Bali’s Public Bus System Reinstated with Cautions for Tourists

Bali, Indonesia – April 21, 2025 – Bali has officially reinstated its public transportation option, the Trans Metro Dewata, which has been a crucial service for both locals and tourists navigating the island. The bus line had been suspended in January due to government funding restrictions, but it returned to full operation over the past weekend, offering an affordable travel alternative between popular tourist destinations.

Overview of Resumed Services

The Trans Metro Dewata bus service is vital for thousands of residents in the central and southern areas of Bali, helping them commute for work and everyday activities. With the resumption of services, travelers now have access to all six bus routes that connect key resort areas, enhancing the convenience of transportation on the island.

According to Ida Bagus Eka Budi, the Operational Manager of PT Satria Trans Jaya, the current frequency of the bus services has been adjusted for efficiency. "The distance between buses is now between 17-19 minutes, compared to the previous 12-13 minutes," Budi stated. The bus service will now run 75 times daily, a decrease from the previous figure of 105. This change is intended to streamline operations while accommodating public demand.

Available Bus Routes

For those interested in utilizing this public service, here are the details of the six primary routes:

• Route 1: Kuta Parking Centre – Pesiapan Terminal

  • First departure: 4:30 AM
  • Last departure: 6:33 PM

• Route 2: Ubung Terminal – Ngurah Rai Airport

  • First departure: 5:00 AM
  • Last departure: 6:49 PM

• Route 3: Ubung – Sanur Terminal

  • First departure: 5:00 AM
  • Last departure: 6:53 PM

• Route 4: Ubung Terminal – Monkey Forest Parking Centre

  • First departure: 5:00 AM
  • Last departure: 6:30 PM

• Route 5: Kuta Parking Centre – Bali State Polytechnic

  • First departure: 5:00 AM
  • Last departure: 6:36 PM

• Route 6: Kuta – Nusa Dua Parking Centre

  • First departure: 5:00 AM
  • Last departure: 7:00 PM

Travelers can find real-time updates and schedules through the MitraDarat app, which is available for download from all major app stores.

Measures Against Fare Evasion

As the bus service resumes, officials have issued a warning to riders concerning fare evasion. Reports indicate that some passengers have attempted to avoid paying the IDR 4,400 bus fare. Budi noted that this has resulted in increased scrutiny. Passengers may use the digital payment system QRIS for their fares, allowing users to pay directly from their digital wallets.

Unfortunately, incidents of fraud have also emerged. Budi emphasized that some riders have been showing bus drivers screenshots of past payments instead of making legitimate transactions. To combat this issue, new payment verification measures will be introduced, including an automated voice notification alerting drivers when a payment through QRIS has been successfully completed.

Popular Transportation Alternatives

While the Trans Metro Dewata service is now available to both locals and tourists, many visitors still prefer using private taxis, motorbikes, or ride-hailing services such as Grab and GoJek. These options remain widely popular, especially in bustling resort zones such as Canggu, Kuta, and Nusa Dua.

As Bali welcomes back its bus service, the community hopes that both local residents and tourists will embrace the opportunity to travel affordably and responsibly on the island. With a commitment to improving the public transportation system, officials are optimistic about a smoother travel experience moving forward.