Nyepi - Experience the true magic of the Island of Gods

Nyepi is a Balinese Hindu celebration that marks the start of the new year in the Saka calendar. It's also known as the "Day of Silence". During this period, Balinese Hindus dedicate themselves to connecting more deeply with God (Hyan Widi Wasa) through prayer, fasting and meditiation. Acts of introspection to assess personal values that will be carried forward into the new year.

This year, Nyepi falls on Wedneyday, March 22, 2023. On this day, the entire island will be shut down for a full 24 hours, and the streets are off limits for everyone. Even the airport closes, no planes will land or take off during this time. All traffic in Bali will be stopped and all stores will be closed. At night, all lights must be turned off as well. Everyone must remain inside their homes, villas or hotels without causing any disturbances. Local watchmen, better known as pecalang, will be walking around the streets to make sure all rules are strictly followed!

On the eve of Nyepi, the Balinese believe that evil spirits scour the earth looking for colonies to torment, therefore they organize a raucous parade. The celebrations are held with large papier-maché giants, known as Ogoh-Ogoh, these parade on the village's roads or on the beach while loud traditional music plays. These are then torched, and it's believed that with the conflagration, any evil spirits that have brought disease and misery to the island during the past year will banish.

Do foreigners need to celebrate Nyepi? Yes, everyone on the island must abide by the rules of Nyepi. It is a very unique event, specially at night when all lights must be switched off, and the sky appears to have a beautiful hazy band of light where stars shine their brightest. This will surely be an amazing and magical expericence for everyone who is able to witness it, it's without a doubt an absolute bliss.

NYEPI - TOP TIPS

1. Stay - If you decide to stay on the island during Nyepi, you can stay at your house or book a private villa or hotel; usually many accommodations will offer special two-night Nyepi Stay Packages to keep everyone company during this time. Either way, if you decide not to take part in Nyepi, you can travel a day before to other islands such as Gili T or Lombok.

2. Travel - On the day before Nyepi, be aware that many roads will be closed (usually around 4 p.m.) due to the Ogoh-Ogoh parades. The traffic will also be slightly heavier than usual. So, it's the perfect excuse to head home early. During Nyepi, everyone is required to remain inside the premises in which they reside. There will be no traffic on the roads nor people on the streets once it starts.

3. Food - If you stay at home, you will need to stock up on food or do a meal prep well in advance, as the supermarketswill be closed and you won't be able to use the noisy blender or light-generating oven. If you're staying in a private villa or hotel, please check with time ahead whether food or meals will be provided.

4. Internet - There might be internet available during Nyepi, depending on what the authorities decide this year. If you have any plans to work online, expect important information via online services, etc.. we advice you to take care of those another day.

5. Business - All businesses will close so make sure to finish all your deadlines before Nyepi or rearrange again for the following week. Also, keep in mind to visit an ATM or money exchange the day before Nyepi if you need cash.

6. Hospital and emergency services - All emergency services will be actively working, but all movement will be kept to a minimum as possible.

7. Best things to-do - REST, RELAX AND REJUVENATE.