Sydney Sighter

Balinese Customs and Etiquette

Nov 30, 20244 min read

Understanding and respecting Balinese customs and etiquette is crucial for a meaningful and respectful visit to Bali. The Balinese culture is rich in traditions and spiritual practices, and being aware of these can greatly enhance your experience while avoiding unintentional offense.

General Etiquette

  1. Greetings: The traditional Balinese greeting is to press your palms together in front of your chest and say “Om Swastiastu.”

  2. Head: The head is considered sacred. Avoid touching anyone’s head, including children.

  3. Feet: Feet are considered impure. Avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects.

  4. Left Hand: The left hand is considered unclean. Use your right hand for giving, receiving, eating, or touching.

  5. Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Be modest and respectful in your behavior.

Dress Code

  1. General: Dress modestly, especially outside of tourist areas.

  2. Temples: Cover shoulders and knees. Many temples provide sarongs and sashes for visitors.

  3. Beachwear: Keep beachwear for the beach. Cover up when leaving beach areas.

Religious Customs

  1. Offerings (Canang Sari): Don’t disturb or step over offerings on sidewalks or in front of businesses.

  2. Ceremonies: If you encounter a ceremony, be respectful. Ask permission before taking photos.

  3. Holy Water: Don’t drink holy water at temples unless explicitly invited to do so.

  4. Temple Visits: Follow Bali Temple Etiquette when visiting religious sites.

Social Interactions

  1. Patience: The Balinese value patience and a calm demeanor. Avoid showing anger or frustration publicly.

  2. Bargaining: Bargaining is common in markets, but do so respectfully and with a smile.

  3. Volume: Speak softly. Loud voices are often considered rude.

  4. Pointing: Pointing with your index finger is considered rude. Use your open hand or thumb instead.

Dining Etiquette

  1. Hands: Wash your hands before and after eating.

  2. Utensils: If utensils are provided, use them. Otherwise, eat with your right hand.

  3. Finishing: Leave a small amount of food on your plate to show the meal was abundant.

  4. Alcohol: While available in tourist areas, be respectful of the predominantly Hindu culture which generally abstains from alcohol.

Cultural Sensitivity

  1. Photography: Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially during ceremonies.

  2. Sacred Sites: Some areas are considered sacred. Respect signs and local guidance.

  3. Full Moon and New Moon: These are important spiritual days. Some businesses may be closed, and ceremonies may be taking place.

  4. Nyepi (Day of Silence): Respect the island-wide day of silence, usually in March. Tourists are expected to remain in their hotels.

Environmental Respect

  1. Littering: Never litter. Bali is working hard to manage waste and plastic pollution.

  2. Wildlife: Don’t feed or touch wildlife, including monkeys at temples.

  3. Coral Reefs: Use reef-safe sunscreen and don’t touch or step on coral when snorkeling or diving.

Business Etiquette

  1. Meetings: Meetings often start with casual conversation. Be patient and follow the lead of your Balinese counterparts.

  2. Business Cards: Present and receive business cards with both hands.

  3. Titles: Use titles and last names unless invited to use first names.

Language

  1. Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic phrases in Balinese or Indonesian is greatly appreciated:

    • Thank you: “Terima kasih” (Indonesian) or “Suksma” (Balinese)
    • Please: “Tolong” (Indonesian) or “Tulungin tiang” (Balinese)
    • Yes: “Ya” (Indonesian) or “Inggih” (Balinese)
    • No: “Tidak” (Indonesian) or “Ten” (Balinese)

  2. Tone: The Balinese language has different levels of formality. When in doubt, use the most polite form.

Remember, the Balinese are generally very forgiving of tourists who may not be aware of all customs. However, making an effort to understand and respect local traditions will greatly enhance your experience and interactions in Bali.

By being mindful of these customs and etiquette, you’ll not only show respect for the local culture but also have a more enriching and authentic experience during your visit to Bali.

Related: Bali, Bali Temples, Bali Safety Tips, Experiences

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