Nyepi 2024 is just around the corner, so here's everything you need to know about this Hindu celebration, and why it's 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 crazy? In our humble opinion, Nyepi is the most magical and unique date on the Balinese calendar, found nowhere else in the world other than on this enchanting little island.
Sure, it can interrupt some of your holiday plans, and you won’t be able to hit the beaches, 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 2024 IN BALI: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
When is Nyepi?
This year, Nyepi falls on Monday March 11th 2024, beginning at 6am and finishing 24 hours later at 6am on March 12th. 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 sweet sounds of traditional gamelan instruments and reams of colourful offerings. All of this is in preparation for Melasti, which is a purification ritual that takes place three or four 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) which, on the night before Nyepi, are paraded through the streets with loud music, bursts of fire and people lining the streets to add to the community spirit. It’s a spectacular contrast to the silent day of serenity that follows.
Fun fact! Want to know the reason behind the raucous Ogoh-Ogoh parades on the eve of Nyepi, followed by total silence? The Balinese believe that evil spirits scour the earth looking for colonies to torment. So, the Ogoh-Ogoh are designed to catch the attention of these evil spirits and draw them to the island. Then, by the time the evil spirits arrive, they find an island that’s seemingly deserted, with no sign of human life. Alas, these evil spirits depart, leaving the island cleansed and evil-free for another year ahead!
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, 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, villa 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 2024
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 kiddos will be taken care of with games, activities and movie marathons. To help you plan your Nyepi escape, check out these special Nyepi 2024 Stay Packages to make your Silent Day even more magical.
1. A time of reflection at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Nyepi is all about taking time for self reflection. At this jungle-hugged resort, you’ll start the day by balancing your chakras under the expert guidance of an international yoga master. Then, for an additional fee, you can discover the island’s forgotten recipes at Sokasi Cooking Class, together with the resort’s renowned Chef Suta. After lunch, channel your creativity and learn how to weave traditional leaf mats, before settling in for a silent meditation at sunset. And since Nyepi blesses us with a sky full of stars, by nightfall, you’ll want to join the tranquil meditation session by the resort’s famous lotus pond.
Price: Prices vary depending on your chosen room, with special discounts for local residents and KITAS holders. Each stay is inclusive of complimentary breakfast and dinner for two on 11th March.
To book: Contact Four Seasons Bali directly here.
2. Immerse in Nyepi traditions at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay
At Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, your Nyepi celebrations begin the night before with an Ogoh Ogoh crafting workshop, followed by a vibrant sunset parade through the resort grounds. Then, it’s all about activities galore on Nyepi Day. Learn how to make Indonesia’s “jamu” elixir and the pandan and coconut dessert known as “klepon”, or make your own Balinese flower offering. Take part in the Sanskrit Calligraphy class and get your body moving with an AntiGravity yoga sesh in the afternoon. Or for an additional fee, you can learn how to concoct your own zero-waste cocktail. All of this, with the dazzling Jimbaran Bay on the ever-present horizon. On the morning after Nyepi, follow the Ogoh-Ogoh to the beach for the burning ritual, followed by a Balinese New Year Blessing Ceremony – it’s the perfect way to fully immerse in Bali’s magical traditions.
Price: Prices vary depending on your chosen room, with special discounts for local residents and KITAS holders. Each stay is inclusive of complimentary breakfast and dinner for two on 11th March.
To book: Contact Four Seasons Bali directly here.
3. The Art of Serenity at Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana
Surrounded by Ubud’s verdant rice paddies, Tanah Gajah invites you to celebrate Balinese New Year amidst five hectares of pristine surrounds. Escape to this lush and luxurious oasis from 10th to 12th March 2024, and you’ll be treated to complimentary activities designed to give you the gift of slowing down. On Nyepi Eve, you’ll be whisked away to a neighbouring village to witness a vibrant Ogoh Ogoh parade, before settling into your dreamy, art-filled abode. Wake up to a lavish breakfast and a plethora of wholesome past-times throughout the resort, like fishing, swan feeding and drawing. Refuel with a decadent lunch, afternoon tea by the rice paddies, and a three-course dinner at The Tempayan restaurant, before an evening of star-gazing and utmost serenity.
Price: From IDR 6,362,500 nett per night in a one bedroom suite.
