Bali Invites Tourists to Respect Cultural Norms Amid Ongoing Tourism Surge

Introduction

As millions of tourists flock to the Indonesian island of Bali each year, local authorities are urging visitors to respect the island’s cultural norms and practices. Wayan Koster, the governor of Bali, emphasized these expectations during a press conference held on March 24, 2025. The initiative aims to balance the ever-growing number of tourists with the preservation of Bali’s unique cultural identity amidst concerns of overtourism.

Rising Tourist Numbers

Bali, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and rich cultural heritage, attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each month. This influx has prompted local officials to remind tourists of the laws and customs that need to be observed while visiting the island. Love Bali, an official governmental initiative aimed at regulating tourism, published updated guidance to address reported incidents of visitor misbehavior.

Key Guidelines for Tourists

During the press conference, Governor Koster acknowledged the complexity of managing a dynamic tourism sector, stating, “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.”

The governor outlined several important guidelines that tourists are expected to follow:

1. Respect Sacred Sites: Visitors must demonstrate reverence when visiting sacred attractions, including temples and religious monuments. This includes dressing modestly, adhering to customs, and utilizing licensed tour guides.

2. Legal Financial Transactions: Tourists are advised to exchange money at authorized locations that utilize official QR codes from Bank Indonesia. This measure aims to protect tourists from financial scams.

3. Tourist Levy: A tourist levy of approximately $9 must be paid electronically to Love Bali, which contributes to infrastructure preservation and development on the island. Tourists who fail to pay will be denied access to specific sites.

4. Safe Transportation Practices: Tourists renting vehicles must carry valid driver’s licenses, wear helmets, and follow local traffic regulations. Moreover, only licensed transport services should be used for a safe travel experience.

5. Registered Accommodations: Visitors are encouraged to stay in hotels, villas, or homestays that comply with Bali’s legal accommodation standards.

Cultural Etiquette and Prohibitions

The new guidelines highlight essential dos and don’ts for tourists, many of which may come as surprises to seasoned travelers:

• Visitors are not allowed to enter sacred sites unless they are worshippers wearing appropriate Balinese attire. Women who are menstruating are explicitly prohibited from entering temple spaces.

• Climbing sacred trees or monuments for photography is banned, particularly when done in a way deemed disrespectful or inappropriate.

• Single-use plastics have been outlawed, and littering in public spaces, including beaches and lakes, will incur penalties.

Additionally, offensive language or behaviors that could be perceived as rude may result in entanglement with law enforcement.

Conclusion

As tourism continues to thrive in Bali, the local government is committed to ensuring a balanced relationship between visitors and the island’s cultural heritage. With these updated guidelines, Bali seeks to preserve its charm and cultural integrity while welcoming tourists to enjoy the island’s enchanting beauty. Tourists are encouraged to honor these requests to help maintain the vibrant tapestry that makes Bali a beloved destination.

The measures outlined by Governor Koster reflect a proactive approach to sustain the island’s tourism ecosystem, ensuring that Bali remains a paradise for generations to come. Visitors are reminded to act with consideration and respect to ensure a harmonious experience for everyone involved.