Must-Know Phrases in Balinese

Must-Know Phrases in Balinese: Your Passport to the Heart of Bali

By Jayantha

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If you close your eyes and imagine Bali, what do you see? Perhaps the emerald-green rice terraces of Tegallalang, the wild surf crashing on Uluwatu’s cliffs, or the golden glow of sunset at Tanah Lot. But there’s a secret door to the soul of this island, one that you unlock not with a ticket, but with a few words: the Balinese language.

While most Balinese folks speak Indonesian, and many in tourist hotspots know some English, uttering even a handful of Balinese phrases will open hearts and doors. Trust me, nothing brings a smile to a Gianyar market vendor or a Sidemen Valley rice farmer like a traveler trying out their mother tongue.

I still remember my first attempt—sweating in a warung in Canggu, I fumbled through “suksma” (thank you), and the entire kitchen staff cheered. That’s the Balinese spirit—joy in connection.

Ready to dive in? Here’s your essential phrasebook, peppered with local wisdom and Jayantha’s travel-tested tips. Bookmark for your next Bali adventure!

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1. Om Swastyastu – Hello / Greetings

Pronounced: Ohm swas-tee-ah-stoo

Start any interaction with this respectful, spiritual greeting. You’ll hear it everywhere, from priests at Besakih Temple to kids on the beach at Sanur. It’s not just “hello”—it’s a wish for health and safety, a blessing wrapped in syllables.

Pro Tip: Add a gentle smile and a slight nod. Instant connection.

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2. Suksma – Thank You

Pronounced: Sooks-ma

This one is gold. Whether you’re savoring babi guling in Ubud or getting directions to the Sacred Monkey Forest, “suksma” will make you friends.

For extra politeness, say “Suksma mewali” (Sooks-ma meh-wah-lee)—“thank you very much.”

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3. Ampura – Sorry / Excuse Me

Pronounced: Am-poo-rah

Spilled your coconut water at Seminyak Beach? Accidentally stepped on an offering at Tirta Empul? “Ampura” is your gentle apology.

Locals appreciate humility. Use it often; Bali rewards those who respect her.

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4. Punapi Gatra? – How Are You?

Pronounced: Poo-nah-pee gat-rah

Ask this at the morning markets in Kuta or over kopi Bali in Amed. You’ll get a warm “Becik-becik” (good, good) in return. Human connection: that’s the real Bali magic.

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5. Ngidang Ngalih…? – Can I have…? / May I get…?

Pronounced: Ngee-dang nga-leeh…?

Use it when ordering nasi campur at a roadside stall or asking for that perfect sarong at Uluwatu Temple. Pair with a smile, and you’re set.

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6. Sing – No / Tidak – No (Indonesian)

Pronounced: Sing or Tee-dak

You’ll hear “sing” in local chit-chat, especially in villages. If you need to politely decline another arak shot in Lovina, this is your word!

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7. Matur Suksma – Thank you (Formal)

Pronounced: Ma-toor sooks-ma

When saying “thank you” to elders, priests, or after a mesmerizing kecak dance at Ubud Palace, this version adds extra respect.

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Bonus: Essential Survival Phrases

• Wenten toilet? (Where’s the toilet?) – A must after too many fresh coconuts in Jimbaran!
• Ida ten wenten (No, there isn’t) – For when the answer is, unfortunately, no.
• Ajengan punika sane wenten? (What food is available?) – At a family-run warung in Sidemen, you’ll be rewarded with a list of grandma’s specials.

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Bringing It All Together

Language isn’t just a tool—it’s a bridge. In Bali, every word is a step deeper into the island’s living, breathing culture. Try these phrases in the bustling markets of Gianyar, the tranquil rice fields of Sidemen, or the cliffside temples of Uluwatu. Notice how faces light up, how barriers melt.

And if you stumble? Laugh with the locals. Bali isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection.

So, pack your surfboard and your phrasebook. Bali’s waiting, and now you speak her secret language.
Om Swastyastu, traveler. See you on the island!

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Ready to explore? Check out my guides to Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Besakih Temple, and more on the blog!