Bali is often synonymous with its iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces—a breathtaking expanse of emerald green fields located just north of Ubud. While Tegalalang is a must-see for any visitor, Bali offers many more hidden and lesser-known rice terraces that provide a more tranquil and authentic experience. These alternative rice terraces are not only stunning, but they also offer a unique opportunity to explore Bali’s local culture, agriculture, and traditional farming practices.

In this guide, we’ll take you through three of Bali’s other iconic rice terraces—Jatiluwih, Sembalun, and Sidemen—and give you some practical tips for photography, cultural immersion, and discovering the beauty of Bali’s agricultural landscapes beyond the crowds.

1. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Bali’s UNESCO-listed Jewel

Overview
Located in the Tabanan regency, Jatiluwih is one of Bali’s largest and most beautiful rice terraces. Known for its expansive views of the mountain ranges and the vibrant green rice paddies, Jatiluwih has earned a UNESCO World Heritage status for its traditional subak irrigation system, which has been used for over 1,000 years to sustain Bali's rice farming culture.

What to Expect:

• Vast Scenery: Jatiluwih’s rice terraces stretch across 600 hectares, providing panoramic views of Bali’s volcanic landscapes, lush jungles, and distant Mount Batukaru. The extensive green fields and surrounding nature make it a photographer’s paradise.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Compared to Tegalalang, Jatiluwih is much less crowded, offering a more peaceful and reflective experience.

• Walking Trails: You can walk or cycle through the rice terraces via a scenic trail that allows you to connect with local farmers and learn about traditional farming practices.

Photography Tips:

• Golden Hour: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photographing the terraces. The soft light during these times enhances the green of the rice fields and creates dramatic skies.

• Wide-Angle Lens: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and the curves of the rice fields.

• Human Element: Consider including local farmers in your shots to add a personal touch and highlight Bali's agricultural life.

Local Culture:

Take time to speak with the local farmers and learn about the subak system—a community-based irrigation method that has been passed down through generations. Respect the farmers' work and the peaceful environment of the rice fields.

2. Sidemen Rice Terraces: Bali’s Tranquil Retreat

Overview
Located in the Karangasem regency, Sidemen is an enchanting village surrounded by terraced rice fields, located just a short distance from Mount Agung. This peaceful region is often considered one of Bali’s most tranquil spots, offering stunning views of the rice paddies, rivers, and lush jungle.

What to Expect:

• Quiet Serenity: Sidemen remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, providing a calm and serene atmosphere. The rice terraces here are smaller but incredibly picturesque, nestled between steep valleys and bamboo forests.

• Traditional Balinese Life: Sidemen is home to traditional Balinese villages where locals still practice old ways of life, including farming, weaving, and making traditional crafts.

• Hiking and Exploring: There are plenty of gentle walks through the rice fields that will take you through bamboo groves, across rivers, and past traditional homes.

Photography Tips:

• Mist and Clouds: Sidemen is located at a higher altitude, which means you might encounter mist and clouds over the rice terraces, creating a mystical atmosphere—perfect for a dramatic shot.

• Focus on Details: Sidemen’s rice terraces are smaller and more intimate, so focus on close-up shots of the terraces, local farmers, and the intricate patterns of the fields.

Local Culture:

Sidemen is a great place to learn about Balinese weaving and other traditional crafts. Consider visiting a local workshop where you can watch the intricate process of ikat weaving and purchase handmade textiles.

Bali’s rice terraces are a true testament to the island’s agricultural heritage and spiritual connection to nature. While Tegalalang is undoubtedly one of the most iconic, places like Jatiluwih, Sembalun, and Sidemen offer equally stunning, more peaceful alternatives that allow you to experience Bali’s cultural depth in a quieter setting. Whether you're hiking through the expansive landscapes of Jatiluwih or capturing the tranquility of Sidemen, these hidden gems provide an opportunity to connect with Bali’s natural beauty and rich traditions.

By visiting these terraces, you not only experience Bali’s breathtaking landscapes, but you also immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions that have shaped the island for centuries.