Plaga

Plaga is a step back into old Bali, away from the hustle and bustle of the southern areas. It is one of the only areas to grow the rare “dry” rice in un-flooded paddies. This rice is organic, red, and grows to three feet (1 m) in height. You can help with the harvest in February, and visit roadside restaurants called warungs to sample the produce year-round.

Plaga Farm uses modern hydroponics to grow a bounty of lettuces, leafy greens, and herbs. There are several coffee plantations with tasting rooms to sample Kopi Bali and Luwak Coffee, made from beans passed through the digestive tract of the civet. Indowines has vineyards growing grapes for their unique Bali wine collections.

One of the best ways to dig into Plaga's agricultural scene is through local eco-tours. Farms in the area have spacious properties with accommodations as well as space for camping. These types of farms often also provide spa services. Area tours introduce you to local farmers and provide the opportunity to do some farming yourself, all while you learn about Plaga’s history.

The Plaga region is great for trekking and adventure, with many miles of trails that lead to breathtaking scenery. Can’t-miss local sights include the sunrise over Plaga from the heights of Penataran Agung Pucak Mangu Temple in Tinggan village. To the northwest is Tukad Bangkung Bridge, the longest bridge in Bali at 1,181 feet (360 m), and one of the highest in all of Asia. Beyond that is Sekar Langit Waterfall, which plummets 82 feet (25 m) through the jungle into a lake. Adrenaline seekers can take rafting trips down the Ayung river.