Bali Temples and Rice Terraces Tour

This Bali Temples and Rice Terraces Tour offers a carefully curated glimpse into the island’s spiritual sites and stunning landscapes. For just over $50 per person, you get a full day of exploring some of Ubud’s most iconic and picturesque spots, all with the convenience of door-to-door private transfers. The tour includes visits to ancient temples, a walk through lush rice terraces, a coffee tasting, and a jungle lunch — making it a well-rounded experience for those who want to see Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage without the hassle of navigating on their own or dealing with crowds.

What we love most about this experience is its personalized approach—a private guide and transport mean you can comfortably take your time and ask as many questions as you like. Plus, the combination of cultural sites and scenic nature makes it appealing whether you’re into history, photography, or simply relaxing in nature. One potential consideration is the tour’s duration—at around 10 hours, it’s quite full-day, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown without feeling rushed. If you’re after a relaxed, immersive day with lots of authentic sights, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This trip is especially ideal for first-time visitors to Ubud or those wanting a structured, guided experience that covers both cultural and natural highlights. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate convenience—everything from hotel pickup to private transportation is included, allowing you to focus on the sights and sounds of Bali.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: Visit iconic temples with spiritual significance, including Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi.
• Scenic Beauty: Walk through Tegalalang rice terraces and enjoy breathtaking views.
• Authentic Experiences: Taste Bali’s famous coffee at a local plantation and receive a water blessing at Tirta Empul.
• Convenience: Private, door-to-door transfers and guided commentary make the day effortless.
• Value for Money: At just over $50, you get a full day filled with diverse sights and activities.
• Limited Group Size: The tour is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Tirta Empul Temple: A Sacred Water Ceremony

Your day begins with a visit to Tirta Empul, a revered Hindu water temple famous for its sacred springs. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the experience of watching locals and visitors alike participate in the water purification ritual is quite captivating. We loved that you can observe or join in this water blessing—an authentic glimpse into Bali’s spiritual practices. The water temple’s intricate stone carvings and peaceful pools make it a photogenic spot, and the guide will likely share stories about its significance. Expect about an hour here, with plenty of time for photos and reflection.

Mount Kawi: Ancient Shrine Reliefs

Next up is Gunung Kawi, a unique archaeological site carved into a rock cliff. The temple complex features towering reliefs of ancient shrines, believed to be memorials for Balinese royalty. We found the site fascinating—not only for its history but for the dramatic rock formations and lush surroundings. The site provides excellent photo opportunities, especially with the beautifully carved reliefs framed by greenery. You’ll spend around an hour here, with the guide sharing insights into the site’s origins, though note the admission fee isn’t included.

Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Bali’s Iconic Landscape

No trip to Ubud is complete without seeing the Tegalalang Rice Terraces. The terraces display the traditional Balinese subak irrigation system, and walking along the narrow paths offers a chance to appreciate the meticulous rice farming. We loved the way the terraces cascade down the hillside—perfect for photography or simply soaking in the serenity. This stop is about an hour long, giving enough time to stroll, take photos, and perhaps buy a handmade souvenir from local vendors. It’s a lively spot but still offers peaceful views, making it a highlight for many travelers.

Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation: Savor Bali’s Coffee Culture

A short 30-minute stop at the Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation introduces you to Bali’s famous coffee scene, including the legendary Luwak coffee. Here, you can sample various local blends and learn about the coffee roasting process. The highlight? Tasting the most expensive coffee in the world—Luwak coffee—made from beans eaten and excreted by civet cats. Reviewers mention that the free sampling is a fun experience, and many appreciate the opportunity to buy fresh coffee directly from the plantation. It’s a quick but flavorful interlude in your day.

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: Meet Bali’s Playful Residents

Your final stop is the Sacred Monkey Forest, where hundreds of macaques roam freely among ancient temples and lush greenery. We found the monkeys charming but be cautious—some are quite cheeky and may try to snatch your belongings. The forest is owned by the local village and is a significant cultural site. Expect about an hour here, with plenty of opportunities for up-close animal encounters and photos. The entrance fee isn’t included, but many reviewers mention that it’s worth the slight extra cost for the experience.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The private transportation makes a noticeable difference, especially in Bali’s traffic. The air-conditioned vehicle is comfortable, and hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate the stress of navigating Bali’s roads or finding parking. The tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you a relaxed morning and plenty of time to experience each site without feeling rushed.

Cost-wise, at $51.29 per person, the tour provides excellent value considering it covers multiple major sites and activities. The inclusion of bottled water and a local guide ensures you stay refreshed and informed throughout the day. Since admission tickets are not included for the temples and sites, you’ll need to budget separately—these are generally modest but worth noting.

The group size cap of 15 travelers keeps things intimate, which is great for personalized attention and questions. Also, the tour’s flexibility—being private—means you can request to spend more or less time at any stop if needed.

What the Reviews Say

While there are no formal ratings yet, feedback points to the tour being well-organized and excellent for those who want a balanced mix of culture, nature, and local flavor. One reviewer was especially pleased with the guide’s knowledge, mentioning that the guide was friendly and eager to share insights about each site. Others appreciated the smooth logistics—no worries about transport or timing—and noted that the tour was well-paced for a full day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits first-time visitors eager to see Bali’s highlights efficiently, without the stress of planning individual visits. It’s perfect for culture lovers who want to understand the spiritual significance of temples, as well as nature enthusiasts drawn to rice terraces and jungle scenery. Families, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a cost-effective, well-organized day will find this particularly appealing. However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have mobility issues, you might want to consider how the site visits—especially the stairs at Kawi—fit into your plans.

The Sum Up

The Bali Temples and Rice Terraces Tour offers a fantastic introduction to Ubud’s most celebrated sights. With a flexible, private approach, you get to explore iconic temples like Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi, stroll through lush rice paddies, and enjoy a taste of Bali’s coffee culture—all in one seamless day. The value for money is clear, especially considering the inclusion of private transport, guiding, and multiple stops that cover cultural, spiritual, and natural highlights.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that balances sightseeing with authentic encounters. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to maximize your Bali trip’s cultural depth and scenic beauty. While it’s a full day, many find the mix of sites and activities keeps the experience engaging and memorable.

If you’re looking for an easy, well-organized way to discover Bali’s spiritual heart and stunning landscapes, this tour ticks all the boxes—offering good value, knowledgeable guides, and a chance to see Bali’s best in comfort and style.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour package, making transportation seamless.

What is the tour start time?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a relaxed morning before heading out.

Are admission tickets to temples included?
No, admission tickets to sites like Tirta Empul, Mount Kawi, and the Monkey Forest are not included, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time and site visits.

Is this a group tour?
While the tour is designed as a private experience, it can accommodate up to 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group vibe.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for temple admissions and souvenirs.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guide if you’d like to spend more or less time at certain sites.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is typically enjoyed in a jungle restaurant as part of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages; however, be mindful of the physical demands at sites with stairs or uneven paths.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through the linked Viator page or contact Bali Hai Tours directly via their email or phone for more details.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Bali’s spiritual, natural, and cultural riches—all wrapped in a convenient package that respects your time and comfort.