Nyepi: When Bali at Its Utmost Tranquility

Bali. What comes into your mind when you heard the name? Stunning beaches? Temples? Dances? Surfing paradise? Spellbinding nightlife? Oh, yeach, all of those are just certain things you’re going to find in Bali. And with all of that so-alive stuff, can you imagine a day in the island where no moves and sound from human are found? It may sound impossible, but such day really exists. The day is Nyepi. It is the time when you will find Bali at its utmost tranquility.

Of course, there are still human moves and sound in the island. But, just believe me, all the sounds and moves are rarely found. They may only come from those in urgent or specific matters such village patrol, for instance. There is a kind of village patrol to ensure that all people are respecting the sacred day.

It is really amazing to find Bali at such state, so quiet, silent and tranquil. This is because most Balinese are Hindu who celebrate Nyepi. Those who are not Hindu respect the day as well by being considerate no to raise any noise. In the day of Nyepi, they have 4 (four) prohibitions:

• Do not work/do any activity (amati karya)
• Do not turn on the lamp/fire/stove (amati geni)
• Do not go anywhere (amati lelungan)
• Do not make a trip/travel/picnic/have fun (amati lelanguan)

Therefore, for you who want to go to Bali, it’s recommended to change the date or advance the date of your itinerary so you won’t be arrive or leave on Nyepi Day. This is because Pekraman (Bali villages) and the local government will not give any courtesy to anybody, except for the local residents that are injured or ill and must be taken to hospital.