It is not only Indians who believe that the ‘purnima’ or ‘full moon’ is auspicious. In Bali a full-moon-day is a special day for ceremonies and festivities, especially at temples all over the island. Balinese believe that Purnima is a propitious day as the gods descend to earth and give their blessings. According to the Balinese calendar, full moon marks the 15th day of the month (the last day of each month is called Tilem or the ‘dark moon’).
The Oberoi, Bali, part of the Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, has made it easy for travellers to join the celebration by holding the full moon ceremony at the Hindu temple within the resort. Located on Seminyak beach, the hotel is spread across six hectares of tropical gardens. The hotel grounds are dotted with ancient Balinese temples and guests can join the hotel staff to offer prayers. Dressed in Balinese sarongs, guests will receive traditional blessings for health and prosperity from a pemangku (a Hindu priest), which will be accompanied by flower offerings. For a cover charge of IDR 3,425,000 per couple (inclusive of taxes), guests can join the 45-minute ceremony followed by dinner on the moonlit beach. Bookings has to be made in advance.
In case you want to plan ahead, the full moon days for the rest of the year are – June 8, July 10, August 7, September 6, October 5, November 2 and December 4.
For further information on the offer, call on toll-free 1800-11-2030 or visit oberoihotels.com/hotels-in-bali/experiences