Departing Travellers Leave Bali Through Mengwi Terminal at 3,000 Per Day
The surge in passenger departures began on 13 March 2026, coinciding with the increased number of travellers leaving Bali Island. Dewa Gede Tantara Tesa Putra, Head of Mengwi Type A Terminal in Badung Regency, Bali, stated that on 13 March, 3,396 passengers departed using 116 buses from the terminal. Meanwhile, for arrivals on the same date, 68 vehicles brought 968 passengers to Bali through Mengwi Terminal. On 14 March, incoming passenger numbers rose to 1,064 people across 67 vehicles entering the terminal. Departures on 14 March also increased, with 123 buses carrying a total of 3,688 passengers leaving Bali.
“Regarding peak traffic predictions, we expect a surge on H-1 Nyepi, specifically on 18 March 2026, given the scheduled port and terminal closures. We can certainly expect numbers to spike on the day before Nyepi,” he said. Gede Tantara explained that the passenger surge is expected to continue, as departure and arrival data are constantly updated daily by terminal staff.
Meanwhile, Agus Juni Krisnawan Rantika, Coordinator of the Land Transport Management Authority (BPTD) Class II Post, stated that the surge in passengers has caused traffic congestion heading towards Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana District. According to Agus, the traffic congestion has resulted in numerous buses experiencing delays arriving at the terminal due to being caught in traffic en route to the port.
“Passenger numbers are likely to increase further as Nyepi Day draws closer. However, since bus fleets entering Bali are hindered by congestion at Gilimanuk, vehicles arriving in Bali may also be delayed,” he said. Nevertheless, terminal authorities have ensured that all operating buses have undergone roadworthiness inspections or ramp checks by officials to guarantee passenger safety. He also urged travellers, particularly motorcycle riders and private vehicle drivers, to rest if they feel fatigued during their journey and to utilise the rest areas that have been provided.