What Nyepi is
Nyepi is the Saka New Year, a day of silence observed across the whole island for 24 hours — 6am to 6am. Four restrictions apply: no fire or bright light, no work, no travel, no entertainment. Bali is the only place on earth that closes its international airport every year for a religious observance.
What closes
I Gusti Ngurah Rai airport shuts to all flights, including domestic. Ports stop. Every shop, every restaurant outside hotels and every attraction closes. Roads are patrolled by pecalang (traditional wardens) and completely empty. Mobile internet is usually switched off for the day, though hotel Wi-Fi generally keeps running.
If you are staying in a hotel
You may move around the hotel grounds but cannot leave the gate. Hotels provide meals (usually a limited buffet) — confirm this when you book. Pool hours are sometimes restricted, and after dark curtains must be drawn and lights dimmed so no light escapes.
How to prepare
Withdraw cash, buy snacks and water, refill medication and download entertainment before Pengerupukan. Ambulances still operate for genuine emergencies — call the front desk rather than heading out yourself.
The upside
Nyepi night is the only night Bali has no light pollution. The star field is extraordinary, and a full day of island-wide silence is an experience you cannot get anywhere else. Many guests come specifically for it.