About Tegallalang

Tegallalang sits just 10 minutes north of Ubud and is home to some of Bali's most famous rice terraces. This small village has become super popular on Instagram thanks to its dramatic stepped landscapes that cascade down the hillsides. The terraces here are still working rice fields - not just tourist attractions - so you'll see farmers planting and harvesting depending on the season.

The elevation is around 600 meters above sea level, making it slightly cooler than Ubud with temperatures around 24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day. What makes Tegallalang different from other rice terrace spots is how accessible it is - you can walk right through the terraces on well-maintained paths and even swing over them on those famous jungle swings. The traditional subak irrigation system here is over 1,000 years old and still works perfectly.

The area gets pretty busy during peak hours since it's so close to Ubud, but early morning or late afternoon offers a more peaceful experience. You'll find plenty of cafes and warungs built right into the hillsides with incredible views while you eat. The local community has done a good job balancing tourism with keeping the rice farming tradition alive.

Highlights of Tegallalang

The main rice terrace viewpoint gives you that classic Bali postcard shot - layers of bright green rice paddies stretching down the valley. Entry to walk through the terraces costs 15,000 IDR ($1) and you can spend hours exploring different levels. The famous jungle swings here cost 100,000-150,000 IDR ($7-11) per person and give you amazing photos soaring over the rice fields.

Ceking Rice Terrace is the most photographed section with perfectly manicured steps and several Instagram-worthy spots. The traditional bamboo cafes built right into the terraces offer incredible views while you sip coffee - way better than any rooftop bar. You can watch farmers working the fields using traditional methods that haven't changed in centuries. The sunrise views here are incredible if you can get up early enough, with golden light hitting the terraces and mist rising from the valley.

Travel tips for Tegallalang

Come early morning (7-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM) for the best light and fewer crowds
Wear good walking shoes since the paths can be slippery, especially after rain
Bring cash for entrance fees, swings, and drinks - most places don't accept cards
Rent a scooter for 70,000 IDR ($5) per day since parking is easier than finding taxi spots
Don't walk on the actual rice plants - stick to the designated paths to respect the farmers
Carry water and snacks since prices at terrace cafes are higher than normal Ubud rates

Location & map

Loading map...

Tegallalang

Get directions

Things to do in Tegallalang

Walk through the rice terraces on the main trail that takes you down into the valley and back up.
Try the jungle swings for those classic Instagram shots - there are several operators with different swing styles.
Visit the traditional coffee plantation nearby for free tastings of Bali coffee and luwak coffee.
Eat at one of the bamboo cafes built into the terraces for lunch with a view.
Take a cooking class at local warungs where you'll learn to make traditional Balinese dishes.
Watch farmers at work during planting or harvest season if you time it right.
Explore the smaller, less crowded terraces on the edges of the main area.
Shop for handmade crafts and sarongs at the small stalls along the entrance path.

Best time to visit Tegallalang

The rice is most photogenic from June through August when it's bright green and fully grown. During harvest time (around September-October) you might see farmers cutting rice by hand, which is pretty cool to watch. Planting season (November-December) means muddy brown fields that aren't as pretty but you'll see the traditional planting process.

Early morning (6:30-8:30 AM) gives you the best light for photos and way fewer crowds - plus you might catch some mist rising from the valley. Late afternoon (4-6 PM) offers golden hour lighting that makes everything glow. Weekdays are definitely better than weekends when tour groups flood the area.

Avoid midday (11 AM-2 PM) when it's crowded, hot, and the light is harsh for photos. The rainy season (December-March) can make paths muddy but also keeps the rice extra green. If you're serious about photography, plan multiple visits at different times of day since the light changes everything here.