Bali Implements Strict New Tourist Regulations and Fines for 2025
Bali, the popular Indonesian island renowned for its vibrant culture and natural beauty, is introducing a comprehensive set of new rules and fines aimed at curbing unruly tourist behavior starting in 2025. The updated regulations, outlined in the Bali Provincial government’s Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, represent a clear directive to visitors: enjoy Bali’s offerings, but respect the island’s traditions, laws, and environment.
Governor Wayan Koster, leading the initiative, emphasizes that the new guidelines formalize visitors’ responsibilities and restrictions to maintain harmony between tourism growth and local values. The goal is to foster a safe, respectful, and sustainable travel experience for all.
Key Measures Under the New Regulations
Visitors to Bali will now face a mandatory tourism levy of IDR 150,000 (approximately INR 775), which must be paid either prior to arrival or during the stay through the official Love Bali website. This levy contributes to environmental preservation and cultural programs.
In addition, tourists are required to hire licensed and certified local tour guides when visiting heritage and natural sites. These guides are trained in Bali’s customs and ensure that tourists engage with local culture knowledgeably and respectfully.
Currency exchange must occur only at authorized money changers, including banks and government-recognized non-bank institutions. All Indonesian Rupiah transactions are mandated to use Bank Indonesia’s official QR code payment system to enhance transparency and security.
Traffic and Safety Compliance
The new rules rigorously enforce traffic safety. Tourists must possess valid international or Indonesian driver’s licenses, wear helmets while riding motorbikes, obey speed limits and passenger rules, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and use only registered rental vehicles.
Restrictions on Behavior and Environmental Protection
The regulations prohibit tourists from entering sacred temples except for religious purposes presenting proper attire. Acts such as climbing sacred trees, taking inappropriate photographs in spiritual sites, littering, and polluting beaches, forests, and rivers are strictly forbidden.
The use of single-use plastics like straws and plastic bags is restricted to combat environmental degradation.
Aggressive or offensive behavior, including public swearing or any disrespect towards locals, is unacceptable and may lead to penalties. Furthermore, working or conducting business without permits and engaging in illegal activities such as drug trafficking or trafficking in protected cultural artifacts is banned and subject to strict enforcement.
Enhanced Monitoring and Enforcement
Bali’s Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) and other law enforcement agencies will actively monitor compliance with the updated regulations. Tourists and residents are encouraged to report any misconduct through an official WhatsApp hotline at +62 81-287-590-999, facilitating community involvement in enforcement.
These measures reflect Bali’s commitment to preserving its unique cultural heritage and natural environment while managing the impact of mass tourism.
Visitors planning a trip to Bali in 2025 and beyond are advised to familiarize themselves thoroughly with these new rules to ensure a respectful and trouble-free stay on the island.
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