Temple ritual in Bali. Credit: Pixabay, AgungAtmaja
Bali has launched a sweeping new set of tourist rules to curb disrespectful behaviour, protect sacred sites, and preserve the cultural fabric of the island, according to several reports.
The new rules, issued by Governor I Wayan Koster on March 24, are aimed at foreign visitors and follow growing concerns over overtourism and cultural insensitivity.
Respect for local customs in Bali is now mandatory
Governor Koster announced that Bali is taking “immediate measures” to regulate tourist behaviour. “We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt. This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values,” cited by Euronews.
Under the updated guidelines, tourists are now required to dress modestly when visiting public spaces, temples, and religious sites. Behaviour deemed disrespectful – such as swearing, being rude to locals, climbing sacred trees, or taking nude or inappropriate photos at religious sites – is strictly prohibited.
Menstruating women are banned from entering sacred temple areas, a rule in line with traditional Balinese religious customs.
Tourist levy enforcement and legal penalties for violating Bali rules
The guidelines also reinforce the mandatory tourist levy of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (around €9), introduced in 2024 to help fund environmental and cultural conservation. Tourists who fail to pay may be refused access to attractions and could face legal consequences under Indonesian law.
Koster warned that “foreign tourists who are naughty will be immediately dealt with firmly,” as quoted by The Bali Sun. A special team has reportedly been set up to enforce the rules, and Bali’s civil service police unit will actively monitor tourist behaviour.
Single-use plastics, unlicensed guides, and hate speech banned in Bali
Bali is also stepping up efforts to become more sustainable. The use of single-use plastics – including bags, styrofoam, straws, and plastic-packaged drinks – is now officially banned. Tourists must use licensed accommodation and guides, follow traffic laws, and exchange currency at authorised outlets.
In addition, hate speech or spreading misinformation online is forbidden. “Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them,” Koster said.
The crackdown comes after a string of controversies involving disrespectful tourists. In recent years, several foreign visitors have been deported or criticised for taking nude photos at sacred sites or behaving inappropriately at religious ceremonies.
Bali’s new rules also coincide with Nyepi, the Balinese day of silence on March 29, when all residents and tourists must stay indoors for 24 hours.
While some may view the regulations as strict, they’re a clear message from Bali: respect our culture, or don’t come. Do you think these rules are too strict or perfectly reasonable? Let us know in the comments below.
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