How rice is grown in Bali - the island’s unique terraces

Among the lush greenery and gentle slopes of the island of Bali, the main crop grows, which not only supports the residents, but is also an important part of its heritage - rice.

The rice terraces of Bali are not just agricultural wonders, they are a symbol of harmony between nature and human ingenuity. These terraces, like emerald steps, go down along the hillsides, creating a unique landscape that fascinates tourists from all over the world.

In this article, we will dive into the art and science of growing rice in Bali and get to know the famous green terraces that mainly reflect the landscapes of the island.

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The art of growing rice

Rice terraces in Bali are an important part of the local culture and economy. Rice is the main food product in Indonesia, and its plantations provide a livelihood for many farmers.

Growing rice in Bali is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the island. The process begins with land preparation, when the fields are carefully plowed and leveled to create ideal conditions for planting.

One of the distinctive features of rice growing in Bali is the complex irrigation system called "subak", which was developed in ancient times and is considered a masterpiece of engineering. This communal water management system ensures the distribution of water between agricultural farms. It reflects the Balinese philosophy of "Tri Hita Karana", which emphasizes harmony of spirit, the human world, and nature.

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The most beautiful terraces in Bali

Multi-level rice fields not only serve a practical purpose, allowing the best use of arable land on the steep relief of the island, but also create breathtaking views, contrasting with the azure sky and creating a unique color palette.

Tegallalang

The rice terraces of Tegallalang are a famous tourist site located about 20 minutes by car from the town of Ubud. Cut into the hillsides like unusual cascading stairways, these lush terraces create a picturesque landscape and also show the skill and labor of many generations.

Visitors to the plantations can explore them on foot, walking along narrow paths between the fields. Here, stunning views open up at every step. Some tourists prefer to hire local guides who can tell about the history and culture of this area and also suggest the best places for photography.

Visit

To visit Tegallalang, you need to pay a symbolic fee, and small "donations" are also welcome. For an extra fee, you can ride swings, a sky bike, or a zipline here.

You can get to the Tegallalang rice terraces by rented transport, by taxi, or by joining an organized excursion. The best time to visit is early morning or evening, when the air is fresher, the light is softer, and there are no crowds.

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Jatiluwih

Like Tegallalang, Jatiluwih is among the best in Bali. These terraces are located near the tourist village of Jatiluwih in the Tabanan area, about 1.5-2 hours by car from Ubud, and are considered the largest on the island. Impressive views of the lush green fields become even more spectacular against the background of Mount Batukaru.

If you want to stay in the village longer, you can have a snack in local warungs, visit an organic Balinese cooking lesson, go trekking with a guide, ride a buggy, bicycle, or ATV, stay overnight in a comfortable villa, premium camping, or in a welcoming Balinese family homestay.

Visit

The entrance ticket price for foreigners starts from 40,000 Indonesian rupiah for children and from 50,000 Indonesian rupiah for adults. Extra parking fee.

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Sidemen

The rice terraces of Sidemen are a beautiful and peaceful place, about an hour’s drive from Ubud. They are not as popular as Jatiluwih or Tegallalang, but they offer no less beautiful views of lush rice fields with Agung, the highest mountain of Bali, in the background.

Sidemen is not so extensive, but it has its own unique charm. It is located in a rural area where you can enjoy a more authentic atmosphere. There are a number of guest houses and hotels in this area. In the surroundings there are many routes for hiking and cycling, and you can also attend cooking master classes and get to know the local culture and way of life.

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Pererenan

The rice terraces of Pererenan are not so large, but they have their own charm and are an important part of the culture and landscape of the country. Technically, these are not multi-level terraces, but rather flat fields that stretch along the main road. They are located not far from Canggu, a popular tourist center known for its beach, surfing, and yoga.

The drive along this road is very picturesque because rice fields spread out on both sides. On the way, you may see local farmers taking care of their land. Horse riding is also often offered in this area.

One of the advantages of the rice terraces of Pererenan is that they are not crowded, and you will be able to enjoy the landscapes in silence and also take excellent photos. A visit to Pererenan is a peaceful rest and an opportunity to see a more traditional side of Bali.

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Munduk

Picturesque rice fields spread out in a mountain area in the north of Bali. Unlike the more curved terraces of Tegallalang, Munduk is located on a gentler landscape. The cool temperature and lush greenery create a picturesque and peaceful atmosphere of the place.

In the surroundings, you can do various outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, and also visit a waterfall. In addition, several guest houses are located in this area.

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Kerobokan

These emerald terraces allow for slow walks, diving into picturesque landscapes, and watching farmers work in the fields. The terraces give photography lovers an excellent opportunity to capture the beauty of nature, especially during the "golden" hours of sunrise or sunset.

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Tirta Gangga

The name literally translates as "Sacred water of the Ganges". In Bali, it is used to refer to the whole area around the beautiful water palace built in 1946 by the king of Karangasem. The rice terraces surrounding the Tirta Gangga water palace are among the most photogenic in Bali and look like a lush green blanket stretching to the horizon against the background of the majestic Agung volcano.

Here you can take a walk or a bike ride, and also hire a local guide who will give a more detailed tour. In the surroundings there are several viewpoints with beautiful views.

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Rendang

The rice terraces of Rendang spread out in the village of the same name in the Karangasem regency, East Bali. They are quite extensive, with unique formations resembling the rice terraces of Jatiluwih or Tegallalang. Rendang is a great place for those who are looking for a peaceful holiday away from the noise of the island’s popular tourist areas. Here you can truly appreciate the beauty of the Balinese countryside and immerse yourself in authentic culture.

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Pupuan (Belimbing)

Located in the remote village of Belimbing in the Tabanan regency of West Bali, the terraces offer a peaceful rest among vast green landscapes. Visitors can walk through the terraced rice fields, enjoying beautiful views of Mount Batukaru and the surrounding countryside.

In Bali, growing rice is not just a harvest process, but a way of life. Farmers pass traditional knowledge from generation to generation for centuries. At the same time, they keep the ability to adapt, introducing modern tools and methods to meet the demands of a changing world.

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Wear comfortable shoes, take water and hats with you, and go explore the most unique places in Bali - the emerald spaces of rice terraces.