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At Ulu Temburong National Park, visitors can:
Ulu Temburong National Park, located in eastern Brunei, covers 500 square kilometers and is covered in lush tropical rainforest. From the capital, take a water taxi, traversing winding waterways and passing dense mangroves to the small town of Banga. From there, transfer to the Temburong River and board a long motorboat upstream to enter the park.
Rafting on the Temburong River, the waves crash beneath my boat, the banks a picturesque sight. The branches leaning against the water swayed freely, often brushing against my head. Beyond the blue sky, all I could see was this vibrant, rich, and vibrant green of varying shades.
Climb the 60- meter-high Rainforest Suspension Bridge and gaze out upon the endless, dreamlike, and poetic rainforest, with its layers of mountains and misty clouds. This 60- meter-long Rainforest Suspension Bridge is the park's main attraction. While it resembles a carpenter's scaffolding, it offers breathtaking views.
Brunei is suitable for tourism all year round. From March to September, there is less rain and the climate is hot; from October to December, there is more rain but it is cooler.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
Tickets are 5 Brunei dollars, and a one- day tour with a group starts at 180 Brunei dollars
Independent tourists cannot enter the park, as they must rent a longboat to explore the park. The river boats only accept tour groups. Even if you persuade the boatman to take you at Batu Duri Pier, you'll still have to pay a hefty fee of 200 Brunei dollars.
If you are traveling here on your own, it is best to go to the Temburong Tourist Information Centre in Bangar before 9 am to apply to join a tour group for the day. The lowest price for a day trip from a travel agency is about 180 Brunei dollars.
8:00-18:00
Ulu Temburong National Park is the first national park in Brunei, established in 1991 to preserve the biodiversity of the rainforest. It is significant for its pristine ecosystem, home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to Borneo. The park serves as an important conservation area and ecotourism destination.
Ulu Temburong National Park is located in the Temburong district of Brunei, near the border with Malaysia. The park is accessible by boat from the town of Bangar, followed by a short drive to the park entrance. Visitors usually travel by car to Bangar, then take a boat ride along the river to reach the park.
The park is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from March to October, when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities like hiking and river cruises.
The entrance fee for Ulu Temburong National Park varies depending on the type of activity. For a basic entry, fees are usually around BND 10 to 20. Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance or through tour operators who arrange package tours including transportation and guides.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a few days before your visit ensures availability of guided tours and boat rides.
A full exploration of Ulu Temburong National Park can take between 4 to 8 hours, depending on the activities you choose. If you're planning a hike, canopy walk, and river cruise, a whole day would be ideal.
Must-see highlights include the canopy walk, which offers stunning views of the rainforest, and the park’s waterfalls, ideal for a refreshing swim. The Temburong River is also a key attraction for boat rides and nature watching.
Guided tours are available in English and Malay. These tours offer detailed insights into the park's flora, fauna, and conservation efforts. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it's best to opt for a guided tour.
The best viewpoints are from the canopy walk, which offers a high vantage point to photograph the rainforest and its wildlife. The riverbanks also provide excellent photography opportunities, especially at dawn and dusk when the lighting is ideal for nature photography.
The recommended route typically starts with a boat ride to the park entrance, followed by a hike through the jungle trails to the canopy walk. Afterward, you can relax at the waterfall or continue exploring the river and other trails.
There are no night visits or light shows available at Ulu Temburong National Park. However, night-time river cruises are sometimes offered, allowing visitors to experience the nocturnal wildlife of the rainforest.
The park is usually less crowded on weekdays and during the off-peak season. To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning on weekdays, particularly outside of public holidays and school vacation periods.
Basic facilities like toilets, picnic areas, and rest stops are available at the park. There are no large shops, but visitors can find water, snacks, and local food stalls near the park entrance. It's advisable to bring your own water and supplies for longer hikes.
Some parts of the park, especially the trails, may not be easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. The canopy walk involves some climbing, which can be challenging. However, the boat ride and some areas near the park entrance are more accessible for children and the elderly.
Cash is required for entry fees and purchases, as cards and mobile payments are not commonly accepted at the park. It's best to carry cash in the local currency (Brunei Dollar).
There are a few local food stalls and restaurants near the park, offering traditional Bruneian meals such as nasi lemak and grilled seafood. For more dining options, visitors can head to the town of Bangar, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available at the local food stalls and restaurants near the park, which cater to the preferences of most visitors.
There are a few basic accommodations in the nearby town of Bangar, including guesthouses and small hotels. For more luxurious options, visitors can stay in Bandar Seri Begawan, about an hour's drive from the park.
Nearby attractions include the Temburong River, which can be explored by boat, and the nearby Ulu Ulu National Park Resort, where visitors can stay and experience more outdoor activities. You can also visit the Brunei Museum and explore Bandar Seri Begawan's historical sites.
Souvenir shops are limited near Ulu Temburong National Park, but you can find small local handicrafts and souvenirs such as Bornean wood carvings, traditional textiles, and eco-friendly items in the nearby towns.
After visiting Ulu Temburong National Park, the best transportation options are by car or boat to return to Bandar Seri Begawan or other nearby areas. Public buses are also available, but they may take longer.
