Bali silent retreat reviews: a journey into mindful silence

The practice of observing silence, known as mauna in Sanskrit, is less about silencing the voice and more about quieting the mind.

While Vipassana offers a rigorous way to embrace this through 10 days of silence and meditation, there are gentler alternatives, like a stay at the Bali Silent Retreat.

Spending 4 days and 3 nights there proved to be an unforgettable and transformative experience.

This serene sanctuary is nestled in the Tabanan region, about an hour northwest of Ubud. (TIP: Use the retreat’s website map instead of Google Maps to find this hidden gem.) From the moment we arrived, the warm welcome at reception set the tone for the peaceful days ahead.

Embracing silence and simplicity

Social chatter and devices like mobile phones are strongly discouraged here, though whispers and speaking during some activities are allowed.


We found that both guests and staff embraced the retreat’s ethos with sincerity, creating a truly tranquil environment.

The Bali Silent Retreat is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the iconic Jatiluwih rice fields (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and Mount Batukaru.

The retreat operates with a “green-to-extreme” philosophy, incorporating solar power, rainwater collection, and permaculture gardens that produce fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

They even use sarongs instead of towels to reduce their water footprint—a thoughtful detail that highlights their commitment to sustainability.

A haven for rest and reflection

This retreat is the perfect place to master the art of doing nothing—or as the Italians say, dolce far niente. Days unfold in a rhythm of rest, sleep, eat, and repeat.

Cultural activities like rice terrace walks, visits to hot springs, and jungle hikes are available for those who want to explore. For a unique emotional release, they even have a designated “Cry Bench” by the river.

Daily offerings include two meditation sessions and two yoga classes designed to complement meditation rather than challenge the body. Afterward, unwind in a hammock or explore their library stocked with books on yoga, mindfulness, and self-development.

A unique dining experience

One of the highlights of Bali Silent Retreat is its extraordinary vegetarian cuisine. Freshly harvested from the gardens daily, the dishes are vibrant, flavorful, and nourishing.

Chef Simon Jongenotter’s New Earth Cooking philosophy shines through in every bite. From homemade granola and peanut butter to colorful dumplings, each meal was a culinary delight.

We also loved creating our own teas in the retreat’s tea kitchen, blending fresh herbs and spices—a feature we wish we could take home!

What we learned

Our stay taught us that everything here is meditation. Walking, eating, or simply being—it’s all infused with mindfulness.

Silence created a surprising abundance of energy, fostering self-reflection and acceptance. Among strangers who never exchanged words, we experienced a deep sense of harmony and connection.

The retreat’s atmosphere was transformative. Freed from the pressures of ego and social dynamics, we discovered tolerance, acceptance, and a profound sense of inner peace.

Final thoughts

Bali Silent Retreat is an inspiring, eco-friendly haven to recharge your body, mind, and soul. Whether you’re seeking deep relaxation, a reset for your energy, or simply a taste of mindfulness, this sanctuary delivers on all fronts.

Terima Kasih (thank you) to Bali Silent Retreat for this incredible experience.

If you’re looking for authentic reviews to guide your journey, this is one retreat worth exploring.

We left rejuvenated and already planning our next visit.

For more info on Bali’s best spots for the modern yogi

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