Galungan and Kuningan is one of the most important celebrations in Balinese Hindu culture, and it marks a deeply spiritual moment for our island community. This festival arrives every 210 days, bringing colour, devotion, and traditions that transform the island in the most heartwarming way.
As people celebrate, the atmosphere fills with joy and devotion.
If you're visiting Nusa Penida during this time, you’re in for a truly extraordinary cultural experience.
Below, we break down exactly what this festival on Nusa Penida is all about, why it matters to our village here in Ped, and how you can respectfully enjoy the celebrations while having an incredible holiday.
This celebration marks the day when dharma (good) triumphs over adharma (negative forces).
It’s a celebration of balance, light, and spiritual harmony.
Across Nusa Penida you’ll see families preparing offerings, decorating homes, and visiting temples to honour ancestors who are believed to return during the festival.
A signature of this festival is the beautiful penjor.
These tall bamboo poles, decorated with coconut leaves, fruit, rice, and offerings, symbolise gratitude for nature and prosperity.
Driving from Sampalan to Toyapakeh feels like passing through a ceremonial golden tunnel.
Here in Ped Village, this celebration brings families together in the warmest way.
People return to their ancestral homes, prepare traditional dishes, and share blessings with neighbours.
If you walk past Penida Colada during this period, you’ll see locals in beautiful traditional attire heading to Pura Penataran Ped for ceremonies.
During this spiritual pause, Penida Colada takes part, which means we close for two days so our team can celebrate with their families.
From the famous Pura Goa Giri Putri to the coastal temples in Ped, the island becomes alive with meaningful rituals.
Visitors are welcome to observe respectfully.
Wear a sarong, be mindful of photography, and always follow temple rules.
The essence of this festival resonates through the community, reminding everyone of their roots.
Kuningan takes place ten days after Galungan.
It’s believed that on this day, ancestral spirits return to the heavens.
Offerings on this day include yellow rice, symbolising prosperity and joy.
It’s a beautiful closing chapter to the spiritual journey.
During the celebrations on Nusa Penida, Penida Colada takes part in the island’s spiritual pause, which means we close for two days so our team can celebrate with their families.
But once the ceremonies end, we’re back with open arms. After the festival, unwind by the ocean, sip your favorite cocktails during sunset, try our Indonesian-inspired dishes, and soak in the warm village atmosphere as Nusa Penida returns to its gentle rhythm again.
You can also read more cultural stories and local insights on our blog at
penidacolada.com/blog
A few helpful tips to enjoy the celebrations respectfully:
This festival is one of the most uplifting and meaningful times to be on the island.
It offers a rare chance to witness community, spirituality, tradition, and culture come together in the most beautiful way.
So if you're planning your next Bali holiday, make sure Nusa Penida is on your itinerary. Drop by Penida Colada for great food, ocean views, and genuine island hospitality.
