Bali discourages tourists to visit the island on 'Nyepi' holiday

Domestic and foreign tourists have been advised not to come to the resort island of Bali during the Hindu holiday of Nyepi, which falls on Thursday, as local authorities are planning to stop all public services during the day.

“Tourists are advised to move their visit date to before or after the holiday. There will be no transportation services available on the holiday,” I Putu Suardhika, spokesman of the Bali administration said, as quoted by Antara on Tuesday.

Suardhika said that both air and sea transportation into and out of the island would not be available for 24 hours starting at 06:00 a.m. local time Thursday.

Local authorities are planning to close Ngurah Rai International Airport for the whole day, as well as Benoa Seaport in Denpasar, Celukan Bawang Seaport in Buleleng, Gilimanik Seaport and Padang Bai Seaport.

The administration advised visitors to arrive in Bali before midnight on Wednesday.

“Tourists do not want to get stuck in Gilamanuk or Padangbai Seaports, which won’t have any transportation service,” said Suardhika.

Observers mark Nyepi by remaining totally silent and, at night, being in total darkness. Most Balinese stay indoors and tourists are asked to keep a low profile.

More than three million Balinese Hindus are expected to observe the holiday, which marks New Year 1931 in the Saka calendar. (dre)