EXPERIENCING NYEPI: Bali’s Day of Silence
Nyepi, Bali’s day of silence, is a unique cultural celebration, showcasing Bali’s deep spiritual roots and the island’s ability to harmonize tradition with modernity. Weeks before Nyepi, preparations are beginning to take shape. In every nook of the island, a captivating spectacle unfolds as locals craft Ogoh-ogoh statues from bamboo and papier-mâché. These artistic creations, often depicting mythological beings, particularly demons, now also incorporate modern figures like demons on motorcycles and footballers. The Ogoh-ogoh tradition symbolizes the Balinese ritual of warding off and banishing evil spirits. It will be paraded the night before Nyepi Day.
Another spectacular event, before Nyepi, is Melasti the biggest purification ritual on the island.
Thousands of Balinese, men dressed in spotless white attire, walk in happy unison to the ocean. They are carrying sacred objects from the temple to be cleansed and purified. The sweet sounds of gamelan music accompany the procession while colourful umbrellas create an unforgettably captivating scene to behold.
As dusk descends on the island the people are in frenzy to watch he Ogoh-ogoh. These ginormous monstrous looking papier mâché are paraded through the streets. Loud music blaring, torches lighting the evening sky and boisterous sound of the locals are the norm for the evening. It is a striking difference to the Nyepi, day of silence, the next day.
During Nyepi Day, the Island of the Gods comes to a complete standstill for a full 24 hours.
This time is dedicated to prayer, meditation, and introspection, with all other activities prohibited as the residents remain indoors. As night falls, any form of light is strictly forbidden, plunging the island into absolute darkness. Definitely the perfect time for stargazing! It’s an undeniably unforgettable experience for those privileged enough to witness and participate. Hotels across the island typically join in by dimming lights and reducing staff presence. Noise is kept to a minimum. Guests are still able to move about but are refrained from leaving the hotel’s grounds.
Breath in the silence… a profound experience in appreciating Bali’s beauty beyond its vibrant exterior.
EXPERIENCING NYEPI: Bal’s Day of Silence
Nyepi, Bali’s day of silence, is a unique cultural celebration, showcasing Bali’s deep spiritual roots and the island’s ability to harmonize tradition with modernity. Weeks before Nyepi, preparations are beginning to take shape. In every nook of the island, a captivating spectacle unfolds as locals craft Ogoh-ogoh statues from bamboo and papier-mâché. These artistic creations, often depicting mythological beings, particularly demons, now also incorporate modern figures like demons on motorcycles and footballers. The Ogoh-ogoh tradition symbolizes the Balinese ritual of warding off and banishing evil spirits. It will be paraded the night before Nyepi Day.
Another spectacular event is Melasti the biggest purification ritual on the island.
Thousands of Balinese, men dressed in spotless white attire, walk in happy unison to the ocean. They are carrying sacred objects from the temple to be cleansed and purified. The sweet sounds of gamelan music accompany the procession while colourful umbrellas create an unforgettably captivating scene to behold.
As dusk descends on the island the people are in frenzy to watch he Ogoh-ogoh. These ginormous monstrous looking papier mâché are paraded through the streets. Loud music blaring, torches lighting the evening sky and boisterous sound of the locals are the norm for the evening. It is a striking difference to the silence of the next day.
During Nyepi Day, the Island of the Gods comes to a complete standstill for a full 24 hours.
This time is dedicated to prayer, meditation, and introspection, with all other activities prohibited as the residents remain indoors. As night falls, any form of light is strictly forbidden, plunging the island into absolute darkness. Definitely the perfect time for stargazing! It’s an undeniably unforgettable experience for those privileged enough to witness and participate. Hotels across the island typically join in by dimming lights and reducing staff presence. Noise is kept to a minimum. Guests are still able to move about but are refrained from leaving the hotel’s grounds.
Breath in the silence… a profound experience in appreciating Bali’s beauty beyond its vibrant exterior.
Check our PMG Hotels & Resorts website on our Nyepi Package to enhance your upcoming Bali vacation.
