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According to SCMP, Bali will observe a 24-hour period of silence starting at 6 AM on March 11th. This is because Bali will be celebrating Nyepi, also known as the "Day of Silence," a Balinese Hindu festival marking the new year and observed with great solemnity.
If you're planning a day trip to an Indonesian tourist island, you probably don't want to waste 24 hours sitting in a room unable to go outside, especially if you're traveling with children.
All activity has come to a standstill.
On this day, Ngurah Rai International Airport also closes, becoming the only airport in the world to do so for religious reasons. On this day, residents and visitors are not allowed to leave their homes or hotels.
People will not be allowed to sing, dance, eat, talk, or work in public places. Public transport will cease operation, and all vehicles, except for emergency services, will be prohibited from circulating. People are also encouraged to prepare cash as ATMs, shops, bars, and restaurants will be closed on this day.
On March 11th, Bali will observe a 24-hour period of "silence," starting at 6 AM.
The purpose of the festival is to make Bali dark in order to deceive demons and evil spirits. They will think the island is deserted and leave for elsewhere.
The Balinese observe Nyepi according to their religious beliefs. Some meditate and fast in silence, while others eat, drink, listen to music, and watch movies in secret.
Even if they are not Hindu, tourists must still abide by these rules. Otherwise, tourists may be arrested by pecalang, the community's protectors. If they can pay the fee, tourists may be required to participate in a purification ritual on this day.
Advice for tourists
Firstly, travelers can book a room at a high-end resort for a more comfortable experience. Although still within the resort grounds, you can swim, play, and enjoy meals from a set menu (staff will not cook or clean rooms on this day).
If you're planning a day trip to an Indonesian tourist island, you probably don't want to waste 24 hours sitting in a room unable to go outside, especially if you're traveling with children.
Secondly, tourists can book a holiday in a village where the rules are not as strict. Some communities, such as the Muslim communities in Bali, will relax the rigid rules during the Day of Silence. If you choose this option, be sure to arrive on time. If you arrive after 6 am, the pecalang (local authority) may make you stay overnight.
Thirdly, you can take a ferry to another island. In 2021, over 1,000 foreigners went to Gili Trawangan to escape the Nyepi festival. There, you can go to the beach, shop, and watch TV as usual. Of course, you have to leave before Silent Day because no ferries run on that day.
