Observed Beautiful Balinese Hindu Ceremony in Tanah Lot Temple

Research before you visit, from now on that is my motto. I only realized this on our first day in Bali. I was walking around in a yellow tube dress and felt as if I were naked in the streets of Ubud.

Since we decided to spend most of our days in the small village of Ubud, I didn’t realize how traditional they lived their lives. Only 3% of Indonesians are Hindu, most of which are in Bali. The rest of the 97%, are Muslim. Tourism is popular in Bali, but only in major areas such as Kuta, Seminyak, Gili’s Islands, and Lombok, especially for honeymooners. I figured since Bali is a top destination for honeymooners, I could wear a teeny bikini and my parade in my beach dresses. As soon as we walked out of our place, the locals glued their eyes onto me, especially men winking left and right. I felt very uncomfortable and instantly knew it was because of my yellow tube dress. All the women were covered wearing t-shirts and pants at the knees. I even saw female tourists wearing appropriate attire and right away I felt ashamed as if I was just told by my mother to change my clothing. I quickly learned and made sure I was covered up during the rest of our time in Bali.

The Balinese Hindu apply more strict rules regarding temples and ceremonies. They not only concern dress requirements for both men and women, but rules such as menstruation, open wounds, bringing certain foods into the temple, being physically or mentally ill, being in a state of mourning (limit 42 days), and having given birth within the past 42 days.

1. Wear a sarong up to ankles and head wrap
2. Don’t walk in front of people when praying
3. Never sit higher than a priest
4. Menstruation is not allowed in temples
5. Respect others while inside a temple

See More Photos: Balinese Hindu Ceremony