A Guide to Balinese Culture, Customs and Traditions

A trip to Bali can feel like stepping into a different world, with unfamiliar architecture, language and behaviour. The melting pot of ancient Indonesian spirituality and contemporary Hinduism has created a unique culture with its own set of customs and rituals that many visitors brush over in favour of the tropical landscape and leisure activities.

Balinese culture is rich in both history and style. Their way of looking at the world is hopeful, cooperative and deeply spiritual.

In this article I will introduce you to some of the common religious and cultural aspects of the island and its inhabitants that combine into the wondrous display of color, iconography and celebration that make Bali such a joyful and community driven country.

Balinese Spirituality

The majority of the Balinese population practices a unique form of Hinduism that incorporates aspects of Buddhism as well as local customs, rituals, and deities. Central to Balinese spirituality is the concept of Tri Hita Karana, which emphasizes harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.

Beyond organized religious practices, spirituality permeates everyday life in Bali. Sacred landscapes, such as Mount Agung, are revered, and natural elements like water are considered holy. Traditional healers, known as Balian, play a role in spiritual and physical well-being, and individuals often seek guidance from them. This profound intertwining of religion and spirituality shapes Balinese identity, creating a community deeply attuned to the unseen forces that govern their lives.

Religious Ceremonies

Balinese religious ceremonies are deeply woven into the cultural fabric, blending Hindu-Buddhist traditions with indigenous customs. Here’s an overview of the most common:

• Galungan and Kuningan
  This is one of the most important ceremonies, celebrating the victory of good over evil. Galungan marks the arrival of deified ancestors’ spirits to Earth, while Kuningan is the day they return to the heavens.
• Nyepi (Day of Silence)
  Nyepi is a day of introspection, observed with complete silence, fasting, and inactivity. It signifies self-reflection and purification, with the island practically shutting down.
• Melasti
  Before Nyepi, there’s Melasti, a purification ceremony where people flock to the beaches, lakes, or rivers to cleanse sacred objects and themselves.
• Pagerwesi
  This ceremony focuses on spiritual fortification and is observed to strengthen one’s commitment to righteousness.
• Odalan
  This refers to the temple anniversaries celebrated by individual villages. Festivities include prayers, traditional dances, and offerings to appease the deities.

These ceremonies involve vibrant processions, intricate decorations, and traditional performances. Balinese people’s commitment to these rituals reflects the profound connection between their spirituality and daily life.

Temple Festivals

Balinese temple festivals are culturally significant events, showcasing the island’s unique traditions. Here’s a glimpse into what makes these events so magical:

• Decorations
  Temples are adorned with intricate decorations, often featuring colorful fabrics, traditional carvings, and sacred symbols. The visual spectacle reflects the community’s dedication to creating a spiritually charged atmosphere.
• Offerings and Rituals
  People bring offerings, known as “canang sari,” to the temples. Rituals, prayers, and blessings are integral parts of the ceremonies, emphasizing the spiritual connection between the community and the divine.
• Traditional Dances
  Festivals are often accompanied by traditional Balinese dances, each telling a story from Hindu mythology. The Barong dance, for example, symbolizes the eternal battle between good and evil whilst engaging both locals and visitors in the narrative.
• Processions
  Festivals often involve colorful processions where locals, dressed in traditional attire, carry sacred objects and religious symbols. The rhythmic sounds of gamelan music accompany these processions, creating a lively atmosphere as they flow along the streets.
• Community Engagement
  Temple festivals are communal events, creating a great sense of togetherness. Often the entire village participates, reinforcing the idea of collective spirituality and shared cultural identity.

Birth, Marriage and Death

Balinese customs surrounding birth, marriage and death are important in both tradition and spirituality.

Birth Customs:

• Three-Month Celebration
  After a baby is born, a special ceremony is held when the child is three months old. This event, called “Otonan,” involves a series of rituals to officially introduce the baby to the ancestral spirits and seek their protection.
• Mepandes (Tooth Filing Ceremony)
  Around puberty, there’s a significant tooth filing ceremony. This rite of passage symbolizes the elimination of animalistic traits, paving the way for the individual to embrace a more mature and spiritual life.

