Never miss a chance for a temple visit when you are in Bali to avoid missing the essence of Bali vacation. An island of thousand temples, people named it for a reason. Every single mile of this small haven brims many temples; starting from the small family shrines to temples worshipped by all Balinese Hindu like Besakih Temple, Lempuyang Temple, Batukaru Temple, Tanah Lot etc. Each temple has its own story and purposes. However, before you enter a temple, check out these tips from us!

1

Make Sure You Are Clean

When you plan to visit a temple, make sure you are clean, physically and spiritually. Also make sure you are not in a period of mourning and not menstruating (for women). This is important because the temple is a sanctified place. Dirt or taboo is not allowed to be brought into the temple area so as not to pollute the sacredness of the temple.

2

Make Sure You Dress Properly

You must have realized that Balinese Hindus have special clothes when they are praying to the temple. They use sarong, sash, udeng (for men) and kebaya for (women). So, if you are going to the temple, use at least sarong and sash. Besides respecting the traditions of the local people, you can also feel being a part of the culture itself. You can find sarong easily in Bali; from traditional markets to boutiques. Usually they are sold around 50 thousand rupiahs to hundreds of thousands per piece. Or, you can ask the hotel where you are staying whether they provide sarong for guests. If not, you know where to look for it right?

3

Do Not Climb Sacred Statue or The Temple Itself

In Bali, there are no temples that are not sacred. Not just anyone can step on the Pelinggih or the temple itself, only certain people are permitted. So, please do not try climbing up the temple. In some places, some trees are sacred. So, when visiting Bali, look around you and talk politely, if you are in a place that is believed to be sacred by the local community. This is indeed a belief, but it cost nothing if you follow these unspoken rules.

4

Do Not Step on The Offering

Aside of not climbing up the pelinggih or shrine, stepping on a banten or offering also looks impolite. We never know if the ceremony has been completed or not. So, it’s a good idea to avoid stepping on offering when visiting the temple.

5

Do Not Disturb If There Is Any Ceremony Ongoing

This is like everyone’s common secret when visiting a temple when there is a ceremony. “Disturbing” meant here could be running around in temples, shouting, even standing in a place that you should not, can be interference. So, if you decide to be part of a temple ceremony, choose a place that is rather on the edge or ask the people there if there is a safe place to watch the ceremony without disturbing.