Balinese traditional security guards walk as they patrol an empty highway during Nyepi, the holy day of Silence, in Bali, on March 7, 2019. Photo by Reuters
Bali, recently voted Asia’s most beautiful island, will suspend all travel activities for 24 hours on March 29 as the island falls silent to observe Nyepi Day.
Also known as the Balinese Day of Silence, Nyepi is the most sacred festival for Balinese Hindus when all residents and visitors, regardless of their faith, are expected to honor the tradition, The Bali Sun reported.
According to the Balinese calendar, Nyepi falls on Saturday, March 29, this year. For 24 hours, the island will come to a complete standstill—no lights, music, or noise will be permitted, transportation will be halted, and everyone must remain indoors.
Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali will suspend operations from 6 a.m. on March 29 to 6 a.m. on March 30. Passengers in transit during this period will be required to stay inside the airport.
Bali was named Asia’s most beautiful island at this year’s annual Reader’s Choice Awards by travel magazine DestinAsian.
In October last year, Bali was also voted Asia’s most beautiful island by readers of Condé Nast Traveler in its Readers’ Choice Awards.
Renowned for its unique blend of Hindu-Balinese traditions, Bali is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, including intricate dances, captivating rituals, and ancient temples.
In 2024, the island welcomed 6.3 million international visitors, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This year, Bali aims to attract 6.5 million tourists.
