Ubud: Water Temple, Waterfalls and Rice Terrace Day Trip

If you’re planning a day in Bali that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed, this Ubud Water Temple, Waterfalls, and Rice Terrace tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage. It’s a package designed for those who want an authentic experience, good value, and a bit of adventure — all sprinkled with some spectacular scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? We particularly like the flexible itinerary that allows a small trek around Tegalalang Rice Terrace, the chance to visit the famous Tirta Empul Water Temple for purification rituals, and the inclusion of two stunning waterfalls. Plus, with a private group and expert drivers, it feels personalized.

A minor consideration: the day is quite full, so it’s best suited for energetic travelers who enjoy a jam-packed schedule. It’s perfect for those keen on culture, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive Bali experience in just one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines cultural sites, nature, and scenic views.
• Flexible Itinerary: Customizable options and activity choices, like small treks or adrenaline activities.
• Local Insight: Expert drivers double as guides, sharing local knowledge and assistance.
• Value for Money: Includes multiple stops, lunch, coffee tasting, and transfers, making it a convenient package.
• Authentic Touches: Opportunities to participate in purification rituals and try local foods.
• Ideal for Active Travelers: Appropriate for those comfortable with walking, some trekking, and a full-day outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re after a well-rounded Bali day trip that balances culture, nature, and fun, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers a chance to see some of Ubud’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

What we love most? The Tegalalang Rice Terrace with its vibrant, layered fields, the mystical Tirta Empul Water Temple, and the stunning waterfalls — all accessible in one smooth tour. Plus, the inclusion of local lunch and a coffee plantation visit means you get to taste Bali’s flavors along the way.

One thing to note: this isn’t a laid-back, passive experience. Expect some walking, light trekking, and a bit of adrenaline-inducing fun with swings or zip lines, making it ideal for active travelers. It’s also a private group, adding a personal touch that larger tours often lack.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Start

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in the Bali area, whether you’re staying in Kuta, Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, Legian, or Sanur. The driver, who also serves as your guide, will greet you warmly and set the tone for a personal, informative day. You’re advised to be ready 10 minutes before departure, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace — A UNESCO Heritage

The first major stop is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, celebrated for its iconic layered fields and vibrant green hues. Visitors often comment on how striking the views are and how fun it is to walk down the small pathways through the rice paddies.

A key highlight here is the photo opportunity — many guests mention how they managed to get fantastic shots with the expansive rice fields as a backdrop. The tour guides typically suggest a short trek down into the terraces and encourage interaction with local farmers or artisans, offering a glimpse into traditional farming life.

You might find yourself doing a small hike, which adds to the sense of adventure. Some reviews mentioned enjoying the adrenaline activity swing around the rice fields, while others preferred just the scenic calm. It’s a flexible stop that caters to different energy levels.

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Tirta Empul Water Temple — A Spiritual Experience

Next, the journey takes you to Tirta Empul Temple, famous for its purification pools. Visitors often describe it as a “magical” experience, where you can participate in a cleansing ritual if you wish. The process is straightforward: you purchase a green sarong (included), then enter the sacred pool for a spiritual soak.

The temple is not just a religious site but a cultural one, with locals coming for ceremonies and offerings. Guides are happy to assist and explain the significance of the rituals, adding depth to your visit. The entire purification process lasts about 30 minutes unless it’s crowded or busy.

Many guests note that a visit here offers a unique insight into Balinese spirituality and tradition. Even if you aren’t participating in the ritual, observing the locals and the serene surroundings is worthwhile.

Lunch at D’Koi Resto — Bali Flavors with a View

After spiritual cleansing and culture, it’s time for lunch. The suggested D’Koi Resto offers traditional Balinese dishes and international options, all served with a view of lush rice fields. Guests love the authentic flavors and the relaxed ambiance.

Some reviewers highlight the value of the meal, saying it’s a good balance of quality and price, especially with the scenic backdrop. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and recharge before the next adventure.

