Holiday overview

Nyepi

Nyepi is the Balinese Day of Silence and the Saka New Year, observed especially strictly across Bali.

Also known as: Balinese Day of Silence, Saka New Year

Ownership: Country-specific holiday

Country: Indonesia

Categories: National Public Holidays

Tags: religious_holiday Cultural & Traditional Seasonal & Calendar

Usually a public holiday

Date rule: Balinese Saka New Year, date varies by year

Date type: Computed

About this holiday

Nyepi marks the Balinese Saka New Year. On Bali, the day is observed through silence, staying indoors, limited activity and reduced lighting. The holiday is a national public holiday in Indonesia, but its most distinctive public life effect is in Bali.

History

Nyepi is rooted in Balinese Hindu practice and the Saka calendar. The quiet day follows ceremonies that symbolically cleanse the world and reset spiritual balance for the new year.

Traditions

  • Silence and staying indoors
  • Reduced lighting and activity
  • Community ceremonies before the day of silence
  • Reflection and spiritual reset

Where and when this holiday appears

DateWeekdayCountries
ThursdayIndonesiaIndonesia

Related holidays

Frequently asked questions

Is Nyepi a public holiday in Indonesia?

Yes. Nyepi is a national public holiday in Indonesia, with especially strict observance in Bali.

Why is Nyepi important in Bali?

It marks the Balinese Saka New Year and is observed as a day of silence, reflection and spiritual renewal.