Bali is more than just a destination for beaches and sunsets. The island is a living space filled with rituals, temples, and traditions practiced every day. To ensure your experience remains comfortable, understanding local etiquette is the primary key to being warmly welcomed by the locals. In this article, you will learn the essential etiquettes to keep your visit respectful, pleasant, and in harmony with the local culture.

Why is Etiquette So Important in Bali?

Known as the "Island of the Gods," the spiritual life of the Balinese people is deeply woven into their daily existence. Respecting local etiquette is not just about politeness; it is a way to support sustainable tourism and avoid legal or customary issues.

1. Respecting Canang Sari & Sacred Spaces

In Bali, even inanimate objects are believed to possess spiritual energy.

  • Do Not Step on Offerings (Canang Sari): You will often see small palm-leaf baskets filled with flowers on sidewalks or in front of doorways. These are daily prayers. Stepping on them intentionally is considered very disrespectful. If you do so by accident, simply offer a silent apology in your heart.


  • Sacred Trees & Buildings: Many large trees (such as Banyan or White Bark trees) are wrapped in poleng cloth (black and white checkers). This indicates the tree is sacred. Never climb them or pose provocatively in front of them. The same applies to temple structures; do not sit on walls or altars (pelinggih) just for a photo.


2. Tourist Levy, Nyepi, and Traditional Ceremonies

Bali has administrative and spiritual rules that tourists must follow:

  • Bali Tourist Levy: Since 2024, every foreign tourist is required to pay a contribution of IDR 150,000. These funds are used for the preservation of Bali's culture and environment.

    • Example: You can pay online via the Love Bali app before arrival or at specific counters at I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport. Keep the proof of payment on your phone.

  • Nyepi (Day of Silence): The entire island comes to a complete standstill for 24 hours. There are no outdoor lights, no activity on the streets, and the airport closes. Tourists are required to stay within their hotel premises.

  • Road Processions: If you see a group of residents in traditional attire closing a road (such as for a Melasti or Ngaben ceremony), do not honk. Wait patiently or follow the instructions of the traditional security officers (Pecalang).


3. Social Etiquette: The Right Hand & Clothing

Simplicity and modesty are core values in Bali.

  • Use the Right Hand: In local culture, the left hand is considered unclean for social interactions. Always use your right hand when paying, giving items, or pointing. If you must use your left hand (e.g., your right hand is full), please say "sorry."

  • Clothing in Public: Distinguish between beach areas and village areas. Bikinis or being shirtless are perfectly acceptable at beach clubs or on the sand, but are considered an affront to modesty if worn while walking in traditional markets, town centers, or government offices. Always wear a shirt or a cover-up when leaving the beach area.

4. Protecting Bali’s Nature & Environment

Bali is striving to be a greener destination. You can contribute by:

  • Reducing Single-Use Plastics: Bali bans plastic bags, plastic straws, and styrofoam. Bring your own foldable shopping bag and a reusable water bottle (tumbler).

  • Being Wise with Water: Bali is experiencing a groundwater crisis. Use water sparingly at your hotel and do not leave taps running unnecessarily.

  • Do Not Disturb Wildlife: Do not feed monkeys at tourist attractions (such as Uluwatu or Ubud) as it can change their natural behavior and pose a safety risk to you.

Tips: Always ask a local guide if you are unsure about the rules in a specific place. Humility is the best passport in Bali.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make in Bali

To give you a clearer picture, here are some frequent mistakes that often occur due to a lack of awareness:

  • Stepping on Canang Sari by not watching where you walk on the sidewalk.

  • Sitting on shrines (pelinggih) or sacred structures just to take a rest.

  • Taking photos too closely or using flash, which disturbs people during prayer.

  • Complaining or getting angry when roads are temporarily closed for ceremonial processions.

  • Wearing overly revealing clothes (bikinis/shirtless) when entering local villages or markets.

  • Touching a child's head without permission, as the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Balinese culture.

Most of these mistakes do not come from bad intentions, but rather a lack of information. This is why understanding the etiquette before you arrive is so vital.

Conclusion

A vacation in Bali is about respecting the harmony between humans, nature, and the Creator (Tri Hita Karana). By paying the tourist levy and maintaining modesty, you help keep the soul of this island alive. Guests who come with respect will always return home with deeper memories and blessings.