Top 10 Most Beautiful Terraced Fields in the World

With its pristine and mysterious beauty, Bali exudes a unique blend of vibrant colors and serene tranquility. Particularly, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace appears like endless stairs leading to paradise—a must-visit attraction when in Bali. Located in the north of Tegalalang village, these terraced fields have existed for around 2000 years, managed by Subaks, each responsible for irrigation and care of one or more plots. Back in the day, Balinese farmers used rudimentary hand tools to cultivate the hillside strips from generation to generation. The beauty of these terraced fields will leave visitors in awe. The fields harmonize with the sky, creating a picturesque scene—majestic and dreamlike like a fairyland. Your soul will feel incredibly peaceful and at ease, helping you momentarily forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Come and explore this place. In the cool atmosphere of green fields and trees, what could be better than leisurely strolling to admire the lush green terraced fields and capturing beautiful moments. Along the way, there are many souvenir shops offering meaningful gifts produced by local artisans for you to choose for your friends and family. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Bali is undoubtedly a destination that every travel enthusiast should visit at least once in a lifetime. What are you waiting for? Come and experience the pristine and dreamy beauty of Tegalalang village with its lush terraced fields, like endless stairs leading to paradise.

Longji Terraced Fields located in Longji Village, Hoa Binh Commune, Thanh Long District, Guangxi, 80 km from Guilin. The renowned beauty of Longji Terraced Fields lies in its vast and layered panoramic view. The Southern National Mountain is dotted with terraced fields, and a large-scale concentrated field like Longji is rare. This splendid scene has earned Longji the title of the “world champion of terraced fields.” Longji is also known as the “seven stars surrounding the moon,” meaning seven small fields surrounding a large one, resembling the image of seven stars surrounding a moon. These terraced fields were built during the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and have become one of the world's famous fields. It spans across hills ranging from 300 to 1,100 meters above sea level, with the steepest slope being 50 degrees. The layered rice paddies cascade from the foothills to the hilltops, shrouded in mist, making Longji's terraced fields like stairs leading to the sky. Each season brings a unique landscape, attracting countless photographers and filmmakers.

Visiting Longji allows you not only to leisurely stroll through these beautiful terraced fields but also to marvel at the vibrant traditional costumes of the Dao and Choang ethnic groups. Your ears will be delighted by the melodious folk songs, immersing you completely in nature. Moreover, you will have the chance to savor local specialties such as bamboo-tube rice, roasted chicken in bamboo, and especially the rice wine known as the “Oriental magical water” that enchants many travelers. The inhabitants of Quelam, where Longji's terraced fields are located, are mainly Dao and Choang ethnic people. Come to Longji to be captivated by the scenery, enchanted by the wine, and mesmerized by the traditional dances of the Choang and Dao ethnic groups. The poetic songs harmonize with the majestic nature, nurturing the souls of generations growing up on this land.

Banaue Rice Terraces created by the Ifugao people in the Philippines, recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site for its grandeur, reaching heights of thousands of meters, showcasing ancient farming techniques mostly done by hand. The Banaue terraces stand at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters above sea level, covering an area of 10,360 km2 on the mountainside. Ifugao rice fields deserve to be one of the most magnificent landscapes for humanity. These conquered hills range in elevation from 700 to 1500 meters. Some narrow terraced fields are exploited and constructed to fit the local terrain.

The terraced fields in Ifugao are shaped to resemble the local mountains, creating a perfect harmony between nature and human hands. The terraces are situated in a mountain village in the northern part of Luzon Island, covering an area of over 10,360 km2. Due to its mountainous location, the water irrigation system relies mainly on the water flowing down from mountain clefts and streams during the rainy season. September and October are the preferred months for locals to sow new rice crops. The Banaue Rice Terraces are relatively steep, with distances between large terraced levels fluctuating from 0.6 to 1 meter. By early December to January, when the rice fields are rapidly growing, it's also the time when the terraces await the first-season rain to prepare for the harvest in June. Banaue Rice Terraces, a priceless wonder not only for Philippine tourism but also for humanity, is chosen by many travelers to experience the thrill of trekking, explore history, and together admire the boundless pristine beauty bestowed by nature.

