March is a month of transition in Bali, where the wet season lingers but hints of the dry season begin to emerge. Average highs reach 31°C (88°F), and the days are marked by a mix of sunshine and sudden rain. The air is charged with anticipation, especially around Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. The night before, villages erupt in Ogoh-Ogoh parades—giant demon effigies, music, and firelight—before the island falls into a profound, 24-hour stillness. During Nyepi, the streets are empty, the sky is clear of light pollution, and the only sounds are those of nature. By the end of March, the rains begin to taper, and the island feels refreshed and renewed. It’s a time for reflection, cultural immersion, and witnessing Bali’s unique spiritual heartbeat.
Pro tips for visiting Bali in March
If visiting during Nyepi (March 19), stock up on snacks and essentials the day before, as all shops and transport close for 24 hours.
Don’t miss the Ogoh-Ogoh parades on Nyepi Eve—arrive early in town centers for the best views.
Plan indoor activities for afternoons, as rain remains likely until late March.
Take advantage of low hotel rates and quiet attractions, especially early in the month.
By late March, consider sunrise hikes (Mount Batur) for fewer crowds and a chance at clear skies.
Check with your hotel about amenities during Nyepi, as some services may be limited.
Book accommodations in advance if your visit overlaps with Easter or Australian school holidays.
Respect local customs and remain indoors during Nyepi; it’s a unique opportunity for reflection.
March full-moon ceremonies can overlap with the Nyepi season, which can increase visible temple activity. Expect more offerings and community movement near temples. Confirm any access rules locally.
March Tilem is a new-moon observance centered on cleansing and balance. You may notice increased offerings linked to the Nyepi period. Plan your schedule with flexibility if ceremonies affect road flow.
Balinese New Year includes a full day when travel halts and public spaces close. Visitors stay within their accommodation. Stock up the day before, and confirm what your hotel provides during the shutdown.
Night-time processions carry large effigies through streets with chanting and music before Nyepi. Streets can close and traffic can stop. Go early for viewing, keep valuables secure, and follow crowd control.
A cultural program leading up to Nyepi with ogoh-ogoh displays and youth performances in Denpasar. Expect evening crowds and traffic near venues. Confirm the schedule locally and arrive early for seated shows.
A post-Nyepi community ritual in Sesetan involving symbolic pulling, water splashing, and blessings. It draws large local audiences. Arrive early, keep movement respectful, and avoid treating it as a staged show.
Plan ahead: Must-visit experiences for Bali in March