BEST Things To Do In Brunei & Places Of Interest

Brunei isn’t exactly the most talked about tourist destination in South East Asia. Despite boasting a rich cultural heritage influenced by Malay, Islamic, and indigenous traditions, it tends to be overshadowed by its famous neighbours. Much of this can be attributed to Brunei’s history as a tourist destination being relatively recent, starting in the late 20th century.

During this time, Brunei began to focus more on developing its tourism industry as a means of diversifying its economy, which was heavily reliant on oil and gas revenue. Many challenges have posed obstacles to its tourism growth, but Brunei’s rich cultural heritage, pristine natural landscapes and traditions attract travelers seeking a unique experience.

Places To Visit In Brunei: Attractions & Activities

Brunei offers a wide variety of attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and progress as a modern nation. Despite its size, the country offers a little bit of everything, meaning you can always something that will suit your tastes as a traveler.

Bandar Seri Begawan

Brunei’s capital city is an easy must visit for any tourist in Brunei. The city has a rich history dating back to the 14th century when it was established as a trading post and settlement by Brunei’s first sultan, Sultan Muhammad Shah. Over the centuries, Bandar Seri Begawan grew in importance as a center of commerce, tourism and governance. Now, it’s home to some of Brunei’s finest attractions.

Billionth Barrel Monument

The Billionth Barrel Monument commemorates a significant milestone in Brunei’s oil and gas industry—the production of the billionth barrel of crude oil from the country’s oil fields. The Billionth Barrel Monument is a towering structure that resembles an oil derrick, with a golden-colored barrel at the top. Tourists often visit the monument to take photographs and appreciate the significance of the milestone it represents.

Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

This iconic mosque is one of Brunei’s most beautiful architectural landmarks, known for its gleaming golden dome and elegant design. Situated in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the mosque floats on an artificial lagoon, creating a stunning reflection in the water. The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque holds significant cultural and religious importance for the people of Brunei.

Kampong Ayer

Easily one of Brunei’s most iconic landmarks, Kampong Ayer is a floating water settlement, with a history dating back over 1000 years. It was once the economic and political center of Brunei. With its unique stilt houses connected by bridges above the water, adorned with intricate carvings and colourful facades, it’s a memorable locale with a wonderful community.

Royal Regalia Museum

The Royal Regalia Museum was established to honor the legacy of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, and to preserve the royal regalia and artifacts associated with the monarchy. Highlights of the collection include the royal crown, ceremonial swords, shields, gold and silver ceremonial armor, intricately embroidered textiles, and royal chariots.

Cultural Highlights in Brunei

The culture of Brunei is surprisingly rich for a country that’s so modern. Between its monuments to success and historical locales, many places in Brunei allow you to immerse yourself in its history. If you’re a big fan of learning about a country’s roots, then these attractions will be right up your alley!

Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman is one of the largest residential palaces in the world, covering an area of approximately 200,000 square meters (2.15 million square feet). It holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest palace still in use by a reigning monarch. One of the palace’s most notable events is the annual Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House, held to celebrate the end of Ramadan.

Temburong District

Venture to the Temburong District, located in eastern Brunei, to discover its pristine rainforests, scenic waterways, and indigenous villages. This exclave is isolated, typically requiring boat travel, but it’s well worth it. Explore the local communities, Bangar Town and traditional longhouse villages to learn about the culture and way of life of the local indigenous communities.

Tutong District

The Tutong District is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes coastal areas, river valleys, and forested hills. The district is rich in cultural heritage, with historical landmarks, traditional villages, and indigenous communities. Visitors can explore local markets, mosques, and temples to learn about Bruneian culture and way of life.

Best Nature-based Attractions in Brunei

Brunei is home to diverse ecosystems, including dense rainforests, mangrove swamps, and coral reefs. For fans of eco-adventures or simple recreational activities, Brunei has a surprising amount to offer. Take your time and explore these natural attractions, carefully maintained and preserved throughout the years.

Ulu Temburong National Park

Ulu Temburong National Park is a pristine rainforest reserve located in the Temburong district. It’s an ecotourism gem, only accessible by boat from Bandar Seri Begawan. The rainforest canopy is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna, including towering dipterocarp trees, proboscis monkeys, hornbills, sun bears, and pygmy elephants. Walk on its canopy walkway, suspended high above the forest floor!

Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Tasek Lama Recreational Park, also known as Taman Rekreasi Tasek Lama, is a popular urban park. Despite its proximity to the city, Tasek Lama offers visitors a serene and natural setting characterized by dense rainforest vegetation, scenic walking trails, and a pristine lake. The park is a haven for nature lovers, providing opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and outdoor activities.

Best Marketplaces in Brunei

Brunei, like any other Asian country, has a rich market culture. At markets in Brunei, you’ll find handicrafts, traditional goods, local specialties and plenty more, all for fairly reasonable prices. You’re missing out if you don’t visit Brunei’s many markets during your stay!

Kianggeh Market

Kianggeh Market, also known as Tamu Kianggeh, is one of the oldest and most vibrant traditional markets in Brunei. Over the years, it has evolved into a bustling marketplace where vendors gather to sell local produce, handicrafts, and more. Kianggeh Market operates daily, with the busiest days typically being Friday and Sunday.

Gadong Night Market

The Gadong Night Market is one of Brunei’s most popular evening destinations for locals and tourists alike. The market is most lively after sunset when vendors set up their stalls and the atmosphere becomes vibrant with lights, music, and the aroma of delicious food. On top of food, clothes, local crafts and electronics, you can also find more memorable mementos and live music performances here.

Religious Landmarks in Brunei

The growth and advancements of Brunei are intrinsically tied to its religious growth. Much of Bruneian culture goes back to its ties to religion, and this becomes apparent the more time you spend there. If you’d like to experience the more spiritual side of Brunei, these are the landmarks you’ll want to visit.

Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque

The Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque, also known as the Jame’ Asr Mosque, is another one of Brunei’s architectural masterpieces. Designed by the Filipino architect Leandro V. Locsin, the Jame’ Asr Mosque showcases a blend of modern and Islamic architectural elements. The mosque’s design features a striking golden dome, towering minarets, and intricately decorated facades adorned with Islamic geometric patterns and calligraphy.

Teng Yun Temple

Teng Yun Temple is one of Brunei’s most prominent Chinese temples. The temple showcases traditional Chinese architectural elements, including colorful roof tiles, intricate wood carvings, and ornate decorations. Visitors to Teng Yun Temple can expect a serene and contemplative atmosphere where they can learn about Buddhist and Taoist religious and cultural practices.

Ash-Shaliheen Mosque

The Ash-Shaliheen Mosque is a relatively new landmark in Brunei. Featuring Moroccan influences thanks to Egyptian architect Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil. It serves as a place of religious practice for locals, being able to seat up to 1000 people. The highlight of the architectural design is its retractable glass roof, a stunning invention that can keep people dry from rain or allow some sun and wind in when needed.

Other Fun Attractions in Brunei

Looking for more fun activities to do in Brunei? These attractions offer a different type of vibe and experience from the typical, more laid-back Brunei landmarks. If you’re a big fan of more thrilling or fun experiences when you’re on vacation, you can check these out!

Jerudong Park Playground

Jerudong Park Playground, also known simply as Jerudong Park, is a popular amusement park. Jerudong Park is set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, lush greenery, and scenic walkways, leading to its many thrill rides. The park’s attractions include thrilling roller coasters, water rides, bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and various kiddie rides. On certain days, they also host live performances in the park.

Pantai Seri Kenangan

Pantai Seri Kenangan is a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its pristine beaches, scenic vistas, and recreational opportunities. The beach is equipped with picnic facilities, including shaded areas, picnic tables, and barbecue pits, making it an ideal spot for family outings, gatherings, and social events. Visitors can bring their own food and beverages or purchase refreshments from nearby vendors.

Best Food You Need to Try in Brunei

Brunei’s small stature and relative closeness to other countries means it takes a lot of influence from other countries for its cuisine. Many of its best dishes will seem familiar to those of you who have been to East Malaysia, but with a unique spin. If you’re planning to visit Brunei, then don’t forget to try some of these local specialties you won’t find anywhere else.

1. Ambuyat

Considered Brunei’s national dish, ambuyat is a starchy delicacy made from the interior trunk of the sago palm. It is typically served with a variety of savory dipping sauces, such as belacan (shrimp paste), chili, and sour fruit sauces.

2. Kelupis

Kelupis is a traditional Bruneian delicacy made from glutinous rice that is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or boiled.

3. Nasi Katok

This popular street food consists of plain rice served with fried chicken, sambal, and cucumber slices. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that is widely available from roadside stalls throughout Brunei.

4. Tutong Kolo Mee

Originating from the Tutong District, kolo mee is a type of dry noodle dish typically made with thin egg noodles, tossed in a savory sauce and topped with slices of char siu, minced pork, and green onions.

5. Nasi Lemak

Although it’s more commonly associated with Malaysian cuisine, nasi lemak is also enjoyed in Brunei. This fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk is typically served with fried anchovies, peanuts, hard-boiled eggs, cucumber slices, and sambal.

6. Pulut Panggang

Pulut panggang are grilled glutinous rice cakes filled with a savory mixture of spiced shrimp or chicken wrapped in banana leaves. They are a popular snack or appetizer in Brunei and are often sold at local markets.

When is the Best Time to Visit Brunei?

The dry period between January to May typically experiences less rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit Brunei. It makes it easier to plan for outdoor activities such as exploring nature reserves, visiting cultural sites, and enjoying water sports along the coast. The weather is generally warm and sunny during this time as well, though you’ll want to bring a water bottle to avoid dehydration.

How Many Days Do You Need In Brunei?

If you’re primarily interested in visiting the main attractions in Bandar Seri Begawan, such as the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Royal Regalia Museum, and Kampong Ayer, you can cover these sites in 1 to 2 days. If you’re looking to experience Brunei’s more niche offerings, you could extend that to 3 days. If you want to take your time exploring Brunei however, we recommend a 5 day stay.

Where to Stay in Brunei?

Brunei, due to its sheer size being smaller than most countries, doesn’t have as many hotels to offer. This doesn’t apply to the quality of the hotels however, as they’re mostly excellent quality, even at lower price brackets. We’ve got some recommendations below, though always check reviews before you book a hotel.

• The Empire Brunei – High-end 5-star hotel with all the bells and whistles available.
• Radisson Hotel Brunei – Good 4-star hotel with most amenities you could want.
• Kunyit 7 Lodge – Quaint bed and breakfast, offering a great experience at a lower price.
• The Capital Residence Suite – Comfortable and affordable 3-star hotel.
• The Lanes Hotel – The sole 3-star hotel in Tutong.
• CoLiving Hostel Menglait – A hostel for travelers on a budget.

How Do You Get Around in Brunei?

Getting around in Brunei is relatively easy. Getting a rental car is probably the easiest way to get around, considering you can take things at your own pace and the roads aren’t all too busy. E-hailing, taxis and public buses are all also readily available at a moment’s notice. As long as you’re willing to travel, most places in Brunei are fairly easy to get to with minimal work.

Brunei Wrap-Up

Brunei Darussalam offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic Southeast Asian experience. It carries with it an incredibly different vibe from anywhere else in Southeast Asia, hence why it’s been growing as an underrated tourist destination.