Tabanan
🌴 Overview of Tabanan Regency, Bali
Location:
Tabanan is located in the western part of Bali, Indonesia. It borders Buleleng Regency to the north, Badung Regency to the east, and Jembrana Regency to the west. The southern boundary faces the Indian Ocean, giving Tabanan a long stretch of beautiful coastline.
🗺️ Geography and Landscape
Tabanan is often called “the Rice Bowl of Bali” because of its vast, fertile rice terraces — including the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jatiluwih. The landscape transitions from coastal plains to lush hills and volcanic highlands, dominated by Mount Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest peak.
Key geographical features:
Mount Batukaru (2,276 m) – part of the Batukaru Nature Reserve
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – iconic subak irrigation system
Tanah Lot Temple – one of Bali’s most photographed sea temples
Yeh Gangga & Kedungu Beaches – quiet black-sand beaches
🏛️ Administrative and Demographic Info
Capital: Tabanan Town
Area: ~1,013 km²
Population: Around 480,000 people (approx., as of recent estimates)
Districts: 10 sub-districts (kecamatan), including Kediri, Penebel, and Pupuan
🌾 Economy
Tabanan’s economy is largely based on:
Agriculture (especially rice, coffee, cocoa, and fruits)
Tourism (eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and wellness retreats)
Handicrafts (wood carving, traditional textiles)
Despite growing tourism, Tabanan remains more rural and less commercialized than southern Bali, preserving much of its traditional charm.
🕉️ Culture and Religion
Tabanan retains strong Balinese Hindu traditions, with frequent temple ceremonies and community rituals. Villages maintain the subak irrigation system — a blend of cooperative water management and spiritual practice.
Cultural highlights:
Tanah Lot Temple ceremonies
Traditional dance performances
Local festivals honoring Dewi Sri, the rice goddess
🚗 Tourism and Attractions
Major attractions include:
Tanah Lot Temple – iconic seaside shrine
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – UNESCO-listed landscape
Bali Butterfly Park (Wanasari)
Ulun Danu Batukaru Temple – serene mountain temple
Balian Beach – popular for surfing and retreats
Tabanan is ideal for travelers seeking authentic, rural Bali — away from the crowded resorts of Kuta or Canggu.
🌿 Summary
Category Details
Region West-Central Bali
Capital Tabanan Town
Area ~1,013 km²
Main Attractions Tanah Lot, Jatiluwih, Mount Batukaru
Economy Agriculture, Tourism, Handicrafts
Character Cultural, Scenic, Authentic, Peaceful



