Bali has announced a complete ban on outdoor activities, including travel and entertainment, from 6 am on March 29 to 6 am on March 30, 2025. The restrictions are part of preparations for Nyepi, the Hindu Day of Silence, which marks the Balinese Hindu New Year.
One of the most sacred festivals in Bali, Nyepi is observed with 24 hours of total silence — all activities are halted, and no one is allowed to leave their homes, hotels, or resorts. All visitors, regardless of faith, are expected to follow these rules. Tourists are advised to plan accordingly, as traffic congestion will likely rise in the days leading up to Nyepi due to the travel ban.
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What to expect on Nyepi: Airport closures, lights off, and more
While the ban officially begins at 6 am on March 29, shops, restaurants, and other businesses will close early on March 28 and reopen by midday on March 30, 2025. All tourist attractions, Bali International Airport, and transportation hubs will remain closed throughout Nyepi.
Access to transportation services might be hindered, with several taxi drivers returning to their native provinces two days before Nyepi. Further, with the Ngrupuk Parade, also known as the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade, taking place on the evening of March 28, all roads across Bali will be closed.
Our story on some of the best things to do in Bali is a must-read if you’re planning a trip there.
Minimum usage of lights is encouraged during the evening and night of Nyepi, with people being encouraged to draw the curtains if they have lights on. Hotels will offer room service or have silent buffet-style meals for the day. Access to activities and outdoor areas might also be restricted in hotels across Bali. Nyepi is considered by many to be an immersive experience of the island’s rich heritage and natural wonders. It is regarded as one of the best nights for stargazing in Bali, with light pollution not hindering the beauty of nature.
(Feature image credit: I Nengah Januartha/Flickr)
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Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Senior Digital Writer – Growth, Travel
Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked ..Read More
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