Bali Introduces New Tourist Rules for 2025: What Visitors Need to Know

Bali, Indonesia — April 22, 2025: The enchanting island of Bali, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is in the midst of a significant shift regarding its tourism regulations. As of March 1, 2025, the Bali Provincial Government has implemented a series of controversial new rules aimed at foreign tourists. These changes, highlighted in Governor I Wayan Koster’s Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, aim to protect the island’s customs and sacred traditions amidst a growing influx of international visitors.

Key Changes Explained

Among the newly established guidelines, one of the most contentious rules prohibits menstruating women from entering temples, a regulation deeply rooted in Balinese Hindu beliefs that regard menstrual blood as "impure." This particular rule has attracted global media attention and has reignited debates surrounding women’s rights and religious practices.

In response to the new regulations, Governor Koster noted, “While we have issued similar regulations in the past, we must adapt to protect our traditions and culture as tourism evolves. We are not against tourists. Rather, we seek to maintain Bali’s sanctity.”

The new regulations are designed to enhance respect for Bali’s cultural heritage while still accommodating the needs and behaviors of foreign visitors. Below is a summary of the key dos and don’ts for travelers to Bali in 2025. ## Do’s When Visiting Bali

1. Respect Sacred Spaces: Visitors are expected to show reverence for temples and sacred symbols, including Pratima (sacred statues).

2. Cultural Sensitivity: Tourists should respect local traditions and cultural practices, particularly during ceremonies and religious observances.

3. Dress Appropriately: Modest clothing is required in sacred areas. Sarongs will be provided at temple entrances for those not wearing proper attire.

4. Be Courteous: Politeness is crucial in all public areas, including tourist spots and restaurants.

5. Pay Tourist Levy: A mandatory foreign tourist levy must be settled electronically either before departure or while in Bali via the official website lovebali.baliprov.go.id.

6. Use Licensed Tour Guides: Tourists must be accompanied by licensed guides knowledgeable about Bali’s natural and cultural heritage.

7. Currency Transactions: All payments should be conducted in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) and through authorized money changers or using Indonesia’s QR payment system.

8. Follow Road Rules: Compliance with local traffic laws is mandatory.

9. Stay in Licensed Accommodation: All lodging must have valid licenses as per Indonesian law.

10. Adhere to Specific Site Rules: Special configurations may be in place at various attractions that must be respected by visitors.

Don’ts When Visiting Bali

1. Entering Temples Without Proper Attire or if Menstruating: The prohibition against menstruating women entering temples is strictly enforced along with the requirement of traditional Balinese clothing.

2. Climbing Sacred Trees: Engaging in this act is strictly forbidden.

3. Immodesty in Sacred Places: Behavior that disrespects sacred spaces, including inappropriate photography, is outlawed.

4. Littering: Maintaining cleanliness is vital; tourists are expected to dispose of their waste responsibly.

5. Using Single-Use Plastics: To protect the environment, single-use plastics are banned across the island.

6. Engaging in Disrespectful Behavior: Loud and disruptive conduct will not be tolerated, including negative online behavior.

7. Working Without Permits: Tourists must not engage in any work-related activities without the necessary documentation.

8. Participating in Illegal Activities: The illegal trade of cultural artifacts and other regulated actions is strictly prohibited.

Consequences of Violating Regulations

Violations of these new rules can lead to serious consequences, including legal action under Indonesian law. Tourists who do not adhere to the required levy may be barred from accessing tourist attractions. Additionally, the public incidence reporting system allows locals to report violations via WhatsApp at +62 812-8759-0999. ## Responding to Controversy

The menstruation rule is not without backlash. In 2020, a viral video featuring a foreign tourist protesting the prohibition brought significant attention. Despite global pushback, authorities maintain that these regulations are critical for respecting the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the local Hindu communities.

Conclusion

As Bali enacts these new guidelines for 2025, it highlights the delicate balance between tourism and cultural preservation. For visitors planning to explore this vibrant island, understanding and respecting these new rules is crucial for a meaningful and harmonious experience. Bali’s rich spiritual and cultural tapestry is further illuminated through its customs, reminding the world of the importance of keeping traditions alive.

Cover Image Credit: Photo by Timur Kozmenko/Pexels