Angelina Agata
Jan 20, 2026
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve curates an exclusive three-day program from 18 th - 20 th March 2026 to celebrate Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. Recognized among The World’s 50 Best Hotels of 2025, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers a rare opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most extraordinary cultural rituals, set against the spiritual backdrop of the Ayung River and Ubud’s rainforest sanctuary.
A Journey Through Silence and Renewal
Pengerupukan: Ogoh-Ogoh Parade - 18th March 2026
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve invites guests to witness Pengerupukan, a powerful ritual that symbolizes the cleansing of negative energies in preparation for the Balinese New Year. Derived from the word meaning ‘to destroy’ or ‘to eliminate,’ Pengerupukan is marked by the dramatic Ogoh-Ogoh parade, where towering effigies of demonic entities are carried through the village. At Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the centerpiece of the procession is a striking depiction of Bhuta Wingkara, a fearsome figure from the underworld, accompanied by miniature effigies of a wild dog and a boar. Together, they embody Bali’s philosophy of balance and coexistence between humanity, nature, and the unseen world.
The evening continues at Sawah Terrace with an authentic Indonesian feast and cultural performance. A tapestry of stories, from mythological tales of the goddess Durga to ancient war reenactments, unfolds, bringing mystical creatures to life through expressive costumes, ornate masks, and intricate jewelry.
Mandapa in Silence, Nyepi Day – 19th March 2026
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: Begin the morning in quiet contemplation, practicing yoga in silence to cultivate inner balance.
-Cultural Walks: Explore the lush surroundings of Mandapa while learning about Balinese traditions and customs that honor harmony with nature.
-Balinese Customs Workshop: Engage with local wisdom and rituals that reflect the island’s spiritual heritage.
-Stargazing Meditation: Conclude the day beneath Bali’s night sky, embracing stillness and reflection through guided meditation.
-For dinner, chefs will prepare Pulung Nyepi, a sweet dessert made with palm sugar, coconut, and aromatic spices, enjoyed by local communities for generations.
Ngembak Geni Day – 20th March 2026
Ngembak Geni, translated as ‘rekindling fire’ that symbolizes the return of light, warmth, and social harmony after silence, through a transformative journey of purification and reflection that begins with Swara Yoga, an ancient breath practice aligned with lunar and planetary rhythms to unlock energies and harmonize the mind-body connection during the new moon, and culminates in a Melukat water purification ceremony led by a local priest and accompanied by the resonant sounds of live Gamelan music, where flowing water cleanses the spirit, washes away the past, and bestows blessings for renewal, marking a symbolic transition into a new phase of life and embodying the spirit of ‘new year, new me’ as guests step into the year with clarity, vitality, and grace.
A Sanctuary for the Soul
“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.
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve features 60 keys resembling an indigenous Balinese village framed by a rainforest along the Ayung River, in the spiritual town of Ubud, creating an ideal sanctuary to experience the energy of Nyepi.
About Nyepi
Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence, marks the new year in the Saka lunar-solar calendar, which consists of 210 days based on the phases of the moon. This observance falls on the 10th lunar month, which in 2026 is on 19th March, and is celebrated by Balinese Hindus. Out of respect for nature, all signs of life are put to rest; for 24 hours, the island’s airports and ports are closed, businesses shut down, and lights and noise are minimized.
Nyepi is governed by four main rules. Amati Geni signifies that no fire or light is permitted. Amati Karya means that work or labor is prohibited. Amati Lelungan indicates that travel is not allowed, while Amati Lelanguan indicates the absence of entertainment. Locals fast, meditate, turn off electricity, and remain at home to engage in deep self-reflection and spiritual purification on Nyepi. The framework of Hinduism teaches that the ultimate goal of humans is to break free from the cycle of Samsara (reincarnation) and merge into the cosmic void, known as Sunya. This state is referred to as Moksha, representing ultimate enlightenment. Even for non-Hindus, this day offers a much-needed opportunity for quiet introspection in our fast-paced world.
The starting rate for a Reserve Suite is USD 1,484 per night, inclusive of breakfast on double occupancy.
For further information, please visit.
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Jl. Raya Kedewatan, Banjar, Kedewatan, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571
Phone : +62 361 479 2777