One Day Tour Tegalalang Rice Terrace And Gunung Kawi Temple

Planning a trip to Bali? If you’re eager to see some of the island’s most photogenic landscapes and spiritual sites, a day tour visiting Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Gunung Kawi Temple might be perfect. While this particular package is a bit of a mixed bag—offering beautiful scenery along with cultural insights—it’s worth considering whether it matches what you’re after.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the scenic drives through lush rice fields are genuinely captivating. Second, the opportunity to visit Ubud’s cultural and art centers appeals to travelers interested in Bali’s creative side. Third, the personalized private car and friendly driver create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. On the flip side, the $75 per group price might seem steep for the limited time spent at some locations, plus some attractions are not included in the ticket price, which can add to your costs.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Bali’s highlights with the convenience of door-to-door service. If you’re budget-conscious or seeking in-depth exploration, this tour might feel somewhat superficial. However, if you value easy logistics and a flexible schedule, this package could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic drives provide authentic Bali landscapes without the hassle.
• Cultural and artistic visits at villages and Ubud’s art scene add a local flavor.
• Flexible itinerary allows you to skip stops and communicate with your driver.
• Price reflects a private, guided day trip, but some attractions have optional or additional costs.
• Limited time at each site means you’ll get a taste, not a full deep dive.
• Review insights point to a focus on highlights like temples and rice terraces, with some comments about the jewelry and art stops targeting shoppers.

What to Expect from the Tour: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point: Celuk Village

Your journey begins with a two-hour drive to Celuk Village, renowned as Bali’s gold and silver center. This stop offers a chance to see artisans crafting exquisite jewelry and ornaments. While the visit is short—about three hours in total—it’s a good opportunity to get a sense of Bali’s artisan talents. Keep in mind, admission tickets are not included, so you may want to budget for any crafts or souvenirs you wish to purchase.

Reviewers have noted that this part of the tour targets shopping, with some visitors mentioning the jewelry and art pieces as a highlight for those interested in Bali’s craftsmanship. If jewelry shopping isn’t your thing, you might find this stop less engaging, but it does set the stage for appreciating Balinese artistry.

Ubud Palace and Cultural Performances

Next, the tour takes you to Ubud Palace, a prime example of traditional Balinese architecture and a cultural hub. During your approximately two-hour visit, you’ll see the beautiful Balinese houses and may catch a dance performance, which is often part of the experience.

While the palace is a living residence for the Ubud royal family, it’s also a vibrant cultural spot that captures Bali’s artistic spirit. Reviewers have appreciated the chance to see traditional dance, adding an authentic touch to the trip. Admission tickets are not included, so check if you want to stay longer or see specific performances.

The Iconic Tegalalang Rice Terrace

The highlight for many travelers, Tegalalang Rice Terrace, is a must-see. Just a 30-minute drive from Ubud, this lush landscape offers postcard-perfect views of terraced rice paddies carved into Bali’s hillsides. Expect about an hour here—long enough for photos, a stroll, or a chat with local farmers.

Visitors often mention how mesmerizing the sight is, especially early in the morning or late afternoon when the light is softer. It’s a prime spot for photography and soaking in Bali’s natural beauty. Be prepared for some crowds, especially if visiting during peak hours.

Gunung Kawi Temple

Your final stop is Gunung Kawi, about an hour’s drive from Tegalalang. This ancient site features a collection of ten carved stone shrines set amidst rice terraces and lush greenery. It’s a peaceful place that echoes Bali’s spiritual history, perfect for those interested in temple architecture.

The site is quite expansive, and you’ll spend around four hours here, including travel time. The experience involves some walking and climbing stairs, so wear comfortable shoes. Visitors emphasize the uniqueness of the temple and the serenity of the surroundings, although there is an admission fee not included in the tour price.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation and Comfort

This tour operates in a private car, which is a significant plus—especially when compared to crowded group excursions. Your driver, who speaks English and smiles often, acts as both guide and chauffeur, making the day smooth and flexible. If there’s a site you’d rather skip or spend more time at, just let your driver know; they’re usually happy to accommodate.

Schedule and Duration

With an approximate 10-hour window, this tour packs in several stops, but expect some back-to-back driving. The schedule is tight, so punctuality matters. Early starts can help beat some crowds, especially at popular spots like Tegalalang.

Cost and Value

At $75 per group (up to five people), the price is reasonable considering the private transport and personalized service. However, note that admission tickets for sites like Gunung Kawi and Ubud Palace are not included, which could add a modest extra expense. The focus on scenic and cultural highlights offers good value for those wanting a curated taste of Bali in a day.

Tour Reviews and Authentic Tips

One reviewer, Wayne_H, appreciated the “nice drive through Bali,” and highlighted the temples and rice terraces as the main highlights. He also pointed out that some stops, like jewelry and art shops, seem targeted at buyers, so if shopping isn’t your thing, you might find those parts less appealing.

Another insight is that the satisfaction depends on expectations: if you’re looking for a quick but scenic overview and don’t mind a shared, flexible experience, this tour fits the bill. If you hope for in-depth exploration or a more comprehensive culture, you might want to look elsewhere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a convenient, all-in-one day trip without the hassle of organizing multiple transportations. It suits those seeking scenic landscapes and iconic temples with the comfort of private transport. If you’re on a budget but still want a guided experience, the price is fair considering the personalized service.

However, if you prefer longer stays at each site or want to explore Bali’s art and temples more deeply, you might find the schedule rushed. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a quick overview of Bali’s highlights.

The Sum Up

This One Day Tour of Tegalalang Rice Terrace and Gunung Kawi Temple offers a snapshot of Bali’s most picturesque sights and cultural landmarks. The private car and friendly driver make it a comfortable way to see multiple highlights without stress, especially for those pressed for time or seeking a relaxed, guided experience.

While some stops are brief and the cost excludes entrance fees, the scenic views and authentic sites provide good value for travelers wanting a taste of Bali’s natural and spiritual beauty. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who enjoy photography, culture, and scenic drives but prefer a flexible, private option over large group tours.

If you’re after a manageable, scenic introduction to Bali’s top spots—without sacrificing comfort—this tour could be just what you need.

FAQ

Are the entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, admission tickets for sites like Gunung Kawi and Ubud Palace are not included. You’ll need to pay these separately or bring cash to cover these costs.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour driver is happy to accommodate your preferences—if there is a site you’re less interested in, just let the driver know, and they can adjust the schedule accordingly.

How long do we spend at each site?
Typically, you’ll spend about three hours at Celuk Village, two hours at Ubud Palace, an hour at Tegalalang Rice Terrace, and four hours at Gunung Kawi, including driving time.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the private car makes it accessible, but keep in mind the walking involved at Gunung Kawi and Tegalalang. Comfortable shoes and some water are recommended.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunscreen, hat, camera, some cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes suited for walking.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve via the provided platform, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking. The tour is designed for private groups of up to five people.

Embark on this scenic Bali day trip if you’re curious about the island’s natural beauty, appreciate cultural sites, and prefer the convenience of private transport. It’s a well-rounded, straightforward way to tick some Bali must-sees off your list.