There are still many villages in Bali which have not yet been touched by modernization, as they are far away from the hub of the cities, and quite secluded, being tucked between valleys and hills, surrounded by miles of rice fields in tidy rows and terraces. One of them is Jatiluwih Village, located about 2 hours drive from Kuta, Sanur or Nusa Dua area, belong to Tabanan Regency.

These rice fields are carefully tended by villagers using traditional techniques and simple tools, handed down from generation to generation. Today, you can still see the farmers tilling their fields with their cows or water buffaloes. As a matter of fact, farming is their only means of survival.

Jatiluwih village, which is located in the north of Tabanan regency, and more precisely in the northern part of Penebel district, is one of these villages. It is said that the village possesses one of the most beautiful natural surrounding on the island. Located at an elevation of 850 meters from sea level, the climate in this village is quite cool and the air is very fresh. The village can be reached from Tabanan, the nearest city, in an hours drive through magnificent landscapes of cleverly terraced rice fields, only interrupted by occasional little rivers of crystal clear water. Now and then, the sound of bird song adds to the magical feeling of being surrounded by 360 degrees of beautiful views. The village is without doubt a good spot for an outing with the whole family. From the southern corner of the village, one can view the landscape of south Bali set against the deep blue sea in the background. A Bale Bengong, a traditional Balinese open sitting lounge, is provided for those who wish to absorb the beauty of nature. On the horizon, Nusa Penida, an island adjacent to the mainland, and the southern tip of Bali with its beautiful curves, are visible when the sky is clear.

When the paddy is ripening, the yellow carpet-like paddy fields add to the beauty of this panorama. In the evening, the glimmering light of the faraway cities cal also be seen, way below the village. A two kilometers walk into the woods will bring you to a unique temple called the Petali Temple, which is also old as the village itself. It does indeed look very ancient.

The village has several temples, and some of the houses are still traditionally built and have thatched roofs. The communities of the village still hold a very strong sense of solidarity and all works are carried out together. The farmers of this village grow a special variety of paddy which is called the Balinese paddy and grows up to 120 cm in height. The rice is somehow fluffier and more fragrant than the new varieties more recently introduced by agriculture expert. The Balinese variety can only be harvested twice a year, whereas the new ones yield three crops per year. Despite this fact, many Balinese prefer the original rice variety to the new kinds.

As we inform earlier, modernization has not yet crept into the life of the village. There is not a single bungalow or any form of accommodation available here. The villagers are very friendly and do not know much about tourism. The will not hassle you to buy anything, but instead welcome you with warm smiles.

It sounds like a great day out, doesn’t it? Hurry up take a tour with us! We recommended Tanah Lot Bali Rice Terrace Tour