Ever heard of Nyepi in Bali? Here's everything you need to know about this Hindu celebration, and why "Silent Day" is our favourite day on the Balinese calendar.
Nyepi – often called Bali’s “Day of Silence” – is a 24-hour island-wide shutdown that marks the Balinese Saka New Year. It takes place every year, and for one full day, Bali comes to a standstill. Flights are grounded, roads close, businesses shut, and everyone must remain inside their homes, villas, or hotels.
For the Balinese, Nyepi is a sacred day of reflection, restraint, and spiritual renewal. For visitors, it’s a chance to witness (and take part in) one of the island’s most distinctive cultural traditions. In my opinion, Nyepi is the most magical day in Bali, and experiencing ‘Silent Day’ is one of the most unique cultural traditions in the entire world.
This year, Nyepi falls on Thursday, 19 March 2026. In this guide, I explain what Nyepi is, what you can and can’t do, where to stay, and how to prepare.
NYEPI IN BALI 2026: All You Need To Know
When is Nyepi 2026?
This year, Nyepi falls on Thursday, 19 March 2026, beginning at 6am and finishing 24 hours later at 6am on Friday, 20 March 2026. The date changes each year according to the Balinese Saka calendar, so it’s always worth checking in advance if you’re making travel plans.
What is Nyepi?
For the Balinese, Nyepi marks the start of the Saka New Year – a day dedicated to cleansing the island of negative forces and beginning the year with clarity and balance. Across Bali, shops close, transport stops, and the airport shuts for 24 hours. Streets are empty, lights must be off, and everyone must remain at home.
The guiding principles of Nyepi are known as Catur Brata Penyepian, which traditionally include:
- Amati Geni – no fire or light
- Amati Karya – no working
- Amati Lelungan – no travelling
- Amati Lelanguan – no entertainment
In practice for visitors, this means no flights, no driving, no beaches, and no leaving your accommodation for the day.
What happens on Nyepi Day?
On Nyepi Day, the Balinese will be meditating, praying and spending silent time at home with their families. The streets are completely empty, and all you’ll hear is the sounds of birds. You must remain at home, keeping noise and light to an absolute minimum. Most hotels keep lighting low at night and adjust services accordingly.
The build-up to Nyepi (what you’ll see around Bali)
3 days before Nyepi: Melasti
Melasti is a purification ritual that takes place three days before Nyepi. It’s the largest purification ritual on the island, where thousands of Balinese people – all dressed in white – form a spectacular procession towards the ocean, carrying sacred objects from the temples to the sea to be cleansed and purified.
The night before Nyepi: The Ogoh Ogoh Parades
In the lead-up to Nyepi, you’ll spot villagers excitedly preparing and sculpting enormous papier-mâché monsters (called Ogoh-Ogoh) that represent monsters and evil ogres. On the night before Nyepi, the Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through the streets with gamelan music, chanting, fire, and crowds lining the roads. It’s a dramatic, energetic spectacle that contrasts sharply with the silence of the following day.
What’s the meaning behind the Ogoh-Ogoh?
The Ogoh-Ogoh (originating from the Balinese word “ogah-ogah”, meaning ‘to wiggle’), are monstrous figures of gods and demons. These figures are usually made of papier-mâché, then paraded on the streets on the night before Nyepi to ward off spirits. Crossroads and roundabouts are the usual hangouts for evil spirits, so that’s why the Ogoh-Ogoh parades usually take place there. The tradition of Ogoh-Ogoh began in the 1980s, but todays Ogoh-Ogohs feature flashing lights, smoke and moving parts… The bigger and scarier, the better!
Must everyone follow Nyepi rules, even foreigners?
Yes, everyone must abide by the rules of Nyepi, and visitors are expected to respect the same principles as locals by staying within their accommodation and keeping noise and light to an absolute minimum. Stay inside, stay quiet, and turn off all lights.
You’re free to move around inside your hotel or villa, and most resorts make the day comfortable for guests with quiet activities, meals, and indoor facilities.
What should I do on Nyepi Day?
With nothing else on the itinerary except relaxation, Nyepi naturally lends itself to slowing down. Find yourself a good book, meditate, dust off an old board game, treat yourself to an at-home face mask or simply bask in the sunshine with only the sounds of nature all around. And trust me, you’ll want to stargaze at night, because without any light pollution, the sky is a blanket of sparkles!
Where to stay for Nyepi 2026
Since no one can leave their accommodation on Nyepi day, you’ll want to stay somewhere comfortable. Most hotels offer special two-night Nyepi Stay Packages that typically include:
- Discounted room rates
- Complimentary meals
- Access to indoor facilities (spa, gym, kid’s club, movies)
- Quiet activities or workshops
If you’re staying in a private villa, it’s worth confirming food arrangements in advance with staff, or stock up on food ahead of time, as shops and delivery services often close by 3pm on the day before Nyepi.
