Large Ogoh-ogoh statues are carried through the streets during a parade at Kilometer Zero in Bali on the evening before Nyepi, the island’s traditional Day of Silence. The Travel
Canada has warned travellers planning spring trips to Bali about a full-day shutdown that will stop flights, businesses, and public activities across the island.
Officials issued the alert ahead of Nyepi, the Balinese New Year known as the “Day of Silence.” The observance will take place on March 19, when the island pauses daily life for 24 hours. During this period, transportation, airport operations, and most public services stop completely.
The warning comes at a time when many Canadians travel overseas for spring break.
Bali’s Island-Wide Shutdown on March 19
The Day of Silence brings a complete halt to movement across Bali. Authorities will close Ngurah Rai International Airport from 6 a.m. on March 19 until 6 a.m. on March 20. All flights will stop during this period.
Officials will also close seaports, roads, and most public businesses across the island.
Under Balinese law and tradition, residents and visitors must stay indoors throughout the day. Lights, loud music, and outdoor activities remain forbidden.
Tourists who attempt to leave their accommodation during this time risk fines, arrest, or participation in cleansing rituals. Authorities could deport repeat offenders.
Local security teams called pecalang will patrol streets to make sure everyone follows the rules.
Travellers who arrive or depart during the shutdown must remain inside the airport until operations resume.
Hotels will remain open to house visitors, but guests may face restrictions on dining services, outdoor facilities, and entertainment.
Travel Interest Remains Strong
Despite the advisory, travel agents say many Canadians still plan trips to Bali this March.
Some visitors want to experience the cultural traditions connected to the Day of Silence. Others may not fully understand how strict the restrictions will be once the holiday begins.
Because the island shuts down entirely, travellers should prepare carefully before the event.
Officials encourage visitors to check their travel schedules and confirm accommodation policies before arrival.
What Nyepi Means for Bali
Nyepi marks the Balinese Hindu New Year, which follows the traditional Saka calendar.
The observance lasts for 24 hours and focuses on reflection, meditation, fasting, and silence. Residents reduce light, sound, and activity across the island.
The tradition dates back centuries and aims to bring spiritual balance and renewal for the coming year.
The evening before Nyepi features a lively cultural celebration known as the Ogoh-ogoh parade. Communities build large paper figures that represent negative forces. Participants carry these statues through the streets and burn them to symbolize the removal of evil spirits.
After this vibrant event, the island enters a full day of silence.
Advice for Visitors During Nyepi
Travellers staying in Bali during the holiday should plan ahead.
Hotels may reduce food services, so visitors should prepare food and water supplies for the day.
Guests can use phones, laptops, and other devices inside their rooms, but screens should remain dim and sound must stay silent. All lights inside rooms should remain off at night.
Movement outside accommodation remains restricted, although some resorts allow limited indoor activities.
Visitors attending cultural rituals before Nyepi should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
Additional Travel Safety Advice
Canada currently advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Indonesia.
Authorities warn about pickpocketing and purse snatching in busy tourist areas, including Bali. Some criminals have forced victims to withdraw money from ATMs.
Officials also warn about spiked food or drinks at bars and restaurants. Travellers should watch their beverages and check that bottles remain sealed.
Authorities have also reported cases of dangerous alcohol containing methanol, which has led to deaths.
Motorcycle accidents, theft, and visa scams also remain concerns for visitors.