Marriage Traditions:

• Pawiwahan (Wedding)
  Balinese weddings are elaborate affairs involving various ceremonies. The “Ngerorasin” ceremony, for instance, signifies the couple’s commitment to each other and their families.
• Mesangih (Arrangement)
  Before the wedding, the families meet to discuss and arrange the marriage. This process involves negotiations and mutual agreements, emphasizing the communal nature of Balinese society.
• Metatah (Tooth Filing for Bride and Groom)
  Similar to the tooth filing ceremony for individuals, bride and groom undergo tooth filing as part of the wedding preparations. This ritual signifies the purification of the couple as they enter married life.
• Sesayut (Joint Offerings)
  The wedding ceremony involves joint offerings and prayers, symbolizing the couple’s union not only in the physical but also in the spiritual realm.

Death Rituals:

• Pengabenan (Death Ritual)
  When a person passes away, a series of rituals commence. The body is washed, and the deceased is dressed in white, symbolizing purity. Family and friends gather to pay respects, and priests perform prayers to guide the soul on its journey.
• Ngaben (Cremation Ceremony)
  The Ngaben ceremony, or cremation ceremony, is a significant event. The deceased is placed in an elaborate and ornate coffin, often shaped like a bull or other sacred creature. The procession to the cremation site is a communal affair, and symbolizes the soul’s release from the physical body and it’s onward journey.

Balinese birth, marriage, death and cremation rituals all highlight the community’s strong bonds and their belief in the continuity of the soul.

Daily Offerings

The daily offerings to the gods that each household or individual undertakes are a beautiful example of how spirituality is interwoven into the fabric of life in Bali.

Canang Sari

Canang sari is a fundamental daily ritual in Balinese culture. These small, intricate offerings are carefully crafted by women in the household, usually in the morning, before being placed alongside a moment of introspection.

The canang sari is divided into three parts, symbolizing the three realms of the Hindu universe. The colors of the offerings hold significance, representing qualities such as purity, faith, passion, calmness, and balance. Inside the canang sari, components like betel nut and lime symbolize the three main Hindu gods—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

The daily ritual involves not only the physical creation of these offerings but also prayers and intentions, fostering a moment of personal reflection and connection with the spiritual realm. Once prepared, the canang sari is placed in specific locations, such as family shrines, temples, entrances of homes, or even on the ground, and often accompanied by a prayer.

Significantly, the practice of canang sari is seen as a way to maintain balance between positive and negative forces in the universe, reflecting the Balinese belief in the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of harmony. It is a tangible expression of gratitude to the gods for the beauty and balance in life, embodying the devotion to spiritual principles that defines Balinese cultural identity.

Household Shrines

Balinese household shrines, known as “sanggah” or “merajan,” hold significant cultural and spiritual importance in the daily lives of Balinese families. Serving as dedicated spiritual spaces within the home, these shrines play a crucial role in fostering a connection with the divine and maintaining balance within the household.

The structure of the sanggah varies, ranging from simple elevated platforms to more elaborate structures with intricately carved wood and stonework. Typically located in a corner of the family compound, the shrine can include sacred objects like images or statues of Hindu deities, traditional masks, and other ritual items. The shrine also incorporates a specific area for daily offerings, where items such as canang sari, incense, holy water, and flowers are placed.

One distinctive feature of Balinese household shrines is the inclusion of ancestral shrines. Families dedicate sections of the sanggah to honor and seek blessings from deceased family members. Regular offerings are made to express reverence and maintain a connection with the ancestral spirits.

The sanggah serves as a space for daily prayers, where families express gratitude, seek blessings, and request protection. Additionally, during special ceremonies and life events such as weddings or tooth filing ceremonies, the sanggah becomes the focal point for specific rituals and celebrations.

Balinese household shrines extend beyond individual families to foster a sense of community. Neighbors and friends often come together for joint ceremonies or prayers. In essence, the sanggah is a tangible expression of the interconnectedness of family, community, and the divine in the rich tapestry of Balinese culture.

Traditional Dress

Balinese traditional dress is a captivating reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing intricate details and vibrant colors. The careful craftsmanship and unique aesthetics of Balinese traditional costume contributes to the visual splendor of Balinese ceremonies and daily life.

Women

For women, the kebaya is a central piece—a traditional blouse made of sheer fabric and adorned with elaborate embroidery. This is paired with a sarong, often featuring batik or songket patterns, elegantly wrapped around the lower body. Completing the ensemble, women drape a selendang, a long piece of cloth, over their shoulders, adding a touch of grace to their outfit.