To book: Book direct via the website.
4. Harmony In Tranquility at Capella Ubud
This Nyepi, find tranquillity in silence and give back to Mother Nature at Capella Ubud. Stay in this luxury tented resort and you’ll be blessed with a cleansing ritual followed by a lively Ogoh-Ogoh sunset parade and the magical sounds of gamelan. Wake up to a lavish breakfast and enjoy a whole day of meditation and self reflection, with a two-course lunch at Mads Lange. End the Day of Silence with an in-tent camp-inspired dinner beneath the stars. Then, start the Balinese New Year with gratitude for the Earth by joining a tree planting excursion in the resort’s organic garden.
Price: From IDR 17,570,706++ per night in a Terrace Tent.
To book: Book direct via the website, and use the code “PNYE23”.
5. Desa Nyepi Experience at Potato Head Suites & Studios
This Nyepi, disconnect at the beachfront Potato Head Suites & Studios – Seminyak’s most sustainable retreat. You’ll be welcomed by a revitalising Jamu (AKA Indonesia’s herbal elixir) and a zero-waste kit to be used throughout your stay. Wake up to breakfast for two, before a plethora of experiences – from yoga, meditation and sound healing, to tonic and cocktail workshops, and natural dye classes for kids. And with IDR 1,000,000 resort credit, you can also try Potato Head’s most boundary-pushing F&B venues.
Price: From IDR 2,850,000++ per night in a Bamboo Studio.
To book: Book direct via the website.
6. The Silent Escape at Bisma Eight Hotel
Escape to Bisma Eight in Ubud and bask in the silence with a two-night stay and elevated perks. Wake up to a delish breakfast spread at Copper Kitchen, before roaming the resort’s luxe facilities (including the breathtaking infinity pool!) and taking part in the complimentary immersive classes and workshops. You’ll also be treated to afternoon tea and an in-resort photography session, as well as a daily turn-down service. All of this, plus a set menu lunch and dinner.
Price: From IDR 9,900,000 nett in a Garden Suite.
To book: Visit the website or send an email to [email protected]
7. Tranquil Nyepi Retreat at The Mulia Bali
Hit pause on the world at this award-winning Nusa Dua resort. You’ll be taken care of with a lavish breakfast, a set menu lunch and a buffet dinner for two on Nyepi Day at Mulia Bali’s selected dining destinations. You’ll also enjoy afternoon tea with free flow cocktails at The Lounge or the Living Room, then treat yourself to delectable sweets at Cannelé thanks to the food and beverage credit. And don’t forget to explore the resort’s uber-luxurious facilities, like the famous infinity pool by the sea!
Price: From IDR 6,400,000++ per night.
To book: Book direct via the website.
8. Meaningful Nyepi at Kappa Senses Ubud
Surrounded by lush jungle, stay in this boutique Ubud resort for two nights in a luxurious Jungle Suite. You’ll be treated to daily breakfasts, followed by a variety of Silent Day activities – think yoga and meditation in the bamboo shala, cooking classes, arts and crafts workshops, and more. Unwind with an afternoon high tea, followed by a 60 minute Balinese or aromatherapy massage at the five-star OmTara Spa by Clarins. End the day with a Balinese Rijstaffel dinner for a taste of the island’s culinary magic.
Price: From IDR 3,200,000 nett per night in a Jungle Suite.
To book: Book direct via the website and use the promo code “NYEPI”.
9. Serene Escape at Andaz Bali
Settle in for a peaceful stay with Andaz’s “Serene Escape” package, located by Sanur’s calm coastline. Indulge in tranquility in this oasis-like resort and its five-star facilities, as you enjoy daily breakfasts and a complimentary dinner for two on 11th March. Psst… make it a longer, three-night staycay, and you’ll be treated to a food and beverage credit of IDR 600,000!
Price: From IDR 4,500,000 nett per night, for a minimum stay of two nights.
To book: Visit the website and book direct.
TOP NYEPI TIPS
- 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.
- TRAVEL – 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.
- BUSINESS – 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, so keep this in mind if you have any deadlines (e.g visa extensions), or have any special occasions planned.
- OGOH-OGOH – 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, so 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.
Selamat Hari Raya Nyepi, everyone!
