Bandar Seri Begawan

Introducing Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan has been the capital of Brunei since the 17th century. Formerly known as "Brunei City," it is located in the Muara District and covers an area of ​​100.36 square kilometers. Its population is primarily Malay and Chinese. It is the world's largest floating village, earning it the nickname "Venice of the East."

Bandar Seri Begawan has become increasingly modernized as Brunei's economy has boomed. Originally a collection of dozens of floating settlements along the river, it is now a modern city boasting luxurious palaces, stadiums, museums, and a massive mosque.

Climate and best time to travel

Bandar Seri Begawan, located near the equator, has a typical tropical maritime climate. It experiences hot days and cool nights, with no dry season. The wettest period is from October to March, with most rainfall concentrated in January and December. The average annual precipitation is 3,275 mm.

The recommended time to visit is from April to September, avoiding the rainy season.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Istana Nurul Iman

The largest royal palace in the world, it serves as the residence of the Sultan of Brunei. The palace can only be viewed from outside. It is said to have over 1,700 rooms and was the venue for state banquets. Visiting the palace is best done on National Day or during Eid al-Fitr, the last day of Ramadan. During these times, the palace gates remain open for three days, allowing visitors to queue up to shake the Sultan's hand. The magnificent palace is truly magnificent, and at dusk, the golden roof and the riverside setting offer ideal photo opportunities.

Crystal Park

It cost a huge amount of money, about 1.3 billion dong, to build and was officially opened in 1994. It has many modern amusement facilities, combining beautiful natural scenery and a wide variety of amusement projects. It is considered to be the largest amusement park in Southeast Asia.

Water Village

When the Brunei River flows past the city of Bandar Seri Begawan, it forms a wide river bay. On this wide water surface, there is a floating village with an area of ​​2.6 square kilometers. It is one of the largest traditional floating villages in the world.

Recommended 2-day tour

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Most Popular FAQs for Bandar Seri Begawan

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital of Brunei and holds great significance as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. The city’s history is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, and it houses several important religious and royal sites, such as the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Royal Palace. The city represents the modern yet traditional face of Brunei.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Bandar Seri Begawan is located in the central part of Brunei, and you can get there by taxi, car, or bus from other parts of the country. There is no metro system in Brunei, but taxis are a convenient and affordable way to travel within the city. Walking is also a great option for exploring the main attractions within the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some museums closing earlier on weekends. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to February, avoiding the monsoon rains, and experiencing cooler temperatures.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for major attractions like the Royal Regalia Museum are around 1-5 BND. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of each attraction. Some attractions may offer free entry, especially for Brunei residents or special events.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most attractions, booking in advance is not necessary unless visiting during a special event or public holiday. It’s always a good idea to check online for any scheduled closures or changes to operating hours before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need around 2 to 3 days to fully explore the main attractions of Bandar Seri Begawan, including the mosques, museums, and parks. If you're planning on taking a river cruise or visiting more remote attractions, you might need an additional day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights in Bandar Seri Begawan include the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, Kampong Ayer (the water village), and the Brunei Museum. Don’t miss the beautiful Taman Peranginan Raja Isteri Park for a scenic stroll.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for most major attractions, including the Royal Regalia Museum. These tours are typically offered in English, and some may also offer guides in other languages like Malay. Audio guides may be available at some locations, but it’s best to inquire ahead.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints for photography in Bandar Seri Begawan include the observation deck at the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the river cruise over Kampong Ayer, and the scenic vistas from the Taman Peranginan Raja Isteri Park. The mosque’s golden dome is especially striking in the morning light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the nearby Royal Regalia Museum for a deeper understanding of Brunei's culture and history. Afterward, take a boat ride to Kampong Ayer to experience the traditional water village. End your day at Taman Peranginan Raja Isteri Park for a relaxing walk by the river.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Bandar Seri Begawan doesn’t have many night-time attractions, but the illuminated Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is stunning when lit up at night. Special cultural performances or events might be scheduled during major holidays, so it’s worth checking the local event calendar.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Bandar Seri Begawan can be relatively quiet, especially outside of public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, especially in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays can see an influx of locals and tourists, so plan your visits accordingly.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan are well-equipped with basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and food vendors. There are several shopping areas and food courts in the city center offering both local and international cuisines.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many of the city’s attractions are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and paved paths at key sites like the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and Taman Peranginan Raja Isteri Park. Some areas, like Kampong Ayer, may require more effort, especially if navigating the water village by foot.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards and mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are becoming more common, especially in shopping malls and larger restaurants. It’s always good to carry some local currency (Brunei Dollar) for smaller establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several cafes and restaurants near major attractions, including local eateries serving Brunei’s traditional dishes such as nasi lemak and ambuyat. Popular spots include the restaurants around Taman Peranginan Raja Isteri Park and eateries along the waterfront near Kampong Ayer.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Brunei offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Halal food is commonly available, and vegetarian and vegan options can be found in most local restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the staff to ensure food meets dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan, including mid-range and luxury options like the Radisson Hotel, the Brunei Hotel, and the Empire Hotel & Country Club, which offer comfortable stays close to the city’s main attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions that can be easily combined in a day trip include the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, the Brunei Museum, and the Ulu Temburong National Park. A visit to the Temburong district offers a great opportunity to experience Brunei's lush nature.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available, particularly near the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Royal Regalia Museum. Typical souvenirs include traditional handicrafts, batik fabrics, Brunei coffee, and locally made jewelry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options to continue your trip after visiting Bandar Seri Begawan are taxis, private car hire, or public buses to other parts of Brunei. The Brunei International Airport is also nearby, providing international connections.