Bali Temple Etiquette: What to Wear and How to Behave

The short answer: to enter a Bali temple you need a sarong and sash, covered shoulders and covered knees. Most temples lend or rent them at the entrance, and dressing modestly is expected of every visitor, whatever the weather.

What to wear to a Bali temple

Wear a top that covers your shoulders and a sarong tied at the waist so it covers your knees, with a sash around the waist. A lightweight linen or cotton shirt works well in the heat, and long linen pants can go under the sarong if you prefer. Leave swimwear, singlets and very short shorts for the beach.

Sarong and sash

The sarong and sash are part of the dress code for visitors of every gender. Popular temples provide or rent them at the gate, often for a small donation, and you can also carry your own. Tie the sash over the sarong and keep it on for the whole visit.

Behaviour inside the temple

• Take your shoes off where others do, and follow signs at the entrance.
• Do not step on the small woven offerings on the ground.
• Keep your voice low, and ask before photographing people who are praying.
• Do not climb on walls or shrines, and do not point your feet at an altar.
• Some temples ask women who are menstruating not to enter, and post this at the entrance.
• If a ceremony is under way, watch from a respectful distance unless you are invited to join.

What to pack

Bring a light long-sleeve shirt or a shirt that covers your shoulders, and linen pants or a sarong for your legs. The ASASI linen shirt range and linen pants are made for this. For the wider picture, read our Bali dress code guide.

Stay understated.