10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Brunei (The Nation of Brunei, Abode of Peace)

Have you ever heard of Brunei? Officially known as "Brunei Darussalam" (meaning "The Abode of Eternal Peace"), this Southeast Asian nation is located in the northern part of Borneo Island. It is bordered by Malaysia on three sides, with the northern side facing the sea.

Rich in natural resources, Brunei enjoys a high standard of living and excellent public safety, making it an easy country to travel to. In this guide, we will introduce 10 carefully selected must-visit attractions in Brunei, a captivating country where you can enjoy Malay and Islamic culture as well as nature.

What kind of country is Brunei (Brunei Darussalam)? Where is it located?

Located in the northern part of Borneo Island (also known as Kalimantan), Brunei Darussalam is a small yet remarkable nation. Officially a constitutional monarchy, it is led by a Sultan who also serves as the country’s head of state.
The capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan, reflects the country’s ethos as “The Abode of Peace,” with its serene atmosphere and warm, hospitable people known for their friendly disposition toward tourists.
Blessed with rich natural resources, particularly oil, Brunei boasts a high standard of living. Citizens enjoy free education and healthcare, and the Sultan, recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals globally, has funded numerous grand structures in and around the capital. Brunei is also a deeply religious Islamic nation, characterized by its many stunning mosques that grace the urban landscape.

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1. Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque (Old Mosque)

This royal mosque, located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, stands as one of Brunei’s most famous landmarks and top attractions. Known locally as the “Old Mosque,” it was commissioned in 1958 by the 28th Sultan.

The mosque’s design is a masterpiece, with materials sourced globally from Italy, the UK, China, Turkey, Belgium, and Saudi Arabia, creating an unparalleled grandeur. On sunny days, the mosque’s reflection on the adjacent water enhances its enchanting beauty.

Though its exterior exudes a medieval charm, the mosque features modern amenities like elevators. Visitors are welcome during designated hours, but modest attire is mandatory. Women should avoid sleeveless tops or shorts; alternatively, robes can be borrowed at the entrance.

The mosque’s allure transforms at night when its lights create a magical, illuminated display. To fully appreciate its charm, visit both during the day and at night.

2. Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque (New Mosque)

Another famous mosque in Brunei is the Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque. Completed in 1994, it is one of the must-visit attractions in Brunei.

Rivaling the Old Mosque, its exterior is lavishly decorated with gold and marble, a building that symbolizes Brunei's wealth. Built by the current Sultan, it is referred to as the New Mosque in contrast to the Old Mosque. The interior is as luxurious as the exterior, so make sure to visit during non-prayer times to explore its grandeur.

The floors and stairs are made of marble. The mosque features two prayer halls: the main prayer hall and a secondary prayer hall, which is exclusively for women.

The Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is also illuminated at night, making it a sightseeing spot worth visiting in the evening, along with the Old Mosque.

3. Kampong Ayer

Located on the Brunei River, south of the capital Bandar Seri Begawan, is Kampong Ayer, one of the world's largest water villages with a population of about 40,000 people. Infrastructure such as electricity, water supply, satellite TV, and internet is available, and even air conditioning ensures a comfortable living environment.

Comprising 42 small villages connected over approximately 30 kilometers, the area has more than 4,200 structures, including schools, police stations, hospitals, public facilities, shops, mosques, and even gas stations.

The water taxi is a convenient means of transportation. You can travel from central Bandar Seri Begawan to one of the many piers in Kampong Ayer. Both locals and tourists use these taxis, which can also be chartered to explore the highlights of the village. This iconic water village of Brunei is a must-see destination for up-close exploration.

4. Royal Regalia

The Royal Regalia is a royal museum showcasing the treasures of the Brunei royal family. The exhibits include photographs and attire of past monarchs, tributes to the king, gifts from foreign dignitaries, wedding celebration items, and other luxurious displays. Additionally, the museum covers various topics such as Brunei's history, culture, industry, energy resources like oil and natural gas, and the country's flora and fauna.

The interior is air-conditioned and very comfortable. As admission is free, it’s a great place to take a break from the heat. The museum also features one of the few souvenir shops in Brunei, making it an excellent spot for selecting gifts.

5. Malay Technology Museum

This museum showcases aspects of ancient craftsmanship in the Brunei region, including not only shipbuilding and fishing but also metalworking and alchemy. The exhibits are divided into three categories:

▶ Structures of Water Villages:

Displays the architectural structures of Kampong Ayer (water villages) from the late 19th to mid-20th century.

