T-minus 31 until the official start of spring. Can’t make it that long? Well, the sun is always shining somewhere. In Bali, you can mix the sun with a little culture and self-reflection. On March 26, the Balinese celebrate the Lunar New Year, or Nyepi. Although technically a Hindu holiday of meditation and self-reflection, Nyepi is observed by Hindus and non-Hindu alike with a day of silence. The whole island falls quiet; nobody leaves their houses, lighting is kept low and everything closes (even the airport).
The eve of Nyepi is marked by magnificent “Ogoh-Ogoh” processions. Huge model monsters are paraded through the towns and villages. They symbolize the evil spirits, and are said to purify everyone as they dance through the streets accompanied by music and fireworks.
Uma Ubud offers a terrific way to see the festivities first hand. A personal guide takes you to Ubud town for the colorful Ogoh-Ogoh processions. And on Nyepi Day, the hotel honors the holiday with two complimentary yoga classes to practice reflection and meditation. A traditional Balinese Rijjtafel feast is served afterwards at the Kemiri restaurant.
More Hotels in Bali…
+ COMO Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri
+ Alila Ubud
+ The Elysian
