🌿 Bali Cultural Etiquette: The Do’s & Don’ts for a Respectful Visit 🙏
Bali is more than just stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking landscapes—it’s an island rich in tradition, spirituality, and deep-rooted customs. As visitors, showing respect for Balinese culture isn’t just polite—it enhances your experience and helps preserve the island’s unique heritage.
Here’s your ultimate guide to Bali’s cultural etiquette—the do’s and don’ts to ensure a respectful, immersive, and unforgettable stay!
🙏 The Do’s – How to Show Respect in Bali
1️⃣ Greet with a Smile & “Om Swastiastu”
Balinese people are incredibly welcoming, and a smile goes a long way. The traditional Balinese greeting “Om Swastiastu” means “May peace be upon you.” If you’re greeted with this phrase, responding with the same is a great way to show appreciation.
2️⃣ Dress Modestly at Temples & Sacred Sites
Bali is home to thousands of temples, and visiting them is an amazing cultural experience. However, temple etiquette is important:
✅ Wear a sarong & sash (available for rent at most temples)
✅ Cover your shoulders (a scarf or a light shawl works perfectly)
✅ Remove your shoes before entering temple grounds
📍 Temples to Visit:
- Tanah Lot Temple – The stunning sea temple
- Uluwatu Temple – Home to Bali’s famous Kecak fire dance
- Besakih Temple – Bali’s ‘Mother Temple’
🚫 Important! Women on their menstrual cycle are not allowed to enter temples or sacred sites as per Balinese Hindu beliefs. This is not about discrimination but a spiritual purity tradition.
3️⃣ Use Both Hands When Giving & Receiving
When handing money, gifts, or even food, always use both hands as a sign of respect and sincerity. If you must use one hand, touch your wrist or forearm with your other hand to make it more polite.
4️⃣ Be Respectful During Religious Ceremonies & Offerings
Bali’s daily rituals are a beautiful part of life. You’ll see Canang Sari (flower offerings) everywhere—from sidewalks to altars.
✅ Step around, not over, offerings on the ground
✅ Speak quietly & avoid interrupting prayers
✅ If you see a ceremony, observe respectfully from a distance
📍 Cultural Highlights to Experience:
- Galungan & Kuningan Festivals – A celebration of ancestral spirits
- Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence) – A full day of no lights, no noise, and no travel
- Ogoh-Ogoh Parade – A giant puppet procession before Nyepi
5️⃣ Support Local Artisans & Markets
Bali thrives on art, craftsmanship, and community-driven businesses. When shopping:
✅ Buy handmade souvenirs from local artisans
✅ Bargain politely (haggling is normal, but always with a smile!)
✅ Avoid mass-produced plastic souvenirs—support sustainable crafts!
📍 Best Local Markets:
- Ubud Art Market – Handmade crafts, textiles & jewelry
- Sukawati Market – Traditional Balinese souvenirs at great prices
- Canggu Sunday Market – Eco-friendly goods & organic products
🚫 The Don’ts – Avoid These Cultural Missteps!
1️⃣ Don’t Touch People’s Heads
In Balinese culture, the head is the most sacred part of the body. Even with kids, avoid patting their heads as it can be seen as disrespectful.
2️⃣ Don’t Point with Your Index Finger
Pointing with one finger is considered rude in Bali. Instead, use an open hand or your thumb to gesture politely.
3️⃣ Don’t Enter Temples or Homes Without Permission
If visiting someone’s home or a temple:
❌ Don’t walk in uninvited
❌ Don’t stand higher than the head of an elder or priest
✅ Do ask before taking photos inside temples or ceremonies
📍 Cultural Villages to Visit:
- Penglipuran Village – Bali’s best-preserved traditional village
- Tenganan Village – Home of the Bali Aga people, the island’s original inhabitants
- Trunyan Village – Known for its unique funeral traditions
4️⃣ Don’t Lose Your Cool in Public
Balinese culture values harmony and patience. Raising your voice, getting visibly angry, or causing public conflict is considered extremely disrespectful. If an issue arises, try to resolve it with a calm and polite attitude.
5️⃣ Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Giving or Eating
In Balinese etiquette, the left hand is considered unclean, so avoid using it when:
❌ Handing someone money or food
❌ Shaking hands
✅ Always use your right hand, or both hands for extra politeness!
🌟 Bonus Tips for a More Meaningful Bali Experience!
✔️ Speak a Few Words in Bahasa Indonesia or Balinese
- “Terima kasih” – Thank you (Bahasa Indonesia)
- “Suksma” – Thank you (Balinese)
- “Permisi” – Excuse me
✔️ Respect Nature & Keep Bali Clean
- Never litter – Bali is battling a plastic waste crisis!
- Avoid stepping on plants & flowers
- Participate in beach clean-ups if you can!
✔️ Be Mindful of Beach Dress Codes
While bikinis & swimwear are perfectly fine on the beach, cover up when entering shops, restaurants, or temples.
📷 Free Images for Cultural Etiquette in Bali!
If you need high-quality royalty-free images for Bali’s culture, check out:
📸 Unsplash – Free high-resolution photos of Bali’s traditions
📸 Pexels – Stunning images of Balinese temples & rituals
📸 Pixabay – Great collection of Balinese scenery
🌏 Enjoy Bali with an Open Heart & Mind!
Bali is not just a destination—it’s an experience filled with culture, tradition, and spirituality. By respecting local customs, you’ll not only blend in beautifully with the locals, but you’ll also create deeper, more meaningful connections with the people and the island itself.
🙏 Selamat datang di Bali! (Welcome to Bali!)
🔗 Find more travel & culture tips on Click-Bali! 🌴✨