Guide to Galungan: Experiencing Bali’s Most Beautiful Tradition

Galungan, one of the island’s most revered celebrations, captures this living philosophy - a 36-day journey that renews balance between humanity and the divine.

The Prelude: Preparing the Soul and the World

In the weeks leading up to Galungan, Bali moves through a sequence of sacred preparations. It begins with Tumpek Wariga, a day devoted to Sang Hyang Sangkara, the deity of plants and fertility. Offerings are made to trees and crops, acknowledging nature’s grace as the source of all sustenance.

Next come Sugihan Jawa and Sugihan Bali, twin days of purification. The first cleanses the outer world (Bhuana Agung), refreshing temples and sacred spaces. The second purifies the inner world (Bhuana Alit), calling devotees to cleanse their hearts through reflection and prayer.

As the festival nears, Penyekeban and Penyajaan encourage restraint and sincerity - moments to quiet the mind before celebration. On Penampahan, the eve of Galungan, families adorn the streets with penjor - tall, curved bamboo poles decorated with coconut leaves, fruits, and rice stalks. These graceful arches symbolise prosperity and the unbroken connection between heaven and earth.

The Peak: Galungan and Manis Galungan

When Galungan Day dawns, the spiritual and material worlds converge. Balinese Hindus believe ancestral spirits return to visit their descendants. The air fills with incense, the hum of prayers, and the soft rustle of ceremonial attire.

Galungan marks the triumph of dharma (good) over adharma (evil), not as battle, but as the renewal of inner harmony. The celebration continues with Manis Galungan, a day of joyful reunions, shared meals, and community visits known as Dharma Santi, gestures of unity and gratitude.

The Days of Reflection and Return

The energy softens after Galungan, turning toward reflection. Ulihan marks the return of divine spirits to the heavens, while Pemacekan Agung encourages ongoing discipline and mindfulness.

Ten days later, Kuningan Day closes the cycle with golden offerings of nasi kuning (yellow rice) and young coconut leaves - symbols of light, wisdom, and prosperity. Finally, Pegat Wakan concludes the journey. The penjor are respectfully taken down and returned to the earth, completing a sacred circle of creation and release.

The Living Philosophy of Balance

Beyond the ceremonies, Galungan represents Tri Hita Karana, the Balinese philosophy of harmony between humans, nature, and the divine. Each ritual is an act of gratitude; each offering, a conversation with the cosmos.

For visitors, witnessing Galungan is more than a cultural spectacle. It is a rare glimpse into Bali’s heartbeat, a living expression of balance that shapes every offering, every smile, every act of devotion.

When the next penjor rise along Bali’s streets, swaying gently in the tropical wind, they remind all who see them that true harmony is not found, but continually renewed.

To experience Galungan in Bali, from village ceremonies in Ubud to temple rituals in Gianyar, align your trip with the Balinese calendar. The next Galungan season begins on November 19, 2025.