Nyepi Sawah Tradition Held in Jatiluwih, Tourists Restricted

The Nyepi Sawah tradition is once again being held in Jatiluwih Village, Penebel Subdistrict, Tabanan Regency, Bali. The ritual takes place over two days, from Sunday to Monday.

According to Kompas.com on Tuesday (31/3/2026), during the procession, tourists are still permitted to visit the area.

However, specific restrictions must be observed.

“Although visits to Jatiluwih are quite high, tourists may still walk on the trekking paths.

However, entering the rice field bunds is not allowed,” said Purna when interviewed by Kompas.com on Monday (30/3/2026).

These restrictions are implemented to maintain the solemnity of the ritual while honouring the local wisdom passed down through generations by the community.

Purna also explained that Nyepi Sawah follows a concept similar to Bali’s Nyepi Day, but its implementation is focused on the rice field areas.

For two full days, all agricultural activities are halted, from morning until evening.

The farmers refrain from any activities in the fields, except for feeding livestock, and even that without other activities.

According to Purna, the Nyepi Sawah tradition in Jatiluwih has been practised for a long time, estimated to date back to 1933.

The ritual encompasses the entire rice field area spanning approximately 227.41 hectares.

The local community believes that by stopping activities, negative elements that could harm the crops will be eliminated.

This tradition has become an integral part of the subak system, which has been recognised as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

In addition to its cultural and spiritual value, Nyepi Sawah also serves as a unique attraction for tourists visiting Jatiluwih.