Ubud: Water Temple, Waterfalls and Rice Terrace Day Trip

If you’re planning a day trip to Bali’s cultural heart, Ubud, this tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty and spiritual sights. It’s ideal for those who want to pack a lot into one day without feeling rushed. From lush rice terraces and enchanting waterfalls to sacred temples and local coffee, this experience ticks many Bali boxes.

What we love about this tour is how it combines iconic sights with authentic touches — the chance to walk through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, visit the famous Tirta Empul water temple, and sip on Luwak coffee. Plus, the flexibility of the itinerary means you can tailor some stops or take extra time where it suits you. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of driving and walking, so comfort and stamina are helpful.

This tour suits travelers with a curiosity for Bali’s landscapes and culture, especially those who want a well-rounded day without the hassle of planning. If you’re looking for a balance of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some leisure, this trip is a solid choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive sampling of Ubud’s main attractions in a single day
• Flexible itinerary that can be customized to suit your interests
• Authentic experiences like rice terrace walking and temple purification
• Enjoyable scenic views and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities
• Local food and coffee tasting included for a taste of Bali’s flavors
• Good value for money with a private group setting and expert driver/guide

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Ubud Day Trip Experience

This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to maximize a day in Bali with a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine. It’s designed to be straightforward yet thorough, making it ideal for visitors who want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The fact that it’s a private group means you get a more personalized experience, and your driver-turned-guide is likely to share local insights that you won’t find in guidebooks.

What immediately catches the eye is the itinerary’s emphasis on iconic sights like Tegallalang Rice Terrace and Tirta Empul Temple, both of which are must-visits. The rice terraces are a UNESCO heritage site and offer stunning photo opportunities, especially if you’re into capturing the essence of Bali’s lush landscape. The water temple, known for its purification rituals, adds a spiritual dimension and a bit of Bali’s magic.

While the tour offers a well-rounded experience, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is flexible, and you can opt to do some extra activities like a small trek or try the adventurous swings around the rice fields. The only potential downside is that some stops, like the waterfalls, involve short drives followed by more walking or climbing, which could be a consideration for travelers with mobility issues. Nevertheless, most reviews highlight how the driver is friendly, punctual, and knowledgeable, making the long day more comfortable.

From Rice Terraces to Sacred Temples: The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Starting the Day: Convenient Hotel Pick-Ups

The tour begins with a pickup from your Bali hotel—be it in Kuta, Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, Legian, or Sanur. The driver, who doubles as your guide, will arrive promptly, usually 10 minutes before the scheduled departure. This personalized touch helps set a relaxed tone for the day, and with a private group, you won’t have to wait around for other travelers.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Your first major stop is the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its intricate, lush green fields carved into the hillside. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour, which typically lasts about an hour. Guests often mention how stunning the views are—perfect for photos, especially with the early morning or late afternoon light.

Many reviews highlight the opportunity to do a small trek down the rice terraces, which adds an element of adventure and a closer look at traditional irrigation. Some travelers also enjoy trying the adrenaline activity swings or zip lines that surround the area, giving a thrill to an otherwise peaceful setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tirta Empul Water Temple

Next, the tour continues to Tirta Empul, a spiritual site renowned for its purification pools. Visitors can participate in a traditional purification ritual, which is believed to cleanse both body and soul. The driver helps with obtaining a green sarong at the entrance, which is necessary for entering the temple grounds and taking part in the ritual.

While the temple experience might be short—around 30 minutes if crowded—it leaves a lasting impression. Several reviews mention the “magical” atmosphere and the chance to witness local spiritual practices. It’s a meaningful and memorable part of the trip, especially for those interested in Bali’s cultural traditions.

Lunch Break at D’Koi Resto

After visiting the temple, your driver will escort you to D’Koi Resto, a local restaurant offering a delightful mix of authentic Balinese dishes and international favorites. The restaurant’s rice-field views make for a relaxing ambiance, ideal for recharging after a busy morning. Many guests rave about the delicious food and generous portions, which offer excellent value.

