Bali Culture — Nyepi Laut
Nyepi Laut — Quiet Seas
Nyepi is the Balinese «Day of Silence» that is commemorated every Isaawarsa (Saka New Year) according to the Balinese calendar. Nyepi, a public holiday in Indonesia, is a day of silence, fasting and meditation for the Balinese. The day following Nyepi is also celebrated as New Year.
Nyepi is a day reserved for self-reflection and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions are: no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no travelling; and for some, no talking or eating at all. The effect of these prohibitions is that Bali’s usually bustling streets and roads are empty, there is little or no noise from TVs and radios, and few signs of activity are seen even inside homes.
On the 16th of October 2016 the entire marine activity in the region of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan in Bali, will be stopped for a day to celebrate Nyepi Laut – Quiet Seas.
Nyepi Laut rituals not only apply for fishing activities only, but also happen to marine transportation activities to and from the area of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. Including all tourism activities.
Nyepi Laut is a form of homage to the Dewa Baruna who is the ruler of the seas and oceans and is also a form of maintaining the relationship between humans and the natural surroundings. During this time the people of the area will perform Tapa Yoga (meditation)
Nyepi Laut falls on the fourth full moon based on Balinese calendar and this ritual has been performed in this region since 1600. Needless to say, Diving Indo will not be running any diving trips to Nusa Penida on Nyepi Laut 16th of October. We have a trip to Padang Bai instead.