Bandar Seri Begawan Travel Guide

Get ready for a cultural adventure in Bandar Seri Begawan! Explore its museums, natural attractions, and local food scene in this travel guide.


Introduction to Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city of Brunei, is a small but culturally rich and diverse city nestled in Southeast Asia. This charming city is known for its pristine mosques, museums, and various outdoor adventures that visitors can enjoy.

List of Places to Visit in Bandar Seri Begawan

There are countless places that visitors can explore during their visit to Bandar Seri Begawan.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The city boasts a rich cultural history that is evident in its museums and historical places. Here are some of the must-visit places:

  • Royal Regalia Museum - Displaying the royal regalia of the Sultan of Brunei, this museum is a great place to learn about the country’s royal history.
  • Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque - One of the most impressive and serene mosques in Southeast Asia, this mosque is perfect for those interested in history and architecture.
  • Kampong Ayer - Brunei’s most famous attraction, Kampong Ayer is a water village built on stilts that has been around for over 1000 years. Visitors can take a water taxi or stroll along the boardwalk to explore the colorful houses and meet the locals.

Natural Attractions of Bandar Seri Begawan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The city has several natural attractions that visitors can explore. Among these are:

  • Tasek Lama Recreational Park - A popular spot for hiking and nature walks, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from its peak.
  • Ulu Temburong National Park - One of the few remaining pristine rainforests, Ulu Temburong National Park can be reached via a longboat ride followed by a hike through the rainforest. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, canopy walks, and even go river tubing.
  • Jerudong Park Playground - A perfect destination for families, Jerudong Park Playground has a variety of activities, including a water park, mini-golf, and a Ferris wheel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bandar Seri Begawan

For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, there are several hiking and biking routes available. The city’s lush rainforests and wetlands make it ideal for outdoor adventures. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Tasek Lama Trail - A two-mile loop trail that takes visitors through a lush rainforest with several lookout points that offer stunning views of the city.
  • Bukit Shahbandar Trail - Another popular hike, this trail is about four miles long and has several lookout points that offer stunning views of the city and the South China Sea.

Best Things to Do in Bandar Seri Begawan: Activities and Tours

Apart from sightseeing, visitors can enjoy several activities in Bandar Seri Begawan. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Proboscis Monkey River Tour - A boat ride down the Brunei river where visitors can see the unique proboscis monkeys native to Borneo.
  • Sunset River Cruise - A romantic way to take in the city’s sights, this cruise offers stunning sunset views as visitors cruise along the river.
  • Fishing with Locals - Visitors can book a tour with local fishermen to learn about the traditional methods of fishing and even get to try casting a net themselves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bandar Seri Begawan

A week-long itinerary would allow visitors to experience most of what the city has to offer. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit the Royal Regalia Museum and explore the Gadong Night Market for dinner. Day 2: Explore the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque and the Kampong Ayer water village. Day 3: Hike the Tasek Lama Trail and enjoy some local street food for lunch. Day 4: Visit the Ulu Temburong National Park for a day trip to experience rainforest trekking. Day 5: Explore the Bukit Shahbandar Trail before climbing up Bukit Patoi for a scenic view. Day 6: Explore Proboscis Monkey River and visit the Brunei Museum. Day 7: Take a sunset river cruise and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Bandar Seri Begawan

Brunei’s food scene is a mix of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences. The city has a range of street food and excellent seafood. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ambuyat - One of Brunei’s cultural delicacies, Ambuyat is a starchy food made from the sago palm.
  • Nasi Katok - Simple yet delicious, this local dish includes rice, fried chicken, and sambal sauce.
  • Soto - A soup dish made with chicken, rice noodles, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik - A sweet and creamy tea native to Southeast Asia, it is a staple drink in Brunei.
  • Sirap Bandung - A refreshing drink made with milk and rose syrup.
  • Teh C Peng - A thirst-quenching drink made with tea and a mixture of evaporated and condensed milk.

