Many tourists in Bali tend to stick to the same well-known spots like Kuta Beach, Ubud, or Canggu. While these places are popular for good reasons, it’s surprising how few people venture beyond the crowds. And that’s exactly what makes exploring the rest of Bali so rewarding — you can find peaceful, beautiful spots that aren’t overrun by tourists.
One such hidden gem is the Jatiluwih rice terraces, which are often overlooked despite being listed as one of Bali’s top attractions. These terraces are a sight to behold, with lush green fields stretching up the hillside like steps leading to the sky. The scenery is as breathtaking as it is peaceful — aside from a few visitors from nearby resorts, you’re likely to have the place mostly to yourself.
The Jatiluwih rice terraces cover over 600 hectares and follow the natural contours of the Batukaru mountain range. They’ve been meticulously maintained for centuries by traditional water management cooperatives that date back to the 9th century. Even the name “Jatiluwih” reflects the beauty of the area, with “Jati” meaning “real” and “Luwih” meaning “good” or “beautiful” in Balinese.
Getting to Jatiluwih is an adventure in itself. As you drive along winding mountain roads, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is so remote that it’s the only place in the world where you can experience three rice harvests per year!
While a day trip will give you a good sense of the area, I recommend spending two days to fully appreciate the terraces. There’s so much to explore, from jumping over streams to enjoying a meal right in the heart of the fields. During my short hike, I was left dreaming of coming back to spend more time here. The nearby mountains, charming villages, and fantastic restaurants also make it a worthwhile place to linger.
Getting There
The Jatiluwih rice terraces are located in central Bali, near Mount Batukaru. This rural area is all about farming communities and a few upscale mountain resorts, making it a peaceful escape from the tourist-packed areas.
To get there, you have several options: drive yourself, hire a driver, or take a tour. While tours are becoming more common, they’re still not as crowded as other major attractions. If you prefer something more active, Green Bike Bali offers a 2-hour E-Bike Cycling Tour, where you can pedal through the terraces, jungles, and villages, finishing up with a traditional Indonesian lunch.
Hiring a driver for the day is another great option, especially if you want to see more of Bali’s sights, like the Tegalalang terraces. The cost for a full-day driver is around 600,000-800,000 IDR, and it takes about 90 minutes to drive there. Alternatively, if you want to rent a car, expect to pay about 300,000-400,000 IDR per day for a small car.
For a longer stay, there are several resorts or budget homestays nearby that offer a more immersive experience.
Why Visit?
The remoteness of Jatiluwih keeps it from being as easily accessible as places like Kuta or Ubud, where tourists can hop on cheap buses or boats. But that’s exactly what makes Jatiluwih so special — it requires a bit of effort to get there, which means fewer crowds and a more authentic Bali experience. Spend a few days here, and you’ll see the quieter, real Bali — far from the tourist traps. Plus, you’ll find cheap guesthouses in the villages, making it an affordable and off-the-beaten-path destination.
