Bali Enacts Controversial Ban on Menstruating Tourists at Temples
By Ben Cost
Published April 3, 2025, 12:10 p.m. ET
Introduction of New Policies to Regulate Tourism
In a recent and unconventional move, the government of Bali, Indonesia, has implemented a policy that prohibits "menstruating tourists" from entering the island’s temples. Announced by Governor Wayan Koster on March 24, this regulation is part of a larger initiative aimed at addressing concerns over “misbehaving tourists” who have been increasingly perceived as detracting from the local cultural integrity and spiritual sanctity of the island.
Governor Koster expressed a desire to maintain Bali’s tourism environment as “respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with our local values.” The new circular reflects a growing frustration among local authorities regarding the behavior of some foreign visitors.
Details of the Ban and Cultural Beliefs
Under the newly instituted guidelines, women are prohibited from temple access during their menstrual period based on beliefs that “dirty” menstrual blood could contaminate sacred spaces. According to cultural narratives shared in the community, there are long-standing ideas that a woman’s presence in temples while menstruating could lead to negative consequences. Reports suggest that women might experience physical discomfort or be subject to mystical repercussions if they enter temples during this time. Additionally, there are claims that the negative effects might extend to local residents in the vicinity of the temples.
Despite these policies, specifics on how authorities will enforce the menstrual ban were not detailed. Authorities have expressed the hope that these measures will deter any potential issues while encouraging visitors to enjoy other attractions that Bali offers, such as traditional dance performances.
Broader Regulations for Tourists
The prohibition of menstruating tourists is just one of several rules intended to protect Bali’s cultural integrity. Under the new regulations, all visitors are required to dress appropriately when attending temples and public areas. Only those dressed in traditional Balinese attire will be allowed into sacred temple areas. The guidelines also include bans on behaviors considered disrespectful, such as using single-use plastics, littering, or showing rude gestures towards local residents.
The establishment of a dedicated task force has been announced to monitor compliance with these new rules and to impose penalties, which could range from fines to imprisonment for those caught violating regulations.
Contextualizing the Rules Among Tourism Challenges
This move comes in response to a series of incidents where tourists displayed unruly behavior, including a high-profile event in 2023 when a foreigner was found meditating naked at a Hindu temple. Earlier this year, a Norwegian tourist was stripped of his visitor visa for hiking at a culturally significant site without authorization.
The implementation of these regulations follows Bali’s introduction of a tourist fee in February 2024, which charges international travelers a fee upon entry to the island. This measure, along with the new fines for rule violations, is intended to help fund environmental protection efforts as Bali braces for an estimated 14 to 16 million visitors in the current year.
International Comparisons and Tourism Management
Bali is not alone in its efforts to regulate tourist behavior amid rising concerns about “overtourism.” Cities like Venice, Italy, have also enacted measures to manage large tourist groups to alleviate crowding and protect their cultural heritage. Similarly, Spain has rolled out a comprehensive plan to address housing crises exacerbated by tourist influx, catering to the growing need for sustainable tourism practices worldwide.
Conclusion
Governor Koster’s new guidelines reflect a broader trend of destinations grappling with the challenges of tourism management in a way that aligns with cultural traditions and community standards. As Bali continues to draw international visitors, the balance between welcoming tourists and preserving local customs remains a focal point for officials and residents alike.
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