7 Rules When Entering a Balinese Temple That Tourists Must Know

Bali is not only famous for its beautiful beaches and unique culture, but also for its temples or sacred places of Hindus. Almost every corner of the island, tourists can find temples, ranging from village temples, family temples, to world-famous large temples such as Pura Besakih, Tanah Lot, and Uluwatu.

For Balinese Hindus, temples are not just ancient buildings or tourist attractions, but sacred places used for worship, meditation, and various religious ceremonies. Therefore, there are specific rules that must be followed by everyone, including domestic and international tourists, when visiting the temple.

Unfortunately, many tourists still do not understand this rule, so they inadvertently engage in behavior considered impolite. To ensure your visit remains comfortable while respecting the local culture, here are 7 rules to know when entering a temple in Bali.

1. Wear polite and appropriate clothing

The first and most important rule is to wear modest clothing. In Bali, tourists entering temples are required to wear a cloth (kamen) that covers the legs up to the ankles, and a sash tied around the waist.

Some temples provide rental or loan facilities for kamen and scarves for tourists. However, if you want it to be more practical, you can also bring your own or buy it at the souvenir shop around the temple.

In addition, avoid wearing overly revealing clothing such as shorts, tank tops, or mini skirts. For the Balinese Hindu community, dressing modestly is a form of respect for the sacred place.

Tips:

• Wear bright-colored clothing such as white or yellow that is often worn during prayer.
• Make sure the cloth is tied neatly for comfort when walking around the temple area.

2. Women who are menstruating are not allowed to enter

One of the most strictly enforced rules is the prohibition woman who is menstruating to enter the temple. This is related to the concept of purity and sanctity of the temple.

Although it may sound quite sensitive to foreign tourists, this rule has been part of Balinese tradition for hundreds of years and is still respected today. For Hindu communities, when someone is in a physically impure state, they are not allowed to enter the temple area.

If you are a female tourist experiencing menstruation, it is better to wait or enjoy the outdoor area of the temple without entering inside.

3. Do not enter the holy building or touch the offerings

Many tourists do not realize that the buildings in the temple are not just decorations or photo spots. Every carving, shrine, and statue has a religious function. Therefore, it is strictly forbidden to climb, sit, or lean on the sacred building.

In addition, you will also find many offerings (canang sari) placed on the floor as well as on the altar. Never step on, move, or even touch the offerings. This is considered an impolite act.

Correct ethics:

• If you see offerings at the entrance, try to step past them.
• Do not take offerings to be used as photo props.

4. Share Voice and Behavior

Pura is a place for Hindus to pray and meditate. Therefore, when entering the temple, tourists must maintain silence. Avoid speaking loudly, laughing out loud, or making noise that can disturb the worship process, especially during busy holiday times but unwilling to follow. Bali tour group package promo.

Some large temples such as Pura Luhur Uluwatu or Pura Tanah Lot are indeed popular tourist destinations, but still, the temple's core area is a sacred place. Maintaining behavior is a form of respect to the worshippers.

Ethical tips:

• Turn off or silence your phone.
• Avoid smoking, eating, or drinking inside the temple area.
• If you bring a small child, make sure they stay calm.

5. Do not obstruct or disturb the ceremony

For many tourists, witnessing traditional ceremonies at the temple is a very memorable experience. However, it should be remembered that the ceremony is not a tourist show, but a sacred religious ritual.

Therefore, an important rule when entering a temple in Bali is not to obstruct the ceremony. Do not stand in the procession path, do not take photos too close with a large camera, and do not ask the congregation to pose just for photos.

If you want to take a photo, do so from a polite distance and without using flash. Ask for permission first if you want to record a video.

6. Follow the Lane Directions and Instructions

Some temples have designated areas accessible to tourists, while other areas are exclusively for worshippers. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the signs and instructions usually posted in the temple area.

Do not force entry into areas marked "Special Prayer" or "Do Not Enter". In addition to violating the rules, such actions can be considered disrespectful to the sacredness of the temple.

Usually, there is a special path for tourists to continue enjoying the beauty of the temple architecture without disturbing religious activities.

7. Respect Photography Rules

Photography indeed becomes an inseparable part of tourism, including when visiting temples. However, there are rules that must be followed:

• Do not take photos from a higher position than the priest or worshippers who are praying.
• Do not use drones without official permission as it can disturb the sanctity.
• Avoid poses considered inappropriate, such as standing on the shrine, sitting on the altar, or overly posing in the prayer area.

Remember that the temple is a sacred place, so every photo taken should still show respect.

Why is this rule important?

Maybe some tourists consider this rule quite strict. However, if understood more deeply, all those rules aim to preserve the purity of the temple while also conserving Balinese culture.

By obeying the rules, tourists not only show respect but also help maintain the positive image of Bali tourism.

Additionally, following the rules makes your visit more meaningful. You are not just taking photos, but also truly feeling the spiritual atmosphere that makes Bali so special.

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Additional Tips When Visiting Temples in Bali

In addition to the 7 main rules above, there are some additional tips to make your temple visit more comfortable and memorable:

1. Arrive at the right time – mornings are usually quieter, while the evenings offer beautiful sunset views at certain temples.
2. Use a local guide service – Guides can help explain the philosophy of the temple and the rules in more detail.
3. Bring small money – Some temples charge an entrance fee or voluntary donation for maintenance.
4. Respect privacy – Do not casually photograph local residents who are worshiping without permission.
5. Enjoy the atmosphere – Don't just rush to take photos, but try to sit for a moment and feel the tranquility of the temple.

Visiting temples in Bali is a valuable opportunity to witness the spiritual and cultural side of the island of the gods. However, remember that a temple is not just a tourist destination, but a sacred place for Hindus.

By following the 7 rules when entering a temple in Bali – from dressing modestly, maintaining proper behavior, to respecting the ceremony – you not only preserve the sacredness of the temple but also show respect for Balinese culture.

Make your visit to the temple a meaningful experience with Pandu Bali Tour, which provides exclusive services. Cheap Bali tour package Just go where you can learn, appreciate, and enjoy the beauty of Bali's world-renowned architecture and spirituality.

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