Coffee Plantation Visit

Post-lunch, the tour includes a visit to a coffee plantation, where you can sample the world-famous Luwak coffee. This segment is often highlighted as a unique experience—you get to see how Bali’s famed civet coffee is made and taste a variety of local brews, savoring the rich flavors. It’s also an opportunity to buy souvenirs, like coffee or spices, directly from local vendors.

Waterfalls Galore: Tibumana and Kanto Lampo

The final stop involves visiting two waterfalls about 45 minutes apart. First, Tibumana Waterfall offers a peaceful setting where you can enjoy some time swimming or simply soaking in the scenery. The final highlight is Kanto Lampo Waterfall—popular for its “Instagram rock” viewpoint. Several reviews describe it as a “must-visit” for the perfect water shot and a fun spot to cool off.

Expect around 45 minutes at each waterfall, with some walking involved to reach the viewpoints or swimming spots. The water is generally refreshing, and the scenery is spectacular enough to warrant snapping plenty of photos.

Return to Your Hotel

After a full day exploring Bali’s best natural and spiritual sights, your driver will bring you back to your hotel, usually arriving around late afternoon or early evening. You’ll leave with a camera full of images, a belly full of good food, and a heart full of Bali’s magic.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Transportation & Group Size: The tour is a private experience, meaning you won’t be sharing it with strangers. The vehicle is comfortable for the duration, and the driver serves as both transportation and guide, sharing insights along the way.

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 9 hours, with flexible start times depending on your hotel location. It’s designed to be a full but manageable day, so wear comfortable clothes and bring a towel if you plan to swim.

Cost & Value: While the exact price isn’t specified here, the included activities—trekking, temple entry, local lunch, coffee tasting, and visits to waterfalls—offer good value compared to booking each separately. The private setting also means more personalized attention and less waiting.

What to Bring: Cash for souvenirs or extra purchases, a towel if you plan to swim, comfortable clothes, and sunscreen are recommended. Note that alcohol and drugs are not permitted.

Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for people with altitude sickness or those over 70, mainly due to the walking involved at waterfalls and rice terraces.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Ubud Water Temple, Waterfalls, and Rice Terrace Day Trip offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the main sights comfortably, with the added bonus of local food and coffee experiences. The private group setup caters to those seeking a more intimate experience, and the flexible itinerary allows for some personalized touches.

If you’re after a balanced, cost-effective day filled with stunning scenery and cultural insights, this tour fits the bill. The ability to customize parts of the day makes it adaptable for different interests, whether you’re keen on photography, spiritual experiences, or simply relaxing amid Bali’s lush landscapes.

In terms of value, the tour packs many highlights into a single day, with positive feedback about the quality of the guides, the delicious food, and the scenic stops. Just remember that it’s a long day, so be prepared for a fair bit of walking and some early starts.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting from your hotel and ending back there in the late afternoon or early evening.

What locations can I be picked up from?
Pickups are available from areas including Kuta, Canggu, Ubud, Seminyak, Legian, and Sanur. Additional charges may apply for Uluwatu, Candidasa, Tabanan, and other locations.

Are the stops customizable?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, and you can tailor certain parts of the trip, such as spending more time at specific sites or adding activities like zip-lining or trekking.

What should I bring?
Bring cash, a towel if you plan to swim, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s not recommended for people with altitude sickness or those over 70 due to walking and physical activity involved.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local lunch at D’Koi Resto is included, offering authentic Balinese and international dishes.

What about the water temple?
You can participate in a purification ritual at Tirta Empul if you wish. The process takes around 30 minutes if it’s not crowded.

How is the transportation organized?
A private vehicle with an expert driver/guide takes you comfortably between sites, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to adapt your travel plans.

This trip offers a fantastic way to experience Bali’s diverse charms—breathtaking landscapes, sacred traditions, and delicious local flavors—all in one memorable day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Bali traveler, it’s a well-structured adventure worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby