About This Event

The Day Bali Comes Home

More than a festival, Galungan is the soul of Bali made visible.

For ten days, the island celebrates the victory of dharma (good) over adharma (evil), and this isn't abstract philosophy. The Balinese believe their ancestral spirits return to their former homes during this period, creating a direct connection between the living and the dead, the physical and spiritual worlds.

The most recognizable symbol is the penjor: tall, curved bamboo poles that line every street and gateway across the island. Each one is constructed as an offering to the gods, thanking them for the earth's abundance. The arch represents Gunung Agung, Bali's holiest mountain. Hanging from each penjor are coconuts, rice stalks, and flowers—the foundations of Balinese life.

The period ends with Kuningan, when the ancestors return to the heavens. For travelers, Galungan offers something rare: a chance to see an entire culture practice its faith publicly. Families dress in traditional attire, temples fill with processions, and the rhythm of daily life adjusts completely to accommodate ceremony and devotion.

Dates:

November 19, 2025 – November 29, 2025

(Galungan day: November 19 | Kuningan: November 29)