We normally associate celebrations with noise, loud music, singing, partying and of course crowds of people.
Here, on this island of gods, silence and solitude are celebrated too. Indeed, the most important celebration here. Nyepi is a day to reflect, and to do self-introspection. Nyepi is a day for contemplation, and meditation. On this day, New Year resolutions are made in silence. It is only in silence that all conflicts resolve, all differences disappear and opposing forces harmonized.
The day when we can feel the peaceful and serenity of Bali. Seems that we are restricted with many prohibitions, but we still can enjoy it anyway. Many hotels in Bali prepare in house activities for their guests.
No activities that can be seen from the outside of the hotel. Amati Karya (No work) for the Balinese to celebrate their New Year. This is the day when we are not allowed to be busy with our daily life.We are not allowed to enjoy and entertain ourself (don’t worry, this is for Balinese people only) one of their prohibitions is Amati Lelanguan (No entertainment and pleasure)The deserted Jimbaran Beach. So peaceful.Airport is closed for 24 hour starting 31 March 2014 at 06:00 AM until 01 April 2014 at 06:00. No International & Domestic Flight during Nyepi. One of the probihibitons during Nyepi: Amati Lelungan (No Traveling)Denpasar street at night. The street is deserted and dark. Amati Geni (No Fire) means no lights is allowed in the house nor cooking activities also. We can only hear the dogs barking, just enjoy the serenity.The deserted street in one of our village. People stays at home meditating & praying. These prohibitions help people to control their five earthy senses by mind and wisdom in order to increase the quality of life for the upcoming year. The Pecalang (traditional Balinese security man) who controls and checks for street security, suggest the tourists to go back to the hotel in Kuta and enjoy the activities within the hotel. We all should respect the prohibitions during the Nyepi Days.