Where to Stay in Bandar Seri Begawan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bandar Seri Begawan offers a variety of lodging options, from high-end hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some accommodation options:

  • The Empire Hotel & Country Club - A five-star hotel with a private beach, multiple pools, and 18-hole golf course.
  • The Brunei Hotel - Centrally located and reasonably priced, it offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Pusat Belia Youth Hostel - A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a friendly staff.

What to Buy in Bandar Seri Begawan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bandar Seri Begawan is famous for its handicrafts and textiles. Here are some local products to bring home:

  • Tepak Sirih - A traditionally crafted container used in the Malay culture to serve betel leaf chew.
  • Tenunan Kain Songket - Traditional hand-woven fabrics made in Brunei using gold and silver threads.
  • Perayaan Batik - Hand-drawn batik fabric, which is a craft that is still practiced in Brunei.

Local Culture and Customs of Bandar Seri Begawan

Bandar Seri Begawan’s culture and customs have been deeply influenced by its Islamic history. Visitors should be aware of and respect the following:

  • Most people in Brunei are Muslim, and it is customary to dress conservatively, especially when visiting mosques.
  • Food and drink should not be consumed during Ramadan.
  • Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Brunei.

Best Time to Visit Bandar Seri Begawan

The best time to visit Bandar Seri Begawan is during the dry season, from March to October. The weather is hot and humid year-round, but rainfall is significantly lower during this time. Visitors should avoid the rainy season from November to February, as heavy rainfall may affect outdoor activities and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bandar Seri Begawan

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Bandar Seri Begawan:

Do:

  • Dress conservatively when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.
  • Wear revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety and Health

Bandar Seri Begawan is generally a safe city. However, visitors should take the following precautions to ensure their safety and health:

Safety in Bandar Seri Begawan

  • Be aware of pickpockets and avoid displaying valuables in public.
  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Always use a reputable taxi or ride-sharing service.

Health in Bandar Seri Begawan

  • Visitors should ensure that their vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Brunei.
  • Bring insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever.

Getting to Bandar Seri Begawan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Bandar Seri Begawan via several modes of transportation.

Airports Near Bandar Seri Begawan

  • Brunei International Airport is the main airport serving the city, located just 10 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Bandar Seri Begawan

  • Bandar Seri Begawan Bus Terminal is the main bus terminal in the city and is located in the Gadong area.

Other Options

  • Ferries run daily between Brunei and nearby destinations like Kota Kinabalu, Labuan Island, and Lawas.

How to Get Around in Bandar Seri Begawan

Visitors can explore the city using several modes of transportation. These include:

  • Bus - There is a well-connected bus network in Bandar Seri Begawan, and visitors can purchase bus tickets at the Bandar Seri Begawan Bus Terminal.
  • Taxi - Taxis are easily accessible in the city, and visitors can either hail them on the street or use ride-sharing apps like Grab and Uber.
  • Water Taxi - Visitors can take water taxis across the Brunei River to reach the Kampong Ayer water village.

Where to Go Next from Bandar Seri Begawan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can take short trips to nearby destinations from Bandar Seri Begawan. Some of these include:

  • Mirir Island - A small island located just off the coast of Borneo with pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
  • Labuan Island - A small island in Malaysia known for its beaches, duty-free shopping, and natural attractions.
  • Kota Kinabalu - A bustling city in Malaysia known for its delicious food and scenic views, such as Mount Kinabalu.

Conclusion

Bandar Seri Begawan is a unique destination that offers a mix of cultural and natural experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s museums and historical sites, go on a jungle trek, indulge in local delicacies, and even take a river cruise. With its friendly locals and vibrant culture, Bandar Seri Begawan is a destination worth visiting.

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. View from above Bandar Seri Begawan. View from above Bandar Seri Begawan. Boarding a water taxi Boarding a water taxi Kampong Ayer Kampong Ayer Walking through the Water Village Walking through the Water Village View from a water taxi on the way to see proboscis monkeys View from a water taxi on the way to see proboscis monkeys Durians for sale at Gadong Night Market Durians for sale at Gadong Night Market