What is Galungan?

According to Bali.com Galungan is one of the most important religious festivals in Bali, commemorating the triumph of good (dharma) over evil (adharma). It is believed that during this time, ancestral spirits and deities return to the earthly realm to visit their former homes. The festival occurs every 210 days in the Balinese pawukon calendar, and in 2025 it is celebrated on Wednesday 19 November, with the closing festival day of Kuningan on Saturday 29 November.

Why Visit Bali During Galungan?

• Cultural Immersion – Homes and streets are decorated with towering bamboo poles called penjor, richly adorned and symbolising gratitude and prosperity.
• Unique Visuals & Rituals – It’s a rare time when you’ll see everyday life and spirituality entwined, with offerings, prayer processions, temple visits and family gatherings.
• Authentic Experience – While tourists visit Bali year-round, during Galungan the island’s spiritual rhythm stands out. According to local culture-guides, it’s “a rare glimpse into the island’s spiritual heart”.

What to Expect & What to Do During Galungan

Decorations & Architecture

From the days leading up to Galungan you will see penjor – tall bamboo poles decorated with coconut leaves, fruit, cakes and offerings outside homes, temples and along roads. These decorate the island and mark the festival.

Temple Visits & Offerings

On the main Galungan day, you’ll find many local families visiting temples, offering prayers and making offerings (banten). Temples throughout Bali, from village to city scale, are active with ceremonies. Visitors can observe respectfully.

Festive Foods & Family Time

Many families cook special dishes and gather for feasts. Local warungs may serve traditional dishes like lawar, and the atmosphere is communal.

Cultural Activities

In villages you may find community activities – cooking classes of Balinese food, workshops in making canang or penjor as part of the preparatory days.

Recommended Places to Experience Galungan

• Ubud & Uluwatu – Known for maintaining more traditional ceremonies and decorated streets, visitors can enjoy a more immersive cultural feel.
• Denpasar & South Bali (including Canggu, Seminyak) – While busier and more tourist-oriented, you will still see penjor and many decorated homes. Just keep in mind increased traffic and some shops may close early.
• Rural villages – If you have time and interest, a guided day-trip into a genuine village ceremony can deepen your understanding.

👉 Tip: Stay at Sunny Family Bali to stay close to the Galungan hot spot.

Practical Travel Tips During Galungan

• Dress modestly when visiting temples: cover shoulders and knees; wearing a sarong and sash is recommended.
• Be respectful: avoid stepping over offerings, blocking rituals, or taking intrusive photos during ceremonies.
• Expect some disruptions: Schools may close, small shops may have shorter opening hours, traffic may build around temples and villages.
• Book ahead for transport and accommodations: Especially if you plan to travel outside the popular zones, taxis/ride apps may be slower around festival times.
• Stay flexible: Rituals can shift in timing. Allow for extra time if you have excursions planned around Galungan days.
• Enjoy the local food, decorations, and atmosphere but remember you are a guest in a sacred tradition.

FAQs

Is Galungan a public holiday in Bali?
Yes, many offices and schools close or reduce hours. Tourist areas remain active, but schedule changes are common.

Can tourists join the ceremonies?
Tourists are welcome to observe, but full participation is limited to local Hindus. Visitors must follow temple etiquette and respect sacred spaces.

Will businesses be closed?
Some local businesses may close or operate reduced hours; major tourist-facing restaurants and resorts usually remain open.

What should I wear during Galungan?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required in temples. A sarong and sash are recommended. Colour doesn’t have to match locals.

Are the festival dates the same every year?
No. Galungan is based on a 210-day Balinese pawukon cycle; 2025 dates are April 23 and November 19. The closing Kuningan is 10 days later.

Final Thoughts

If you find yourself in Bali during Galungan 2025, you are in for a meaningful cultural experience. From the gentle curve of penjor lining alleys to the reverent hum of temple prayers, the island temporarily shifts into a more reflective, communal rhythm. With respect, curiosity and openness you can witness a time when Bali honours its ancestors, celebrates virtue and invites all to pause, even if for a moment.

Enjoy the festival, honour the culture, and let the beauty of Galungan deepen your Bali journey.