Early Departure Begins as Travellers Leave Bali via Gilimanuk Port
A number of returning travellers have begun leaving Bali earlier than expected via Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana, choosing to “get a head start” before the peak return exodus to avoid congestion and the temporary closure of the port during Nyepi Day.
Monitoring by detikBali at the location on Wednesday (11 March 2026) showed that the flow of vehicles preparing to cross to Java remained relatively light. Car parks at the port were not yet crowded, and both two- and four-wheeled vehicles could board ferries without lengthy queues.
One returning traveller from Bondowoso, Sandi (30), said he deliberately left early because he was worried about being caught in traffic during the peak mudik period. Furthermore, Gilimanuk Port will be temporarily closed during Nyepi Day on 19 March.
“Yes, so I don’t get stuck in traffic if I’m late. Usually there’s congestion as it gets closer to that time. Especially since Bali is observing Nyepi,” said the man who works at an interior design service in the Mengwi area, Badung, when met by detikBali.
Similar action was taken by M. Sidik, a returning traveller heading to Jember, East Java. The 51-year-old man chose to return home early to avoid heavy traffic congestion and because he had matters to attend to in his home village.
“I’m heading home early so I don’t get stuck in traffic and for Nyepi. Given my age, I’d rather not suffer on the road if there’s congestion,” said the 51-year-old.
Peak Mudik Predicted for 15 March
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) Gilimanuk Branch predicts that an increase in passenger volume will become significant in the coming days. The peak mudik period this year is estimated to occur on 15 March 2026, which is four days before Eid al-Fitr.
“The peak mudik is predicted to occur on 15 March, whilst the peak return period is estimated for 26 March 2026,” said Manager of Business Operations at PT ASDP Gilimanuk, Didi Juliansyah when contacted separately.
This year, the number of travellers crossing from Bali to Java through Gilimanuk is predicted to increase by approximately 5 per cent compared to the previous year.
“We urge service users to ensure that travel documents are ready and that vehicles are in good condition before undertaking long journeys, and to begin their return journey early,” added Didi.