Sa Pa Terraces, Vietnam
Sa Pa is a town in northwest Vietnam not far from the Chinese border. The rice terrace fields, among the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam, can be found in the Muong Hoa valley between Sa Pa town and the Fansipan Mountain, on a backdrop of thick bamboo woodlands. Local mountain people, the Hmong, Giay, Dao, Tay, and Giay, grow rice and corn on these paddy terraces, along with vegetables. Because of the climate, only one rice crop a year can be produced, resulting in abundant malnutrition.
Yuanyang Terraces, China
The Yuanyang region is home to the Hami and Yi tribes, who created the monumental rice terraced mountains and have made the region famous. The originality of those communities converted this hilly region into an artistic beauty. Their villages are located between 1300 and 1600 meters above the sea level that makes its access little difficult but highly worth it.
Banaue, Philippines
Often called as the “8th wonder of the world” these terraces were carved into the mountains of Ifugao in the Philippines by the ancestors of the indigenous people. At around 4900 ft above sea level, these were declared by the Philippine government as a National Cultural Treasure and forms a major tourist attraction. A photographer’s delight, Banaue Rice Terraces are fed by an ancient irrigation system from the rainforests above the plantations.
Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Bali
Turn just about any street corner in Ubud and you will likely find yourself surrounded by rice paddies. The popular Bali destination is a seemingly endless patchwork of verdant paddies and terraced fields, the most popular of which are the nearby Tegallalang Rice Terraces. This picturesque roadside attraction is an easy and cheap afternoon trip by rented motorbike from downtown Ubud.
Mu Cang Chai Terraces, Vietnam
Situated in Yen Bai province of Northern Vietnam, Mu Cang Chai features the most stunning rice terraces in Vietnam. This valley features wonderful landscapes enveloped by green and yellow rice plants. The best way to discover the serene and resourceful landscape is to walk through crossing little villages and hometowns of Tay and Hmongs communities.
Ella Rice Terrace, Sri Lanka
The rice terraces of Ella, in Badulla district of Uva province in Sri Lanka, looks amazing when the plants remain submerged in water. Ella is a popular tourist spot and these stepped rice cultivation is another reason that attracts many to this small town. Verdant surroundings and hilly backdrop sets a perfect picture for these terraces.