▶ Technology in Water Villages:

Highlights the artisanal skills, domestic industrial products, shipbuilding techniques, and craftsmanship such as roof-making, silver forging, casting, and sewing developed in Kampong Ayer.

▶ Inland Traditional Techniques:

Showcases the unique techniques of inland tribes like the Kedayan, Dusun, and Murut, along with Punan huts. It also features handcrafted products made from sago palms and brown sugar.

This museum is perfect for learning about the lifestyle and history of the Bruneian people.

6. Tamu Kianggeh (Kianggeh Market)

Tamu Kianggeh is a morning market held in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital city. Commonly referred to as "Kianggeh Market," it opens as early as 5 AM. While the number of open shops decreases in the afternoon, some remain open until the evening. On weekends from Friday to Sunday, the number of stalls and visitors increases significantly, making it a lively morning market.

The market offers a wide variety of goods, including vegetables, traditional baked sweets, dried small fish, and fresh seafood. Besides food, you’ll find pets like cats, small birds, hamsters, and even reptiles for sale. It's considered the kitchen for locals, with plenty of packed meals and freshly fried food you can enjoy on the spot. Many sweets are sold in sealed packages, ensuring hygiene and safety. Traditional handicrafts are also widely available. If you're in Brunei, make an effort to wake up early and pay a visit.

7. Gadong Night Market

The Gadong Night Market is a night market held near a shopping mall in the Gadong area. It becomes bustling around 5 PM when the heat of the day subsides.

The market primarily sells food, from main dishes to sweets, making it a kitchen for the locals. Affordable prepared meals are widely available, offering a chance to savor Brunei's street food and local delicacies. Compared to stalls in other Southeast Asian countries, the market is more hygienic, and there’s less aggressive salesmanship, allowing for a comfortable shopping experience.

The food selection mainly includes Malay cuisine, with freshly grilled satay (skewered meat) cooked on-site. You can choose from chicken, beef, or lamb, as pork is generally unavailable in this predominantly Muslim country. Freshly made coconut and sugarcane juice are also popular options. It’s one of Brunei’s top food spots.

8. Jerudong Park

Jerudong Park is an amusement park located in Jerudong, Brunei-Muara District. Built to commemorate the current Sultan's 48th birthday, it is said to be the most expensive amusement park in Southeast Asia, with a construction cost of 1 billion Brunei dollars. Its expansive and lavish grounds reflect the wealth of Brunei, even hosting a free Michael Jackson concert in the past.

Although it is situated away from the center of Bandar Seri Begawan, it is accessible via a direct bus route that takes about 30 minutes. The park operates only in the evenings and late at night, so be aware that it is not open in the morning or afternoon.

9. Yayasan Complex

Located in Brunei’s capital, Bandar Seri Begawan, Yayasan Complex is a large shopping mall. The interior is well-cooled, with a fountain on the first floor serving as a popular relaxation spot for locals.

The basement level houses a supermarket, while the second floor features a food court offering various dining options. You’ll find stores selling luxury brands and cosmetics, as well as affordable fast-food outlets.

Although not designed specifically for tourists, the mall primarily sells daily necessities, giving visitors a glimpse into the daily life of Brunei’s residents. Additionally, depending on the date, local stalls selling souvenirs and unique Brunei goods may pop up inside, making it a good spot for souvenir shopping.

10. Istana Nurul Iman

Istana Nurul Iman, the private residence of the Sultan of Brunei, is renowned as one of the largest palaces in the world. It was constructed in 1984 to commemorate Brunei’s independence, at a total cost of $400 million.

Inside the palace, there are 1,788 rooms, 257 bathrooms, a reception hall that can accommodate 5,000 guests, and a mosque with a capacity of 1,500 people. Since the Sultan also serves as the Prime Minister and holds most governmental roles in Brunei, the palace is equipped with various functions to handle all state affairs.

As it is the Sultan's private residence, the interior is not open for public viewing. However, even just viewing the exterior offers a sense of its grandeur and luxury. Exceptionally, during the three days following Ramadan, both locals and tourists are allowed to enter the palace and enjoy a lavish feast.

◎ Summary of Recommended Tourist Spots in Brunei Darussalam

While Brunei may be a smaller and lesser-known destination compared to its Southeast Asian neighbors, it has plenty of attractions. With good security and hygiene, and fewer instances of touts or scams, Brunei is one of the destinations where you can travel with peace of mind.

Reaching Brunei is quick and convenient. Make sure to take a vacation or holiday to visit Brunei sometime!

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10 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Brunei (The Nation of Brunei, Abode of Peace)