How Does Photography Rules Work in Indonesia?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Photography is generally permitted but ask permission before photographing people in religious ceremonies; inner temple sanctuaries are often restricted; never photograph military or police installations.
2What You Need to Know
Indonesia is generally very welcoming of tourist photography at landscapes, beaches, markets, and public cultural events. However, key restrictions apply: the inner sanctuaries (jeroan) of Balinese temples are usually off-limits to cameras, and photographing religious ceremonies requires asking first and being sensitive about when and how you shoot. Military installations, police stations, and government buildings should not be photographed. Photographing people — especially during Balinese Hindu ceremonies — without asking is considered invasive; a smile and gesture goes a long way toward getting a warm yes.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1At Balinese temple ceremonies, ask a local or priest before raising your camera — many ceremonies welcome respectful observers and photographers
- 2Look for 'no photography' signs at the inner gates of major temples like Pura Besakih or Tanah Lot and respect them
- 3Drone photography is heavily regulated around temples, rice terraces, and airports — check CASR regulations and obtain permits before flying
Important Warning
Photographing or filming military and police facilities is prohibited and can lead to detention. Drone flights near Bali's sacred sites and busy areas require prior permits from the Indonesian Civil Aviation Authority.
How does this compare?
Photography Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Photography is generally free in public. Avoid photographing people without permission, and check rules inside temples and museums.
Photography is generally allowed. No photos of monks without permission. Inside temples, follow posted signs. Never photograph military or government buildings.
Photography is generally free in public. Avoid photographing military installations, Changi Airport security zones, and government buildings. Drone rules are very strict.
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