Bali is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, but there’s so much more to this island paradise than its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. Here are some fascinating facts about Nyepi that will make you see Bali in a whole new light:
Bali Has a Day of Complete Silence
Known as Nyepi Day, the Balinese New Year is celebrated with a day of total silence. No flights, no cars, no noise—everything stops for 24 hours as people meditate and reflect. It’s so quiet you can even see the stars more clearly at night!
1. Meaning & Purpose
- Nyepi is based on the Saka lunar calendar, so the date changes each year, usually falling in March.
- It symbolizes purification—cleansing the island of evil spirits and starting the new year with peace and balance.
2. Rituals Before Nyepi
- Melasti: A few days before Nyepi, Balinese Hindus perform purification rituals at beaches or sacred springs, carrying temple heirlooms to be cleansed.
- Ogoh-Ogoh Parade: On the eve of Nyepi, large, colorful, and often scary-looking paper-mâché effigies called Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through villages. These represent negative spirits and are later burned to symbolize destroying evil.
3. The Day of Silence
Nyepi itself lasts 24 hours, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 AM the next day. During this time, the entire island observes:
- Amati Geni: No fire or lights (including electricity, though hotels often allow minimal lighting indoors).
- Amati Karya: No work or physical activity.
- Amati Lelungan: No travel—streets and even the airport shut down.
- Amati Lelanguan: No entertainment or pleasure activities.
Even tourists are expected to respect the silence, staying inside hotels or villas.
4. After Nyepi
The day after, Ngembak Geni, families visit each other, forgive past mistakes, and pray together to start the year with harmony.
5. Experience for Visitors
- The night sky on Nyepi is often stunning because there’s no artificial light pollution.
- It’s a rare opportunity to witness an entire island completely still—even nature seems quieter.
Our Team is Ready to Assist You with Villa Bookings, Inquiries, or Personalized Holiday Planning!
Contact us!
reservation@manaramanagement.com
+62 812-2699-9988