Listed as a must-visit destination when traveling to the land of the Golden Pagoda, Thailand, the terraced fields of Chiang Mai with their winding layers always leave a lasting impression on tourists. Chiang Mai is located in northern Thailand, about a 10-hour drive from the capital, Bangkok. Besides conventional transportation, locals also travel by tuktuk. When you visit the terraced fields in Chiang Mai, you will clearly see the long-standing Asian paddy agriculture, a land famous for vast, expansive rice fields with cormorants soaring overhead. Moreover, due to the predominantly hilly and relatively steep terrain, terraced fields have developed to maximize planting area. This is a beauty that is unique to the Asian region in general and Chiang Mai in particular, an experience that travelers can only find here.

The terraced fields of Chiang Mai with their winding layers always leave a lasting impression on tourists. Dubbed the 'Northern Rose' of Thailand, Chiang Mai with its hills, mountains, and stretching forests along the city is truly an unmissable destination when traveling to Thailand this summer. Coming to Chiang Mai, strolling to admire temples immersed in the morning sun, or the gentle terraced fields in the golden glow of the evening, listening to the murmurs of the lush forests with the wind, wandering through charming little cafés on narrow streets... you will truly understand and appreciate the beauty of this place.

Mù Cang Chải is nestled at the foothills of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, at an altitude of 1,000 meters above sea level. To reach Mù Cang Chải, one must traverse the Khau Pha Pass, ranked as one of the Four Great Passes in the Northwest (including O Quy Ho Pass, Pha Din Pass, Khau Pha Pass, and Ma Pi Leng Pass). Upon arriving in Mù Cang Chải, travelers are often astonished and captivated by the breathtaking and soul-stirring terraced fields amidst these perilous highlands, a testament to the diligence and warm-heartedness of the local H'Mong people. The cultivation of these terraced fields has been passed down from generation to generation, creating landscapes resembling magnificent artistry hung on the hillsides. This unique form of agriculture bears the distinct cultural essence of the Mù Cang Chải highland dwellers.

The 'golden trays of sticky rice' and the 'green trays of sticky rice' appear majestically amidst the vast mountains and forests of the Northwest, seemingly an offering to the heavens and earth, showcasing the prosperous life of the local H'Mong ethnic community. With its inherent beauty, the terraced fields are not only a source of pride for the people but also a source of enchantment for the countless souls that have set foot in this land. Traveling to the Mù Cang Chải terraced fields has become familiar and intimate to tourists both domestic and foreign in recent years. Visitors can immerse their souls in the mountains and forests, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the cool climate, perfect for a relaxing extended vacation...

Nestled in the sacred valley, Pisac is a village located at the base of the Inca fortress, approximately 45 minutes from the city of Cusco and serves as the perfect starting point for an excursion beyond the city to the sacred valley. Pisac boasts ancient Inca terraced fields still in use today. Comprising 16 large 'encircling' fields, they are sculpted in the shape of a parrot when viewed from above. In the Peruvian language, Pisac also means 'parrot'. Additionally, visitors to Pisac are delighted to discover that besides being terraced fields, Pisac forms an architectural ensemble including a military fortress, religious temples, and small houses dotted around, offering views of the Sacred Valley amidst the distant Salkantay mountain range.

With its expansive mountainous terrain, touring Pisac allows visitors to explore ancient fortresses, temples, and local homes in the area. As these ruins are not located in the heart of Cusco, there are fewer tourists, providing more time and freedom for exploration. The site is an impressive Inca fortress perched atop a hill overlooking Pisac. You can hike from Pisac to the summit (taking approximately two hours) or opt for a short taxi ride. The area features agricultural terraced fields surrounding the south and east sides of the mountain, creating picturesque landscapes and serving as a perfect spot to rest and have lunch.

Sapa, a town in Lao Cai province, attracts numerous domestic and international tourists with its natural beauty and the distinctive features of the Northwest Vietnam mountains. The terraced fields are one of the most fascinating landscapes when traveling to Sa Pa as they present a vibrant natural beauty with fields cascading down the mountainside, creating a lively painting amidst the Northwest sky. Indigenous ethnic groups such as H'Mong, Giay, Dao, Tay, Ha Nhi, and Giay cultivate rice, corn, and vegetables on these terraced fields. Particularly, during the ripe rice season, the terraced layers shine in golden hues.

