Exploring Bandar Seri Begawan: A Cultural Journey

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, is a city steeped in history and culture, with a plethora of attractions for visitors to explore. From its stunning mosques and museums to its vibrant markets and natural parks, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city.

One of the most famous landmarks in Bandar Seri Begawan is the Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, renowned for its pure gold dome and artificial lagoon. The city is also home to the Royal Regalia Museum, where visitors can learn about the Sultan's life and admire the hundreds of gold relics and jewels on display.

For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, a visit to Kampong Ayer, the world's largest floating village, is a must. With over 30,000 residents, this stilted village on the Brunei River offers a unique glimpse into traditional life, with wooden walkways connecting houses, shops, and mosques.

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the Tasek Lama Recreational Park, with its walkways, running trails, and even a waterfall. And for a taste of local cuisine, the Gadong Night Market is the perfect destination, offering grilled chicken, fish skewers, and a variety of exotic fruits.

Visit the Royal Regalia Museum

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, is home to the Royal Regalia Museum, a must-see attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the country's Sultan and the grandeur of royalty. Here's a detailed guide to help you make the most of your visit:

Location and History:

The Royal Regalia Museum is located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, just up the street from the main intersection. It was previously known as the Royal Regalia Building and was opened in 1971 as the Churchill Memorial Building. The building initially housed a memorial museum dedicated to Winston Churchill, an aquarium, Brunei's historical and cultural centre, the Fisheries Department office, and a lecture hall. In 1992, it was converted to its present state to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah's ascension to the throne.

Exhibits and Attractions:

The museum showcases a vast collection of discarded relics and monuments honouring the current Sultan of Brunei, His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah. It offers a chronological journey through the Sultan's life, including his upbringing, education, military service, marriage, travels, coronation, and subsequent rule. Here are some key exhibits to look out for:

• Coronation Regalia: The main gallery features an impressive recreation of the Sultan's coronation, showcasing the gilded chariot that carried him through the streets of the capital during his Silver Jubilee procession in 1992. You will also see the regalia and weapons carried by the royal entourage, as well as a second chariot used during the 1968 coronation.
• Royal Exhibition Gallery: This gallery displays a selection of royal regalia from the Sultan's childhood to his coronation, such as jewel-encrusted crowns, thrones, and garments. One of the highlights is the Sultan's revered silver Keris (dagger).
• Silver Jubilee Gallery: This gallery commemorates the Sultan's 25th ruling year. Here, you can view film footage and other royal regalia from the Silver Jubilee celebration.
• Constitutional History Gallery: This gallery houses important documents, photographs, films, and recordings related to the country's constitutional history.
• Gifts and Offerings: The museum also displays an array of gifts presented to the Sultan by various heads of state. These offerings range from portraits executed in semiprecious stones to gold models of oil wells and a solid silver model of Angkor Wat.
• Family Photos and Hologram: Family photos provide a glimpse into the Sultan's life, from his childhood through his military service at Sandhurst, lavish wedding, and sporty adult life. A hologram of the Sultan is also on display.

Practical Information:

Entrance to the museum is free of charge. However, all belongings, including cameras, must be left at the counter before entering. The museum is open on Saturdays to Thursdays from 9 am to 4:30 pm and on Fridays from 9 am to 11:30 am and 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Remember to remove your shoes before entering.

Explore Kampong Ayer, the world's largest floating village

Kampong Ayer, meaning 'Water Village' in Malay, is a prominent traditional settlement in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei. It is the world's largest floating village, with around 30,000 inhabitants. Here are some tips for exploring this unique place:

Getting There

Kampong Ayer is easily accessible from the waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan. You can simply walk down to the waterfront from your hotel, or take a bus or taxi to get there. Once you're at the waterfront, you can easily hail a water taxi to take you across the river to Kampong Ayer. The ride should cost around B$1 per person one way.

Exploring the Village

When you arrive in Kampong Ayer, you'll find yourself in a sprawling village built on stilts above the Brunei River. This village is like a miniature city, with wooden and concrete boardwalks connecting its various neighbourhoods. You can walk along these boardwalks to explore the village, or hop on a water taxi to get around faster.

