Choose the walking scope
The roadside viewpoints and deeper terrace paths are different experiences. Ask locally about the route, stairs, mud and current conditions before choosing footwear or a guide.
Tegallalang, near Ubud — Central Bali
Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Bali's most famous tiered rice paddies, north of Ubud
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces are Bali's most famous and most photographed paddies — a steep, sculpted jungle valley of stepped emerald terraces about 20–25 minutes north of central Ubud. They are watered by the subak, the 1,000-year-old Balinese cooperative irrigation system that UNESCO recognises as a cultural landscape, channelling water from the hills through a shared network of canals and bamboo pipes. A walking path drops down one side of the valley and climbs the other, passing farmers at work, coconut stalls and the famous 'Bali Swings' that hang out over the greenery. Come before 8am to beat the tour buses, catch the softest light and have the terraces almost to yourself.
Highlights
- ✓Dramatic tiered valley of emerald rice paddies
- ✓The centuries-old subak irrigation system (a UNESCO cultural landscape)
- ✓A walking trail down into and across the valley
- ✓Famous Bali Swings and photo nests over the terraces
- ✓Valley-view cafés and fresh-coconut stalls along the rim
Decisions that shape this visit
Go before the heat
An earlier visit leaves more comfortable time for walking and photos. Rain can make narrow paths slippery, so keep the schedule flexible when weather is unsettled.
Pair it with the right base
Tegallalang works naturally with a Ubud-area day; avoid treating it as a quick stop if you also plan multiple cross-island transfers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the entry fee for Tegallalang?
A small donation of around IDR 25,000 per person is collected at the entrance, and individual farmers may ask for a further small tip if you walk through their section. The Bali Swings are charged separately, from about IDR 150,000.
What is the best time to visit Tegallalang?
Early morning, ideally before 8am, for soft light, cooler air and far fewer crowds. The paddies are greenest a couple of months after planting; avoid the middle of the day when the tour buses arrive.
How far is Tegallalang from Ubud?
About 10 km (20–25 minutes) north of central Ubud by scooter or car. It is easily combined with a visit to Tirta Empul temple or a Kintamani volcano viewpoint further north.
Explore more
- Ubud Travel Guide
- Tirta Empul Temple
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- Getting Around Bali — scooters, private drivers and transfers.