What is Balinese Silent Day?
Known as Nyepi, the Balinese Silent Day is one of the most sacred and unique celebrations in Bali — a full 24 hours dedicated to stillness, reflection, and the symbolic cleansing of the island. It marks the Balinese New Year according to the Saka calendar and is unlike anything else you’ll experience anywhere in the world.
Instead of fireworks and loud parties, Nyepi is observed with complete silence. Streets empty, airports close, and the island enters a rare moment of collective pause — giving both locals and visitors a chance to slow down, recharge, and reflect.
If you’re staying in Bali during Nyepi, especially here in Ubud at Milliways, you’re in for something truly special.
Before Nyepi: Ogoh-Ogoh Festival (Pengrupukan)
The day before Nyepi is called Pengrupukan, and it’s the perfect contrast to the silence that follows. Starting around 5:00 PM, villages all over Bali gather for the famous Ogoh-Ogoh parade — a colorful, loud, and thrilling spectacle.
Massive demon-like effigies, crafted by local youth, are carried through the streets. These Ogoh-Ogoh symbolize negative forces and bad spirits that the community wants to cast out before entering the new year. With gamelan music, fire torches, and chants, the streets come alive with energy.
The Pengrupukan celebrations usually wind down by 9:00 PM, giving everyone time to settle before the world goes silent.
Arriving in Bali During Nyepi
If you’re arriving in Bali during Nyepi, it’s important to know that Bali’s airport, ports, and roads will be completely closed from 6:00 AM on Nyepi day until 6:00 AM the next morning. No flights in or out, no traffic, and no outside activities are allowed.
For this reason, we recommend planning your arrival a day or two earlier to fully settle in and prepare for this truly unique experience.
What to Expect During Nyepi — 24 Hours of Silence and Stillness
Nyepi officially begins at 6:00 AM the following morning and lasts a full 24 hours until 6:00 AM the next day. During this sacred time, Bali comes to a complete standstill:
• No flights — the airport closes.
• No vehicles on the road (except emergency services).
• No lights, no fire, no electricity.
• No work, no entertainment, no travel.
• Even internet and phone signals are limited or paused in some areas.
It’s a rare moment where not just people, but the island itself seems to breathe. Even nature responds — with birdsong filling the air, breezes moving through the trees, and the night sky revealing more stars than you ever thought possible.
A Night Under the Clearest Sky
One of the most magical parts of Nyepi? The night sky. With no artificial light pollution, the stars over Ubud feel impossibly close. The Milky Way arcs overhead, and the world below sits still, waiting for the first light of the new year.
Whether you’re arriving in Bali during Nyepi or lucky enough to already be here, experiencing this sacred day at Milliways is something you won’t soon forget. Make sure to ask us about our Extra Services such as Grocery or Food Packages to make sure that you're ready to experience this beautiful silent day in Ubud, Bali!