Rice Terraces & the Subak System (UNESCO)

The rice terraces are Bali's most iconic landscape — and far more than just a pretty backdrop. They are the result of an over 1,000-year-old irrigation system called Subak, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 2012.

The Subak is a cooperative water distribution: All rice farmers in a catchment area organize into a Subak community and distribute the water from rivers and springs fairly among themselves — controlled by a complex system of channels, sluices, tunnels, and dams that spans elevation differences of up to 1,000 meters.

The special feature: Water distribution is not regulated by the state but by the water temples. The highest water temple, Pura Ulun Danu Batur, coordinates distribution for all of Bali. Each Subak has its own small water temple. The priests set the planting and harvest cycles — in coordination with the water, the moon, and the gods. This system has worked for over 1,000 years better than any state bureaucracy.

Famous rice terraces:

• Jatiluwih (UNESCO) — The most extensive terraces, 600 ha, spectacular view of Batukaru. Less crowded than Tegallalang.
• Tegallalang (near Ubud) — The Instagram-famous terraces. Beautiful, but crowded and commercialized (swing swings, cafés).
• Sidemen (East Bali) — The most beautiful terraces away from the crowds, with Agung panorama.