Celebrating Bali’s Day of Silence or Nyepi in the Heart of Ubud

Celebrating Bali’s Day of Silence or Nyepi in the Heart of Ubud – Every year, when the world seems to get louder and faster, there’s one magical day in Bali where everything comes to a complete stop. No traffic, no noise, no lights—just pure, sacred silence. This is Nyepi, Bali’s famous Day of Silence, and honestly, celebrating Bali’s Day of Silence is one of the most unique and beautiful cultural experiences we’ve ever had.

What is Nyepi?

Nyepi, or the Balinese Day of Silence, marks the beginning of the Saka New Year in the Balinese calendar. But unlike most New Year celebrations around the world, Nyepi isn’t about fireworks, parties, or wild countdowns. It’s about deep reflection, inner peace, and total stillness.

For 24 hours—from 6am until 6am the next day—Bali goes completely silent. Airports shut down, roads are empty, businesses close, and even the internet takes a break. It’s a day to turn inward, meditate, and start fresh. 

The belief is that by making the island seem deserted, evil spirits will pass over Bali, thinking it’s empty. It’s a spiritual cleanse that affects not only the Balinese people but everyone who’s lucky enough to be on the island.

The Days Before Nyepi

While Nyepi itself is quiet, the days leading up to it are the exact opposite. In Ubud, the atmosphere is full of energy and community spirit. We love how the entire town gets involved, from kids building giant demon statues (Ogoh-Ogoh) to elders preparing sacred offerings.

The most exciting part? The Ogoh-Ogoh parade on the eve of Nyepi, known as Pengrupukan. These massive, creepy, yet often hilarious statues represent negative elements and evil spirits. They’re carried through the streets, accompanied by loud traditional music, firecrackers, and dancing. The goal? To scare off the evil spirits before the big day of silence.

We always make sure to find a good spot near the Ubud Palace to watch the parade. The creativity is insane! Some statues are scary with glowing eyes and fangs, while others are cheeky, modern, or even a bit political. After the parade, the statues are usually burned as a symbolic purification.

The Day of Silence

When Nyepi finally arrives, the contrast is unreal. Imagine waking up to no sound—no scooters, no honking, no chatter. Even the roosters seem to take it down a notch.

We spent the day unplugged. No phones, no laptops, no distractions. Instead, we sit in the garden, read books, do yoga, nap, or just watch the sky change throughout the day. It’s the perfect time for journaling and setting intentions for the year ahead. We reflect on where we’ve been, where we’re going, and how we want to show up in the world.

If you’re staying in Ubud during Nyepi, most accommodations will support this experience. Some offer quiet activities like meditation sessions, herbal tea ceremonies, or candlelit dinners using only natural light. Shrida Ubud, for example, is one of our favorite places to stay during this time—they understand the spirit of Nyepi and make it truly special.

Ubud’s Unique Nyepi Vibe

While Nyepi is celebrated all over Bali, Ubud has its own charm during this sacred time. Surrounded by rice paddies and lush jungle, Ubud already feels peaceful on a regular day—but on Nyepi, it becomes otherworldly. The air is clearer, the stars brighter, and the connection to nature even stronger. Celebrating Bali’s Day of Silence in Ubud is like stepping into a sacred pause, where every breath feels intentional and every sound from nature is magnified in the best way.

We love taking quiet walks around the property where we stay, listening to the sounds of nature—the breeze in the trees, birds calling in the distance, the occasional gecko chirp. Without the usual hum of modern life, it feels like time slows down.

It’s also a rare moment of togetherness. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, family, or even solo, Nyepi makes you feel more connected—not just to those around you, but to something greater.

How to Prepare if You’re Visiting During Nyepi

If you’re planning a trip to Bali during Nyepi (and we highly recommend it!), here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Book accommodation in advance. Many people come to Bali just to experience Nyepi, so places like Shrida Ubud get booked up quickly.
• Stock up on snacks and essentials. Since shops and restaurants are closed, it’s good to have water, fruit, or your favorite snacks on hand.
• Respect the rules. Even tourists are expected to stay indoors and follow the silence. Trust us—it’s worth it.
• Use this time to unplug. Seriously. No Wi-Fi is a blessing in disguise. Let yourself truly rest.

Experience Nyepi with Us at Shrida Ubud

If you’re thinking about experiencing Celebrating Bali’s Day of Silence in a truly meaningful way, we can’t recommend Ubud enough. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, Shrida Ubud is where the magic happens. Their peaceful atmosphere, beautiful rooms, and thoughtful service make it the ideal home during Nyepi. 

Whether you’re joining in the meditation, enjoying traditional Balinese cuisine by candlelight, or simply soaking in the stillness, Shrida Ubud offers an unforgettable Nyepi experience. Book your stay or get in touch with us at shridaubud.com. Let’s welcome silence together!