Photo: Stefan Fussan (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Nature · Indonesia
Bali's rice terraces
A day among the terraces of Tegallalang and Jatiluwih, watered by the subak system for centuries. Quiet green views for families and photographers.
Bali · Indonesia
The experience
Rice terraces are the first image most people have of Bali. Behind them is the subak, a traditional irrigation system that shares spring and river water between fields through cooperation between farmers and temples. UNESCO added this cultural landscape to the World Heritage List in 2012.
We start early at Tegallalang, north of Ubud, before the coaches arrive. The terraces fall into a narrow valley framed by coconut palms, and you can walk the paths between the fields with your guide.
We then drive about an hour and a half to Jatiluwih, on the slopes of Mount Batukaru, where the terraces spread across a wide, open and quieter landscape. Lunch is at a restaurant overlooking the fields, chosen for its halal dishes.
The best light is early morning or late afternoon, and the fields are greenest in the weeks before harvest. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a hat.
Where to stay
Stays close by
Beachfront
Bali
The St. Regis Bali Resort
A resort of suites and villas on the calm beach at Nusa Dua in south Bali, set around a large lagoon, with St. Regis butler service for every guest.
Price on requestExplore
Beachfront
Bali
AYANA Resort Bali
A large resort on the cliffs above the Indian Ocean at Jimbaran, part of the 90-hectare AYANA estate with about 30 restaurants and cafés and a spa known for its seawater pool.
Price on requestExplore
Jungle and rice terraces
Bali
Padma Resort Ubud
A 149-room resort in Puhu village north-west of Ubud, overlooking the forests of the Payangan valley, known for its heated infinity pool and kids' club.
Price on requestExplore
Indonesia
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