On Nyepi day, which is New Year’s day in the Balinese Saka Calendar, the island of Bali turns off all lights and sounds, stops all traffic, deserts all worldly activities, and meditates, while complete silence and serenity reigns over the entire island.

This year, Nyepi falls tomorrow, 22nd of March 2023!

LOCK DOWN MODE

Therefore, travelers planning to fly to or from Bali on or around this date please note: On this day, the entire island of Bali will come to a complete standstill, – or ‘lock down’ mode – to allow all to follow the prescribed rituals. Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport will be closed. No planes will land or take off for 24 hours. All traffic across Bali will be stopped. All shops are closed. No pedestrian traffic is allowed on the beach or on the streets. There will be local watchmen known as pecalang to ascertain that this rule is strictly obeyed. At night, all lights will have to be turned off. Hotels will close all curtains so that no ray of light shines to the outside. All sound and music indoors should be held to its lowest volume.

OGOH OGOH

On the afternoon before of Nyepi, today, 21st of March, however, celebrations are held with large papier-mache giants, called Ogoh-Ogoh, paraded on the beach accompanied by loud gamelan music. These are then torched and, it is believed, that with the conflagration, any evil spirits that have brought disease and misery to the island during the past year will have also been banished.

NGEMBAK GENI

The day after Nyepi, which this year falls 23rd of March, is called Ngembak Geni. This is when Balinese Hindus visit families, neighbours and relatives to exchange forgiveness – somewhat similar to the Muslim’s Ied Al Fitri custom in Indonesia. They will also conduct the Dharma Canthi by reciting Sloka, Kekidung, and other religious scriptures. Although the series of rituals takes place virtually over the entire island, the best time to watch the festivities is on the eve of Nyepi when people parade the ogoh-ogoh along the streets. The large effigies will then be burnt on the beach.

OGOH OGOH IN LOMBOK

The Best Place to watch the Parade of Ogoh-Ogoh at Lombok’s Hindu Community near The Lombok Lodge, Boutique Hotel or The Lombok Lodge Private Villa Estate is at Tanjung Village – area #PasarLocal – https://goo.gl/maps/CsPi9jPGVYRnC2nN7 – starting 3pm.

Book your Scooter Now and Enjoy a Unique Indonesian Tradition!

Ben
Owner & Co-Founder of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality
E: Ben@thelomboklodge.com