Green terraces
Paddies stepping down a valley.
Stefan Fussan — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Stefan Fussan — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Philip Nalangan — CC BY 4.0 · Philip Nalangan — CC BY 4.0
Bali's most famous rice terraces: a green valley whose sides step down in paddies like staircases, framed by coconut palms, about ten kilometres north of Ubud. The fields are watered by the traditional subak irrigation system, developed by the Balinese from the ninth century, in which villages share water through channels and water temples. Visitors walk narrow paths between the paddies down to the valley floor and up the far side, passing tall swings over the valley, photo platforms and cafes overlooking the terraces. The colour changes with the farming season, from bright green to gold just before harvest. Entry is a token fee or donation of roughly twenty-five to fifty thousand rupiah, and farmers may ask small sums to cross some paths. The swings and photo platforms cost more, separately. Bali's tourist levy is separate. Come early in the morning, before the heat and the tour buses, when the light is lovelier and the paths quieter. The paths are slippery after rain, so wear suitable shoes. Many combine it with Tirta Empul temple in one outing.
Paddies stepping down a valley.
Traditional irrigation since the 9th century.
Tall swings for photos, paid separately.
Tegallalang, about 10 km north of Ubud
Tegallalang is closer to Ubud, easier and busier; Jatiluwih is further, wider, quieter and UNESCO-listed. Short on time, choose Tegallalang; for quiet nature, Jatiluwih.