A simple guide to visiting the Tegalalang rice terrace in Ubud

If you’ve ever cyber-stalked photos of Ubud on Instagram, there’s a good chance you’ve come across the Tegalalang rice terrace. Like something out of an ancient history book, the layered terraces line the side of Ubud’s famous green hills, creating a stunning patchwork that has to be seen to be believed. It took me a few visits to Ubud and a couple of failed attempts to finally nail it down. If you’re planning a trip and want to visit these gorgeous bright green terraces for yourself, read this first.

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What is the Tegalalang rice terrace?

An excellent starting point, my friend. The Tegalalang rice terrace is a famous spot located a short drive outside the heart of Ubud. They’re famous, in my opinion, because they’re the most stunning rice terraces in the area. I’d say that’s because they’re so well maintained, have plenty of great vantage points and are easily photographed, explored and enjoyed by visitors. The layers of dense green foliage create an amazing pattern on the side of the hill, almost like a big, green, layer-cake.

How the heck do I find them?

I thought it would be super easy on my first proper stay in Ubud, so I hopped on a scooter and zipped off in search of them. Somehow I stuffed it up completely, took a wrong turn, didn’t drive far enough and ended up doing a big loop. Classic. This time I came prepared.

If you’re comfortable on a scooter, head out to the main road into Ubud, take a left at the big statue and drive straight for a good while. You’ll know you’ve found them because there will suddenly be a string of shops selling clothes and souvenirs along the road, and the rice fields will be right there. It should take around 20 to 25 minutes from the heart of Ubud. Google Maps handles it easily, so grab a local SIM or make sure you’ve got an eSIM sorted before you leave.

If scooters aren’t your thing, you can book a ride through Grab or Gojek from Ubud. The trip takes around 15 to 20 minutes and costs roughly IDR 30,000 to 50,000 one-way. One heads-up: internet signal can be patchy around the terraces, so it’s worth booking your return ride before you head down into the fields, while you’ve still got a connection. A local driver for a half or full day is also a solid option and takes all the stress out of it.

When should I visit?

I’ll tell you right now, do not go at midday. We had absolutely no choice and had to visit in the middle of the day and it was like taking a trip to the surface of the sun while wearing a sweatsuit… it was uncomfortable. I would definitely recommend you visit in the early morning or late afternoon and, if you’re into photography, those dawn and dusk golden hour times are your best friend. This will help you avoid the heat and the sun.

What should I expect?

There’s no single ticket counter at the terraces. Instead, you’ll be asked to pay at small donation booths run by local landowners at various entry points along the ridge. Expect to pay around IDR 20,000 to 25,000 per person, with parking costing around IDR 5,000 for a car or scooter. Pay in cash and keep small notes handy. There may also be small additional charges for specific photo spots within the terraces, generally between IDR 10,000 and 50,000, and these are entirely optional.

Locals working in the fields may ask for a small tip if they end up in your shot, which is fair enough. There are also traditional rice-field hats and bamboo carrying poles you can borrow for a photo, just know that’ll cost you a small amount too.

One other thing worth knowing: there are quite a few steps, so if you’ve got little kids with you, an injury, or you’re just taking it easy, go at your own pace. Stay out of the water channels if you can.

How long do I need there?

Not long! Truth be told, once you’ve seen it, you’ve seen it. If you’re in a rush it would be enough just to buzz up there and get a photo from the top, without going all the way down the stairs and walking through the actual terraces. But if you have the time you can definitely spend a little bit of time exploring, I would say a maximum of half an hour would pull it up.

Anything else there?

Quite a bit, actually. The area around the terraces is dotted with cafes built into the hillside, most of them facing the fields and offering solid views alongside cold drinks, food and coffee. If you’d rather skip the trek down and just soak up the scenery from above, that’s a completely valid way to spend your time up there. There are also plenty of souvenir stalls along the road if you’re in the market for something to take home.

Worth mentioning: the Bali swing has become a big deal at Tegalalang. A single swing ride costs around IDR 200,000, while the tandem swing runs to IDR 400,000. There’s also a sky bike option at around IDR 450,000. It’s not something I’d call essential, but if you’re after a dramatic photo over the terraces, it delivers.

Is it worth going?

I really liked seeing it and think it’s worth making the trip, so long as you don’t plan your whole day around it or expect it to be a magical life-changing experience. There will be a lot of other tourists there, it could be really hot if you visit at the wrong time of day, and it can be frustrating navigating the steps with all the other visitors. That said, it’s gorgeous, and I really enjoyed seeing it. Just be prepared and be realistic, and you’ll have a great time.

Frequently asked questions

How far is the Tegalalang rice terrace from Ubud?

The terraces are around 10 kilometres north of central Ubud. By scooter or car it takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic.

How much does it cost to enter the Tegalalang rice terrace?

You can expect to pay around IDR 20,000 to 25,000 per person at the small donation booths along the ridge. Scooter or car parking costs around IDR 5,000. Bring cash and small notes.

What is the best time to visit the Tegalalang rice terrace?

Early morning is your best bet. The light is better, the crowds are thinner and you avoid the worst of the heat. Early afternoon is when it gets genuinely uncomfortable.

Can you get to Tegalalang by Grab or Gojek?

Yes. Both apps work from Ubud, with the ride taking around 15 to 20 minutes. Just make sure you book your return trip while you still have signal, as connectivity can drop around the terrace area.

Is the Tegalalang rice terrace worth visiting?

Yes, but go in with realistic expectations. It’s touristy, it can be hot, and you’ll be sharing the path with plenty of other visitors. That said, the terraces are genuinely beautiful and worth seeing while you’re in Ubud.

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