher” heights.
With all this grandeur, Aloha Ubud Swing is expensive (around 400,000 IDR | 26 USD for the full package) and can get crowded.
Lines used to take up to two hours, although it has lessened over the years. Montana mentioned it only took her about 15 minutes. Skip the line by booking online and get 5% off with Klook code GLADISTRAVELS.
UMA Ceking Resto and Swing
Entrance (including nests and rice terrace hike): 50,000 IDR
Single Swing + Entrance: 200,000 IDR
Full Swing Package: 300,000 IDR
*Free entrance to their restaurant
Best for: Rice Terrace Hike, Dining, and Swing Experience with less crowd
Uma Ceking and Resto is another great spot to witness the beauty of Tegalalang Rice Terrace. The restaurant offers a unique and laid-back dining experience where you can enjoy delicious dishes or a fresh coconut with a panoramic view of the lush green rice paddies.
Apart from dining, you can also swing through the rice fields (although it’s less thrilling than the one in Aloha Ubud), zip through the air, and relax in picturesque nests at a more budget-friendly rate compared to Aloha Ubud.
The best part is that it’s not as crowded as Aloha Ubud so you can enjoy a walk to the rice fields without hassle.
PRO TIP: Looking for a full day of adventure? Enjoy jungle ATV and rating after your swing at UMA Ceking on this highly rated tour. Get 5% off with discount code GLADISTRAVELS.
Cretya Ubud by Alas Harum Bali
Entance to Rice Terrace + Pools: 50,000 IDR
Extreme Swing: 175,000 IDR / Super Extreme: 225,000 IDR
Sky Bike: 225,000 IDR
Best for: Relaxing by the pool and extreme swing options
If you prefer to swim your way through the Rice Fields instead of walking, head to the terraced-inspired pools of Cretya Ubud.
For 50,000 IDR, you can enjoy the pools all day and night, stroll down into their rice fields, and even dine and unwind with their in-house DJ – all while soaking in the breathtaking view of Tegalalang Rice Terrace. Get discounted tickets here + 5% off with GLADISTRAVELS Klook code.
You can also opt for a daybed or cabana for 2,000,000+ IDR, which includes consumables for food and drinks. Keep in mind that Cretya can get crowded, so if you’re yearning for a more serene experience, arrive early at 8 a.m.
Mupu Rice Terrace
Entrance Fee: FREE, donation only (please donate!)
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path authentic rice fields walk experience
If you’re looking for an authentic rice fields experience without the crowd, head to Mupu Rice Terrace. It’s a rice farm owned and maintained by a lovely farmer couple.
They will walk with you and explain their farming practices and processes. After the walk, you can relax in their hammock and benches or even take a swing with the stunning view of Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
Mupu Rice Terrace is free to enter, including the tour and the swing. It operates on a donation basis (please donate; I suggest the amount you would pay at another crowded rice terrace).
You can also purchase drinks like fresh coconut from them at fair prices. The entrance is through Tis Cafe, down the hill, and across the bridge. Mupu Rice Terrace officially begins once you cross over the river.
If you’re looking for similar off-the-beaten-path rice fields in the center of Ubud, head to Kajeng Rice Field and Subak Juwuk Manis.
How to Get to Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
To get to Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali, the most flexible and convenient option is to rent a motorbike. Alternatively, you can book a ride through ride-hailing services such as Grab or Gojek.
PRO TIP: The Internet signal is slow and sometimes unavailable in this area. So, before leaving the restaurant, ask to connect to the Wi-Fi and book your ride back home.
Things to Do in Tegalalang Rice Terrace
While the Tegalalang Rice Terrace alone is a magnificent sight, there are also several activities you can do with it such as swings, bird nest spots, Luwak Coffee tasting, and savoring Balinese meals and fresh coconuts with a view.
Bali Swings
Swinging into the rice fields of Tegalalang is like diving into a living painting. I’ve experienced three different swings in my three visits to Bali, and each swing is still equally magical.
The Bali swing experience was pure magic—soaring above the lush green terraces, feeling the wind rush by. It’s not just a thrill; it’s a dance with nature, an adventure that connects you to the soulful essence of Tegalalang and even your inner child.
Walk into the Rice Fields
Walking into the lush rice fields of Tegalalang is, for me, the highlight of the visit. I feel amazed at the unique irrigation system that sustains the fields and holds spiritual significance for the community.
It’s a beautiful experience and not just a simple walk. I feel a spiritual connection with the earth that’s very relaxing.
