Authentic Bali: 8 Simple Ways To Respect Balinese Culture
By Sam Lee, 2025. Respecting Balinese culture goes beyond visiting temples and attending ceremonies.
It also involves understanding and following the community's social norms and rules. The Balinese have a strong sense of culture and tradition, which their Hindu beliefs have shaped for centuries.
One of Balinese Hinduism's most significant aspects is the tri hita karana, which translates to "three causes of well-being." This philosophy emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and God. To maintain this balance, the Balinese people follow certain rules and guidelines that govern their daily lives.
Here are some guidelines on what to do, rules to follow, and social norms to be aware of when visiting Bali:
01—
Dress Appropriately
In Balinese Hinduism, modesty is highly valued. When entering temples or sacred sites, it is important to cover your knees and shoulders. Avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing, as it may be considered disrespectful.
02—
Punctuality
The Balinese people are known for their relaxed attitude towards time, but punctuality is crucial when it comes to religious ceremonies or events. Arriving late may be seen as disrespectful.
03—
Respect Offerings
You will often see small offerings called "canang sari" placed around the streets or at entrances of homes and shops in Bali. Locals make these offerings daily as an act of devotion and should not be stepped on or disturbed.
04—
Follow Temple Etiquette
Temples in Bali are considered sacred places where one can connect with the divine. When visiting a temple, make sure you wear a sarong (available for rent at most temples) and refrain from touching any statues or objects within the temple grounds unless given permission.
05—
Honor Silence
During certain religious ceremonies such as Nyepi (Day of Silence), which happens once a year, complete silence is observed across the island for 24 hours out of respect for the Gods. Ensure you understand which days these occur so you can plan your visit accordingly.
06—
Respect Elderly People
In Balinese culture, older people are highly respected as they are believed to possess wisdom and knowledge. Be mindful of this and always show respect to elders.
07—
Watch Your Gestures
Balinese culture considers pointing with your index finger rude. Instead, use your whole hand with the palm facing up when gesturing or asking for directions.
08—
Avoid Public Displays of Affection
While public displays of affection (PDA) may be acceptable in some cultures, they are not appropriate in Bali. It’s important to keep displays of affection private out of respect for the local culture and religion.
That’s a wrap!
By following these guidelines on what to do and social norms to be aware of, you can show respect towards Balinese Hinduism while enjoying all the wonders Bali offers. When in doubt, observe how locals behave and follow suit.
Thank you for being a culturally aware traveler, and happy travels!
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