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.
Unless you’re a Bali regular or local resident, chances are, you’ve never heard about Nyepi, AKA Bali’s “Day of Silence“. It’s when, for a full 24 hours, all of the island’s lights must be switched off, transport comes to a halt and everyone must stay at home. Sounds a bit much? In our opinion, Nyepi is the most magical and unique date on the Balinese calendar, found nowhere else in the world other than on this enchanting island.
Sure, it can interrupt some of your holiday plans, and you won’t be able to hit the beach, the boutiques or spas for 24 hours. But before you start looking at ways to escape the island, let us tell you why you’ve hit the holiday jackpot if you happen to be in Bali during this spiritual celebration. We’ve also got some useful tips on what to prepare, where to stay on Nyepi, and even how to spend the day – every answer to your nagging Nyepi FAQs.
NYEPI IN BALI 2025: All You Need To Know
When is Nyepi?
This year, Nyepi falls on Saturday March 29th 2025, beginning at 6am and finishing 24 hours later at 6am on March 30th. The date of Nyepi changes each year according to the Balinese calendar, so you’ll want to check ahead if you’re already planning next year’s Bali escape.
What is Nyepi?
For the Balinese, Nyepi is a Hindu celebration that marks the start of a New Year – a day to cleanse the island from the previous year’s misdoings and bad omens, establishing a pure and positive year ahead. The whole island shuts down for a full 24 hours, and the streets are off limits to everyone. Even the airport closes for a full day, with planes being rerouted above so not to disturb the silence below. Everyone must remain inside their homes, villas or hotels without any disturbances. This means no travelling, transport, work, sound, or even light. In short, it’s pure bliss.
What happens during Nyepi?
On Nyepi Day, the Balinese will be meditating, praying and spending silent time at home with their families. For everyone else (non-Hindus), the answer is quite simply: nothing (other than plenty of relaxation at home).
However, prior to Bali’s Day of Silence, the preparations and celebrations start many days (even weeks!) before Nyepi Day. You’ll notice the streets coming alive with the sounds of traditional gamelan instruments and reams of colourful offerings. All of this is in preparation for Melasti.
But wait, what is 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.
Many days before Nyepi, you’ll also spot villagers excitedly preparing and sculpting enormous papier-mâché monsters (called Ogoh-Ogoh). On the night before Nyepi, the Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through the streets with loud music, bursts of fire and people lining the streets. It’s a spectacular contrast to the day of silence that follows.
What’s the meaning behind the Ogoh-Ogoh?
According to Dr Ravinjay, the Ogoh-Ogoh (originating from the Balinese word “ogah-ogah”, meaning ‘to wiggle’), are ferocious figures of gods and demons that inhibit the mystical unseen world of Bali. These figures, usually made of organic materials and papier-mâché, are paraded on the streets on the night before Nyepi to ward off the unseen ogres and spirits. Crossroads and roundabouts are the usual hangout spots for these malicious creatures, and that’s why the Ogoh-Ogoh parades usually take place there. The tradition of Ogoh-Ogoh is not ancient, and only began in the 1980s. Today, these Ogoh-Ogohs even feature LED lights and hydraulic pistons to allow them to move and light up!
Must everyone celebrate Nyepi, even foreigners?
Yes, everyone must abide by the rules of Nyepi, namely by remaining indoors without any noise or visible light. Don’t fret though, because you’re permitted to move around your accommodation as normal, providing that sound and light are kept to an absolute minimum. If you’re staying in a hotel, there’ll often be plenty of activities on offer to keep you occupied. And you won’t be in total darkness either – lights will often be left on but dimmed at nighttime, and you’ll just need to keep your curtains closed.
What should I do on Nyepi Day?
With nothing else on the itinerary except kicking back and chilling out, there’s no better time to rest, relax and rejuvenate from the comforts of a luxury hotel or resort. 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 us when we say you’ll want to stargaze at night, because without any light pollution, the sky is a blanket of sparkles!
NYEPI STAY PACKAGES 2025
Since no one can leave their accommodation on Nyepi day, most hotels will offer special two-night Nyepi Stay Packages to keep everyone occupied on these mandatory days indoors. Most packages will offer discounted rates, complimentary meals, full access to the hotel’s facilities and sometimes vouchers for spa treatments. Even the kids will be taken care of with games, activities and movie marathons! Here’s our pick of the very best for Nyepi 2025.
1. Balance in Silence at Kappa Senses Ubud
This Nyepi, Kappa Senses Ubud is inviting you to “Balance in Silence”. It’s a luxurious three-day, two-night retreat where you can experience renewal, relaxation, and cultural immersion – all in the midst of Ubud’s emerald-green rice fields. At this tranquil resort, you’ll start your morning of silence with a lavish breakfast, before afternoon tea and a modern-meets-traditional Indonesian dinner. Throughout the day, there’ll be curated complimentary experiences centred around wellness, gastronomy, culture, and nature. Think yoga, Ogoh-Ogoh decorating, and Tawur Kesanga celebrations. A soul-soothing Balinese or Aromatherapy massage tops it all off, before a night of stargazing in your private suite or villa. It’s the perfect sanctuary for some inner peace on Bali’s sacred day.
