Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, in Ubud, Bali, is set to celebrate Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, with a special three-day program taking place from March 18 – 20, 2026. Each year during Nyepi, the entire island of Bali shuts down for 24 hours in observance of four guiding principles—Amati Geni (no fire or light), Amati Karya (no work), Amati Lelungan (no travel), and Amati Lelanguan (no entertainment). The day is devoted to stillness and renewal, offering both locals and visitors a rare opportunity for quiet reflection in an increasingly fast-paced world.
“Nyepi is unlike any other celebration in the world. The island’s silence carries a mystical energy that invites profound reflection. At Mandapa, we have curated experiences that honor this sacred tradition while offering guests a rare chance to reconnect with themselves and the spirit of Bali,” says Masanori Hosoya, General Manager of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. This year, the resort will offer travelers a rare glimpse into the cultural ritual, allowing them to experience the holiday just as locals do through the following:
March 18 – Pengerupukan and the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade: Guests can witness Pengerupukan, a powerful ritual that symbolizes the cleansing of negative energies ahead of the Balinese New Year. Meaning ‘to destroy’ or ‘to eliminate,’ Pengerupukan is marked by the dramatic Ogoh-Ogoh parade, where towering demonic effigies are carried through villages. At Mandapa, the centerpiece of the procession is a depiction of Bhuta Wingkara, accompanied by miniature effigies of a wild dog and a boar, reflecting Bali’s philosophy of balance between humanity, nature, and the unseen world. The evening continues at Sawah Terrace with an Indonesian feast and cultural performance, featuring mythological tales, ancient war reenactments, and elaborate costumes, masks, and jewelry.
March 19 – Mandapa in Silence on Nyepi Day: From 8:00 am to 6:30 pm, guests are invited to appreciate the sacred solitude of Nyepi and reconnect with nature through a series of mindful experiences inspired by Catur Brata Penyepian, the four sacred observances of silence, fasting, meditation, and self-reflection. Highlights of the day include Silent Tapa Brata Yoga, Cultural Walks guided through the reserve with expert insights, Balinese Customs Workshop, Stargazing Meditation, and for dinner, chefs will prepare Pulung Nyepi, a traditional dessert made with palm sugar, coconut, and aromatic spices, enjoyed by local communities for generations.
March 20 – Ngembak Geni Day: Translated as ‘rekindling fire,’ Ngembak Geni symbolizes the return of light, warmth, and social harmony following Nyepi. The day unfolds as a journey of purification and reflection, beginning with Swara Yoga, an ancient breath practice aligned with lunar rhythms. The experience culminates in a Melukat water purification ceremony, led by a local priest and accompanied by live Gamelan music, making a symbolic transition into a new phase of life and renewal as guests step into the new year with clarity.
The starting rate for a Reserve Suite during Nyepi is USD 1,484 per night. For further information, please see here.
Located in Bali’s cultural and spiritual heart of Ubud, where the lush jungle meets the Ayung River, Mandapa is an exclusive journey inside an indigenous Balinese village, providing a sensory journey to wellness and nature. Mandapa offers 35 suites, 25 private pool villas, four unique dining concepts, including exclusive dining beyond experiences within the Reserve, and a restorative Spa and fitness center. Designed as a sanctuary to relax one’s mind, body, and soul, Mandapa offers individually tailored spiritual, well-being, and health programs as well as activities to suit travelers of all ages, such as Mandapa Camp, along with the personalized attention of a dedicated Patih or butler. Focusing on three core pillars—wellness, gastronomy, and sustainability—Mandapa creates a holistic and immersive experience for guests seeking renewal, culinary discovery, and a connection to the local environment.
