07/02/2020
Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali
The Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud are famous for their beautiful scenes of rice paddies and their innovative irrigation system. Known as the subak, the traditional Balinese cooperative irrigation system is said to have been passed down by a revered holy man named Rsi Markandeya in the 8th century. Tegallalang forms the 3 most splendid terraced landscapes in Ubud's shared region, with the others being in the villages of Pejeng and Campuhan. The Tegallalang rice terraces alone offer a scenic outlook that spreads down before you and away to the far side of the valley. The high roadside location is cool and breezy and it’s a well-known spot for tourists to stop and take photos. Painters and nature lovers also enjoy visiting this spot, and there are numerous art kiosks and cafés near the ledge.
Things to see at the Tegallalang Rice Terraces
With the dramatic views within easy reach, the Tegallalang rice terraces offer a fantastic Bali photo opportunity. The vista sprawls down and away to the rice terraces on the slopes across the valley. It’s a very popular view, but this ancient valley has a timeless quality whether there are tourists there or not. A local elder – a farmer who owns the land – invites visitors to sample his green coconut drink, as well as to purchase woven hats that he makes from coconut leaves. He’ll even pose with you for photos, for a small fee.
Good to know about Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Some souvenir sellers and the old farmer may seem a little pushy, so be prepared for them to try very hard to sell you something. There are no fixed prices, so have those bargaining skills at hand or, better still, remind yourself that you’re just there for the picture. The fee for the posing farmer is at your own discretion, and the photos are just as amazing without him. While the rice terraces serve as a highlight photo-op in the Tegallalang area, souvenir shopping options abound along the roadsides, and the trip to Pakudui village is worth the time. Pakudui is reachable after a right turn up from the famed rice paddy outlook. Find magnificent carvings and wooden art forms lined up along the small and winding village road.
