Culture / Etiquette / Dress

Dress modestly at temples and villages. Cover shoulders and knees at Prambanan-area temples and in conservative rural areas; a light layer or sarong is handy.

Respect active places of worship. Pura Luhur Poten at Bromo and living temples are for prayer first — photograph from outside and never interrupt rituals.

Ask before photographing people. A smile and quick gesture goes a long way, especially with Ijen's sulfur miners and villagers going about their day.

Learn a few words of Bahasa. "Terima kasih" (thank you) and "permisi" (excuse me) open doors — English is limited once you leave tourist hubs.