The tropical paradise of Bali is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and majestic mountains, which have long drawn tourists from around the world. However, recently, the island’s appeal took a surprising turn when Bali’s Governor, Wayan Koster, announced a ban on all activities on the island’s twenty-two mountains, including the iconic Mount Batur and Mount Agung, effective immediately
Governor Koster revealed that the decision was rooted in the necessity to restore the sanctity of these mountains, as tourism activities had been spiraling out of control. This ban impacts not only international tourists but also domestic tourists and local residents, triggering considerable concerns among those whose livelihoods are intimately connected to the mountains and volcanoes on the island.
Koster explained that the decision to limit tourist access to the mountain peaks was made after considering recommendations from Hindu religious leaders. He shared, “Highest religious leaders have gathered and decided that mountains should be kept sacred, and they have recommended [the ban]. Therefore, I should accommodate it”. Koster also emphasized the importance of maintaining respect for these sacred spaces, pointing out that numerous accidents on the mountains could be interpreted as warnings..
Despite the growing unease and pressure from local leaders and communities, there is still uncertainty about whether the provincial government will reconsider the ban. Koster has stated that the specifics of the limitation for tourist access to the mountains will be discussed in the future, hinting at the possibility of establishing bylaws or governor decrees to regulate activities on the mountains, especially those related to rituals and disaster management.
For tourists planning their visits to Bali, this ban has undeniably left many disappointed. The sunrise hike of Mount Batur, in particular, is a consistently highly-rated and in-demand travel experience on the island.
While the ban has triggered widespread concern, it also serves as a reminder of the critical balance that must be maintained between tourism, local traditions, and environmental sustainability. As Koster stated, the mountain peaks were places where Balinese ancestors held rituals, meditated, and were inspired to build Bali. “So, the mountain should be kept sacred. We have been degrading it,” he added. It is perhaps this call to restore and respect the sacredness of Bali’s natural beauty that will pave the way for sustainable tourism practices in the future.
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