Men

Balinese men often wear an udeng, a traditional headpiece, especially during ceremonies. The udeng is folded in a specific manner, and its color and style can vary based on the occasion. Men also wear a kamen, a cloth wrapped around the waist, similar to a sarong, with its color and pattern potentially indicating social or marital status.

Prada

During ceremonies or special events, both men and women may opt for prada, a more elaborate and embellished version of the traditional attire. Prada often incorporates intricate gold or silver-thread embroidery, enhancing the overall regality of the outfit.

Accessories

Accessories play a crucial role in Balinese traditional dress. Both men and women adorn themselves with traditional jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, each piece carrying cultural or spiritual significance. Songket is sometimes incorporated to further enrich an item’s appeal.

Performing Arts

Balinese performing arts encompass traditional dances, music, and theatrical expressions from the island’s cultural and religious roots. Together, they not only entertain but also serve as vessels for storytelling, cultural preservation, and spiritual reflection.

Balinese Dance

Among the iconic dances, the Barong Dance is a captivating portrayal of the eternal struggle between good and evil. This performance features vibrant costumes, intricate masks, and dynamic movements that weave together folklore and spirituality.

Another notable dance form is the Legong Dance, a classical piece often performed by young women or girls. Characterized by intricate finger movements, expressive eye gestures, and ornate costumes, Legong narrates stories from Hindu epics, offering a captivating glimpse into Balinese mythology and artistic finesse.

The Kecak Dance stands out for its unique use of a male chorus, collectively chanting rhythmic patterns to accompany the performance. Typically depicting scenes from the Ramayana, this dance is a powerful fusion of vocal harmony and dramatic storytelling.

Gamelan Music

Complementing the visual delights of Balinese performing arts is the Gamelan orchestra, an ensemble of traditional percussion instruments. The rhythmic harmony produced by the Gamelan creates a sonic backdrop that enhances the overall immersive experience of Balinese cultural expressions.

Shadow Puppetry

In the realm of theatrical arts, Wayang Kulit, or shadow puppetry, takes center stage. A dalang, or puppet master, skillfully manipulates leather puppets behind a backlit screen, bringing to life tales rich in moral and spiritual lessons from Hindu epics. The interplay of light, shadow, and masterful puppetry adds a mesmerizing dimension to these performances.

Visual Arts

Balinese visual arts, whether in painting or sculpture, serve as powerful mediums for storytelling, cultural preservation, and artistic exploration. They contribute hugely to the vibrant and diverse artistic heritage of Bali.

Sculpture

Traditional Balinese sculptures and carvings are renown for their intricate details and spiritual themes. Many sculptures depict mythological figures, deities, and scenes from Hindu epics, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of Balinese artists. Wooden and stone carvings are often found in temples and religious sites, adding to the sacredness of the landscape.

Painting

In the realm of painting, traditional styles often draw inspiration from wayang kulit and classical dance, portraying scenes from Hindu epics and mythological stories. Ubud, as a cultural hub, has developed a distinctive painting style where artists showcase daily life, Balinese landscapes, and mythological themes with intricate details and vibrant colors.

In addition to traditional forms, contemporary Balinese artists are exploring new avenues, blending traditional techniques with modern perspectives. This fusion reflects the evolving nature of Balinese visual arts, adapting to contemporary contexts while preserving the essence of the island’s cultural identity.

Textile Arts

Balinese textile arts showcase intricate craftsmanship and design. Textiles in Bali are not just limited to clothing; they are integral to religious ceremonies, where finely crafted fabrics play a vital role in rituals and offerings.

One prominent form of textile art is Batik, a traditional wax-resistant dyeing technique. Balinese Batik features an array of patterns and motifs, often inspired by nature, mythology, and religious symbols. Skilled artisans meticulously apply wax to fabric, creating stunning designs that come to life with the application of colorful dyes.

Ikat is a weaving technique where threads are dyed before being woven, resulting in patterns that emerge during the weaving process. Balinese Ikat textiles often feature geometric designs and bold colors, reflecting the island’s rich artistic traditions.

Songket is another popular textile art form in Bali. It involves weaving gold or silver threads into fabric, creating intricate patterns and motifs. Songket is often used for ceremonial attire, highlighting its significance in Balinese cultural and religious events.

