The Ultimate Guide to the Tegelallang Rice Terraces, Ubud.

The Tegelallang Rice Terraces are one of the most iconic places in Bali and are definitely worth a place on your bucket list. It was actually one of the first places I saw on Instagram that really made me want to travel, and it didn’t disappoint! Here is my ultimate guide to the Tegelallang Rice Terraces so you can have the best time possible. The only thing I can’t tell you is how to say it!

Getting There

Tegelallang Rice Terraces are about a 25 minute drive North of Ubud. The journey up there takes you through beautiful countryside and local villages and is well worth exploring. Here are a few ways you can get up there:

• Scooter: By far the best way to get to Tegelallang is by scooter. You can rent one from most hotels, or in Ubud town, for around 60,000RP (~£3) for a day and fill it with fuel for under 25,000RP (£1.40). Having your own transport gives you the flexibility to leave early in the morning, spend as long as you want at the terraces and stop and explore the countryside and jungle resorts on your way home.

• Private Car/Taxi: If you’re not comfortable on a scooter then the next best option is to hire a private car and driver. You can book one through your hotel for around 200,000RP (£11) that will take you up there, wait for you and take you back. This price might rise if you’re planning on spending longer there or making any other stops.
• Tour: Taking a tour to the terraces is, in my opinion, the worst option. Yes, tours are easy, and the terraces are often included in a general Bali tour, but they’re expensive and you’re guaranteed to get there at the busiest time when the place will be completely full of tourists.

When To Go

The only real answer here is….as early as you can. We woke up early and arrived at around 7.30am and I could already hear the buzzing of several drones over the, otherwise peaceful, terraces. For the first half an hour we explored without really encountering another tourist but as we reached 8am it became busier and certain photography spots were getting crowded. By the time we left at around 9am the whole place was teeming with people and the car park was pretty full (and that’s even before the tour buses arrive at around 10!). It can also get incredibly hot so getting in and out before the midday heat hits is definitely a smart move.

How Long Do I Spend There?

This definitely depends on you. A lot of people just take photos from the road but you need to walk down into the terrace to get the full experience. There are so many hidden view points and areas to get lost in! I spent around 1.5 hours there exploring and taking photos but you could probably walk around and take in the views in half an hour if you’re not bothered about photography.

How Much Is It?

Entrance to the terrace is 15,000RP (80p) and parking is an additional 5,000RP (25p). Tickets are available from the car park and at a few entrances. I just initially think the ticket was a scam but we did end up getting asked for it when we left the terrace.

Also be aware that many farmers who work on the terraces ask for donations when entering certain areas. Bring a lot of small notes with you (2000RP is fine) as you may need to give several donations.

Heading to South East Asia? Here are my favourite money saving tips!

What Else Is Around?

• Swings: Bali is famous for it’s insta-worthy swings, and the terraces are home to multiple. The famous “Bali Swing” is nearby which offers access to multiple swings and bird nests for $35. Alternatively, there are a few swings in the actual terrace which are a little cheaper (I don’t remember exactly how much) than the “official” complex, but I would wouldn’t describe the price as “reasonable”. Despite dreaming of the perfect swing picture, I gave up on the idea when I found out the price and I definitely have no regrets!

• Restaurants: There are several restaurants lining the road that runs along the top of the terrace, most of which come with breathtaking views. They’re more expensive than a normal, local restaurant but are not extortionate considering the location.

• Jungle Resorts: Some of the swankiest 5* resorts in Bali are nestled in the countryside around Ubud due to the stunning surroundings. Most of these allow non-guests to visit the pool and bars for a small fee. My favourite was the Wanna Pool Bar at Kayon Jungle Resort (pictured below). It’s the perfect place to relax after a day exploring.

It’s incredibly easy to visit other locations in Bali, such as Nusa Penida, without a tour which is great to save money on the road!

Katie x