Planning a trip to Southeast Asia? It’s quite common for Brunei to be overlooked as a destination. This small nation, though tiny in size (larger than only Nauru and Tuvalu), has plenty to offer and can easily keep you engaged for two to three days!
Brunei, also known as Brunei Darussalam or “The Abode of Peace” in Malay, is unique in that it consists of two distinct regions and is entirely surrounded by Malaysia and the South China Sea. Unlike the Indonesian or Malaysian regions on Borneo, such as Kalimantan or Sarawak and Sabah (home to Mount Kinabalu), Brunei is the only nation located entirely on the island of Borneo.
If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Brunei, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of fantastic activities to make your Brunei visit memorable.
Exploring the Enchanting Kampong Ayer.
The largest hamlet on stilts in the world is called Kampong Ayer, which translates to “water village” in the local language. It consists of about 40 distinct villages connected by 38 kilometres of stilted walkways, all of which are located in the main city (Bandar Seri Begawan). Even its own fire station, markets, schools, mosques, and sports facilities can be found in Kampong Ayer.
Witness the unusual water settlement Kampong Ayer, which spans along the Brunei River, for its alluring charm. Travel around the many wooden stilt dwellings, where inhabitants still live, by boat. Spend some time in the peaceful environment, explore the traditional Brunei Malay homes, strike up a chat with a local, or indulge in genuine Bruneian food at waterfront eateries.
Embarking on a Rainforest Trek in Ulu Temburong National Park
Enter Ulu Temburong National Park’s magnificent environment to satisfy your urge for adventure. Start with a thrilling speedboat ride, then take a longboat down the Temburong River’s rapids. After entering the park, take a thrilling canopy walk to admire the beautiful panoramic views of the rainforest as you ascend the tall trees. Swim in cascading waterfalls for a challenge and keep a look out for indigenous plants and animals.
Get a stunning 360-degree panorama by climbing the steel buildings, and conquer your fear of heights by crossing the five connected towers. It is strongly advised to begin the climb around dawn or twilight to take in the breathtaking, peaceful sights and sounds from the canopy walkways of the world’s tallest and oldest jungles and to appreciate the majestic magnificence of the Bruneian jungle.
Sightseeing at the Royal Regalia Museum
Engulf yourself in the rich heritage of Brunei by visiting the Royal Regalia Museum located in Bandar Seri Begawan. The Sultanate’s artifacts and regalia are kept in the Royal Regalia Museum. This museum is adorned with the splendor of Brunei’s past, including golden chariots, archaic symbolic weapons and shields, displays of His Majesty’s Silver and Golden Jubilee celebrations, and elaborate artifacts from historical Brunei.
Explore the lavish exhibits of royal memorabilia, coronation regalia, and exquisitely made presents as you delve into the life of Brunei’s current Sultan. You may learn a great deal about Brunei’s monarchy, culture, and history by visiting the museum.
Visit Tasek Lama Recreational Park
Tasek Lama Recreational Park in Bandar Seri Begawan is a nicely designed park with a lake and a natural waterfall that provide the city’s drinking water. It also goes by the name “Waterfall Park,” and it contains a picnic area, an observation tower, and jungle trails.
In the middle of the city, the Tasek Lama Park is a rainforest paradise where frequent joggers and walkers congregate. A large variety of flora and animals, including cheeky macaque monkeys and intriguing flowers, are readily seen in the park.
Tasek Lama is the place to go if you need some stress reduction. Numerous walking and hiking pathways with varying degrees of difficulty are available here, making them perfect for joggers and hikers. For intrepid travellers, load up your hiking supplies and explore the Bukit Markuching or Sarang Helang (Eagle’s Nest) jungle routes. You can get a lovely aerial view of the park from the viewing tower.
Visit the Empire Brunei Hotel
The Empire Brunei, one of the few 7-star hotels in the world, is a prime example of this. The trek from Bandar Seri Begawan is really worthwhile and is free to visit during the day. Enjoy the interior’s intricate architecture or unwind on the beachfront grounds, which includes a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. One of Brunei’s most beautiful sunsets over the South China Sea may be seen from the coastline walking route.
A theatre, five swimming pools, squash and tennis courts, bowling alleys, a magnificent reception hall, and a private beach are all on the site. The hotel’s 18-hole golf course, known as the Empire Country Club, was created by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus and is recognised as one of Asia’s top courses.
You don’t get the chance to enter a seven-star luxury hotel for free every day. The Empire Brunei Hotel is conveniently located near the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan, and the trip here is totally worthwhile.
Explore Brunei’s intriguing water villages, luxuriant rainforests, alluring landmarks, and thrilling seaside experiences. Enjoy these numerous activities, learn about the community, and appreciate the Sultanate’s natural beauty.
