10 cultural & spiritual experiences in Indonesia

Indonesia might be known for its beaches and boutique resorts, but there’s another side to this island nation – one that’s deeply spiritual and rooted in rituals. From demon-chasing street parades to chakra-balancing jungle sessions, these are our top ten soul-stirring experiences across Bali and beyond.

Alila Ubud

Nyepi: Bali’s Day of Silence

Nyepi is Bali's New Year – but not in the way most of us know it. Instead of countdowns and fireworks, the entire island welcomes the new year with 24 hours of total stillness. No lights. No traffic. No noise. Even the airport shuts down. Daily life slips behind closed doors – and as a visitor, you'll do the same.

You’ll stay in your hotel where you'll be gently encouraged to do… well, nothing. It’s a time for reflection and rest, which is no hardship when you’re stretched out in a beautiful Balinese pool villa. Some hotels offer wellness sessions or silent dining experiences, but it’s really about switching off and tuning in.

Ogoh-Ogoh parades

Nyepi might be about silence but the lead-up? Anything but. The night before, Bali lets loose. In towns and villages across the island, huge demon effigies known as Ogoh-Ogoh are paraded through the streets, accompanied by banging drums and flaming torches. This ritual aims to chase away bad spirits before the island falls silent for 24 hours. It’s noisy, wild, symbolic – and great fun.

Spiritual healing with a balian

Feeling a little off-balance? In Bali, that’s where a balian comes in — part healer, part spiritual guide. Sessions can include anything from palm readings and chakra checks to water blessings and massages wrapped in mantras. You’ll dress the part, step into a calm, incense-filled space and leave with a clearer head and a calmer heart.

Temple dances in Ubud

Balinese dance is pretty much a prayer in motion. Head to a temple courtyard in Ubud after sunset to witness a traditional dance ceremony that tells age-old Hindu stories through hypnotic gestures, expressive eyes and gilded costumes. The Kecak fire dance, with its rhythmic chanting, is a full-body goosebumps moment.

Water purification at Tirta Empul

At Tirta Empul temple near Ubud, both locals and visitors queue quietly to step into the sacred pools. Moving from one stone spout to the next, you’ll dip your head under 13 fountains in a ritual believed to cleanse the body, mind and soul. It’s peaceful, powerful and very Instagram, but is even better when you’re fully present.

Sunrise at Borobudur

Java Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple, built during the Sailendra Dynasty, and stands today as a true spiritual beacon. At dawn, it's at its most magical. Arrive early and book a special access pass through Manohara to enter the temple grounds before the main crowds. Climb the stone steps and watch the sun rise over misty palms and bell-shaped stupas – there are 72, each hiding a statue of Buddha inside. As light floods the plains, the atmosphere is hushed and otherworldly – it's easily one of the most memorable experiences you'll have in Indonesia.

Yoga and sound healing in Ubud

In Ubud, yoga is part of the rhythm of daily life. Join a class overlooking rice paddies or take part in a sound healing session with gongs, bowls and vibrations you feel in your bones. Sessions at places like the Yoga Barn or Pyramids of Chi can get busy, so book ahead, but plenty of resorts like The Ubud Village Resort & Spa offer complimentary yoga classes. Whether you’re new to the mat or not, practicing outdoors with birdsong, rustling leaves and incense in the air just hits different. 

Waisak Festival at Borobudur

Also known as Vesak or Buddha Day, Waisak marks the birth, enlightenment and passing of Buddha. Each May, thousands of monks and pilgrims gather at Borobudur to celebrate, ending the day with a candlelit procession under the stars, soft chanting filling the air. Don’t miss the release of glowing lanterns in the night sky.

Tri Desna healing

If you're looking to work through emotional blocks, Tri Desna Healing is the real deal. Tucked away in Ubud, this experience brings together traditional Balinese purification rituals with personal readings, energy work and guided reflection. You’ll dress in ceremonial attire, take part in a water cleansing ritual (Melukat) and receive intuitive guidance from a healer. It’s raw, restorative and often booked out months in advance – for good reason.

Traditional weaving in Lombok

In villages like Sukarara, weaving is a rite of passage. Women here use backstrap looms to create intricate songket textiles, often taking weeks to finish a single piece. Watch the process, meet the makers and try your hand at this age-old skill (spoiler: it’s harder than it looks).

This feature was updated on 26th March 2025. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.