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Top 10 Places to Visit in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei: Must-See Attractions in the Capital
Top 10 Places to Visit in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei: Must-See Attractions in the Capital
Nestled on the northern coast of Borneo, Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei Darussalam, is a city where tradition meets tranquility.
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Last Update
1 Jan 2024
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5
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1. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque – Brunei’s Golden Icon of Faith and Power
Completed in 1958, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of Southeast Asia’s most stunning Islamic landmarks. Rising above an artificial lagoon in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, this mosque was named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei and is a symbol of national identity.
Blending Mughal and Italian architectural influences, the mosque is constructed with imported white marble, golden domes, and crystal chandeliers. The main dome, covered in pure gold leaf, gleams day and night as a shining beacon visible from nearly anywhere in the city. Surrounding it, the tranquil lagoon creates dramatic mirror-like reflections, especially at sunrise and sunset.
A ceremonial barge replica sits permanently on the lagoon, representing Brunei’s royal heritage and Islamic traditions. Inside, visitors are welcomed by handwoven carpets, intricately designed walls, and one of the tallest minarets in Brunei, which doubles as a viewpoint for panoramic cityscapes.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Best Time: Late afternoon for golden hour reflections and cooler temperatures
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: Modest dress required (robes provided at the entrance for visitors); shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
Visitor Tips
• Photography: Allowed outside; limited inside (check signage)
• Tip: Visit just before Maghrib prayers to hear the beautiful call to prayer echo across the water
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Lagoon Bridge: For symmetrical reflection shots of the dome
• Opposite Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas: Full skyline view with mosque in the centre
• Minaret Base: Framed upward shots of the golden dome through the marble arches
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex: Shopping and dining with mosque views
• Taman Mahkota Jubli Emas (Golden Jubilee Park): Scenic riverside walking trails
• Kampong Ayer Jetty: Quick boat rides to the Water Village for a traditional contrast
2. Kampong Ayer – The World’s Largest Water Village
Often referred to as the "Venice of the East," Kampong Ayer is a centuries-old settlement made entirely of wooden homes and pathways over the Brunei River. With over 10,000 residents, it functions like any other town mosques, schools, shops, and even fire stations operate above the water.
A boat ride from the jetty behind Yayasan Complex whisks you into the heart of the water village. The locals are incredibly welcoming, and a self-guided walk along the interconnected footbridges reveals layers of Bruneian heritage.
The best way to understand the community is through the Kampong Ayer Cultural Gallery, a free museum that showcases the lifestyle, crafts, and resilience of the villagers.
Visit Info
• Duration: 60–90 minutes (self-guided or local tour)
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather
• Entrance Fee: Free (including boat shuttle to Kampong Ayer Cultural Gallery)
• Clothing Restrictions: No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for residents
Visitor Tips
• Access: Use the jetty near Yayasan Complex or Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
• Tip: Hire a local boat guide for personal stories and hidden corners
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Wooden footbridges: Panoramic shots of colourful houses
• Riverbanks: Wide-angle views of the village against the city skyline
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Kampong Ayer Cultural & Tourism Gallery: Free museum with exhibits on water village life
• Floating convenience stores and cafés: Try local snacks while on stilts
3. Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque – A Gift of Majesty to the People
Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque stands as a magnificent gift from Brunei’s current Sultan to his people. Located in the Gadong district, this architectural wonder is the largest mosque in Brunei and one of the most stunning in Southeast Asia. Built in 1994 to mark the 25th year of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s reign, it is a visual and spiritual centrepiece for the nation.
With 29 golden domes (each representing a ruler in Brunei’s lineage) and four towering minarets, the mosque is an awe-inspiring sight, especially when illuminated at night. During daylight, the golden domes reflect the sunlight in a spectacle of brilliance, while the interior impresses with white marble, custom-designed mosaics, golden inscriptions, and plush carpeting.
The mosque is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and fountains that mirror the symmetry and grandeur of the main structure. Many visitors are struck by the sense of calm that envelops the area, even when the mosque is bustling during prayer times.
Visit Info:
Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Best Time: Morning or dusk
Entrance Fee: Free (including shuttle boat)
Tips:
Hire a local boatman for a narrated tour
Dress modestly and bring a hat for sun protection
Hidden Gems:
Floating grocery shops and family-owned eateries
Little-known boardwalks with sweeping views of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque
4. Royal Regalia Museum – Inside the Life of a Sultan
For a deep dive into Brunei’s royal traditions and national pride, the Royal Regalia Museum is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, this museum showcases the life, achievements, and ceremonial grandeur of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.
