Bali’s Nyepi Day
Probably the biggest festival for the Balinese Hindu, Nyepi Day, also known as day of silence, is celebrated every year as the Hindu New Year (Saka new year). The date changes according to Balinese calendar every year but would usually fall between March and April.
On the days leading up to Nyepi (3 days before) is called the Melasti (or Mekiyis or Melis) where you will see Bali people all scrubbing clean the statues of Gods, pray, hold ceremonies and perform other various rituals. One day before Nyepi is called Tawur Kesanga, and this is when the villagers will hold exorcism ceremony at the main village by using Ogoh-ogoh (monsters made of bamboo) in parade that includes making loud noises, burning torches and set fire to the Ogoh-ogoh to get rid of evil spirits from our lives.
Then on Nyepi day itself, almost everything will be closed in Bali as it is a day of fasting and meditation. On this day everything is cleaned and will start anew. In essence, Nyepi is to rid the island of all evil spirits and to renew the environment and also own personal thinking. Travelers will also be asked to keep as quiet as possible.
Travel tips: On this day have a good book to tuck in or just watch some DVD if your hotel provide it. Remember to stock up on food too. At night you can take the opportunity to do some stargazing as the place will be dark and quiet. Also note that the airport will be close on Nyepi day.