Bali: Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul & Batur Hot Spring Day Trip

Summary

Walk rice terraces, join temple rituals and unwind in Bali’s highlands

You’ll wander emerald rice terraces near Tegallalang, step into sacred waters at Tirta Empul temple alongside locals, sip fresh-roasted coffee in mountain air, and finally soak in Batur’s lakeside hot springs with volcano views. This day trip from Ubud blends gentle adventure with moments of real connection—and leaves you quietly changed.

What’s the experience like?

We started winding up into the Kintamani hills just after sunrise—windows down, that earthy smell of wet rice fields drifting in. Our driver, Pak Wayan, pointed out how the terraces at Tegallalang almost look like giant green steps carved by hand (he said his uncle helped plant some of them). I tried to capture it on my phone but honestly, standing there with your feet in the soft mud, hearing distant birds and the low hum of farmers’ voices, it’s a different thing. We took our time along those narrow paths—someone was selling coconuts from a little shack, so we stopped for one and watched the light shift across the valley.

Next stop was Tirta Empul. The air felt heavier here—incense and frangipani everywhere. Our guide explained the purification pools and how locals come from all over Bali for ceremonies. I didn’t expect to feel nervous stepping into that water with everyone else (tourists and Balinese families side by side), but it was oddly calming. Li laughed when I tried to say “terima kasih” properly—probably butchered it. There’s something about sharing that moment with strangers that sticks with you longer than any photo.

Afterwards we drove through coffee country—Bali Kuno Coffee Plantation. The owner showed us how they roast beans over a wood fire; you could smell it before you even saw the smoke. We tasted everything: kopi bali, ginger tea, even some weird chocolate coffee mix (not my favorite but worth trying once). Lunch was up at Grand Puncak Sari overlooking Mount Batur—the kind of view that makes you forget to check your messages for a while. The buffet had spicy chicken satay and something sweet made from palm sugar—I still think about that dessert sometimes.

The last part? Sinking into those hot springs by Lake Batur as the clouds rolled in over the volcano. My skin felt tingly from the minerals; steam everywhere but a cool breeze off the water. People were mostly quiet here—just soaking or watching kids splash around. It felt like time slowed down for an hour or two before heading back toward Ubud…or maybe I just didn’t want to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Bali's nature, culture, and cuisine

• Walk Tegallalang Rice Terrace
• Visit Tirta Empul Temple
• Tour Bali Kuno Coffee Plantation
• Lunch at Grand Puncak Sari Kintamani
• Soak in Batur Natural Hot Spring

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Ubud to Kintamani?

The tour lasts a full day including travel between sites like Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul Temple, coffee plantation, lunch at Kintamani, and Batur Hot Spring.

Is hotel pickup included on this Bali day trip?

Yes, private transportation with pickup is included for your convenience.

Can I join the purification ritual at Tirta Empul?

Yes, visitors are welcome to participate respectfully alongside local worshippers at Tirta Empul Temple.

Are meals provided during this tour?

A buffet lunch featuring Indonesian and Balinese dishes is included at Grand Puncak Sari overlooking Mount Batur.

Is this Bali tour suitable for families or children?

Yes, families with infants or small children can join; strollers and infant seats are available if needed.

Are there vegetarian options at lunch?

The buffet lunch offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian choices typical of Indonesian cuisine.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas visited on this tour are wheelchair accessible including transportation options.

What should I bring for the hot spring visit?

A swimsuit is recommended for enjoying Batur Natural Hot Spring; towels may be provided onsite.

What’s included

Your day includes private air-conditioned transport with pickup and bottled water throughout; entry fees to Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Tirta Empul Temple, coffee tasting at a local plantation; buffet lunch overlooking Mount Batur; plus access to soak in Batur’s natural hot springs before returning in comfort to your hotel or starting point.