Culinary Traditions

Balinese culinary traditions offer a rich and diverse array of flavors, showcasing the island’s cultural influences. These culinary traditions not only satisfy the palate but also reflect the cultural roots and celebratory nature of Balinese cuisine.

Festive Dishes

Balinese festive dishes are a celebration of flavors, often prepared during special occasions, ceremonies, and important cultural events. At the heart of many dishes is the “Base Gede,” a complex spice paste that forms the foundation for a myriad of savory delights. This aromatic blend includes shallots, garlic, chili peppers, turmeric, ginger, galangal, candlenuts, and coriander.

• Babi Guling:
  A star of Balinese celebrations, Babi Guling involves the spit-roasting of a whole suckling pig, marinated with a flavorful blend of turmeric and spices. The result is a crispy, succulent dish that takes center stage during festivals and significant ceremonies.
• Bebek Betutu:
  During festive occasions, Bebek Betutu, a slow-cooked duck dish, might grace the table. The duck is infused with a rich mix of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and patiently simmered until it reaches a tender, flavorful perfection. This dish is a symbol of celebration and is often reserved for special events.
• Lawar:
  Lawar, a traditional mix of finely chopped meat, grated coconut, herbs, and spices, is a versatile dish that can be customized based on personal preferences. It adds a burst of flavors to festive meals and is often accompanied by rice, creating a satisfying and celebratory culinary experience.
• Nasi Campur:
  Nasi Campur, a mixed rice dish, is another festive favorite. It features small portions of various accompaniments such as meats, vegetables, peanuts, eggs, and fried-shrimp krupuk. The combination of diverse elements on a single plate creates a festive and visually appealing meal.

These festive dishes not only tantalize the taste buds but also symbolize the joy and togetherness inherent in Balinese culture. The communal aspect of sharing these special dishes during festivals further emphasizes the spirit of celebration and connection.

Street Food

Balinese street food offers a delightful mix of flavors in a more casual and accessible setting. The lively atmosphere around Bali’s street food stalls adds an extra layer of excitement to a visitor’s experience, making it a must-try for those exploring Bali. Here’s some examples of common Balinese street food:

• Satay:
  Street corners often host satay stalls where skewers of grilled meat, typically chicken, pork, or fish, are served with a flavorful peanut sauce. The aroma of the grilling process and the savory, skewered delights make satay a very popular street food.
• Mie Goreng and Nasi Goreng:
  Mie Goreng (fried noodles) and Nasi Goreng (fried rice) are ubiquitous street food offerings. Vendors skillfully prepare these dishes with a mix of vegetables, meat, and spices, creating flavorful and satisfying meals that locals and tourists alike enjoy.
• Bakso:
  Bakso, meatball soup, is often served from mobile carts. The hearty broth, accompanied by noodles, meatballs, and condiments, provides a comforting and filling street food option.
• Babi Guling:
  While Babi Guling is often associated with festive occasions, you can also find it at street food stalls. Slices of the spit-roasted suckling pig are served with rice or in a sandwich, making it an easy to enjoy Balinese delicacy.
• Martabak:
  Martabak, a stuffed pancake, is a popular street snack. It comes in sweet and savory varieties, with fillings like chocolate, cheese, or minced meat. Watching the preparation of these indulgent treats at street stalls adds to the experience.

Agricultural Practices

Traditional Balinese agricultural practices are intricately woven into the island’s cultural and environmental landscape. Balinese farmers practice polyculture, cultivating a diverse range of crops alongside rice to promote biodiversity and sustainability. Traditional crops include fruits, vegetables, coffee, and spices, meeting local dietary needs and contributing to the island’s economy.

Balinese agriculture exemplifies a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, emphasizing sustainability, community cohesion, and a deep reverence for the land.

Subak Irrigation System

The Subak irrigation system is a traditional cooperative approach to water management that has stood the test of time for over a thousand years. It revolves around collective decision-making and collaboration among farmers, ensuring the equitable distribution of water for agricultural purposes.

At the heart of the Subak system are the water temples, known as “Pura Tirta.” These temples serve as points for the coordination of irrigation activities. Balinese farmers, guided by a priest, perform rituals and ceremonies at these temples to seek blessings for a successful harvest and to synchronize the water usage schedules among the fields.

The philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, emphasizing harmony between humans, nature, and the divine, underpins the Subak system. This holistic approach integrates spiritual beliefs with sustainable agricultural practices, reflecting a profound connection between the Balinese people and the land.

Organized at the community level, the Subak system comprises farmers working together to collectively manage water resources. This decentralized structure allows for adaptability to local conditions, ensuring that each community can tailor its irrigation practices to its specific needs.

In recognition of its cultural and environmental significance, the Subak system, along with Bali’s rice terraces, received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2012. This acknowledgment underscores the enduring importance of the Subak system in preserving traditional agricultural practices and promoting sustainable, community-centric farming in Bali.

Rice Cultivation

In Bali, rice cultivation is intricately connected to the Subak system. Rice terraces, a hallmark of Balinese agriculture, maximize steep landscapes for efficient rice cultivation.

The rice cultivation process involves a blend of physical labor and spiritual rituals. Planting ceremonies, like “Mesabatan Subak,” initiate the season with blessings for a fruitful harvest. Harvest ceremonies, such as “Mapag Sait,” celebrate the culmination of the growing cycle, expressing gratitude for the sustenance provided by the land.

Balinese farmers engage in “ngluruk,” a practice of releasing ducks into rice fields after harvest. These ducks contribute to pest control, forming a symbiotic relationship with the rice ecosystem.

Architecture

Balinese architecture is a fusion of cultural, spiritual, and environmental considerations. The layout of Balinese architecture is not just practical but also symbolic, embodying the island’s spiritual beliefs and cultural values. Each element, from the placement of structures within a compound to the intricate carvings on a temple gate, tells a story of Bali’s rich heritage.

Balinese architecture pays great attention to aesthetics, with ornamentation playing a crucial role. Elaborate wood carvings, known as “gebyok,” adorn doors and windows, depicting intricate floral and mythological motifs. The use of locally sourced materials, such as thatched roofs and bamboo, reflects an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to construction.

Residential Design

The core of Balinese residential architecture are family compounds – enclosed spaces with distinct pavilions serving various functions. These compounds, surrounded by walls, create a sense of privacy and security for the inhabitants.

At the heart of the compound is the Bale Daja pavilion, positioned to the north and holding significant spiritual importance. It is a space reserved for ancestor worship and religious ceremonies, contributing to the sacred atmosphere within the home. The Bale Dauh, situated to the south, acts as a secondary space for important family events and gatherings.

Balinese houses often showcase the practical use of thatched roofs, offering natural insulation in the tropical climate. The prevalent use of bamboo in construction further reflects a sustainable approach, utilizing locally sourced materials.

The architectural layout goes beyond functionality, incorporating symbolic elements that resonate with Balinese cultural and spiritual values. This integration of form and meaning defines Balinese residential architecture, creating homes that are not just spaces for living but expressions of cultural identity and harmony.

Temple Layout

Balinese temples, known as “Pura,” are intricately designed spaces that reflect a harmonious integration of Hindu-Buddhist traditions with indigenous Balinese customs.

The layout of a Balinese temple is not just functional but deeply symbolic. Every element, from the placement of structures to the symbolism in carvings, is infused with spiritual meaning, creating a space that transcends the physical and connects the worshiper to the divine.

Central to temple layout is a sense of hierarchy. The most sacred structures are situated furthest from the entrance, creating a symbolic journey towards the divine. The main courtyard often houses the “Meru” towers, representing Mount Meru, the cosmic mountain in Hindu mythology. These multi-tiered towers vary in number, with the highest tier reserved for the most sacred deities.

Balinese temples typically feature ornate stone carvings depicting mythological scenes and intricate floral motifs. Gates, known as “candi bentar,” mark the entrance to temple courtyards, emphasizing a transition from the mundane to the sacred.

Water plays a significant role in temple design, with pools or ponds often present within the complex. These water elements symbolize purity and spiritual cleansing, contributing to the sacred ambiance of the temple.

Social Structure

Balinese social structure is intricately woven with cultural, religious, and historical elements. At its core is the caste system, village councils, and Adat law.

