Area guide

Penebel: Rice Terraces, Mountain Temples and Village Life

On the green slopes of Mount Batukaru in Tabanan, Penebel is Bali at its most peaceful: rice terraces, forest temples and cool mountain air, a world away from the busy south.

Why stay in Penebel

Penebel is the place to slow down. Mornings start with mist over the rice fields, and evenings are quiet and cool. The district is a natural base for the rice terraces of Jatiluwih and the temples on the slopes of Mount Batukaru, and many guests combine a few nights here with a beach stay in Canggu.

Where to stay

Tegal Wangi Penebel

Our holiday guest house in Penatahan village has just five rooms, with views of rice fields, mountains and forest.

• King-size bed, air conditioning and a private terrace in every room
• Swimming pool, daily breakfast available and bicycles for exploring the village
• From IDR 400,000 per night, room only, or IDR 550,000 with breakfast

Check datesSee the guest house

Things to do

Rice terraces, sacred temples and mountain forest, all within easy reach of Tegal Wangi Penebel.

Jatiluwih Rice TerracesUNESCO-listed terraces with walking trails through the fields. Pura Luhur BatukaruOne of Bali’s most sacred temples, set in misty rainforest. Pura Luhur Tamba WarasA forest healing temple where visitors can join a melukat water blessing. Mount Batukaru TrekA challenging pre-dawn hike up Bali’s second-highest peak.

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Good to know

• Getting here: Penatahan is roughly an hour’s drive from Canggu, depending on traffic. We can arrange a private driver or an airport transfer.
• Getting around: Village roads are narrow and winding, so a driver is the most relaxed way to explore. Bicycles at the guest house are perfect for the lanes nearby.
• Weather: The hills are noticeably cooler than the coast, especially in the early morning and evening, and rain is more frequent, so pack a light jacket.
• Best light: Visit the rice terraces early in the morning for soft light, cooler air and fewer visitors.
• Through the seasons: The terraces change through the year, from flooded and mirror-like after planting to bright green, then gold before the harvest.
• Temples: Wear a sarong and sash, often available to borrow or rent at the entrance, and keep your shoulders covered.

Combining the mountains with the beach? Read our Canggu area guide.