The museum’s exterior is regal, with its sweeping dome, grand pillars, and polished marble floors. Inside, visitors are greeted by the centrepiece: a full-size replica of the Sultan’s coronation chariot, complete with gilded parasols and elaborate regalia. It’s a dramatic start to a journey through the world of monarchy.
The exhibits include ceremonial attire, thrones, royal jewellery, state gifts from world leaders, and historical records. Each piece is displayed with care, showing not only its beauty but its cultural significance. The museum also highlights the Sultan’s charitable efforts, governance, and interactions with global dignitaries.
Visit Info
• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Best Time: Mid-morning (less crowded)
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: Modest dress required (robes provided at the entrance for visitors); shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
Visitor Tips
• Photography: Not allowed inside
• Tip: Bags and phones must be stored in the provided lockers
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Exterior mosaic dome: One of the most underrated photo ops in the city
• Grand entrance steps: Framed by the Brunei crest
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Secretariat Building: Colonial-era architecture just around the corner
5. Tasek Lama Recreational Park – A Jungle Within the City
Nestled just a short walk from downtown Bandar Seri Begawan, Tasek Lama Recreational Park is a tropical escape that locals love and visitors often overlook. This urban jungle offers hiking trails, a serene reservoir, and a 15-metre-high waterfall all set against the backdrop of lush Bornean greenery.
As you enter, you’re greeted by chirping birds, shaded paths, and the distant sound of rushing water. The park is meticulously maintained, with paved trails for casual walkers and steeper jungle paths for more adventurous hikers. Keep an eye out for monitor lizards, macaques, and vibrant butterflies along the way.
The main trail loops around a manmade lake, while several offshoots lead to jungle treks like Bukit Markuching. Families often gather near the waterfall for weekend picnics, while fitness enthusiasts tackle the steep trails for a challenging workout.
Visit Info
• Duration: 60–90 minutes
• Best Time: Morning (before it gets hot)
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: Modest dress required (robes provided at the entrance for visitors); shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
Visitor Tips
• What to Bring: Water, mosquito repellent, good walking shoes
• Tip: Stay on main trails — some paths can be steep or slippery
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Waterfall: Great for slow-motion video or misty portraits
• Reservoir platform: Panoramic nature views
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Bukit Markuching Trail: Longer hikes that connect to other jungle paths
6. Istana Nurul Iman – The World’s Largest Residential Palace
Istana Nurul Iman, meaning "Palace of the Light of Faith," is the official residence of the Sultan of Brunei and the largest residential palace in the world. Nestled amid lush, rolling hills just outside Bandar Seri Begawan, this architectural marvel is a blend of Islamic and Malay design influences with opulent modern features.
Completed in 1984 and designed by Filipino architect Leandro V. Locsin, the palace has over 1,700 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a banquet hall that can seat 5,000 guests, and even its own mosque that accommodates up to 1,500 worshippers. It also houses stables for over 200 polo ponies and five swimming pools.
Although the palace is not generally open to the public, it becomes accessible during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, when the Sultan and royal family host an open house. During these few days, thousands of Bruneians and foreign guests line up to meet the royals, receive festive gifts, and tour parts of the palace.
Visit Info
• Duration: 15–30 minutes (outside viewing only unless visiting during Hari Raya)
• Best Time: Morning or late afternoon for best lighting
• Entry: Public entry is allowed only during Hari Raya (check local dates)
• Clothing Restrictions: Modest dress required (robes provided at the entrance for visitors); shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
Visitor Tips
• Tip: Combine with a boat tour to see the palace from the Brunei River
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• From Jalan Tutong viewpoint: Full view of the palace with golden domes
• Water taxi from Kampong Ayer: Unique angle of the estate
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Empire Brunei: A luxurious resort about 15 minutes away if you're continuing your royal-themed tour
7. Tamu Kianggeh – A Traditional Open-Air Market
For an authentic taste of Brunei's local life, head to Tamu Kianggeh, one of the country's oldest and most cherished traditional markets. Located along the banks of the Kianggeh River, the market is a vibrant and bustling hive of activity, especially in the early morning.
Vendors at Tamu Kianggeh offer everything from freshly harvested vegetables and fragrant herbs to handmade baskets, fish, and traditional sweets. This is where you’ll find turmeric roots still dusted with soil, pandan leaves bundled in twine, and an assortment of local snacks like kuih melayu and pulut panggang. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with many stallholders eager to explain their wares to curious travellers.