Caste System

Bali historically has a caste system that is influenced by Hindu-Buddhist traditions. The caste system categorizes individuals into four main groups:

• Brahmana: This group consists of priests, scholars, and teachers. They are traditionally involved in religious and intellectual pursuits.
• Ksatria: The Ksatria group includes warriors, rulers, and military leaders. They traditionally hold positions of power and authority.
• Wesia: This category comprises merchants, farmers, and traders. Wesias are involved in economic activities and agriculture.
• Sudra: Sudras are laborers and service providers. They traditionally work in occupations considered less prestigious.

While the caste system is officially recognized in Bali, its influence has diminished over time. Modern Bali has seen a significant shift toward a more egalitarian and inclusive social structure. The impact of the caste system on daily life and interactions has softened, especially in urban areas and among the younger generation.

In practice, the caste system’s influence is most pronounced in ceremonial and religious contexts. During religious rituals and events, individuals may adhere to traditional caste distinctions. However, in everyday life and community interactions, the emphasis is often more on shared community values and responsibilities rather than strict adherence to caste roles.

Village Councils

Balinese village councils, known as “Banjar,” play a pivotal role in the social and communal fabric of Bali. These community organizations are the building blocks of local governance and collective decision-making.

Each Banjar is responsible for overseeing various aspects of village life, including organizing social events, managing community affairs, and coordinating ceremonies. The Banjar system fosters a strong sense of unity and cooperation within villages, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibilities.

Through regular meetings and discussions, village councils address issues ranging from infrastructure development to resolving disputes, contributing to the overall well-being and harmony of the community. The Banjar system reflects the communal values in Balinese society, where collaboration and consensus-building form the foundation of local governance.

Adat law

Adat law is a traditional customary legal system that governs various aspects of daily life, community affairs, and cultural practices. Rooted in Hindu-Buddhist principles and intertwined with local customs, Adat law is a set of unwritten rules passed down through generations. It regulates matters such as land ownership, marriage, and community disputes. Adat law is not only a legal framework but also a crucial element in preserving and promoting Balinese cultural identity.

Balinese Massage

Balinese traditional massage is a comprehensive body treatment that employs acupressure techniques to provide relief from pain, manage stress, enhance blood circulation, and increase energy levels. It is typically performed with light pressure and oils to promote relaxation. You can find it on offer at the numerous spas and wellness centers across the island.

The main goal of Balinese traditional massage is to invigorate the circulation of blood, oxygen, and energy throughout your body. This process aids in alleviating muscle and tissue tension, pain, and toxins. Additionally, it works to harmonize your energy centers or chakras, which play a crucial role in maintaining your overall spiritual and physical well-being.

Tips For Visitors

With such a unique and intricately woven system of tradition and belief it can be a little overwhelming for first time visitors wanting to experience Balinese culture. To stay respectful and courteous during your visit there are a few customs that you should keep in mind.

Gestures and Body Posture

Avoid crossing your arms, as it may be perceived as provocative, and refrain from placing your hands on your hips, which can be interpreted as an aggressive posture. Showing the soles of your feet while sitting is considered insulting, and pointing at someone is generally discouraged.

In Balinese culture, the head is considered sacred as it is believed to house the core of the soul. Consequently, avoid touching the head of anyone you meet, whether adult or child.

When entering a local’s home it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Maintain a composed demeanor, even in challenging situations, as losing your temper is viewed as losing face. Balinese appreciate communication delivered with a smile and a sense of humor, even during negotiations. It is generally advisable to refrain from displaying strong emotions in public to align with the cultural norms of the community.

Dining Etiquette

Refrain from using your left hand to eat, as it is considered impure in Balinese culture. When giving back change or any object, use both hands as a sign of respect. 

Additionally, whether at a restaurant or in someone’s home, avoid crossing your legs while seated, as this can be perceived as a sign of mistrust and disrespect.

Temples and Sacred Areas

When in Bali, pay careful attention to the offerings placed on the ground in front of houses and within temples (canang sari). It is important not to crush them, as these offerings hold significant religious and spiritual importance.

In temples and religious sites, it is customary to wear a sarong, a fabric tied around the hips that covers the legs, and, when necessary, a sash. This attire reflects respect for the sacred nature of these places.

Women are prohibited from entering temples and other sacred sites during their period. 

If attending a ceremony in a temple, ensure that you position yourself lower than the officiating priest, as being positioned higher would be perceived as a considerable lack of respect.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure you receive a very warm Balinese welcome wherever you visit on the island of the gods.

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