Temples are part of daily life in Bali. They are places of worship first and tourist sights second. Visitors are welcome at many of them, as long as they follow a few simple customs.
The rules are not hard to learn. Most come down to modest dress, quiet behaviour and respect for the people who pray there. Here is what to know before your first temple visit.
The official rules for foreign tourists
The Bali Provincial Government sets out how foreign visitors should behave. Its main guidance for visitors is Circular Letter Number 7 of 2025, issued by Governor Wayan Koster. The Love Bali summary of the circular lists both obligations and prohibitions.
Tourists must respect sacred sites and symbols. These include temples, religious statues known as pratima and other holy places. Visitors are asked to honour Balinese customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies.
The circular says that people who break the rules will face legal consequences under Indonesian law. Local officers monitor compliance. Serious offenders can be dealt with by the Bali Police.
What to wear at a temple
The circular asks tourists to wear modest and respectful clothing at temples, attractions and public spaces. The Indonesia Travel guide to Bali temples is more specific. It says visitors should wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
Leave the singlet and short shorts for the beach. A shirt with sleeves and long pants or a long skirt are a safe choice. Light, loose fabrics help in the heat. Pack a spare top if you plan to visit more than one temple in a day.
Think about what you wear on your feet too. Many temples have steps and uneven stone paths. Sturdy sandals or shoes are easier than thongs.
Sarongs and sashes
A sarong is the standard piece of temple dress in Bali. The Indonesia Travel guide says sarongs and sashes are usually provided at the entrance. At Tirta Empul, sarongs can be rented for a small donation.
The sash is tied around the waist over the sarong. Staff at the entrance can show you how to wear both. Watch how others have tied theirs if you are unsure. Return any borrowed sarong and sash when you leave.
Some travellers like to bring their own sarong. It is light, easy to carry and handy for more than one visit. Add it to your list of items to pack for a Bali villa holiday.
Areas that are off limits
Not every part of a temple is open to visitors. Under the circular, tourists may not enter the Utamaning Mandala and Madyaning Mandala. The exception is for worshippers wearing traditional Balinese attire.
The circular also says menstruating women are prohibited from entering these areas. This is a religious rule, and it is part of the official guidance. Plan your visit with this in mind.
If you are unsure where you may walk, ask. Temple staff and guides can point out which areas are open. Signs at the gate may also give directions. When in doubt, stay in the outer courtyard.
How to behave on temple grounds
The temple guide asks visitors to move quietly, speak softly and follow the directions of temple officials. Keep phone calls short or step outside. Keep children close and calm. Remember that people come here to pray, even at the busiest temples.
The circular bans climbing sacred trees or monuments. It also bans inappropriate or nude photos at religious sites. Take photos with care and never pose on shrines, walls or statues.
Swearing, causing a disturbance and rude behaviour are also prohibited under the circular. That applies across Bali, not just at temples. A polite manner goes a long way with local people.
The circular also says tourists must use certified guides at cultural sites. A guide who knows local traditions can explain what you are seeing. They can also help you avoid an accidental mistake.
Ceremonies and prayer
You may arrive during a ceremony. The temple guide asks visitors not to disrupt ongoing rituals. Stand to the side, keep your voice low and let worshippers pass.
Large ceremonies can draw big crowds to the main temples. The Indonesia Travel guide suggests avoiding a visit to Besakih during large ceremonies unless you are invited. Check with your accommodation before you go. They can often tell you if a festival is on nearby.
Do not use flash on people who are praying. Never walk in front of someone at prayer. If a procession comes along the road, give it plenty of room.
Offerings on footpaths
You will see small woven offerings almost everywhere in Bali. They sit on footpaths, in doorways and at shrines. The offering is called canang sari, and it is sacred.
The Indonesia Travel guide asks visitors not to step on canang sari placed on the ground. Look down as you walk, especially along busy footpaths and doorways. Step around them rather than over them where you can.
Do not move or pick up an offering. It is placed with care as part of daily prayer. Leave it where it is, even if it is in your way. The same goes for any offering you see at a shrine or doorway.
Getting ready for your visit
Pack a sarong, a shirt with sleeves and a bottle of water. Leave valuables in your room, and see these tips on jewellery storage for travellers. Carry some cash for entry fees and donations. Small notes are easiest at a temple gate.
Plan a meal break around your visit. Many temples are a fair drive from the main tourist areas. This list of local dishes in Bali gives you something to look for on the way.
If this is your first trip, the first time Bali villa holiday guide covers the rest of your stay. Read it alongside the official rules. Together they will help you settle in quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own sarong to a Bali temple?
Not usually. Sarongs and sashes are usually provided at the entrance. Some temples ask for a small donation, so carry some cash.
What clothes should I wear to a temple in Bali?
Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A sarong and sash go over the top. Choose light fabrics, as it can be hot.
Can tourists go inside the main temple areas?
Not as a rule. The circular bars tourists from the Utamaning Mandala and Madyaning Mandala unless they are worshippers in traditional Balinese attire. Menstruating women are also prohibited from entering these areas.
What should I do if I see an offering on the footpath?
Walk around it. Do not step on it, move it or pick it up. Offerings are sacred and are part of daily prayer.
