AS a leading tourist destination in Indonesia, Bali is almost never short of attractions offering unique and appealing cultural experiences of Bali for tourists. One of the best moments to enjoy the beauty of Balinese tradition is during the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade or Pengerupukan which takes place (March 28) the day before Nyepi Day which falls on March 29.
From year to year, these two events have increasingly attracted the attention of tourists, both local and foreign, who want to experience the sacred and spectacular atmosphere of this celebration firsthand.
Spectacular Attraction
The Ogoh-Ogoh Parade held the night before Nyepi has become a special attraction for tourists. Ogoh-Ogoh is a giant statue depicting Bhuta Kala, a symbol of negative power in Hindu teachings. This statue is made with high creativity by local artists and paraded around the village before finally being burned as a symbol of purification from negative energy.
From year to year, the creation of Ogoh-Ogoh has continued to develop. In addition to its increasingly artistic form, Ogoh-Ogoh is now also made from environmentally friendly materials such as bamboo, recycled paper, and paper pulp. This effort shows the Balinese people’s awareness of protecting the environment, which is in line with the principles of sustainable tourism that are being promoted.
In addition to the environmentally friendly aspect, mechanical elements have also begun to be applied in making Ogoh-Ogoh. Some statues are equipped with a drive system that allows certain body parts such as hands, heads, or wings to move automatically. This innovation further enhances the appeal of the parade, providing a more dynamic and spectacular visual experience for tourists who come to witness it directly.
Nyepi Day
If the Ogoh-Ogoh Parade is full of hustle and bustle, Nyepi Day is the opposite. On this day, all activities in Bali are stopped. No vehicles pass by, no lights are turned on, and no loud noises are heard.
This is the day when Hindus in Bali carry out the Catur Brata Penyepian, which includes amati karya (not working), amati geni (not lighting fires or electricity), amati lelanguan (not having fun), and amati lelungan (not traveling). The uniqueness of Nyepi is actually a special attraction for tourists.
Many tourists are interested in experiencing this unique experience, enjoying the calm atmosphere without noise, and seeing the night sky which is so clear because of the minimal light pollution. Several hotels and resorts offer special packages for tourists who want to spend Nyepi in Bali with facilities that still comply with local rules. (*)
