Bangar Travel Guide (Brunei/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bangar

Located in the Temburong District of Brunei, Bangar is a small town situated on the banks of the Temburong River. Surrounded by lush rainforests and towering mountains, Bangar serves as a gateway to Ulu Temburong National Park, one of the most biodiverse regions in Southeast Asia. Despite being a small town, Bangar has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Bangar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Peradayan Forest Reserve: A popular spot for nature lovers, Peradayan Forest Reserve is located just a few kilometers from Bangar. The reserve is home to various species of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and hornbills. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve and learn about the indigenous people who used to live here.
Temburong History Centre: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Temburong District. Visitors can learn about the tribes that once lived here, the colonial era, and the modernization of Brunei. The museum also has interactive exhibits and artifacts on display.
Bangar Town Mosque: One of the oldest mosques in Brunei, the Bangar Town Mosque has an intricate design and architecture. The mosque is located in the heart of the town and is open to visitors of all religions.

Natural Attractions of Bangar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ulu Temburong National Park: A must-visit destination for nature lovers, Ulu Temburong National Park is an untouched rainforest that is home to unique flora and fauna species. Visitors can experience treetop walks, river cruises, and guided hikes in the park.
Bukit Patoi Reserve: A well-preserved area and a popular location for hiking, the Bukit Patoi Reserve has an extensive hiking trail network that offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains, rainforests, and rivers.
Labu Forest Reserve: This reserve has a canopy walkway that allows visitors to experience the rainforest from a bird’s-eye view. The reserve is also home to various species of wildlife, including hornbills, macaques, and squirrels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bangar

Temuai Trail: This trail takes hikers through the rainforests of Ulu Temburong National Park and leads to a viewpoint that provides scenic views of the surrounding area.
Bukit Sarang Helang Trail: A popular hiking trail that leads to the Bukit Sarang Helang peak, which is at an elevation of 424 meters. Visitors can witness the sunrise from the peak and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.
Tubai Trail: A peaceful hiking trail that leads through the rainforest up to a waterfall. The trail is relatively short, making it perfect for beginners.

Best Things to Do in Bangar: Activities and Tours

River Cruise: Visitors can take a boat ride down the Temburong River and explore the mangrove forests that line the riverbanks.
Canopy Walkway: Experience the rainforest from a unique perspective by walking on a canopy walkway that extends over the treetops.
Cultural Village Tour: Learn about the lifestyle, customs, and traditions of the indigenous people of Brunei by taking a guided tour of a cultural village.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bangar

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit the Temburong History Centre and Peradayan Forest Reserve
Day 2	Take a river cruise and walk on the canopy walkway
Day 3	Hike the Bukit Sarang Helang trail
Day 4	Visit the Labu Forest Reserve and take a guided hike
Day 5	Explore Ulu Temburong National Park and take a treetop walk
Day 6	Learn about the local culture by taking a tour of a cultural village
Day 7	Relax in Bangar and sample the local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Bangar

Must-Try Dishes

Ambuyat: A traditional Bruneian dish made from sago palm starch, eaten with a side of fish or meat.
Nasi Katok: A flavorful dish of rice, fried chicken, and sambal sauce, a chili-based condiment.
Ketupat: A dish made from rice that has been wrapped in coconut leaves and steamed.
Laksa: A spicy noodle soup that is a popular breakfast dish in Brunei.

Local Beverages

Teh Tarik: A hot tea that is a signature drink in Brunei. The tea is mixed with condensed milk and sugar, creating a rich and creamy flavor.
Bandung: A refreshing drink made from condensed milk and rose syrup.
Kopi O: A strong black coffee that is a popular drink in Brunei.

Where to Stay in Bangar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pondok Sari Wangi: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Bangar. The rooms are comfortable and clean, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Rainforest Lodge: A cozy lodge located near the river, offering scenic views of the surrounding rainforests. The lodge has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.
Ulu Ulu Resort: A luxury resort located in the heart of Ulu Temburong National Park. The resort offers various outdoor activities, including river cruises, guided hikes, and treetop walks.

What to Buy in Bangar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Silverware: Brunei is known for its handmade silverware such as intricate bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. They make great souvenirs.
Traditional Fabrics: Hand-woven fabrics made from cotton or silk are found in local markets and are great for making clothing or decorative pieces.
Local Handicrafts: Shops in Bangar sell various wooden puzzles, decorative carvings, and baskets made from rattan, bamboo, or palm leaves.

Local Culture and Customs of Bangar

Respect the Religion: Brunei is an Islamic country, and you should take care not to offend Muslim customs and beliefs.
Dress Modestly: Brunei has a dress code that encourages modesty, particularly for women. Visitors should dress accordingly and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Remove Shoes: In Brunei, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.
Learn Common Phrases: Learn some common phrases in Malay, the official language in Brunei, to show respect towards the locals.

Best Time to Visit Bangar

The best time to visit Bangar is between January to March or July to September when the weather is drier, making outdoor adventures more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bangar

Do:

Respect Local Customs and Traditions: In general, Bruneians are friendly and hospitable people. Indulge in local customs, and try to blend in as much as possible.
Carry Cash: Although most establishments accept credit cards, it is a good idea to carry cash as some places may not accept credit cards.
Pack Lightweight Clothing and Sun Protection: Brunei can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight clothing and sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Don’t:

Drink Alcohol in Public: It is illegal to consume alcohol in public areas in Brunei.
Engage in Physical Intimacy: Kissing or hugging in public is considered indecent and could offend the locals.
Litter: Brunei has strict laws against littering, and offenders could face heavy fines or even imprisonment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bangar

Brunei is a safe country with low levels of crime. However, visitors should still exercise common sense and take necessary precautions such as keeping personal belongings secure and avoiding wandering around alone at night.

Health in Bangar

Brunei is a developed country with adequate health facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses. Visitors should also take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.

Getting to Bangar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bangar

Brunei International Airport is the main international gateway and is located approximately 25km from the town of Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. From there, visitors can take a taxi, bus or a private transfer to Bangar.

Bus Stations Near Bangar

Taking a bus is an affordable option for those traveling on a budget. Buses to Bangar depart from Bangar’s central bus station and other major cities throughout Brunei.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a private car, book a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to reach Bangar.

How to Get Around in Bangar

Walking and cycling are the best ways to explore Bangar. Visitors can rent bicycles from hotels or guesthouses, and the town is small enough to cover by foot. Taxis are also available to take visitors to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Bangar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bandar Seri Begawan: The capital city of Brunei is only a short ride away from Bangar and has many cultural attractions, shopping centers, and delicious food options.
Kampong Ayer: Also known as the Venice of the East, the 500-year-old village is built entirely on water and is a unique cultural site to visit.
Labuan Island: A neighboring island accessible by ferry, Labuan Island is a duty-free zone with white sandy beaches, scuba diving, and snorkeling experiences available.

Conclusion

Bangar is a hidden gem for those looking to explore the untouched natural beauty and history of Brunei. With its diverse range of cultural attractions, scenic hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, it offers a unique travel experience that caters to all. By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most out of their trip to Bangar and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Bangar Image Gallery

Shops at Kompleks Utama Bumiputra Temburong