Most people who have visited Bali say that the real Bali can be found where the rice grows, and temples are. In Bali rice fields can be found almost everywhere, and the Balinese people have depended on this method of agriculture for almost 2000 years. The terraced rice fields were carved by hand, with the help of some simple tools, and are being maintained by succeeding generations. Imagine yourself watching the sun rise through the mist over a rice field or taking a hike through their lush green fields. It is a must thing to do in Bali to visit at least one of the numerous beautiful rice fields.

We had the pleasure of visiting rice fields in Ubud Bali.

Ubud and the neighboring villages, which lie in the middle of the subak irrigation system, are in general a heaven for those who appreciate the beautiful greenery of the rolling rice terraces. Ubud sees tourists year-round, but the official high season is April – September. This is when the weather is (mostly!) dry. I would recommend heading to the Ubud rice fields as early as possible in the morning – they will be less crowded this way. Seeing the sunrise over the rice fields is an especially mesmerizing experience that is a must-do in Ubud. Only 30 minutes to 1 hour away from Kuta, they are easily accessible. Doing organized tours around the surrounding areas of some of the upscale resorts might sometimes be the best way to go, but if you feel confident armed with just a map and some instructions from people in the know, there’s nothing to stop you going for a rice field trek on your own. If you are not that keen on walking, you can hire a bicycle instead. Either one of these options might lead you to rice fields only a few lucky other have passed through before.

Just west of Ubud, Sayan village is little more than a ridge. Views of a luscious ravine and manicured terraces have attracted many expats to choose Sayan as their new home. The steps from the rice fields lead down to a river where you can go for a swim. Payangan village is another one of Ubud’s neighboring villages known for its extraordinary rice terraces that step down to the river Ayung below. There are beautiful rice fields also around Pujung, Penestanan and Pengosekan villages. Campuhan Ridge Walk in the village of Campuhan is a popular trail taking you past not only plenty of rice fields but also some jungle and rivers.

The best time to visit the area are early mornings and late afternoons, as especially the area around the water palace gets really crowded during the days. Good shoes are always a wise move, as is bringing an umbrella or a raincoat if it’s rainy season.

If you want to hike through the rice fields, hiring a guide is recommended but not always necessary.

When encountering local villagers and farmers, donations are always highly appreciated.

Don’t take anything with you, except for photos, and leave only footprints!