Bali has introduced a set of new, stringent regulations designed to curb the disruptive behavior of foreign tourists and protect the island’s cultural and environmental integrity. These changes, announced on March 24, come ahead of Bali’s sacred Nyepi or Day of Silence, which falls on March 29.

The new guidelines set clear expectations for visitors to Bali. Tourists are required to demonstrate respect for sacred sites, dress appropriately, and adhere to local customs. Additionally, tourists must pay a mandatory levy online, hire licensed guides, and follow traffic laws. The regulations aim to ensure that tourism in Bali remains aligned with local values, respects traditions, and supports long-term sustainability.

Failure to comply with the regulations will result in serious consequences. Tourists who skip the levy or violate other rules may be denied access to attractions and face legal action under Indonesian law. One of the main focuses of these regulations is the protection of Bali’s sacred spaces. Visitors must obtain permission before entering temples and are required to wear traditional Balinese attire. Women who are menstruating are prohibited from entering these religious areas, and taking disrespectful photographs or climbing sacred trees is strictly forbidden.

In addition to cultural preservation, the rules aim to minimize environmental damage. Single-use plastics, such as bags and straws, are banned, and offensive behaviors, including swearing or sharing hate speech on social media, will be penalized. Bali remains committed to preserving its sacred traditions and expects all visitors to show the same level of respect.

To enforce these regulations, Bali has set up a special task force, with civil service police tasked with closely monitoring tourist activities. This measure comes in the wake of several disruptive incidents, including a Russian tourist posing inappropriately at a sacred site and a woman who was deported for taking nude photos by a holy tree. The authorities have also considered a tourist tax aimed at deterring low-budget travelers who often contribute to these problems.

These new regulations are part of Bali’s ongoing efforts to balance tourism with the protection of its cultural and environmental treasures, ensuring that the island remains a sustainable and respectful destination for future generations.

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