It‘s easy to see what attracts visitors to Bali‘s famous Jatiluwih Rice Terraces. The picturesque green fields and the Subak system that irrigates them were listed as a cultural heritage site by UNESCO in 2012. On this walking tour around the fields, you‘ll discover that there‘s more to this spectacular, must-see destination than meets the eye. As you wind your way through the lush green fields, I‘ll tell you about the area‘s rich history and traditional beliefs, and the local harvesting methods.

After purchasing a ticket at the Jatiluwih Tourist Information hut, our tour will follow parts of the Blue and Red routes along the terraces. As you make your way to the Bedugul Temple, dedicated to the complex and community-led Subak system, you‘ll hear about the different types of rice and learn about the cycles of rice cultivation. Along the way, you‘ll catch sight of workers, their hands submerged in water as they nurture the rice, engaged in the rhythms of planting, growing, and harvesting – a cycle that‘s both backbreaking and unending. I‘ll show you the different cash crops that grow along the winding rice terrace paths like cocoa, coconut, and banana trees, and I‘ll tell you about the wildlife you might spot between the crops. You‘ll hear about Dewi Sri, the goddess of rice and fertility, and see statues dedicated to her dotted around the field.

On this tour, you‘ll have a chance to:

• Find out which gods are worshipped here and why
• Learn about the ancient calendars that dictate when rice is planted and in which direction
• Spot statues of a humble rice farmer and his wife with an offering basket on her head
• See the famous Jatiluwih coloured rice and learn how these strains are nurtured and grown
• Hear villagers’ stories and learn about their connections to this stunning landscape
• Discover whether rice farming is a dying tradition
• Take in the beautiful Jatiluwih landscape and find out the origins of the name

This is more than a fascinating walk through the most stunning scenery that Bali has to offer. You’ll also gain insight into Jatiluwih’s connection to the essence of Balinese life, where nature and labour are intertwined in a dance that sustains generations.