GIANYAR, DEWATA.NEWS – The tourism industry in Gianyar Regency is facing a challenging low season this year, with hotel occupancy rates declining amid ongoing global uncertainty.
The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Gianyar Chapter reported that hotel room occupancy across the regency has fallen below 50 percent during the current period.
Chairman of PHRI Gianyar, I Gede Paskara Karilo, said on Thursday (March 12) that the average occupancy rate has decreased by around 5 to 10 percent compared with previous periods.
According to him, international geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts in the Middle East, have contributed to slower hotel bookings as many travelers delay their travel plans.
“Many tourists are still waiting to see how the global situation develops. There are concerns about potential increases in global fuel prices, which could also affect the cost of living and travel expenses,” Paskara Karilo said.
The slowdown reflects broader caution among international travelers who are closely monitoring global economic and political developments before confirming their travel plans.
Despite the decline in bookings, tourism businesses in Gianyar are introducing new strategies to maintain visitor interest during the low season.
Hotel operators are offering special Nyepi packages as a way to attract guests who are already in Bali while helping accommodation providers maintain operational stability.
Tourism practitioner Citra Suriah said Nyepi-themed packages are designed as a transitional experience for visitors before the island observes the Day of Silence.
The packages typically allow guests to enjoy cultural or wellness activities before the island enters the full 24-hour quiet period required during Nyepi.
Industry stakeholders hope the initiative will help sustain Gianyar’s tourism image as a destination known not only for its attractions but also for its spiritual and cultural experiences.
The strategy is also seen as an effort to maintain tourism resilience in Gianyar amid the broader slowdown in global travel demand.