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In Brunei, you can explore the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, take a boat ride through the Kampong Ayer water village, visit the Royal Regalia Museum, and experience the natural beauty of Ulu Temburong National Park. Don't miss the vibrant night markets for local foods and the opportunity to explore the traditional culture.
Brunei, also known as Brunei Darussalam, is located between the Malaysian states of Sarawak and Sabah, with a land area of only 5,765 square kilometers. This seemingly unknown small country has become one of the richest countries in the world due to oil extraction.
Despite its small size, Brunei boasts more than just tropical scenery. Beneath the glittering facade of its capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, lies the solemnity of Islamic culture. The oil-rich region of Belait is the source of this prosperity. The white sandy beaches and inland swamps of Tutong and the pristine jungles of Tengburong showcase Brunei's natural beauty. A deeper understanding of the local customs makes it easier to understand why its people enjoy such a high level of happiness.
The heartfelt love for their king and their motherland, along with their devout faith, has enriched the Brunei people, who already enjoy a comfortable life. Every passing tourist, sensing this pious tranquility, will undoubtedly be moved.
Brunei is a great place to visit year-round. March to September offers less rain and a warmer climate, while October to December brings more rainfall but cooler temperatures. National Day, February 23, and the current Sultan's birthday, July 15, both feature major celebrations, allowing visitors to join the locals in the revelry. However, be mindful of local taboos when traveling during Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar).
Brunei Water Village
The Brunei Floating Village, comprised of several traditional stilt houses scattered along the banks of the Brunei River, is the largest stilt village in the world. With over a thousand years of history, the village retains its pristine charm. Amidst the bustling city, the floating village stands alone. Strolling along the wooden paths over the water and savoring authentic Bruneian cuisine at a local home is a truly enjoyable experience.
Sultan Memorial
The Royal Family's Museum, the World's Largest Private Residence
Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
Located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is a large and unique mosque nestled beside an artificial lake and nestled amidst meticulously maintained gardens. It is a symbol of Brunei and a major tourist destination.
Ulu Temburong National Park
Brunei's first national park, located in Temburong Regency, features typical tropical rainforest vegetation. Similar to the surrounding Malaysian rainforest national parks, it is less affected by human activity, with canopy hiking and rainforest plant viewing as key attractions. Despite its vast size, the park is only accessible to tourists on a limited basis, and access is limited to guided tours. One- and two-day tours are available at major hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan.
Brunei is a small but wealthy nation located on the island of Borneo. It has a rich history, dating back to its establishment as a Sultanate in the 15th century. Brunei is known for its pristine rainforests, Islamic architecture, and its status as one of the wealthiest countries in the world due to its oil and gas reserves. The nation is a constitutional monarchy, with a Sultan who serves as both the head of state and government.
Brunei is located in Southeast Asia, on the island of Borneo. The capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, is well-connected by Brunei International Airport. Within the city, taxis are the primary mode of transport, and buses are available for intercity travel. Walking is also popular for exploring the compact city center.
The best time to visit Brunei is during the dry season, which runs from March to October. The weather is hot and humid year-round, but rainfall is lower during this period. Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with some closed on public holidays or Fridays for prayers.
Entrance fees to attractions vary. The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is free to visit, while the Royal Regalia Museum charges a small fee (around 2-5 BND). Tickets for tours and activities like visiting Ulu Temburong National Park can be purchased through tour operators or at the respective locations.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for guided tours, especially to popular spots like Ulu Temburong National Park. You can book 1-2 days in advance, depending on availability. For other attractions like the mosque and museums, booking is usually not required.
You can fully explore Brunei in about 2-3 days. A day can be dedicated to visiting the Sultan’s palace, the mosque, and the museum, while another day is perfect for exploring the nature reserves, water village, and markets.
The must-see highlights in Brunei include the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, the Royal Regalia Museum, Kampong Ayer water village, and the Ulu Temburong National Park for nature enthusiasts. The night markets in Bandar Seri Begawan offer a taste of local life and cuisine.
Guided tours are available at most of the major attractions, including the Royal Regalia Museum and Ulu Temburong National Park. Tours are typically offered in English, and some places may provide Malay-speaking guides. Audio guides are available at some sites, like the museum.
The best viewpoints in Brunei include the observation tower at the Temburong National Park, the scenic views from the Kampong Ayer water village, and the beautiful surroundings of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. The mosque is particularly stunning at night, when it is beautifully illuminated.
Start your day with a visit to the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, followed by a trip to the Royal Regalia Museum. In the afternoon, take a boat tour through the Kampong Ayer water village and enjoy a local lunch. Spend the evening at one of the local night markets or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Night visits are available at the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and offer a magical view of the illuminated mosque. While Brunei doesn't have light shows, the local night markets provide a unique evening experience with local food, crafts, and entertainment.
Brunei is generally not crowded, especially compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are the least crowded times to visit popular sites like the mosque and museums.
Most attractions in Brunei have basic facilities, including public toilets, water refill stations, and shops selling local handicrafts. Larger attractions like malls and the airport have restaurants, food courts, and rest areas.
Brunei’s major attractions are generally accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some nature areas, such as Ulu Temburong National Park, may require more physical effort due to hiking or uneven terrain, which may not be suitable for all visitors.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted in Brunei, especially in major areas like Bandar Seri Begawan. However, it's still advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or markets, particularly outside of urban areas.
In Bandar Seri Begawan, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering local Bruneian dishes like Nasi Katok and Nasi Lemak, as well as international cuisines. Some popular spots include the Tarindak D'Seni Restaurant and the food courts at The Mall.
Halal food is widely available in Brunei as it is a Muslim-majority country. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available in most restaurants, especially in urban areas, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
There are several hotels in Bandar Seri Begawan, including The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Radisson Hotel, and the Brunei Hotel, offering various levels of comfort and services. Budget options and guesthouses are also available in the city center.
Other attractions to visit include the Jerudong Park, the Royal Palace, and the Bukit Shahbandar Forest Reserve. These can easily be combined for a day trip from the city center.
Souvenir shops in Brunei offer traditional crafts, including hand-woven baskets, gold and silver jewelry, and local textiles. You can also find unique items like Brunei-themed keychains and miniature replicas of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
After visiting Brunei, you can continue your journey by taking a flight from Brunei International Airport to nearby destinations like Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or Jakarta. Alternatively, buses and taxis can take you to nearby towns in Malaysia.