Price: Starting from IDR 9,348,000++ for two nights.
To book: Book directly via the website, email, or WhatsApp
2. Viceroy Bali’s Silent Day Nyepi Package 2025
Celebrate Bali’s magical Day of Silence with a five-star stay at Viceroy Bali. This luxurious Ubud resort has put together a Nyepi Package that’s all about indulgence and tranquillity. You’ll get to stay for two nights (from 28th to 30th March 2025) in a one- or two-bedroom villa, and on the night before Nyepi, you can witness the mesmerising Mesabatan Fire Tradition in a nearby village. Then, on Nyepi Day, you’ll be treated to with a lavish breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll even receive complimentary perks like daily cocktails or mocktails at CasCades Bar, turndown service and access to the five-star resort facilities. As night falls, retire to your private pool for a nighttime swim beneath the stars…
Price: Starting from IDR 13,400,000 for two nights.
To book: Email [email protected], call +62 361 971 777, or book directly via the website.
3. The Sacred Silence of Bali: A Nyepi Experience at AYANA Bali
From 28th to 30th March 2025, soak in the silence of Nyepi at AYANA Bali in Jimbaran. The Nyepi stay package promises an immersion into relaxation and culture. It begins with the vibrant Ogoh-Ogoh Parade on the evening before Nyepi, then on the Day of Silence, it’s all about tranquillity. There’ll be meditation sessions, stargazing and an exclusive screening of “Tirta”, a short animated film highlighting the importance of water in Balinese culture. Kids will be treated to engaging activities, while parents can enjoy 20% off on select spa treatments and dining, at over 18 restaurants and bars! Before checking out, don’t miss the tours and talks at the SAKA Museum, AKA one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Greatest Places in the World!
Price: Starting from IDR 5,000,000++ for two nights.
To book: Book directly via AYANA Bali’s website.
TOP NYEPI TIPS
1. Plan your food!
If you’re staying in a private villa rather than a hotel, check ahead to see whether food and meals are provided. If not, you’ll want to stock up on plenty of sustenance 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 4pm 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 early and begin winding down ahead of the silence.
3. Check closures and visa deadlines
Since Nyepi is the most important public holiday on the Balinese calendar, businesses will close over Nyepi so that families can reunite and celebrate in their villages. Though the holiday is technically only 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 festivities that take place on the night before Silent Day, namely the Ogoh-Ogoh parades. Every village has their own parade, starting at around sunset time. Be sure to check out your local parade for a spellbinding show of colour, noise and good times. Otherwise, if you want to see the biggest and most staggering displays, then check out the Ogoh-Ogoh parades in Jimbaran (nearby the main McDonalds intersection), Seseh (at the intersection of Jl Raya Tanah Lot) or in Denpasar on Imam Bonjol. You’ll want to watch the closest parade to wherever you’re staying, ‘cause it’s likely you’ll need to walk home due to the road closures and out-of-office taxi drivers.
More FAQs about Nyepi
What are the Nyepi rules for tourists?
Tourists are required to stay inside their accommodation throughout the day. Hotels and resorts typically provide food, and while outdoor activities are prohibited, guests can relax indoors or enjoy on-site facilities.
Can I travel on Nyepi?
No, all forms of transportation, including flights and taxis, are suspended on Nyepi. Bali’s airport, roads, and harbours are completely closed, so plan your travel accordingly.
What should I expect at my hotel during Nyepi?
Most hotels cater to guests during Nyepi by offering meals, in-room entertainment, and access to indoor facilities. Outdoor activities, like swimming in open pools or lounging on the beach, may be restricted.
Is Nyepi the same across all of Bali?
Yes, the rules of Nyepi are observed island-wide, even in popular tourist areas like Seminyak and Ubud.
Are there exceptions to the Nyepi rules?
Emergency services and hospitals operate during Nyepi, but their movement is highly restricted. Special allowances are also made for newborns or critical situations.
How can I prepare for Nyepi?
Stock up on essentials like snacks, drinks, and entertainment ahead of time. If you’re staying in a hotel, check if meals and activities will be provided during the day.
Can I experience Nyepi as a visitor?
Absolutely! Many visitors find Nyepi to be a unique and enriching experience. It’s a rare opportunity to disconnect, reflect, and immerse yourself in Bali’s spiritual culture.
Can I use the internet or watch TV during Nyepi?
Internet and television services may be limited or unavailable during Nyepi – you’ll need to check with your accommodation is you’re unsure. You can always download movies in advance, or make the most of this opportunity to completely disconnect.
Is it safe to travel to Bali around Nyepi?
Travelling to Bali around Nyepi is safe, but be sure to plan accordingly. The airport and sea ports close for 24 hours, and all activities cease, so ensure your arrival or departure doesn’t coincide with Nyepi Day. The immigration office will also be closed, so keep this in mind if you have extensions or require visa approval.
What happens after Nyepi?
The day after Nyepi, Bali resumes its vibrant energy with Ngembak Geni, a day of forgiveness and reconnection. Locals visit family and friends to strengthen bonds and start the New Year afresh.
Selamat Hari Raya Nyepi, everyone!