As the rice matures, the terraced layers, one after another, turn into layers of brilliant yellow reaching up to the sky. Nature has cleverly bestowed upon Sapa a landscape that is not found everywhere. The terraced fields are not only beautiful scenes but also mobile livelihoods for the mountainous ethnic communities. This is an efficient agricultural cultivation method on steep terrain and hills, contributing to the creation of unique tourism products for Lao Cai for many years. If you visit Sa Pa around September and October - late autumn, you will undoubtedly never forget the moment you see the hillsides, the terraced fields stretching in a myriad of ripe rice colors - stunningly golden and refreshing. Inhaling the cool, fresh autumn air blended with the scent of ripe rice will bring a remarkably tranquil feeling. Let's explore these pristine and natural beauties through your journeys to Sa Pa!

Douro, a wine region situated on both sides of the Douro River in the Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro province in northeastern Portugal, not far from the capital Porto, showcases terraced fields stretching across hills adorned with ancient grapevines. Along the picturesque riverbanks, it stands as a marvelous destination captivating tourists visiting Portugal. During the grape harvest in autumn, the entire valley is painted with hues of ripe red and golden grapes, while February and March witness almond blossoms, adding a vibrant pink to the hillsides.

Draped in lush, vibrant landscapes, this region in the Iberian Peninsula enchants with its freshness and heart-stirring beauty. Douro is renowned as the highest wine-producing region in Portugal, featuring terraced fields on steep hillsides and valleys alongside winding rivers. The emerald-green waters of the Douro River meander amidst countless terraced fields cultivating grapes, covering the fertile land in a patchwork quilt. Thus, Douro is considered the homeland of highly acclaimed white and red wines in Europe and globally. Travelers can explore by cycling along winding mountain roads and navigating the Douro River by boat, reveling in the ever-changing vineyard scenery during each season.

Ollantaytambo, once the royal palace of Emperor Pachacuti, constructed in the mid-15th century, stands by the Patakancha River and is one of the oldest inhabited places in South America. Today, Ollantaytambo is a captivating tourist destination, adding to Peru's collection of magnificent terraced fields, alongside Pisac. These ancient terraces are located in southern Peru, at an elevation of 2,792 meters above sea level. In the Inca Empire, Ollantaytambo was the Royal Estate of Emperor Pachacuti, the conqueror of this region. It is renowned not only for its impressive beauty but also for demonstrating the unexpected strength and intelligence of ancient people in constructing hydraulic works...

Terraced fields in Ollantaytambo are built to higher standards compared to typical Inca agricultural terraces; for instance, they feature higher stone-cut walls instead of rough stones. This highly esteemed type of terraced field is also found in other Inca royal areas such as Chinchero, Pisaq, and Yucay. While Peru is famous for numerous areas with beautiful terraced fields, Ollantaytambo is rated as having an exceptionally stunning landscape. Intertwined with the terraced fields are numerous houses built by the locals, preserving their ancient charm to this day. The harmonious picture of nature blending with daily human life is something many travelers worldwide aspire to witness and experience, making Ollantaytambo one of the most beautiful terraced fields in the world.

Terraced fields in Yuanyang, Yunnan, have a history dating back 1,200 years. This region covers 1 million hectares, with 16,600 hectares recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Since ancient times, the people of Yuanyang have cultivated and farmed on these terraced fields. Over the years, the terraced fields, crafted by human effort, have created a breathtaking masterpiece of nature. Layer upon layer of tiered terraces by ethnic communities serve as a focal point, attracting numerous tourists and photographers who capture these scenes for their enduring collections.

Here, locals typically cultivate one crop per year, starting in April and harvesting in September. After the harvest season, from mid-September to November, the terraced fields are always filled with water until the next planting season. The water bodies in the fields create multi-dimensional reflections, appearing translucent when viewed from above. The water supply for the fields is preserved on the high hills in the forested areas and flows down to the fields through a network of channels for irrigation. The ideal time for visitors to capture the terraced fields is 30 minutes before sunset. During this time, the water surfaces on the fields act as reflective mirrors, showcasing the surreal colors of the sky. The hues of the sunset are mirrored in the flooded fields, creating a vibrant and majestic natural painting. The allure of these terraced fields continues to captivate travelers throughout the year, seemingly unaffected by the changing sunlight.