Luwak Coffee Tasting
Luwak coffee stands out as Bali’s most authentic coffee. This unique brew involves harvesting ripe Arabica coffee beans, which are consumed by civet cats, or luwaks.
The digestive process of Luwaks partially ferments the beans, eliminating chaff and flesh. After the Luwaks excrete the beans, farmers carefully handpick, wash, dry, and roast them, resulting in a distinctive and flavorful coffee.
I took part in one of the tours around a coffee plantation where they also showed the process of drying and roasting the beans and then they gave us 14 small cups of teas and coffees to try.
Zipline and Skybike
Want to soar through the sky without a swing? You can also experience Tegalalang Rice Fields via a zipline or skybike (yes, it’s a bike in the sky).
Perfect for beginners, your professional guide will ensure you grasp how to operate your sky bike and walk you through safety procedures. At around 50 meters high, you can enjoy the view of the blue sky and Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
PRO TIP: Book your zipline and skybike adventure online and get discounted tickets. Use my Klook code: GLADISTRAVELS and get additional 5% off!
My Experience in Tegalalang Rice Terrace
I’ve visited Tegalalang Rice Terrace twice – four years apart.
In 2019, as part of our company trip to Bali, we went to Aloha Ubud. That was where I first experienced the Bali swing.
Although most tourists try the Bali swing for the Instagrammable photo, I really liked the thrill of it.
I enjoyed the adrenaline as I soared into the air, surrounded by the panoramic view of the rice terraces. It was a moment of pure thrill that I still remember today.
Fast forward to 2023, and I found myself back in Tegalalang, this time at Uma Ceking, another place to see the rice terrace. We had our graduation for my yoga teacher’s training there.
After the ceremony, we stayed and roamed around the place, and I tried their swings. The swings, though less heart-pounding (perhaps owing to a string of adventures, including bungee jumping, over the past five years), offered a different charm – a more serene and relaxing experience.
What struck me most was the noticeable decrease in the crowd compared to Aloha Ubud. With fewer people around, I walk into the rice fields and immerse myself in nature.
The rice terraces became more than just a scenic backdrop. They became a tranquil sanctuary, grounding me in the simplicity and beauty of Bali’s lush landscapes.
My came to visit me in Bali a week after and we returned to UMA Ceking. This time, I sat down at their restaurant and enjoyed the view of rice fields while my sister tried their swings.
Tegalalang, with its swings and beautiful terraces, had evolved for me – from an adrenaline-fueled escapade to a peaceful connection with nature. Each visit is a unique chapter. As I mentioned, you can always visit a rice terrace and maybe have a different experience.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace Entrance Fee
Tegalalang Rice Terrace itself doesn’t impose an entrance fee. However, various establishments along the terraces may charge a fee or donation for access to their specific viewpoints.
The fees can vary, typically ranging from 10,000 IDR (approximately USD 0.70) at certain spots to 50,000 IDR (around USD 3.50) if you’re entering from Uma Ceking.
Some establishments include the entrance fee as part of the swing ticket price. Confirm the specific charges with the respective establishments before your visit.
Tegalalang Rice Terrace Opening Hours
Tegalalang Rice Terrace is technically open 24 hours, but let’s be real – the daytime is when the magic happens so, anytime between 8 AM and 6 PM (the unofficial official opening hours) is ideal.
Keep in mind that while Tegalalang itself is always ready for visitors, individual establishments may have different hours. So, if you have a particular spot in mind, it’s a good idea to check their opening times, as these may vary.
Best Time to Visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The ideal time to visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace depends on your preferences. If you want to see the rice fields at their greenest, visit during March, August, or September.
During the harvesting period in April and October, the fields turn into a golden-yellow hue, offering a distinct visual spectacle.
December and February, Bali’s rainy season, also turn the terraces into their vibrant green splendor. However, during this time, the walkways can be muddy and slippery. Hence, it’s important to wear sturdy and gripping shoes.
To avoid the crowds and escape the intense afternoon heat, visit early in the morning. Alternatively, late afternoon, between 3 PM and 5:30 PM, offers a quieter atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
The most beautiful moments at Tegalalang happen during sunrise and sunset. For the best light for photography, visit during sunrise and the hour immediately after. It will provide a unique opportunity to capture the terraces in a softer, enchanting glow.
What do you wear at Tegallalang Rice Terrace?
For your visit to Tegalalang Rice Terrace, wear comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather.
Light and Comfortable Clothing: Opt for lightweight and loose-fitting clothes that will keep you cool in the tropical climate.
