Thousands of people have been filing out of Bali via the Port of Gilimanuk on the island’s west coast in anticipation of the fast approaching Hindu New Year, Nyepi.
Vehicles were seen piling up in the queue to get the ferry to Banyuwangi, East Java on Friday morning, ahead of Bali’s Day of Silence.
We’re talking insanely, heavy traffic.
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The 24-hour holiday will kick off on Saturday, March 17 at 6am and will finish on Sunday, March 18 at 6am.
During this time, according to tradition, people in Bali must stay inside, keep noise to a minimum and not use lights that can be seen from the outside. Pecalang, traditional Balinese security, will be on patrol throughout the island to enforce the practice and fine rule-breakers.
Not everyone is always so keen to unplug for Nyepi, which is evidenced by the mad dash by so many to get out of the island on Friday and pass the duration of the holiday in Java instead.
Extra ticket counters were added by the Gilimlanuk Port to process the surge in traffic for Friday.
Gilimanuk Marine Area Police Chief Commissioner I Nyoman Subawa told Bali Post that extra police personnel have been deployed to make sure things flow smoothly.
Judging by the photos and video circulating of the port this morning, it sure looks like they’re going to need all hands on deck!
Benjamin Little says
Such a shame. I didn’t realise when I booked for a trip to Bali one time that I would be there for Nyepi, and I’m so glad I was there. It was amazing and inspirational. I can’t wait for the next time I can take time off from work for another Nyepi experience. Trust me, be there!