The Apartments Canggu

Bali Culture

Bali, frequently reffered to as The Island of Gods is situated in Indonesia between the islands of Java and Lombok. Is one of the top tourist destinations and famous for its culture and different landscapes from sandy beaches, rice fields terrace and their magnificents volcanoes.

Balinese life is suffused with religion and the most visible signs are the offerings where you can find them in every Balinese house, restaurant, work place, everywhere. Their culture is unique especially for its arts. Dance and music are one of the most famous and diverse attractions in the world. Their music, dance and costumes become a feast during temple festivities.

Special cultural dates mark the calendar through annual art festivals that visitors should check out to enjoy this celebrations.

FESTIVALS

There are 20,000 temples on the island in each of them they make festivals at least twice a year. Take a look to some of the most important festivals during the year if you are planning to visit Bali.

  • Nyepi ‘Bali’s Day of Silence’
    This is a 6 day festival for Hindu New Year. Nyepi means “to keep silent” during this day and the day after the entire island comes to a standstill, the airport in Denpasar is closed with no flights incoming or outgoing. No light or candle can be lit in any home. The roads are off no people, cars or motorbikes on the streets.
    It‘s a very special experience for all the tourists that are in Bali during Nyepi day. Nyepi day changes every year during the month of March, check the calendar before planning your trip.
  • Penampahan Galungan
    Galungan is one of the most important celebrations for Balinese Hindus. Is a 10 day festival symbolizing the victory of Virtue (Dharma) upon Evil (Adharma) and encourages the Balinese to show their gratitude to the creator and ancestors. They perform rituals to welcome these ancestors.
    The preparations for Galungan begin three days before and it is called “Penyekeban” which means “the day to cover up”.
  • Kuningan
    Kuningan is one of Hindu’s major feasts, it is held throughout the island and is an annual event in Bali. It marks the end of the 10-day festival after Galungan. The ceremony surrounding Kuningan refers to special offerings made of yellow turmeric rice. Yellow is also the colour of the god Wisnu, the protector of the Hindu trinity. The Kuningan celebrations are most significant at Sakenan Temple on Serangan Island, southern Denpasar, which coincidentally celebrates its piodalan temple anniversary peak celebrations on the same day. The occasion features a series of sacred dance performances and rituals, with pilgrims attending from all over the island.