If you plan on taking a swing for a stunning photo wear a lightweight, long dress. This style creates a captivating effect as the dress appears to wave in the breeze while you swing, adding an extra touch of flair to your photos. Dress rentals are also available in some swings.
Comfortable Footwear: Choose comfortable and sturdy shoes suitable for walking, as you explore the narrow pathways and uneven terrain of the rice terrace.
What to Bring to Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
- Comfortable Footwear: Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the terraces or trek through the fields. You’ll be walking on muddy stairs, especially during the rainy season so be prepared!
- Hat and Sunscreen: Bali can get really hot. Protect yourself from the sun. A hat and/or a sunscreen with high SPF are must-haves.
- Light long dress: For those stunning photos, consider bringing a light, flowy long dress. Renting can be expensive (around 150,000 IDR -250,000 IDR) so having your stylish outfit can save you some money for some fresh coconuts.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning to spend a few hours exploring. Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.
- Cash: While some areas might accept card payments, it’s always good to have cash on hand for entrance fees, local vendors, or small purchases.
- Rain Gear (during the wet season): If you’re visiting in the rainy season, bring a poncho, an umbrella, or a waterproof jacket to stay dry.
- Bug Repellent: If you’re sensitive to insect bites, applying bug repellent can be helpful, especially if you’re visiting nature spots.
Where to Stay in Tegalalang
Fascinated by the Tegalalang rice terraces? Why not spend a night and wake up to the stunning view?
K Club Ubud
K Club Ubud offers organic villas and a unique glamping tent experience. The resort also features a yoga studio and gym, as well as an in-house dining experience that is known for its exquisite, high-quality food. At night, you’ll enjoy a live band, drinks, and other performances in the Jungle Club.
The Kayon Jungle Resort
Kayon Jungle Resort is a luxury Boutique resort with large bedrooms and various packages where you can have a massage, spa, and yoga classes. You’ll also have access to its one-of-a-kind Wanna Jungle Pool and Bar, which was inspired by the gentle curves of Tegalalang Rice Terrace.
Anandari Ubud Villa
Anandari Ubud Villa is a sustainable villa located in Ubud that offers environmentally friendly accommodations with breathtaking mountain views. You’ll also enjoy a floating breakfast at their private infinity pool overlooking Tegalalang Rice Terrace. It’s an experience that is sure to delight all your senses!
Staying in Tegallalang? Here are the best hotels in Tegallalang, Bali.
FAQs: Tegalalang Rice Terrace
How long do you need to visit Tegalalang Rice Terrace?
For a quick visit to Tegalalang Rice Terrace, 1-2 hours should be enough for walking around the fields and trying out a swing. If you plan to explore more, relax, perhaps enjoy a meal, or trek the rice terrace, allocate 3-4 hours.
Can you visit Tegalalang during the rainy season?
Yes, you can visit. It’s way less crowded and more relaxing but be prepared for muddy and slippery walkways. Wear shoes with a good grip.
How much does Bali swing cost?
The cost of Bali swings varies depending on the location and the included amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around 100,000 to 300,000 IDR, equivalent to approximately 7 to 21 USD, for a swing experience in popular spots like Tegalalang.
Is Tegallalang Rice Terraces worth it?
If you’re in Bali for a quick getaway and looking forward to experiencing those iconic rice fields and famous swings, Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a must! It’s near Ubud and it offers a lot of activities in one spot.
But if you’re all about the fields minus the crowd, check out Kajeng Rice Fields and Juwuk Manis Rice Field for a more serene vibe.
Ready to take a swing or sight a Tegalalang? Let me know how it goes!
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Slow Travel Planning Guide
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It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
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I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISTRAVELS”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
🚗 Is renting a motorbike a good idea in Bali?
Absolutely! If you can drive a motorbike, I highly recommend renting one through BikesBooking. Bali doesn’t have a good public transport. We saved a lot of time and money in Bali by having a motorbike, and it was so much fun!
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I’m hoping to travel to Bali in 2024 so I’m saving these recommendations!
I’ve been to Bali twice but I still haven’t visited a rice terrace yet! I’ll have to book another visit to explore this spot. It sounds like a gorgeous spot to visit in Bali. Thanks for sharing all your tips for visiting this spot!
There are a lot of beautiful things to do in Bali, so I would understand why. But a rice terrace definitely deserves a spot!
Such an insightful guide with beautiful pictures and ideas! Definitely putting this on my bucket list – thank you 🙂
Wonderful guide and love the look of the swings, thank you!
Wow! Talk about the ultimate instgrammable travel destination! The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are amazing!! Thank you for such a complete guide.