"Bali's Day of Silence: A 24-Hour Shutdown for Nyepi Ceremony"

Nyepi is a day of silence and introspection observed by Balinese Hindus to mark their New Year. The day before Nyepi, called Ngrupuk, involves parading giant monster effigies representing evil spirits and making noise before the period of introspection. Visitors to Bali during Nyepi are affected by the island-wide silence, with airports and tourist attractions closed, and hotels not checking anyone in or out. Some tourists plan their trips around Nyepi to witness or take part in the unique cultural observance, while others find themselves unexpectedly experiencing the beautiful tradition.