The Tegalalang rice terraces stretch 10 km north of Ubud, in the Gianyar regency, Bali. Perched at 600 metres elevation on the slopes of a valley, these cultivated terraces showcase Balinese agricultural expertise and the subak irrigation system, passed down since the 9th century. The site can be visited as a half-day trip from Ubud and is often combined with the neighbouring village of Pakudui.

Why visit the Tegalalang rice terraces

• A living agricultural landscape, still worked by local farmers
• An ancient irrigation system (subak) still in operation
• Hiking trails crossing the terraces, accessible to all
• Close proximity to Ubud and Pakudui's craftsmanship
• An open viewpoint over the valley from the upper sections

History and the subak system

Bali's terraced rice fields rely on the subak, a traditional irrigation system introduced in the 9th century and attributed to the saint Rsi Markandeya. This network of canals and water-sharing, organised around village cooperatives linked to temples, has shaped Bali's rice-growing landscapes for nearly a thousand years.

The subak as a cultural landscape has been inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List since 2012, through five representative sites across Bali. Tegalalang is not officially part of this, but the site applies the same principles of gravity-fed irrigation and community management as the listed rice fields, such as those of Jatiluwih.

What to see and do on site

The rice fields cascade in narrow terraces, separated by irrigation channels and planted with coconut trees. Several trails descend into the valley and then climb the opposite slope, allowing you to observe the mechanics of the subak up close and encounter farmers at work.

The viewpoints

The viewing platforms along the roadside on the eastern side offer the widest views over the amphitheatre of rice fields. For a less crowded experience, it's better to descend via the trails and reach the upper terraces on the western slope.

The village of Pakudui

In the immediate vicinity, within the Tegalalang craft area, the village of Pakudui specialises in wood carving. Family workshops display their pieces along the road: mythical lions, Garuda figures, dragons, decorative panels. It's an opportunity to observe a craft passed down through generations.

When to visit the rice terraces

The visual appearance depends on the rice cycle, which has two to three harvests per year in Bali. The terraces are most photogenic:

• 1 to 2 months after transplanting: rice fields a deep green, water still visible between the plants
• Before harvest: golden ears and warm light
• Just after harvesting, the landscape is more mineral and less flattering in photographs

The dry season, from April to October, offers the best walking conditions and visibility. At midday, the light is harsh: prefer late morning or late afternoon.

Practical information

• Entrance fee: modest, payable on site in Indonesian rupiah; a supplementary donation is sometimes requested for crossing certain private plots
• Parking: paid, low rate
• Duration of visit: allow 1 hour for the viewpoints, 2 to 3 hours with a walk through the terraces
• What to bring: closed-toe shoes (trails muddy after rain), water, hat, small change
• Recommended time window: early morning to avoid crowds and afternoon heat

How to get there

Tegalalang is most easily reached by car with driver, scooter or via a ride-sharing app from Ubud:

• From Ubud: approximately 25 minutes' drive (10 km north)
• From Denpasar or the airport: approximately 2 hours depending on traffic

The road is winding but in good condition. A scooter offers the most flexibility to stop at the various viewpoints spread over several kilometres.

Combine with nearby attractions

• Ubud: Bali's cultural centre and a logical base for exploring
• Bali Botanic Garden: approximately one hour's drive away, in the highlands of Bedugul
• The craft village of Pakudui, adjacent to the site
• The temples in the Gianyar region, on the return route to Ubud

Frequently asked questions

Continue your journey

The Tegalalang rice terraces fit naturally into an itinerary centred on Ubud and central Bali. To plan the rest of your trip, explore our Indonesia travel ideas.