The market is popular among locals and tourists alike not just for its variety of goods but also for its rustic charm. The riverside location provides a serene backdrop for your morning wanderings, and the covered walkways ensure a comfortable experience even in hot weather.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Best Time: 7:00–9:00 AM (before it gets hot and busy)
• Entry: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for residents
Visitor Tips
• Tip: Bring cash (small notes) and try the local kuih (sweets)
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Colourful produce stalls: Perfect for lifestyle content
• Market bridge: Framing the river and shoppers in action
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Small food court inside the market: Try nasi lemak or teh tarik
8. Malay Technology Museum – Preserving Traditional Bruneian Culture
Located in Kota Batu near the Brunei River, the Malay Technology Museum offers a deep and fascinating look into Brunei’s pre-oil heritage. Opened in 1988, the museum focuses on the tools, crafts, and architectural styles of the Malays and the indigenous communities of Brunei.
Exhibits feature life-sized reconstructions of traditional water village homes and inland longhouses, complete with furnishings and artefacts. You’ll learn about boat-making, fishing methods, weaving, metalwork, and the ingenious ways people adapted to their environment.
What sets this museum apart is its hands-on appeal; many of the displays are interactive or accompanied by detailed dioramas. The exhibits are informative and well-labelled in both Malay and English, making the experience accessible to all visitors.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–45 minutes
• Best Time: Anytime (usually quiet)
• Entry: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for residents
Visitor Tips
• Tip: Read the exhibit plaques carefully — they’re highly informative
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Replica water village: Indoor photo ops with stilt houses
• Roofline against blue sky: A modern, clean architectural shot
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Brunei Energy Hub: Newly opened science and innovation museum, just a few minutes away
9. Eco-Corridor Park – Brunei’s Riverside Promenade
Eco-Corridor Park is one of the newest and most scenic public spaces in Bandar Seri Begawan. This beautifully landscaped promenade runs along the Brunei River, linking the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque with key downtown landmarks. It offers a refreshing space for walking, jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying nature in the heart of the city.
Lined with native trees, fountains, and flowering gardens, the park comes alive at dusk as the city lights reflect on the river. Locals use it for evening strolls, families bring children to play on the grass, and photographers flock here for incredible sunset shots.
Several pavilions provide shaded rest areas, and the park's lighting system ensures a safe and inviting ambience after dark. It’s one of the best places in Brunei to wind down and take in the gentle rhythm of city life.
Visit Info
• Duration: 30–60 minutes
• Best Time: Sunset (5:30–7:00 PM)
• Entry: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for residents
Visitor Tips
• Tip: Bring a tripod for twilight shots of the mosque and river
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Central lawn with mosque backdrop
• Pedestrian bridge at night: Subtle lighting and river reflections
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Riverbank performance area: Occasional cultural shows and live music
10. Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja – Innovation on the Waterfront
Set along the historic waterfront in a beautifully restored customs building, the Brunei Energy Hub Dermaga Diraja is an exciting blend of culture, science, and technology. This interactive museum explores Brunei’s past, present, and future through the lens of its energy sector.
Inside, you’ll find modern exhibitions, immersive VR experiences, and hands-on science experiments designed to engage both children and adults. The displays cover topics like the evolution of energy production, sustainable alternatives, and Brunei’s vision for environmental stewardship.
One of the museum’s highlights is its rooftop deck, which offers panoramic views of the Brunei River, Kampong Ayer, and the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. It’s a great spot to catch your breath and reflect on the journey through this dynamic nation.
Visit Info
• Duration: 45–60 minutes
• Best Time: Midday (indoor, air-conditioned)
• Entry: Free
• Clothing Restrictions: No strict dress code, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for residents
Visitor Tips
• Tip: Check for temporary exhibits and special events
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Rooftop deck: Overlooks Kampong Ayer and the mosque
• Interactive light installations: Fun for creative reels
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Royal Wharf: Cafés and street vendors along the Brunei River promenade
If you are interested in other cultural places in Malaysia, Indonesia or Japan, click on the links below:
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The Atlas Aura
Welcome to The Atlas Aura – I’m Antares, the storyteller behind the journey. Alongside my husband and our little son, we explore the world together, turning everyday moments into lasting memories. With a deep passion for uncovering hidden corners of the world, we craft cinematic travel experiences that blend culture, authenticity, and wonder.
