Aiming for respectful, sustainable tourism, Bali introduces new regulations for foreign visitors—just days before the island’s sacred Nyepi Day.
March 27, 2025 – Denpasar
Balinese officials have announced a sweeping update to tourism regulations aimed at curbing disrespectful tourist behavior and reinforcing local cultural values. Governor I Wayan Koster, alongside Tourism Head Tjok Bagus Pemayun, revealed the newly updated list of rules that all international visitors must follow.
“Bali is a beautiful, sacred island. We expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them,” said Governor Koster.
The updated guidelines come in response to rising incidents of inappropriate conduct from tourists—including nudity at sacred sites, littering, and unlicensed work—and just days before Nyepi 2025, Bali’s most sacred holiday.
The 7 New “Don’ts” for Tourists in Bali
Tourists now face stricter restrictions, with violations carrying legal consequences, including fines or jail time under Indonesian law. Here are the official seven new rules:
- No entering sacred temples unless worshipping in traditional Balinese attire (women who are menstruating are strictly prohibited from entering).
- No climbing or photographing sacred trees and monuments.
- No littering—strict enforcement in all public and natural spaces.
- No single-use plastics, including plastic bags, straws, and plastic-packaged drinks.
- No aggressive, disrespectful, or vulgar behavior, including swearing, hate speech, or public disturbances.
- No working without a legal permit—this includes freelancing or running a business without proper documentation.
- No illegal activities, including drug use or trade in endangered species.
These rules reinforce Bali’s 2023 tourist conduct charter, which was previously distributed at airports, and are now being expanded and enforced more strictly in 2025.
Tourist Levy Now Mandatory
In addition to behavioral rules, tourists must pay a Rp 150,000 (approx. USD $15) one-time visitor levy upon entry or before visiting attractions. Failure to pay this levy will result in denial of access to major tourist sites.
This fee helps fund environmental and cultural preservation, and is now a core component of Bali’s sustainable tourism strategy.
Also Required: Traffic Rules, Licensed Tours, and Currency Exchange
Tourists are now also required to:
- Follow all local traffic laws, especially when renting motorbikes.
- Only use licensed guides and accommodation.
- Exchange currency at authorized money changers.
Local authorities, including Bali’s civil service police, are deploying special task forces to monitor tourist behavior and enforce these new rules island-wide.
Why This Crackdown Now?
The announcement comes amid growing frustration among Balinese communities over the behavior of some tourists. Viral videos have shown reckless scooter driving, nudity at sacred temples, and unregistered influencers profiting without permits.
As Bali seeks to position itself as a premium, high-quality destination, officials are drawing a firm line in the sand.
“We want tourism that is respectful, sustainable, and in harmony with Balinese values,” Koster emphasized during the press event.
New Rules Coincide with Nyepi: A Moment of Reflection
The timing of this crackdown is especially symbolic: the announcement comes just before Nyepi, Bali’s Day of Silence, celebrated on March 29, 2025. During Nyepi, all activities—including flights, driving, and even electricity—are paused in a 24-hour island-wide spiritual cleanse.
Learn more: What to Expect During Nyepi 2025 – Bali’s Day of Silence
The hope is that tourists will embrace Bali’s deeper cultural traditions, not just its beaches and nightlife.
Enforcement Will Be Firm
Local authorities confirm that violators will face serious consequences, and task forces have been trained to handle infractions immediately.
“Tourists who act ‘naughty’ will be dealt with firmly,” Governor Koster warned, using the same phrase he’s become known for in recent speeches.
The tourism board has also committed to educational campaigns—through airport signage, QR codes, and hotels—to ensure visitors understand and comply.
Bali’s Global Message: Respect Our Culture, or Stay Away
With overtourism threatening local traditions and ecosystems, Bali’s message in 2025 is clear: tourism must evolve—or be regulated more strictly.
These rules may seem strict, but they’re designed to protect what makes Bali unique—its spiritual depth, community values, and natural beauty.
