KLUNGKUNG, Bali – A newly introduced tourism levy in Nusa Penida has prompted tourist trip cancellations, with local tourism operators reporting that some visitors have called off their itineraries after learning they would be charged an additional Rp25,000 (around US$1.50) for each attraction they visit.
The issue came to light after a local tour driver shared screenshots of a conversation with a group of 47 tourists who decided to cancel their planned trip to the island. The group had booked a package tour covering four destinations and paid a deposit, but withdrew after discovering the new levy would add around Rp4.7 million to the total cost.
The social media post quickly gained attention, with many users questioning the timing of the policy and arguing that infrastructure improvements should come before additional charges are imposed on visitors.
The Klungkung chapter of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) said the incident reflects a broader trend. Chairman I Putu Darmaya said the association has received multiple reports of cancellations since the regency began implementing its new One Gate One Destination (OGOD) levy scheme.
According to Darmaya, the additional fee has become difficult for tour operators to explain because many travel packages had already been sold as all-inclusive before the policy took effect.
“Our concern isn’t simply about the additional charge,” Darmaya said. “Visitors are questioning why they’re paying more when road conditions and tourism infrastructure have yet to improve.”
He added that local drivers and tour operators have expressed growing frustration, with some considering dropping destinations affected by the levy from their itineraries. PHRI plans to meet with the Klungkung administration to discuss the issue and seek a review of the policy.
Responding to the criticism, Klungkung Tourism Office head I Gusti Agung Gede Putra Mahajaya said the levy is mandated under Regional Regulation (Perda) No. 4 of 2026 on Regional Taxes and Levies, which officially came into effect on August 1.
He said the regulation had been approved through the legislative process and is currently in a public socialisation period running until August 12, during which feedback from tourism stakeholders will be collected.
Mahajaya acknowledged that the new policy has generated mixed reactions but said such responses are common whenever new regulations are introduced.
“We understand there are differing views, and those will be part of our evaluation,” he said. “However, this is a regulation that must be implemented.”
PHRI has also urged the regency government to prioritise upgrading roads and tourism facilities while providing greater transparency over how levy revenue will be used, arguing that visible improvements would make additional charges easier for visitors to accept.
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