As you wander through Kampong Ayer, you'll discover a fascinating mix of traditional houses, schools, mosques, restaurants, and shops. You'll see children in classrooms, fishermen casting their lines from verandas, and speedboats carrying passengers and even the local police and fire brigade. Despite its traditional appearance, the village has modern amenities like electricity, running water, and Wi-Fi.

Learning the History

Kampong Ayer has a long and fascinating history, dating back over a thousand years. According to ancient records, the Bajau Sea Nomads first built houses above the Brunei River. Over time, this grew into a series of interconnected villages, becoming the centre of the Bruneian Empire by the time the Europeans arrived.

During the British colonial period in the 19th century, residents of Kampong Ayer were encouraged to move onto land, and many did so. However, even today, a substantial number of people continue to call this floating village home, keeping the ancient customs and traditions of the former Bruneian Empire alive.

Visiting Attractions

While exploring Kampong Ayer, there are a few specific attractions you won't want to miss:

• Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery: This gallery, inaugurated by the Crown Prince, showcases artefacts, relics, photos, and explanations of village traditions. It also has a lookout tower that offers fantastic views of the stilt villages.
• DPMM Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Mosque: A beautiful green and gold-domed mosque on the estuary perimeter with incredible views from the water.
• Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Bridge: A cable-stayed bridge connecting the City Centre and Sungai Kebun.

Stroll along the waterfront

Bandar Seri Begawan's waterfront is a great place to stroll along, especially if you're visiting the nearby Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque. Stretching for a few hundred metres, the waterfront offers the best views of Kampong Ayer, the world's largest floating village.

Head to the tourist information office for a map and further recommendations. They suggest visiting in the early evening and enjoying a coffee or meal at one of the many riverside restaurants.

The waterfront is also a great place to watch the sunset, and there are outdoor cafes offering a variety of dishes.

Take a boat tour of the Brunei River

Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, is a great place to visit for those who want to experience the unique culture and natural beauty of this small, oil-rich Muslim country. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a boat tour of the Brunei River, which will allow you to see the sights, experience local life, and spot wildlife.

The Boat Tour Experience

There are several boat tours available, ranging from one to four hours, with some offering refreshments, meals, and entertainment. The boats tend to stick to the middle of the river and provide a slow cruise, making it a relaxing way to take in the sights. You can opt to sit inside the boat in air-conditioned comfort or head to the upper deck for better photo opportunities.

What You'll See

On your journey, you'll pass by the massive new Temburong bridge, the Sultan's palace, and the downtown area, including mosques and other landmarks. You'll also get to see the famous Kampong Ayer, the world's largest floating village, with over 30,000 residents. This stilted village, with its network of wooden walkways and boats connecting houses, shops, and mosques, is a must-see attraction in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Wildlife Spotting

As you sail along the river, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. You may spot proboscis monkeys, unique to Borneo, as well as freshwater crocodiles, monitor lizards, hornbills, and other bird species.

Tour Options

Boat tours can be booked online or through local tour operators. Some tours include a visit to the water village, where you can experience local hospitality and enjoy a meal of local snacks and drinks. If you're looking for a longer excursion, there are also full-day tours that combine a river cruise with a city tour of Bandar Seri Begawan.

Visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is one of the most famous monuments in Brunei and is easily the country's most photogenic site. The mosque, named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei, was completed in 1958 and is recognisable for its gold-covered dome. It is situated in the middle of a man-made lagoon with a ceremonial stone barge.

The mosque's design was heavily influenced by Mughal architecture in India. It features Italian marble walls, English chandeliers, Saudi Arabian rugs, and a dome covered in gold leaf. The design also incorporates local touches, such as rope-like pillars that recall the Brunei "kalat" (a thick rope) and a replica of a 16th-century royal barge on the reflecting pool outside.

The mosque is open to non-Muslims on Monday to Wednesday and Saturday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:00 noon, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, and 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm, and on Thursdays from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Visitors are required to observe silence, remove their shoes, and wear robes provided by the mosque. Photography is not allowed during prayer times, and flash photography is prohibited at all times.

The mosque is illuminated in the evenings, making it a spectacular sight. It is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible, with the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Pedestrian Bridge offering a great view of the mosque, the Kampong Ayer, and the city itself.

Frequently asked questions