Bali has an abundance of rice terraces and while Tegallalang still gets the most attention, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are definitely more worth the visit. In this guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know if you’re planning to visit while you vacation in Bali. Jatiluwih, in the Balinese language, translated means Beautiful Teak. The views from any angle of the terraces are breathtaking. Hence, you will want to take at least a couple of hours to explore their beauty.
About Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The terraces represent the Subak system, a cooperative water management system of canals and weirs, that dates back to the 9th century. As Bali’s Cultural Landscape which has been inscribed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2012. The subak system of democratic and egalitarian farming practices has enabled the Balinese to become the most prolific rice growers in the archipelago despite the challenge of supporting a dense population.
Visiting the terraces
The entrance fee for Jatiluwih Rice Terrace is 40,000 IDR per person ($3 USD). The best time to visit is between February and April. In the time of our visit (February 2019), it was very lush, green, and with barely any people around.
It took us an hour’s drive from Canggu to get here. The roads were very scenic and easy to drive on with a motorcycle. If you have a bit more time left you should also take a short 15-minute drive to Pura Luhur Batukaru. It’s a beautiful temple hiding in the forests at the foot of Mt Batukaru. Besides the nearby sights, Jatiluwih is a perfect addition to your Bali Itinerary.
Walk among the rice paddies
Since Jatiluwih Rice Terraces doesn’t get nearly as much attention as some other terraces, you are likely to enjoy the views completely undisturbed. Take the chance to walk on the paved paths, observe and speak to the locals working the rice paddies. It was the couple in the first photo who taught us how to thank in Indonesian and Balinese! We sat in their little shop and waited for the short shower to end before we continued our walk through the paddies.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces make for a fantastic day trip if you wish to spend more time walking the longer trails. However, it’s worth considering walking the shorter pathways and seeing the beautiful views from there. It’s beautiful everywhere and it gives you plenty of time to visit some more beautiful nearby Bali destinations, such as Pura Luhur Batukaru!
