Bali’s New Tourist Regulations for 2025: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Bali, Indonesia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich spiritual heritage, is preparing for significant changes in its tourism regulations starting in 2025. The new guidelines, aimed at preserving the island’s cultural integrity, have sparked considerable debate internationally, particularly regarding rules surrounding women’s access to sacred sites during menstruation.

Cultural Landscape and New Regulations

On March 1, 2025, the Bali Provincial Government issued Governor I Wayan Koster’s Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, introducing a series of regulations intended to honor Balinese customs and traditions amidst increasing tourist influx. The most controversial regulation states that menstruating women are prohibited from entering temples, a practice grounded in Balinese Hindu beliefs which regard menstrual blood as impure.

The announcement quickly gained traction across global media platforms, including publications like Time Out and Metro, raising questions about gender discrimination and cultural sensitivity. Despite the backlash, local officials insist that these regulations are crucial for preserving the sanctity of sacred spaces and the religious customs that define Balinese identity.

Understanding the New Code of Conduct

The 2025 regulations are a continuation of measures instituted in 2023, intending to safeguard Bali’s cultural heritage. Here are the core highlights visitors must keep in mind:

Key Expectations for Tourists

1. Respect Sacred Spaces: Visitors are encouraged to honor temples and other religious sites, demonstrating reverence and understanding of their significance.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: Tourists should be respectful of local customs, particularly during religious ceremonies and traditional events.

3. Dress Appropriately: Modesty is required in attire when visiting sacred spaces. Traditional sarongs may be offered at temple entrances to ensure compliance.

4. Public Behavior: Courteous and respectful behavior is expected in all public areas.

5. Tourist Levy: A mandatory online tourist levy must be paid prior to or upon arrival, accessible through the official government website.

6. Licensed Tour Guides: Visitors must be accompanied by licensed guides when exploring cultural or natural sites.

7. Financial Transactions: Currency exchanges should be done at licensed outlets, and only the Indonesian Rupiah will be accepted for transactions.

8. Traffic Laws: Compliance with local traffic regulations, including having a valid driver’s license, is mandatory.

9. Transportation: Only officially registered transport services should be utilized.

10. Accommodation: Staying at licensed hotels or guesthouses is essential to ensure legal compliance.

Prohibited Actions

While visiting Bali, tourists should actively avoid the following:

• Entering Temples During Menstruation: Women on their period are explicitly barred, and all visitors must respect dress codes.
• Climbing Sacred Trees: This action is forbidden in Balinese culture.
• Disrespectful Conduct: Immodest dressing and disrespectful behavior at holy sites are strongly discouraged.
• Littering: Proper waste disposal is expected, with designated bins available.
• Using Single-Use Plastics: To protect the environment, plastic straws, bags, and Styrofoam are prohibited.
• Illegal Activities: Engaging in unauthorized employment or trade of protected wildlife or artifacts is strictly forbidden.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Violation of these regulations may lead to severe legal penalties under Indonesian law. Additionally, tourists who fail to pay the tourist levy risk being barred from entry at key attractions.

Ongoing Debate and Local Sentiments

The discussion around the prohibition of menstruating women entering temples is not new; a viral incident in 2020 highlighted a foreign tourist challenging this rule, drawing attention to the clash between traditional customs and modern perspectives on gender equality. Despite international outcry, local authorities persist in defending the restrictions, citing the need to uphold purity in their sacred rituals.

Conclusion

As Bali prepares to introduce these new tourism rules in 2025, visitors are urged to approach the guidelines with cultural sensitivity and respect for local traditions. The regulations may seem strict but are rooted in the island’s deep spiritual values. By adhering to these protocols, tourists can ensure a more meaningful and harmonious experience in one of the world’s most treasured cultural destinations.

For those planning to visit Bali in 2025, being informed and respectful of these guidelines will be key to enjoying a unique and culturally enriching travel experience.