What are a few basic Indonesian words to use in Bali?
Checked October 2026 · 2 sources
In Bali, a few words of Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) go a long way: terima kasih (thank you), sama-sama (you're welcome), permisi (excuse me), maaf (sorry), berapa harganya? (how much is it?) and tidak, terima kasih (no, thank you). Balinese people also appreciate suksma, thank you in Balinese, and the greeting Om Swastiastu.
In detail
Greetings change with the time of day: selamat pagi in the morning, selamat siang around midday, selamat sore in the late afternoon and selamat malam in the evening. Pronunciation is simple: every letter is spoken and c sounds like the 'ch' in 'chat', so 'cantik' (pretty) sounds like 'chantik'.
Useful for shopping: mahal (expensive), murah (cheap), bisa kurang? (can it be cheaper?). For food: enak (delicious), tidak pedas (not spicy) and air putih (plain water).
Balinese is a separate language with polite registers, used at home and in ceremonies. Om Swastiastu is a Hindu greeting, and the polite reply is the same phrase. Suksma or matur suksma means thank you.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas such as Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud, but a few words of Indonesian make a real difference in villages, warungs and markets.
Good to know
- Use Pak for men and Bu for women as polite forms of address.
- Smile and say terima kasih when receiving something with your right hand.
- Download Indonesian offline in your translation app.
On Bali Reply
More questions about culture & etiquette
- What should I wear to visit a temple in Bali?
- What are the small offerings on the ground in Bali?
- What are the main do's and don'ts in Bali?
- Where can I watch traditional Balinese dance in Bali?
- How can I bring elements of Balinese culture into my daily life?
- How can I make local friends in Bali?
- What are the best ways to keep the 'Bali effect' going once you are back home?
Sources
Rules and prices in Indonesia change often. Always check official sources before you travel.