When does Nyepi Day take place?
Nyepi always falls in March, but the exact date varies each year as it is determined by the lunar cycle. It is celebrated the day after the new moon.
Here are the upcoming dates for Nyepi:
- 2025: March 29
- 2026: March 19
- 2027: March 8
The silence officially begins at 6 AM and lasts for 24 hours, ending at 6 AM the next day.
What to expect the days before Nyepi?
Although Nyepi itself is a day of stillness, the days leading up to it are lively and full of celebrations.
1. Melasti Ceremony (Purification Ritual)
A few days before Nyepi, Balinese Hindus participate in Melasti, a ritual where sacred objects from temples are brought to the ocean or rivers for cleansing. This purification process symbolizes the removal of negative energies.
2. Ogoh-Ogoh Festival (The Night Before Nyepi)
The most exciting pre-Nyepi celebration is the Ogoh-Ogoh Festival, held on the eve of Nyepi.
What are Ogoh-Ogoh?
Ogoh-Ogoh are giant papier-mâché effigies, crafted by local villages (Banjars) to represent evil spirits and negative energy.
What happens during the festival?
The streets come alive as young men parade the Ogoh-Ogoh through the villages while dancing and making as much noise as possible to scare away evil spirits.
What happens after the parade?
In some regions, the Ogoh-Ogoh are burned at the end of the night, symbolizing the destruction of negativity before entering the New Year.
This night is one of Bali’s biggest celebrations, with people filling the streets to enjoy music, dance, and festivities before the island plunges into silence.
How do people celebrate the first day of the new year in Bali?
In stark contrast to the vibrant celebrations the night before, Nyepi Day itself is a day of total silence.
The traditional belief behind this is that by making the island appear deserted, evil spirits will think Bali is uninhabited and leave it in peace.
The 4 Rules of Nyepi (Catur Brata Penyepian)
On Nyepi Day, everyone—locals and tourists alike—must observe these four prohibitions:
- No fire, light, or electricity – At night, Bali is completely dark with no artificial lights.
- No travel or movement – Streets are empty, and the airport is closed for 24 hours.
- No work or activity – Businesses, shops, and restaurants remain shut.
- No entertainment or pleasure – Music, TV, and recreational activities are restricted.
The Pecalang (traditional security guards) ensure that everyone respects these rules. Even emergency services operate at a minimal level.
In huge contrast to the night before on Nyepi Day the whole island will be covered in complete silence and darkness.
The origin of this habit can be found in the old belief that Bali would go into hiding modus. The inhabitants pretended like Bali was a deserted island, to not attract any bad spirits back to the island.
Nowadays it is more considered as a day of (self-)reflection. People will be fasting, praying and meditating. This way they take the time to reflect on their lives and to cleanse their body and spirit.
The rules will be enforced by community patrols, called Pecalang. People who don’t respect the restrictions will be punished with a chore, like cleaning the temple.
How will Nyepi Day affect you, as a tourist?
If you’re visiting Bali during Nyepi, here’s what you should know:
- You cannot leave your accommodation.
- The airport will be closed for 24 hours, so no flights will arrive or depart.
- Shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions will be closed.
- WiFi and mobile data might be limited or turned off by some providers.
- However, this is a rare opportunity to experience true peace and serenity.
Nyepi at Pelan Pelan Bali
At Pelan Pelan Bali, we honor the tradition of Nyepi by embracing the stillness while ensuring your comfort.
- No artificial lights – We use candlelight in the evening for a peaceful ambiance.
- No music or loud noises – Instead, enjoy the natural sounds of Bali.
- Access to our pool and yoga space – You are welcome to swim, meditate, and relax.
- Delicious meals prepared for you – You won’t need to worry about food or drinks.
- The best part? If the sky is clear, you’ll witness an unforgettable night sky, completely free from light pollution—a breathtaking view of the stars like never before.
📍 Ready to experience Nyepi in Bali? Stay at Pelan Pelan Bali for a peaceful retreat that fully respects this sacred day.
