Planning a Bali Tour? Take Note of These Important New Travel Rules
Bali, renowned for its breathtaking beaches, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning natural landscapes, continues to be a top travel destination for tourists from around the world. However, if you are planning a visit to the "Island of the Gods," it is crucial to be aware of the newly implemented travel regulations designed to protect Bali’s cultural integrity and environment.
New Rules Announced by Bali Governor
On March 24, 2025, Bali Governor I Wayan Koster introduced a set of new rules for tourists, aimed at fostering respectful tourism while preserving the island’s sacred traditions and natural beauty. The announcement came just days before Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence observed on March 29, during which the entire island shuts down for 24 hours and everyone—including visitors—is required to stay indoors.
Governor Koster emphasized that these regulations are a response to growing concerns about inappropriate conduct by some tourists and the need to ensure that tourism in Bali remains sustainable and in harmony with local values.
Key Highlights of the New Travel Guidelines
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Respect at Sacred Sites: Visitors must adhere to strict dress codes and behavioural guidelines when visiting temples and other religious sites. Menstruating women are respectfully barred from entering these areas, in line with Balinese customs.
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Tourist Levy: A mandatory tourist entry fee of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (approximately €9) has been introduced to fund conservation efforts. Tourists who fail to pay this fee may be denied access to attractions.
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Prohibited Conduct: The new rules forbid swearing, causing disturbances, disrespecting locals or officials, sharing hate speech or misinformation on social media, and engaging in inappropriate photography, including nude photos at sacred locations.
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Permitted Access: Only worshippers wearing traditional Balinese attire are allowed entry to certain temple complexes, restricting general tourist access to these highly sacred areas.
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Other Restrictions: Tourists must use licensed guides, stay at government-approved accommodations, adhere to local traffic laws, and exchange currency only at authorized outlets.
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Environmental Protections: Single-use plastics such as plastic bags, Styrofoam containers, plastic straws, and plastic-packaged drinks are now banned to protect Bali’s environment.
Governor Koster also warned that enforcement teams are ready to take firm action against tourists who violate these rules, emphasizing Bali’s commitment to maintaining a respectful and sustainable tourism environment.
Broader Global Trends in Tourist Regulation
Bali’s move is part of a wider international effort by popular tourist destinations to address issues related to overtourism and disruptive visitor behaviour. For example:
- Prague recently imposed a ban on organised nighttime pub crawls following complaints about noise and litter.
- Italy has introduced measures to manage tourist crowds and limit excessive selfies and traffic in major attractions across Rome, Florence, Venice, and Sardinia.
Furthermore, in September 2024, Indonesia paused the construction of new hotels, villas, and nightclubs in designated tourist zones across Bali to curb overdevelopment and protect the island’s cultural and natural treasures.
What Tourists Should Remember
Travelers planning a visit to Bali should prepare by respecting these new guidelines to help preserve the unique cultural heritage and natural environment that make the island so special. Observing Balinese customs, dressing appropriately, paying the required fees, and following all local laws will ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, while supporting Bali’s long-term sustainability as a world-class tourist destination.
By aligning your travel plans with these updated regulations, you contribute not only to your own positive experience but also to the preservation of Bali’s sacred and scenic charm for future generations.
Stay informed of further updates on Bali travel regulations as they continue to evolve in response to tourism and conservation needs.
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