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Located on the western end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, is the Indonesian province of Bali. Known for being home to a wealth of traditional as well as modern art, dance and music, Bali is an island rife with colour and culture. It is also a major tourist destination owing to its booming hospitality industry, scenic beauty, and cultural and recreational attractions.

The major religion in Bali is Hinduism, and thus is a major platform for various Hindu festivals and customs. One of the most unique festivals celebrated in Bali is the Nypei Festival. Nyepi, literally translates to ‘silence’, and is connected to the celebration of the New Year according to the Saka calendar. Although typically a Hindu holiday, this unique event is celebrated by almost every person on the island regardless of their religion.

Usually celebrated in the month of March, the Nyepi Festival is unique in terms of the customs and traditions attached to. The day prior to the Nyepi Festival is full of noise and activity, consisting of colourful parades and purification rituals performed to cast away evil spirits at the dawn of the New Year. However it is not named after ‘silence’ for no reason, as traditions demand that the entire province be silent during the festival! Therefore there is no traffic or activity during this time, and people try to stay indoors as much as possible.

Cooking and even setting any sort of fire is prohibited during this festival. So, all entertainment, shopping and general activities are virtually halted on this day. Thus the Nyepi Festival is not exactly a tourist attraction, although many tourists are intrigued by this distinctive event. It is a rather unique and rare thing to witness an entire province brought to a halt, with only quietness and peacefulness being present due to a festival. The 2013 Nyepi Festival falls of the 13th of March, so if you are interested in witnessing this unique event, head on over to Bali during this time.

For a tranquil and memorable experience in an award winning Bali spa resort, make a reservation at COMO Shambhala Estate Bali. This resort offers accommodation in a range of blissful villas and suites, coupled with warm service and hospitality. The resort also offers a variety of wellness and leisure facilities making one of the most recommendable Bali spa resorts.

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