Rice is the main crop in Indonesia and one of the most important exports. Indonesia ranks as the third-largest producer of rice in the world. Rice cultivation occupies around 10 million ha throughout the country and has been a staple for locals since ancient times. In the 80s, around 100 million people in Indonesia considered rice as their main source of food.
The largest rice cultivation takes place in the southern provinces of Sumatra and Sulawesi. West Java, East Java, and Central Java also host some of the largest rice plantations in the country. If you are interested in seeing the beauty of Indonesian rice fields, there are plenty of options since many rice fields welcome visitors.
The most beautiful rice terraces are located in Bali island. Tegalalang is one of the most beautiful rice fields in all of Asia. It is located in the northern area of Ubud at an altitude of 600m. Alternatively, you can visit Jatiluwih, Belimbing, Pupuan or Tirta Gangga terraces.
Rice is planted and harvested twice a year in Ubud. Planting seasons are from January to February and July to August. Harvesting takes place from April to May and October to November. It is during these times that you can observe some activities in the fields. If you are looking for the iconic lush emerald rice terrace, it's best to come during the wet season from October to March.
Practical info
What crop is a significant export for Indonesia?
Indonesia is renowned for its rice production and is one of the largest producers globally. Rice is the most important crop and also a significant export. The country cultivates approximately 10 million ha of paddy fields, and locals have depended on rice cultivation since ancient times. Show more
What regions host the most prominent rice plantations in Indonesia?
Southern Sumatra, Sulawesi, West Java, Central Java, and East Java hold some of the biggest rice plantations in Indonesia, with the southern provinces of Sumatra and Sulawesi having the largest paddy fields. Some of these rice fields are open to tourist visitors, offering an opportunity to appreciate their beauty. Show more
During which season should one visit the rice terraces in Bali?
For the iconic lush emerald green rice terrace in Bali, it is best to visit during the wet season - October to March. Planting periods are January to February and July to August, and harvesting is done in April to May and October to November. For a memorable experience, visit Tirta Gangga, Belimbing, Pupuan, Jatiluwih or Tegalalang terraces. Show more
Which rice terraces in Bali are considered the most beautiful?
Among the most stunning rice terraces worldwide, Tegalalang is situated in Ubud's northern area, at an elevation of 600m. Others include Tirta Gangga, Pupuan, Belimbing, and Jatiluwih. Ubud has two rice-producing cycles per year - January to February and July to August for planting and April to May and October to November for harvesting. Show more
How many times a year is rice planted and harvested in Ubud?
Planting and harvesting of rice in Ubud occur twice annually - between January and February and July to August for planting, and April to May and October to November for harvesting. To witness the fields at their finest, visiting Ubud in the wet season between October and March is dynamite. Show more
