The Tegalalang rice terrace is a long-time icon of Bali scenery and culture, showcasing its famous green rice fields and lush jungle slopes. However, the increasing popularity has led to overcrowding, transforming it into a tourist trap. Despite this, its UNESCO World Heritage site status underlines its significance and beauty. If you visit during the right season, you’ll witness some of the brightest shades of green imaginable!
This travel guide will provide insights on how to get to Tegalalang, crucial tips, and everything else you need to know before your visit!
Where To Stay
Visiting The Tegalalang Rice Terrace
The Tegallalang rice terraces, also known as the Ceking terrace, utilize Bali’s ancient Subak irrigation system, featuring rice paddies arranged in descending layers. After capturing some beautiful photos from above, you can follow a path down into the valley for a closer look at the terraces.
It is worth noting that the trail can be steep and more challenging than it appears. Personally, I found the best photos at the top, so if you’re not inclined to hike, you can still enjoy your visit without venturing down.
Plan to spend at least an hour exploring, or longer if you wish to take your time and soak in the scenery.
Jungle Swings
Tegalalang also features numerous swings that visitors can pay to use, providing fun backdrops for photos. However, I personally find the swings and various props detract from the natural beauty of the landscape. While one swing might be pleasant, the multitude of swings now present seems excessive.
Hours & Entrance Fees
- Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
- Entry: 10k IDR (~$1)
- Swings: 50k-200k IDR (haggle)
Although Tegalalang does not impose a formal entrance fee, some local farmers might request a small donation for passing through their fields. It’s advisable to keep some small bills handy and to limit donations to about 10k Rupiah.
Best Time To Visit
The Tegalalang rice terrace exhibits its vibrant greenery particularly before the harvest season. Based on personal experience, the best months to visit are March, April, September, and October. February can also be lovely as you can observe the newly planted rice paddies glistening with water.
The ideal time of day to visit is early morning, especially before sunrise when the light filters through the palm trees. Not only will you enjoy the tranquility, but you’ll also avoid the heat and larger crowds.
Are There Snakes At Tegalalang?
While it is possible to encounter snakes at the Tegalalang rice terrace, these creatures typically avoid human contact, making it unlikely that you will see one. From my multiple visits to Tegalalang, I have never encountered a snake, nor have I heard of anyone being bitten by one, despite the constant flow of visitors.
As a precaution, remain vigilant while walking and ensure you’re aware of your surroundings. If you do come across a snake, maintain a safe distance and approach with caution, as some snakes in Bali can be dangerous.
Overdevelopment
Overdevelopment is a growing concern at Tegalalang. The area is transforming into a cluttered tourist trap, making it increasingly difficult to take quality photos without visible swings, pathways, and vendors obstructing the natural landscape.
The once picturesque Ceking rice field has drastically changed since my first visit in 2017; it no longer resembles the idyllic scenes found on postcards. Instead, it now resembles a strange theme park, with swings proliferating everywhere. It is truly disheartening.
I sincerely hope that the Balinese government takes action to preserve this beautiful location before it becomes even more commercialized. While it’s not yet ruined, the trend is concerning.
To help preserve Tegalalang, consider avoiding the swings and zip lines, and try not to dine at local restaurants if possible. Supporting these activities only fuels further development that clutters the rice terraces. Tegalalang was once one of Bali’s hidden gems, and we must protect this beautiful site. Remember, there are many other scenic swing options throughout Bali.
How To Get There
The Ceking terrace is located in Tegalalang, central Bali, Indonesia. It is only a 15-minute drive north from the town center of Ubud.
Your best mode of transport is to rent a scooter or hire a private car and driver. Both options can be conveniently arranged online.
Tegalalang is easily accessible, situated right off the main road.
Bali Private Driver & Motorbike Rental
For those looking to explore Bali with the comfort of a private car and an English-speaking driver, I highly recommend GetYourGuide. Their prices start at 700k Rupiah (~$48 USD) for a full day of driving and sightseeing in Bali (up to 10 hours) accommodating 1-5 passengers including car, driver, and petrol costs. Additionally, they offer affordable airport transfers.
If you prefer riding a motorbike, GetYourGuide provides that option as well. Their scooter rentals commence at 140k Rupiah (~$9) and include a helmet, raincoat, and free delivery in the southern Bali area.
Having used GetYourGuide for various tours and activities worldwide, I can vouch for their reliability – highly recommended.
