If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Bali, chances are you imagine the beaches, temples, or lush rice fields. But there’s something far more magical that happens once a year—the celebration of Nyepi, also known as the Balinese Day of Silence, and the exciting Ogoh-Ogoh Parade that takes place the night before.
I was lucky to witness this unique tradition firsthand. What I thought would be just another cultural festival turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of my travels.
What Is Ogoh-Ogoh?
Ogoh-Ogoh are giant, hand-crafted statues made by Balinese communities to symbolize evil spirits, negative energy, or personal vices. These statues are usually terrifying to look at—with bulging eyes, fangs, claws, and wild poses—but each one is a masterpiece of creativity.
Made from bamboo, paper, styrofoam, and paint, some Ogoh-Ogoh can reach up to 5 meters tall. They are usually built by youth groups in each village and often take weeks to finish.
*Detail of an Ogoh-Ogoh
The Parade: Chaos Before the Silence
On the night before Nyepi, Balinese people take to the streets for a massive parade. This is when the Ogoh-Ogoh are carried and “danced” through town in a wild, rhythmic procession.
I stood among hundreds of locals and travelers on a street corner in Ubud, eyes wide as the first Ogoh-Ogoh appeared. Drums and traditional gamelan music filled the air, fireworks cracked above us, and the massive statue twisted and turned as it was carried through the crowd.
The movements of the Ogoh-Ogoh aren’t random—they represent the confusion and disturbance caused by evil spirits. After the parade, some statues are burned, symbolizing the destruction of negativity and cleansing of the environment.
What Happens on Nyepi?
After all the noise and color of the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade, Bali enters total silence for 24 hours. Nyepi, the Balinese New Year, begins at 6 AM and is a day of self-reflection, fasting, meditation, and stillness.
Here’s what makes Nyepi so special:
🚫 No lights
🚫 No vehicles or travel
🚫 No entertainment
🚫 No work or loud activities
🚫 No flights (even the airport shuts down!)
Locals stay inside, and tourists are also expected to remain in their hotels. The entire island becomes quiet. No traffic, no music, no honking scooters. Just the sound of birds, the breeze, and nature.
At night, without city lights, the stars above Bali shine brighter than ever. It’s peaceful, humbling, and deeply spiritual.
A Silent Night Under the Stars
The Deeper Meaning Behind It All
Nyepi is more than just a cultural ritual—it’s a day of spiritual cleansing. Balinese Hindus believe that evil spirits roam the earth looking for people to disturb. But during Nyepi, since everyone is quiet and hidden, the spirits are tricked into thinking the island is empty, and they leave.
It’s also a time for each person to look inward and start the new year with a clean heart and mind. Many people use the day to pray, meditate, or simply disconnect from technology.
For me, it was a rare and beautiful chance to pause. In today’s busy world, having 24 hours of complete silence is a gift.
Ogoh-ogoh Parade
Tips for Tourists Visiting During Nyepi
If you’re planning to be in Bali during Nyepi, here are a few things to know:
Book early – Nyepi falls on a different date each year (usually in March), so check the calendar and reserve accommodation in advance.
Stock up on snacks and essentials – Stores and restaurants will close, so be prepared.
Follow the rules – Stay inside your hotel or villa, avoid playing loud music, and dim your lights at night.
Enjoy the moment – Use this time to read, journal, rest, or meditate. It’s the perfect day to unplug.
A Celebration Like No Other
What makes the Ogoh-Ogoh parade and Nyepi truly special is how they reflect the balance between chaos and calm. One night, the streets are filled with noise, fire, and color. The next day, the entire island falls into complete silence.
It’s a reminder that in life, both energy and stillness are needed. Sometimes, we need to face our demons. Other times, we need to simply be still and listen.
Whether you come to Bali for the beaches or the temples, I highly recommend experiencing Nyepi at least once in your life. It’s not just a holiday—it’s a journey into the heart of Balinese culture, spirituality, and wisdom.