During Nyepi, the Day of Silence, everything comes to a complete and total halt.
The highlight of Bali’s New Year is really quite the opposite of the pyrotechnics and loud celebrations that are the norm everywhere else in the world. The island becomes absolutely silent in the midst of their festivities celebrating the New Year in Bali to wash away the wrong doings of the past year, entering the new year with “a clean slate” – individually and collectively.
Nyepi, which means “to stay silent,” occurs on the day after the dark moon of the spring equinox. Visitors fortunate enough to be on Bali during Nyepi will have the opportunity to experience this unique, magical and fascinating celebration. and join the Balinese in reflecting on the past year in silence and start with new and positive intentions.
On Nyepi eve, the Balinese will join the world-famous Ogoh Ogoh Parades, which are held all over Bali. A fascinating spectacle where youngsters are carrying huge demon statues through the streets.
Things To Know About Nyepi: Basic Rules for the Day of Silence
The Balinese follow these restrictions for 24 hours as part of the ceremony on the Day of Silence beginning at 6:00 am on Nyepi Day until 6:00 am the following day:
- Amati Geni: No fire or light, including electricity
- Amati Karya: No working or business of any kind
- Amati Lelunganan: No traveling
- Amati Lelanguan: No noisy festivities or self-entertainment
How this plays out on the island – for EVERYONE, including visitors from abroad:
Local guards called Pecalang are stationed in strategic locations around the island to enforce law and order and maintain peace and quiet.
- Hospitals will remain open for emergencies.
- Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar (DPS) and all other airports, bus terminals, and harbours on the island are closed, therefore there are no incoming or outgoing flights, boats, or buses.
- All businesses and restaurants are closed to visitors and locals alike.
- Nobody is allowed to be on the streets, you can’t go to beaches or for a walk, you need to stay inside.
- It’s very prohibited to do anything outside of the house.
- You can’t play music or make any noise if it can be noticed from outside.
- When the sun goes down, curtains should be closed and as little light as possible should be used.
- Hotels will provide basic services to their guests, but access to pools and other facilities might be restricted.
Therefore, if you are in Bali during Nyepi, the “right” thing to do is to stay in your hotel.
Nyepi’s most important festivities occur on three different days. As a first step, on day two, after sundown, there are Ogoh-Ogoh parades. Second, on the third day, they observe Nyepi, the Day of Silence. Finally, Ngembak Geni is a time for communities to celebrate the beginning of a new year together.
Source: nyepi.com/