Bali Implements New Strict Guidelines for Tourists

Bali, Indonesia – In a bold move to protect its cultural heritage and sacred sites, Bali has introduced a comprehensive set of tourist regulations aimed primarily at foreign visitors. Announced by Governor I Wayan Koster on March 24, the rules are a response to rising concerns about overtourism and cultural insensitivity among visitors to the island.

A Call for Respect

Governor Koster emphasized the need for immediate action to preserve Bali’s unique cultural fabric. "We issued a similar regulation before, but as things change, we need to adapt," Koster stated. The aim is to ensure that tourism in Bali remains respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with local values, reported Euronews.

The new rules put a strong emphasis on respecting local customs, making it mandatory for tourists to dress modestly when visiting public spaces, temples, and religious sites. Behaviors considered disrespectful, such as swearing, displaying rudeness towards locals, climbing on sacred trees, and taking inappropriate photographs at religious sites, are now explicitly prohibited.

Moreover, the guidelines adhere to traditional Balinese religious practices, including a ban on entry into sacred temple areas for menstruating women.

Enforcement and Penalties

To enforce these new regulations, Bali has reinstated the tourism levy of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (approximately €9), which was first introduced in 2024 as part of efforts to fund environmental and cultural conservation projects. Tourists who fail to pay this levy may not only be refused access to attractions but could also face legal repercussions under Indonesian law.

Governor Koster issued a stern warning regarding enforcement, asserting that “foreign tourists who are naughty will be immediately dealt with firmly,” as reported by The Bali Sun. A special team has been established to monitor tourist behavior and uphold the new standards, with the local civil service police unit also actively involved in enforcement.

Sustainable Practices

In addition to regulating visitor conduct, Bali is intensifying its sustainability efforts. The use of single-use plastics—such as bags, styrofoam containers, straws, and plastic-packaged beverages—is now officially banned. Tourists are required to utilize licensed accommodations and guides, adhere to traffic regulations, and conduct currency exchanges only at authorized exchange outlets. Spreading hate speech or misinformation online has also been deemed unacceptable.

Koster underscored the importance of mutual respect, commenting, “Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them.”

Background and Context

The implementation of these rules follows numerous incidents in recent years involving inappropriate conduct by tourists, including deportations of visitors for taking nude photos in sacred areas or engaging in disrespectful behavior at religious ceremonies.

Additionally, the release of these regulations coincides with Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, occurring on March 29, during which all residents and tourists are required to observe silence and remain indoors for 24 hours.

Conclusion

While some may view the new regulations as overly strict, they serve as a clear message from Bali’s authorities: visitors must respect local culture or reconsider their travel plans. As the tourism industry evolves, the initiative seeks to ensure that Bali remains a harmonious and sacred destination for generations to come.

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