how to survive and enjoy bali’s day of silence

How do I survive Nyepi Day in Bali? Should I still visit when the whole island literally shuts down for a day? These are just some of the questions travellers often have who’ve heard about the single most unique day in Bali, which is celebrated like no other holiday on the entire planet (that we’ve heard of, anyway). If you’ve never heard about the ‘Saka New Year’ celebrations, you can read all about it here, together with all the lively processions leading up to this solemn day, and the celebrations afterwards. 

Nyepi occurs on a different day each year, based on the ancient Saka Calendar on the night of a new moon, usually in March or April. Basically, the day of Nyepi can be one of the most unique experiences one can ever have in Bali. It’s one of the most enjoyable 24 hours with clean air and ‘zero emissions’, when nature takes a rest free from human activity. The new moon also offers rare night skies without light pollution to enjoy. Contrarily, to others – particularly the adventurous and those willing to tour and see more of the island – it can spell disaster. You can’t fly in, fly out, or hang out as usual. Here’s how to survive Nyepi Day in Bali; just some tips for enjoying Bali’s Day of Silence.

1.Plan Your Arrival 

Ngurah Rai International Airport is perhaps the only international airport in the world that totally ceases its operations for a full 24 hours every year. Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) are issued annually for Nyepi, from 06:00 to 06:00 the following day. Due to the closure, all flights both arriving and departing from the airport will be inoperable. It’s always a good idea to plan your flights in or out to avoid the actual Nyepi date. In other words, arrive early – perhaps in time to watch the lively parades of Nyepi Eve!

2.Watch the Melasti Processions leading up To Nyepi

Several (between 3 to 4) days leading up to the turn of the Saka New Year and its full day of silence, Balinese Hindus get into lively procession mode. Pilgrims from various village temples all over Bali convey heirlooms on long walks towards the coastlines where elaborate purification ceremonies take place. It is one of the best times to capture on camera one of the most iconic Balinese images in motion – the sight of brightly-clad devotees carrying elaborate parasols, banners and small effigies against the blue sky and rolling surf. It’s certainly a cultural spectacle.

3.See the Parade of Giants on Nyepi Eve 

‘Ogoh-ogoh’ are giant papier-mâché effigies creatively built to depict demons, locally referred to as ‘bhutakala’. These can measure up to six metres in height, built by different youth groups in competitive spirit. The best creations are paraded throughout village streets on Nyepi Eve, complete with loud gamelan accompaniments and often with bamboo light torches adding to its dramatic effect. Traffic in the main resort areas is usually rerouted, so it’s best to also plan ahead on where you want to watch the parades. Central Denpasar, Kuta and Ubud are popular hotspots.

4.Stock Up on Snacks + DVDs 

Visitors are exempt from the Nyepi restriction of lighting fire (for cooking – as long as the light and fire is not visible from outside your room or villa), so it’s okay to stock up on snacks or food for your kitchenette. The same goes for in-room entertainment such as DVDs (entertainment and other luxuries are also restricted among the Balinese during Nyepi). The local government has pushed for TV stations to cease broadcasting over Bali’s airwaves over Nyepi. Your hotel’s satellite channels will mostly remain available, including internet and Wi-Fi.

5.Book a Full Spa Treatment 

Nyepi is a great opportunity to make good use of its silence and seclusion, so why not spend some quality spa time with a full-day treatment? It’s a perfect time to reflect, reconnect and truly unwind. Check out our compilation of great spas in hotels in Bali, or consider these spa resorts for your Nyepi spa escape on the island. Again, you will find spa services only in your hotel during Nyepi. 


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