Coffee Plantation — Sampling Bali’s Famous Brew

The tour then moves to a coffee plantation, where you can sample Luwak coffee, renowned as one of the best in the world. Many guests mention how fun it is to learn about the coffee-making process and see the civets, which produce the beans.

The experience is interactive, and you’ll have the chance to purchase souvenirs or unique coffee blends. It’s an authentic taste of Bali’s coffee culture, and many find it a highlight of the trip.

Waterfalls — Nature’s Showpieces

The final stops feature two of Bali’s most beautiful waterfalls: Tibumana Waterfall and Kanto Lampo Waterfall. The former offers a serene setting with a gentle walk leading to a peaceful cascade — ideal for those looking for tranquil nature moments.

Kanto Lampo is particularly popular for its stunning rock formation, often dubbed the “Instagram rock,” providing a dramatic backdrop. It’s perfect for photos and can be quite a fun, slightly adventurous trek.

Guests have reported that these waterfalls are well worth the 45-minute drive from Ubud, especially given their striking scenery and the opportunity for light hiking.

Return and Drop-off

The day concludes with a return to your hotel, typically around late afternoon or early evening. The private nature of the tour ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention throughout.

What You’ll Get with This Tour

• Transportation in a comfortable, private vehicle, which makes the day smooth and stress-free.
• Expert Driver/Guide who shares insights and assists with activities like purchasing sarongs or coordinating with local vendors.
• Entry Fees and Activities including the rice terrace, Tirta Empul purification, coffee tasting, and waterfalls.
• Lunch at a recommended local restaurant with scenic views.
• Flexibility to customize activities or spend more time at your favorite spots.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
The tour offers great value considering all inclusions — multiple major highlights, lunch, coffee tasting, and transfers. The flexible itinerary is a plus, allowing some personal choice like adding small treks or adrenaline activities. The private group aspect means more personalized attention and less crowded environments.

Guests frequently mention how smoothly everything runs, with many appreciating the punctual pickup and friendly driver. The stops are well-spaced, giving enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.

Cons:
While the schedule is packed, it might feel a bit full for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at each site. Also, if you’re not comfortable with some walking or light trekking, the activities at the rice terraces or waterfalls might be challenging.

The tour operates within specific pickup zones, with additional charges for Uluwatu, Candidasa, or Tabanan. So, it’s essential to confirm your pickup location beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active, curious travelers eager to see Bali’s highlights in one day. If you enjoy combining cultural rituals, scenic landscapes, and natural wonders, you’ll find this tour quite comprehensive. It’s also a solid option if you’re traveling with family or friends who want a private, guided experience that covers a lot of ground.

The value is particularly notable when you consider the inclusions — meals, entry fees, and transportation. It’s an efficient way to experience the best of Ubud without the hassle of organizing multiple sites independently.

While not ideal for those with mobility issues or those seeking a leisurely, slow-paced day, this tour caters well to adventurous spirits and those craving a meaningful introduction to Bali’s soulful side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What areas are pickup options available for?
Pickup is available from Kuta, Bali, Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Sanur. Additional charges may apply for other areas like Uluwatu or Candidasa.

Are the activities suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, but it’s not recommended for people over 70 or those with altitude sickness. Some walking and light trekking are involved, so comfort with activity is advised.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal at D’Koi Resto, serving local and international dishes, is included in the package.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary is flexible, and you can opt for more active options like small treks or adrenaline swings if available.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, comfortable clothes, cash for souvenirs or tips, and sun protection.

Is this a group tour or private?
It is a private tour, offering a more personalized experience and flexible pacing.

Final Word

This Ubud day trip balances the best of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual culture with good value and personalized attention. It’s a great choice for energetic travelers who want a full, enriching day that captures the essence of Bali in one go.

From stunning rice terraces and spiritual temple rituals to refreshing waterfalls and Bali’s famous coffee, this tour offers a comprehensive and authentic snapshot of the island’s diverse charms. Whether you’re short on time or simply want a curated experience, this trip offers a memorable way to spend a day in Bali.

You can check availability for your dates here: