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Bali’s temples are living cultural treasures. Every day, spiritual rituals, daily offerings, and centuries-old traditions take place inside them. Whether you visit large temples such as Besakih, Uluwatu, and Tanah Lot or smaller village shrines, the Bali temple dress code helps you show respect and enter sacred areas properly.
Because of that, understanding what to wear becomes important. This guide explains the required attire, what you should avoid, how to use a sarong and sash, and simple etiquette that will help you enjoy your temple visit with confidence.
Core Principles of the Bali Temple Dress Code
The Balinese always dress modestly when entering a temple, and visitors are expected to do the same. The main guidelines are:
Cover your shoulders
Short sleeves or a light shoulder covering are acceptable. If you wear sleeveless tops, strapless clothing, or tank tops, you must cover them with a scarf or shawl.
Wear a sarong (kain)
Both men and women must wear a sarong, even when using long pants. You can rent or buy a sarong at many major temples.
Tie a waist sash (selendang)
The sash represents self-control and respect. Visitors tie it firmly around the waist, on top of the sarong.
Dress cleanly and modestly
Choose neat and respectful clothing. Avoid transparent or very tight outfits.
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Required Items for Temple Entry
Although many temples provide rentals, it helps to understand the items before you arrive.
Sarong (Kain)
A long cloth wrapped from the waist to the ankles. Every visitor must wear one.
Sash (Selendang)
A narrow cloth tied around the waist to show readiness to enter a holy space.
Shoulder Covering
A scarf, shawl, or short-sleeve shirt is suitable. Your shoulders should not be exposed inside temple areas.
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What You Should Not Wear
To keep the sacred environment respectful, avoid the following items:
Revealing clothing
Sleeveless tops without a covering
Swimwear or beachwear
Shorts above the knee (unless you wear a sarong)
Tight leggings or see-through fabrics
Wet or dirty clothing
Clothing with offensive symbols or words
Cultural Etiquette Inside Bali Temples
Do:
Walk calmly and quietly
Follow instructions from temple staff
Observe ceremonies with respect
Ask before taking photos of priests or worshippers
Step around offerings instead of stepping over them
Don’t:
Touch sacred objects without permission
Enter inner sanctums reserved for Hindu worshippers
Point at people or shrines with one finger
Climb structures to take photos
Make loud noises during prayers or rituals
Dress Code for Women: Special Notes
Balinese culture includes beliefs about purity. Because of that, women should avoid entering temples when:
They are menstruating
They have recently given birth and have not completed the purification period
These customs follow long-standing Hindu traditions that remain respected today.
Practical Tips for Tourists
Here are a few simple ways to make your visit easier:
Bring your own sarong
This is helpful when visiting many temples in one day.
Choose light fabrics
Bali is hot and humid, so cotton or rayon sarongs feel more comfortable.
Wear slip-on shoes
Some temple zones require you to remove footwear.
Use temple rentals
Most major temples offer sarong and sash rentals at the entrance.
Why the Dress Code Matters
Bali’s temples are not only attractions. They are active spiritual spaces used by local communities every day. When you follow the dress code, you help:
Protect cultural traditions
Maintain the purity of religious rituals
Show respect for Balinese values
Create a deeper and more meaningful travel experience
Conclusion
The Bali temple dress code is simple and helps you enjoy one of the island’s most important cultural experiences. With a sarong, a sash, covered shoulders, and respectful behavior, you can explore Bali’s sacred temples with confidence and appreciation.
If you plan to visit Uluwatu, Tanah Lot, Besakih, Tirta Empul, or other temples, these guidelines ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
