If you are planning a trip to Bali, Indonesia, it is crucial to be informed about the newly implemented regulations aimed at maintaining cultural respect and order among tourists. These guidelines, introduced by Governor Wayan Koster, address behavioral concerns that have emerged with the substantial increase in visitor numbers.

Tourism Growth and Regulatory Response

Bali has seen a remarkable resurgence in tourism, welcoming over 6.3 million visitors in 2024—a 20% rise from the previous year, according to Bali Management Villas. In response to this surge, the provincial government released extensive guidelines for tourists in Spring 2025, with the goal of aligning tourism activities with local customs and laws.

Essential Tourist Regulations

The new regulations require tourists to adhere to specific behaviors and practices while in Bali:

• Respect Sacred Sites: Visitors must show reverence toward cultural sites and sacred symbols.
• Dress Appropriately: Modest clothing is mandatory at temples and public spaces.
• Maintain Decorum: Polite and respectful behavior is expected.
• Pay Tourist Levy: A mandatory fee of approximately $9 must be paid electronically, detailed further at this official site.
• Use Licensed Guides: Tourists should engage licensed guides for explorations of cultural and natural sites.
• Exchange Currency Responsibly: Currency should only be exchanged at authorized locations.
• Comply with Traffic Laws: Including the necessity to wear helmets and avoid violations like drunk driving.
• Utilize Legal Transportation: Ensure accommodations are licensed.

Prohibited Actions

To ensure compliance and respect for local culture, the government has also set forth several prohibitions:

• Entering Sacred Areas: Only worshippers in traditional Balinese attire may enter specified temple regions.
• Avoid Climbing Sacred Structures: Climbing sacred trees and monuments is forbidden.
• No Littering: Keep Bali’s natural environment clean.
• Ban on Single-Use Plastics: Use of plastic bags, Styrofoam, straws, and non-recyclable items is prohibited.
• Refrain from Disrespectful Behavior: This includes avoiding hate speech and rudeness.
• No Unauthorized Work: Running a business without proper permits is illegal.
• Shun Illegal Activities: Engaging in unlawful actions will result in penalties.

Enforcement of Regulations

Governor Koster emphasizes that these regulations will be rigorously enforced. Tourists who do not comply with the payment of the tourist levy will be restricted from accessing attractions, and violations of these directives will lead to legal repercussions, conforming to Indonesian law.