TOP NYEPI TIPS
1. Plan your food!
If you’re self-catering in your own private villa, you’ll want to stock up on plenty of food well ahead of Nyepi, as the supermarket shelves are often bare by the time Nyepi swings around. You’ll also want to pre-prepare and cook most of your meals on the day before Nyepi, as you won’t be able to use that noisy blender or light-generating oven.
2. Stay close to home
On the day before Nyepi, many roads will close at around 3pm to make way for the Ogoh-Ogoh parades that begin at 6pm, so you’ll want to avoid travelling long distances any time after lunch time. It’s the perfect excuse to head home and begin winding down ahead of the silence.
3. Check closures and visa deadlines
Since Nyepi is the most important public holiday in Bali, businesses will be closed over Nyepi. Even though the holiday is technically just one day, many businesses will close for an entire week (or more!), so keep this in mind if you have any deadlines (e.g visa extensions), or have any special occasions planned.
4. Don’t miss the Ogoh-Ogoh parades!
One of the best things about Nyepi is the Ogoh Ogoh parades that take place on the night before Silent Day. Every village hosts their own parade, starting at around 6pm. Be sure to check out your local parade for a spellbinding show of colour, noise and good times. Top tip: You’ll want to watch the closest parade to wherever you’re staying, because roads will be closed and taxis won’t be running.
Here are the best places to watch the Ogoh Ogoh parades in Bali:
- Denpasar: Puputan Square
- Kuta: Jalan Legian & Jalan Kuta
- Ubud: Ubud Soccer Field
- Seminyak: Jalan Oberoi & Jalan Kayu Aya
- Canggu: Jalan Batu Bolong & Berawa
- Seseh: Jalan Raya Tanah Lot & Jalan Pantai Munggu
- Sanur: McDonalds & KFC intersection
- Uluwatu: Jalan Raya Uluwatu (Pecatu)
- Jimbaran: Jalan Uluwatu
- Tabanan: Taman Kota Tabanan
- Gianyar: Gianyar Market
- Singaraja: Jalan Diponegoro
- Nusa Penida: Toyapakeh
- Pemuteran: Pulaki Temple
More FAQs about Nyepi
What are the Nyepi rules for tourists?
The rules for tourists are the same as the rules for locals. You must stay inside your accommodation, and keep noise and light to an absolute minimum. Hotels usually provide food and indoor facilities, while outdoor activities are typically restricted.
Can I travel on Nyepi?
No. All forms of transport – flights, taxis, scooters, cars, and boats – are suspended. Bali’s airport, roads, and harbours are closed for 24 hours.
What should I expect at my hotel during Nyepi?
Most hotels cater to guests with full-board meals, in-room entertainment, and access to indoor facilities. Outdoor activities are usually not permitted.
Is Nyepi the same across all of Bali?
Yes. The observance applies island-wide, including popular areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua.
Are there exceptions to the Nyepi rules?
Emergency services and hospitals operate during Nyepi, but movement is highly restricted. Special allowances are made only for genuine emergencies and women in labour.
How can I prepare for Nyepi?
Stock up on essentials like food, snacks, drinks, and entertainment ahead of time. Ensure you have topped up your gas, water, and electricity. If you’re staying in a hotel, check what meals and activities will be provided.
Can I experience Nyepi as a visitor?
Yes, many visitors find Nyepi to be a magical and totally unique experience. It’s a rare opportunity to disconnect and witness a deeply rooted Balinese tradition.
Can I use the internet or watch TV during Nyepi?
While all local TV channels and phone operators will be switched off, WiFi generally remains on. It's best to check with your WiFi provider, and download movies or podcasts in advance as a backup.
Is it safe to travel to Bali around Nyepi?
Yes. Travelling to Bali for Nyepi is safe, you just need to plan around the 24-hour shutdown. Make sure your arrival or departure does not fall on Nyepi Day itself, as the airport and all ports will be closed.
What happens if I break the Nyepi rules?
Local community security (Pecalang) will force you to return to your accommodation, and if you disobey, you may face deportation. The rules are taken seriously as part of a religious observance, so respectful compliance is required.
Can I swim in my hotel pool?
Most hotels close outdoor pools on Nyepi, but some properties allow swimming in silence depending on the location. Check with your hotel beforehand. Note: all beach access is prohibited.
Will there be electricity and water?
Yes, water and electricity remain on throughout Nyepi, but lights will need to be switched off (or at least dimmed) at night.
What about food delivery apps?
Apps like Grab and GoJek do not operate on Nyepi. Restaurants, supermarkets, and delivery services are all closed.
What if I’m travelling with kids?
Look for a hotel that offers a Nyepi stay package, as these often include games, movies and quiet activities. Bringing snacks and pre-downloaded content can make the day easier.
Can I arrive at Bali airport on Nyepi?
No. The airport is completely closed for 24 hours, and flights are cancelled or rescheduled.
What happens after Nyepi?
The following day is called Ngembak Geni, a time of forgiveness and reconnection. Families and friends visit one another, and Bali returns to its normal pace.