Alila Ubud unveils an immersive experience honoring the sacred Day of Silence, Nyepi Tahun Saka 1947. Nestled in Bali’s central foothills, the resort is a peaceful and secluded forest retreat on the edge of the lush Ayung River valley. Amid an emerald-green jungle canopy stretching as far as the eye can see, guests are invited to observe Nyepi in comfort and serenity. During the 24 hours of reflection, when all of Bali comes to a standstill, Alila Ubud embraces these island-wide traditions, ensuring that within its grounds no external lights or noises disrupt the peace. The result is an intimate sanctuary where visitors can fully immerse in the spirituality of Nyepi while enjoying the resort’s gentle hospitality.
Dawn breaks over the Ayung River valley as seen from Alila Ubud. Perched above the jungle canopy, the resort offers an idyllic vantage point to begin a day of quiet reflection. On Nyepi Day, the cultural and spiritual significance of silence is profound. Nyepi is a day reserved for fasting, meditation, and introspection across the island. In the absence of modern bustle, nature’s subtle symphony comes forward: the whisper of the breeze, birdsong, and the rhythmic flow of the Ayung River far below.
The evening before Nyepi, however, presents a final crescendo of energy. Bali’s villages come alive with ‘Ogoh-Ogoh‘ parades, a dramatic ritual where giant demonic effigies are marched through the streets in a cacophony of fire and sound. This colorful eve of Nyepi celebration – filled with gamelan music, loud chants, and flaming torches – symbolizes the banishment of negative spirits, clearing the way for the next day’s silence. Guests are invited to witness this remarkable cultural spectacle in a nearby village, observing the fiery pageantry from a respectful distance. After the midnight pyres and joyous clamor of the ‘Ogoh-Ogoh’ are complete and the demons of the old year have been symbolically vanquished, dawn ushers in Nyepi and with it, an island-wide hush. The contrast is breathtaking: as the sun rises on 29 March, the world quiets at dawn and Bali is reborn in stillness.
The resort’s design – inspired by a Balinese hillside village and perched on stilts above a tropical ravine – allows guests to feel at one with nature even while indoors. The next day, guests can begin the morning with yoga at the pavilion as mist lifts off the valley or join in a Balinese offering-making class led by local experts to learn the art of weaving palm leaves into spiritual offerings. For those seeking ultimate relaxation, Spa Alila’s therapists will be on hand to provide rejuvenating treatments – from herbal massages to meditation sessions – channeling Bali’s healing heritage. Under Nyepi’s contemplative mood, the resort’s chefs will present in-room dining options and curated wellness menus, allowing guests to savor nourishing Indonesian flavors in the privacy of their villa or on their balcony.
Gazing out at the verdant valley from a private balcony of a Superior Room or enjoying the seclusion of a Forest Edge Villa immersed in the treetops, guests find themselves surrounded by soothing views and thoughtful comfort. Each villa and room are designed for quiet contemplation – spacious layouts, natural materials, and panoramic vistas invite an atmosphere of calm. Feel the gentle pulse of the rainforest, in this hushed ambiance, guests can unwind on daybeds, a luxurious solitude to reflect, unwind, and simply be.
“Nyepi is a time of profound spiritual renewal on the island,” says Ketut Indra, General Manager of Alila Ubud. “We offer our guests an authentic, meaningful way to embrace this tradition. By blending cultural reverence with our signature hospitality, we create a space where guests can feel the soul of Bali – in the whisper of the forest, the flicker of candlelight, and the brilliance of a million stars overhead. Nyepi at Alila Ubud is an experience of peace that stays with you long after the day has passed.”
This Nyepi package at Alila Ubud invites travelers to observe a unique cultural event and participate in it intimately with the ultimate luxury, a chance to slow down, reflect, and find beauty in stillness.
For more information & reservation, please email [email protected] or WhatsApp +62 811 3961 407 or visit alilahotels.com/ubud/
