Bali boasts a rich culture and spirituality deeply ingrained in the daily lives of locals. So, you have to maintain good behavior to respect their culture and customs. Then, what are things not to do in Bali?
Here is a summary of some prohibitions and Bali rules for tourists visiting Bali.
1. Leaving the House or Hotel during Nyepi
Nyepi, the most significant religious holiday in Bali, marks the Balinese New Year. During this holiday, both locals and tourists are forbidden to leave their houses.
The Balinese use this full-day occasion for fasting, self-reflection, and abstaining from work and entertainment. Since you cannot go out, make sure that you purchase your food supplies before Nyepi comes.
2. Stepping on or over the Offerings
In Bali, you will find a lot of canangs (woven young coconut leaves filled with flowers) in public areas. If you are wondering what not to do in Bali, step on and over those offerings.
The locals make the offerings to honor their God. So, stepping on them is considered highly disrespectful in Balinese culture.
3. Misbehaving in Holy Places
Temples are more than just buildings with stunning architecture. They are sacred places where Hindus pray to their gods. So, when you visit holy places such as Uluwatu Temple or Besakih Temple, you have to dress appropriately, maintain your behavior, and not talk loudly.
4. Entering Sacred Places without Permission
Bali is home to numerous sacred sites. Some of these locations are open to the public. However, others may require permission and specific protocols before entry. So, asking about appropriate guidelines when visiting these sacred sites is imperative.
5. Disrespecting Traditional Ceremonies
Bali has a lot of festivals and ceremonies. Sometimes, when the ceremonies are held, the road is closed. You must respect and avoid disruptive behaviors such as cursing or talking loudly in this situation.
Observing the ceremonies quietly is better in order to immerse yourself in the spirit of celebration.
6. Touching Balinese People’s Head
What not to do in Bali, Indonesia is touching other people’s heads. In Balinese culture, locals believe that the head is the most sacred part of the body. So, touching someone else’s head means highly disrespectful.
When you are in Bali, avoid touching or rubbing other people’s heads, even a child’s head.
7. Peeing in a Public Area
One of the things not to do in Bali is urinating in public areas. This rule may seem common sense. But in Bali, urinating carelessly is more than just about sanitary issues. The reason is that there are a lot of sacred sites on this island.
Therefore, it is illegal to urinate on trees because Balinese consider certain trees to be holy places. So, whether you are strolling through the street or enjoying the beach, make sure to seek out the nearest toilet.
8. Use Single-Use Plastic
To reduce the amount of plastic pollution and preserve the environment, the Bali government forbids the use of single-use plastics such as straws and plastic bags. So, if you want to go shopping, it is better to bring your own shopping bags.
Now, you understand what not to do in Bali. So, when you come to this island, you understand what is allowed and prohibited. Just enjoy Bali’s landscape and respect the culture. After exploring nature, prepare to unwind in style at Mari Beach Club.
