Authorities in Bali, Indonesia, have introduced a controversial new policy prohibiting “menstruating tourists” from entering local temples, expressing concerns that “dirty” menstrual blood could contaminate these sacred sites.
This measure is part of a broader initiative announced by Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, on March 24, aimed at curbing what he describes as “misbehaving tourists” overwhelming the island, according to a report from Metro.
“I am implementing this circular as an immediate measure to regulate foreign tourists while they are in Bali,” stated the governor.
The new guidelines specify that women are barred from entering Balinese temples during their menstrual periods due to fears that menstrual fluid may render the temple impure, as reported by Visit Bali.
The site notes that local beliefs passed down through generations warn of adverse effects for women attempting to enter temples while menstruating. These stories include accounts of women experiencing pain, fainting, or even facing mystical occurrences, such as spiritual possession.
The regulations extend beyond menstruating women, suggesting that communities around the temples could also be adversely affected by “natural disasters and diseases” linked to menstrual cycles.
For those who are menstruating while visiting, the site reassures them that there are numerous entertainment options available outside the temples, including traditional dance performances.
However, the policy does not clarify how officials will ascertain whether a woman is on her period.
This is not the only rule introduced to maintain the “cultural integrity and sacred sites” on this predominantly Hindu Island. New codes of conduct require visitors to “dress appropriately” when in temples, tourist attractions, or public spaces, and restrict entry to sacred areas unless individuals are worshippers dressed in traditional Balinese attire, as reported by Timeout.
Additional prohibited behaviors include the use of single-use plastics, disrespectful behavior towards locals, cursing, and littering.
To enforce these regulations, Bali has established a special task force responsible for monitoring tourists and penalizing rule-breakers with fines or even jail time.
“We issued a similar regulation before, but as circumstances change, we must adapt,” Koster remarked. “This ensures that Bali’s tourism remains respectful, sustainable, and harmonious with our local values.”
“Bali is a beautiful, sacred island, and we expect our guests to show the same respect that we extend to them,” he added.
