The "Bali breakup curse" is a topic that often comes up in online forums like Reddit and Quora. It’s also known as the “Tanah Lot Temple Curse.”
As the story goes, any unmarried couple visiting Bali will end up breaking up during their trip. This belief has made some travelers nervous about vacationing on the island with their partners.
But don’t worry — it’s just a myth. Let’s uncover where this story came from and how you can make sure your Bali getaway goes perfectly.
Key Takeaways
- The Bali breakup curse at Tanah Lot comes from a local legend, but is only a myth with no real effect on couples. Unmarried couples are welcome in Bali. No restrictions or checks are enforced for foreign visitors.
- Breakups on trips often happen due to stress, planning issues, or confirmation bias—not because of a supernatural curse.
- Tips to avoid tension during a holiday: plan together your destinations, set budgets, stay flexible, keep romance alive, and give each other space when needed.
What is Bali Breakup Curse? Here's the Full Story
The famous “Bali breakup curse” comes from an old Hindu Balinese legend. It’s said to have started with a tragic love story between a Brahmin prince and princess who traveled from Java to Bali. Both came from the highest Hindu caste, the Brahmana.
According to the story, the young couple once visited the beautiful Tanah Lot Temple in Tabanan. They were mesmerized by the stunning sunset and the ocean views. In a moment of passion, they crossed the line and engaged in premarital sex.
But by morning, the prince disappeared and refused to marry her. Heartbroken and humiliated, the princess placed a curse. She declared that any unmarried couple visiting Bali and becoming intimate would see their relationship fall apart within six months.
That’s how the “Tanah Lot Curse” began. Over time, people started telling different versions of it:
- Some say it affects any unmarried couple visiting Bali.
- Others believe it only applies to those visiting Tanah Lot, Bali.
- A few claim it happens only if the couple visits Tanah Lot without a chaperone.
Is the Bali Curse True?
Let’s be honest. The so-called "Bali myth couple" is more of an old myth than a real thing. It clearly doesn’t happen to every unmarried couple visiting Bali.
Sure, you’ll find a few Reddit posts from people who broke up during or right after their trip, which might make the story sound believable. That’s what we call confirmation bias (when your mind notices things that support what you already believe).
But if we think about it logically, there are plenty of real reasons couples might argue or break up on vacation. Traveling together can bring out stress, differences, or issues that were already there.
On the flip side, many couples leave Bali even closer than before. Some even get engaged! So no, the curse doesn’t hold up in reality. It’s just a story that keeps getting passed around.
Read More: Is Bali a Safe Place to Live?
Reasons Your Romantic Trip Can Go Wrong
Traveling together is exciting, but it can also be stressful. According to a study published in the Journal of Travel Research, shared travel experiences can either bring couples closer or put their relationship under strain.
Why? Because travel isn’t just about lounging on the beach. It also means planning, making decisions, and dealing with unexpected problems, big or small. Even minor disagreements can feel intense when you’re already under pressure.
Aside from confirmation bias, there’s also something called the nocebo effect. It’s basically the opposite of the placebo effect. If you believe something bad will happen, you might unconsciously behave in ways that make it come true.
For example, if you believe in the Bali couple myth, you might start overanalyzing every little argument and thinking, “Is this the curse?”. That mindset can create tension that wasn’t there before — and ironically, it might even cause the very breakup you feared.
How Unmarried Couples Can Avoid The Tanah Lot Curse
Is it possible for unmarried couples to enjoy a romantic getaway in Bali without ending up in a breakup? Absolutely! Here are some simple ways to keep the love strong during your trip:
1. Talk About What You Both Want Beforehand
First things first, always check if you and your partner even have the same idea of what this trip should be.
Maybe one of you dreams of quiet mornings in Ubud’s temples and rice terraces, while the other can’t wait to hit the beach and surf all day.
If you don’t talk about it early, you’ll probably end up frustrated. So take time to share your expectations. That way, you can plan something that makes you both happy.
2. Pick Your Stay Together
Nothing ruins a romantic getaway faster than arguing over a bad villa choice. Avoid the drama by choosing your accommodation together.
Bali is filled with stunning villas offering every kind of romantic view, from peaceful rice fields to oceanfront sunsets and even mountain backdrops. And now you can find your dream stay easily and hassle-free with Bali Villa Realty.
Just tell us what you’re looking for: the type of view you love, preferred location, number of bedrooms, and your budget. Even if you’re not sure yet, our team can help you figure it out!
We’ll handle everything from recommendations to booking. So all you have to do is pack your bags, and we’ll hand you the keys when you arrive.
3. Keep Your Eyes on Each Other (Not Everyone Else)
Bali is full of stunning people and temptation can sneak up fast. If you want to keep your trip free from drama, focus on your partner, not the distractions around you. Common sense, right?
4. Make It Romantic
Plan a few moments that are just about the two of you. Maybe a sunset dinner, a beach walk, or a spa day. The more romantic memories you create, the stronger your connection will be.
5. But Don’t Forget “Me Time”
Spending 24/7 together can be too much, even in paradise. So, remember to give each other space to recharge.
Maybe one of you goes surfing while the other explores a temple or takes a yoga class. A little alone time can actually make your trip better.
6. Keep Listening and Reassuring
Good communication is the real secret to avoiding problems. If your partner wants to watch the sunset together, make it happen.
Ask what matters to them and show that you care. Remember, small gestures go a long way.
7. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Money stress doesn’t mix well with romance. Before you travel, agree on a budget and stay within it. That way, you can enjoy your time in Bali without financial tension getting in the way.
Read More: Actual Cost of Living Comfortably in Bali for Expats
Conclusion
That’s the truth behind the viral Bali couple curse at Tanah Lot. So don’t worry, it’s completely safe to visit the island with your partner.
Instead of fearing the myth, make your trip a chance to grow closer and create new memories together. And if you need help finding the perfect villa for your stay, we’re always here to help.
FAQ
Yes. While there is a law regarding unmarried couples staying together, the Bali government has confirmed that it won’t apply to foreign tourists. There will be no checks on foreign couples’ marital status at hotels or guesthouses.
Aside from the Tanah Lot curse, there’s also a legend about Nusa Penida — believed to be guarded by a sea dragon and cursed by local spirits. Many Balinese still hold this belief to this day.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the day you arrive in Indonesia. If not, you could be denied boarding or entry at immigration.
Yes, it’s totally fine to wear red. In Bali, red can symbolize anger but for clothing, it’s perfectly okay.
Always respect sacred areas and never trespass. Certain places, like temples or holy sites, are off-limits, especially for women during menstruation. Avoid any actions that could be seen as disrespectful — no indecent photos, no littering, and no damaging sacred spaces.
